Full day Machu Picchu from Poroy

Planning a trip to Machu Picchu often involves numerous questions — how do I get there? How long will it take? Is it worth the cost? This review aims to shed light on a popular full-day tour departing from Poroy, just outside Cusco, that promises a seamless and immersive experience. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and traveler feedback point to a well-rounded, value-packed adventure for anyone eager to see one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.

Two standout features catch our eye: the train journey from Poroy, which offers scenic vistas of the Peruvian landscape, and the guided tour of Machu Picchu, delivering expert insights into the site’s mysteries. However, potential travelers should keep in mind that train schedules vary with the seasons, and the Poroy station’s seasonal closure from January to April means planning well in advance is essential. This tour is ideal for those who appreciate a blend of comfort, cultural richness, and time efficiency — perfect for travelers with a full day to dedicate to this incredible experience.

Key Points

• The tour provides a comfortable, all-inclusive transport experience from Cusco to Machu Picchu, including train and bus transfers.
• A guided tour ensures you’ll learn about the site’s history and significance from knowledgeable local guides.
• The opportunity to climb Huayna Picchu is available if you’re feeling adventurous, adding a thrilling dimension.
• The tour combines scenic train travel with cultural exploration in a well-structured itinerary.
• Cost ($560) covers most essentials, but food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.
• The tour operates with a small group size (maximum 30 travelers), fostering a more personalized experience.

An in-depth look at the tour experience

Starting early from Cusco and the convenience of private transport

The journey begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco around 5:40 am, which is quite early but necessary to maximize your day. The private transfer to the Poroy train station ensures a hassle-free start, avoiding the chaos that can sometimes accompany public transport. While the Poroy station is seasonally closed from January to April, during operational months it offers a convenient departure point for travelers staying in Cusco.

This early start means you’ll be on the move just as dawn breaks, giving you the chance to enjoy the scenic landscape of the Peruvian highlands en route to Machu Picchu.

The scenic train ride – a highlight in itself

The train from Poroy to Aguas Calientes takes just over three hours, but the journey is part of the experience. Depending on your chosen option, you might ride the classic Expedition train or more panoramic Vistadome carriages. The latter feature large windows, perfect for catching views of the lush valleys, terraced hillsides, and the winding Vilcanota River.

Traveling by train offers a relaxing way to cover the roughly 80 miles from Cusco to Machu Picchu, contrasting with more strenuous options like hiking. The comfort and scenery combine to make this part of the trip a memorable highlight rather than just transportation.

Arrival in Aguas Calientes and the ascent to Machu Picchu

Once you arrive at Aguas Calientes, a small town nestled at the foot of Machu Picchu, you’ll board a bus to the entrance of the citadel. The 20-minute bus ride is a convenient, if slightly crowded, ascent up the steep slopes leading to the archaeological site. This short transfer is included in the tour, saving you the hassle and time of organizing transport independently.

The guided exploration of Machu Picchu

Your 2-hour guided tour covers the main highlights, including mysterious squares, the Temple of the Sun, stone streets, and terraces. The guides are local and knowledgeable, providing context about the site’s history, architecture, and the Inca civilization. This guided component is highly valued, especially for first-time visitors who want to understand the story behind the stones.

Beyond the main tour, you are free to explore Machu Picchu on your own afterward, giving you flexibility to revisit favorite spots or take some time to soak in the stunning vistas.

Optional climb to Huayna Picchu

For the more daring, there’s an option to climb Huayna Picchu — the iconic mountain that looms over Machu Picchu. This climb offers breathtaking panoramic views but requires an additional permit and time, so plan accordingly if you wish to add this adventure.

Lunch and leisure time in Aguas Calientes

After the tour, you have roughly 40 minutes in the town, which you can use for a quick meal or to relax. The tour does not include lunch, but many travelers take this opportunity to enjoy local eateries, sampling Peruvian cuisine, or simply wandering the lively streets.

Return to Cusco and end of the day

In the late afternoon, you’ll board the train back to Poroy station, arriving in Cusco in the early evening. From there, a private transfer will take you back to your hotel, completing a full, well-paced day.

What travelers love about this tour

Knowledgeable local guides are frequently praised for their clarity and enthusiasm, making the history and significance of Machu Picchu come alive. One reviewer noted, “Excelente atención en Tren Incarail, a la hora, transporte a la estación, dejada en la puerta del hotel, todo ok,” emphasizing smooth logistics.

The scenic train journey is another favorite, with travelers commenting on the “beautiful views” and comfortable rides that turn transit into part of the adventure. The combination of scenic transport and cultural exploration offers a balanced, enjoyable experience.

The flexibility in exploring Machu Picchu on your own after the guided tour receives positive feedback, allowing visitors to revisit favorite spots or take photos without feeling rushed.

Considerations to keep in mind

While the tour offers great value, train schedules can vary depending on the season, and the Poroy station’s closure from January to April might require adjusting your plans. It’s essential to book well in advance—ideally 30 days ahead—to secure your preferred train times and permits, especially if climbing Huayna Picchu.

The cost of $560 per person is reasonable considering the inclusive nature of transport, guided tour, and bus transfers, but additional expenses like food, drinks, and optional activities are not included. Be prepared for that possibly extra expense.

Travelers should also be aware that altitude sickness can affect some, so arriving a day early in Cusco to acclimate is advisable. The tour’s early start may be tiring but ensures you maximize your time at Machu Picchu.

Who this tour is perfect for

This full-day tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free visit to Machu Picchu with minimal planning. It’s especially attractive for those who value comfort and guided insights without sacrificing authentic experiences. It benefits those who can handle an early start, have a full day available, and are eager to see Machu Picchu with the convenience of train travel.

It’s also a good option for first-timers or travelers short on time, as it combines the core highlights of the site with easily organized transport, leaving you free to enjoy the magic of Machu Picchu.

The bottom line

This tour offers a well-organized, immersive experience of Machu Picchu, blending scenic train travel with expert-guided exploration. Its high rating and positive reviews reflect reliable logistics and memorable encounters with the Inca site. At $560, it provides good value considering the included transport, guide, and access to the site.

If you’re looking for a comfortable, informative day trip that minimizes planning stress but maximizes sightseeing and cultural understanding, this tour is a strong contender. The flexible options, such as climbing Huayna Picchu or exploring on your own, allow you to tailor the experience to your interests.

In short, this trip is best suited for travelers who cherish ease, quality guides, and memorable vistas, making it a smart choice for your Machu Picchu adventure.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pickup? Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Cusco, making logistics smooth from the start.

What train options are available? The tour offers either the Expedition or Vistadome train, with the latter providing panoramic windows for better sightseeing.

How long is the train ride? The train journey from Poroy to Aguas Calientes lasts approximately three hours, offering scenic views along the way.

Is the Poroy station operational year-round? No, the Poroy station does not operate from January to April due to the rainy season, so plan accordingly.

How long is the guided tour at Machu Picchu? You will have around 2 hours with a local guide, covering the main highlights and history.

Can I climb Huayna Picchu? Yes, if you book an extra permit, you can climb Huayna Picchu, which adds adventure and panoramic views.

Are meals included? No, meals and drinks are not included, but there’s time in Aguas Calientes for lunch or snacks.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent are recommended for comfort and safety.

How many people are in the group? The maximum group size is 30 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

This full-day Machu Picchu trip from Poroy offers a fantastic balance of comfort, scenery, and culture, making it a worthwhile addition to your Peruvian adventure.