Full Day Tour to Machu Picchu by Tourist Train

If you’re planning a trip to Cusco and dreaming of experiencing the wonder that is Machu Picchu, a well-organized full-day tour combining scenic train rides and expert-guided exploration might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, we’ve examined the details, reviews, and itinerary to give you an honest, comprehensive look at what to expect.

Our favorite aspects? First, the seamless combination of comfortable transportation and expert guiding ensures you’re in good hands throughout the day. Second, the stunning train views over the Sacred Valley promise some of the most picturesque moments of your journey. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the early start, which might be tiring if you’re not a morning person. This tour suits travelers who appreciate a well-structured experience with a focus on convenience, authentic insights, and incredible scenery.

Key Points

• The tour covers all the essentials: transportation, guided tours, and entry tickets to Machu Picchu.
• It offers a balanced mix of scenic train rides and on-site exploration, ideal for first-time visitors.
• The small group size (max 12 travelers) ensures personal attention and a more intimate experience.
• The tour includes professional guides in English or Spanish, adding depth and local knowledge.
• It’s priced at $350 per person, which is competitive considering the included transport, tickets, and guiding.
• Riders should have moderate physical fitness as there’s some walking and bus transfers involved.

Introduction: Is This the Machu Picchu Tour for You?

This full-day Machu Picchu tour by tourist train is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a convenient, guided, and scenic way to visit one of the world’s most iconic sites. The journey begins very early in the morning, with pickups around 4 AM from your Cusco hotel, so it caters best to travelers comfortable with early mornings and a packed itinerary.

Two aspects we really like are the beautiful train ride through the Sacred Valley, providing photo-worthy landscapes, and the comprehensive guided tour at Machu Picchu, ensuring you don’t miss the key highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Plus, the included bus transfer to Machu Picchu saves time and energy, making the most of your visit.

One consideration? The day is quite long, spanning approximately 10 to 12 hours, and includes multiple transfers. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to include additional activities like hiking or exploring on your own, you may want to consider other options. However, for those seeking a well-rounded, guided experience that ticks all the boxes, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors eager to see Machu Picchu with expert guidance, scenery lovers who enjoy train travel, and travelers who value organized logistics and small group settings.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Early Morning Pickup and Transfer to Ollantaytambo

The day kicks off at around 4 AM with hotel pickup in Cusco, followed by a 1.5-hour transfer to the train station in Ollantaytambo. This early start might seem demanding, but it’s designed to maximize your time at Machu Picchu. The advantage? You arrive early at Aguas Calientes, giving you a head start before the crowds.

Scenic Train Ride Through the Sacred Valley

At approximately 6:22 AM, you’ll board the comfortable tourist train headed toward Aguas Calientes. This 2-hour ride offers sweeping views of the Sacred Valley, lush fields, and soaring mountain peaks. Passengers often mention how beautiful the scenery is, making it more than just a transit — it’s part of the adventure. The train’s windows are large, providing excellent photo opportunities, and the comfort level is generally appreciated.

From Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes around 9:30 AM, you’ll board a 30-minute bus up the winding road to Machu Picchu. This short ride offers spectacular views as you ascend to the ruins, heightening anticipation for what’s to come.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Once at Machu Picchu, you’ll enjoy a guided tour lasting about 2 hours and 30 minutes. The guide will walk you through the most significant parts of the citadel, sharing details about the history, architecture, and purpose of each site. While the provided description doesn’t specify which sites are included, most guides typically highlight the Sun Temple, the Intihuatana stone, the Main Plaza, and the Royal Quarters.

What travelers often appreciate are the insights from knowledgeable guides, making the experience more meaningful. As one reviewer noted, “Wilson is a great person! My friend had to recover from being sick, and Wilson helped us with his flexibility and new ideas for visiting Machu Picchu,” illustrating the value of personable guides.

Leisure Time and Lunch

After the guided tour, you’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes for some free time. Many choose to have lunch here — options range from local eateries to more tourist-oriented restaurants. Some travelers mention they can also relax at the hot springs in Aguas Calientes, offering a nice way to unwind after the morning’s activity.

Return Journey: Machu Picchu to Cusco

In the late afternoon, you’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo around 7 PM, arriving approximately at 9 PM. From there, a car will transfer you back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival time around 10:30 to 11 PM, depending on traffic and timing adjustments.

Additional Considerations

The entire trip is designed for efficiency, with included transportation, tickets, and guiding. It’s suitable for those who prefer to rely on organized logistics rather than planning every detail themselves.

The Experience: What Travelers Love

Many reviews highlight the excellent organization and attentive guides. One traveler raved, “Wilson is a very nice person, always looking out for us. They organized everything for our tour, so I didn’t have to worry about anything not included in the itinerary.” This personal touch and clear communication make a big difference, especially on such a long day.

The train ride is frequently praised for the beautiful scenery—some describe it as a highlight, with views of the lush valleys and rugged mountains. The guided tour at Machu Picchu itself is also a major plus, as it ensures you see the most important sites without the stress of navigating alone.

Authenticity and Value

While the tour is priced at $350 per person, including transport, tickets, and guiding, many consider it a cost-effective way to visit Machu Picchu. The convenience of door-to-door transfers and expert guidance offset the early start and the long hours.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

• “The guides were really great, and the organization was superb,” says a traveler who appreciated the smooth coordination.
• “We enjoyed the great organization from hotel to transport,” another reviewer mentions, emphasizing the reliable logistics.
• Food isn’t included, so travelers should plan for lunch either in Aguas Calientes or bring snacks to keep energized.

The Logistics: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

This tour’s strength lies in its comprehensive logistics. The transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, train tickets, bus transfers, and guided tours are all included, removing the typical stress of coordinating multiple services. The small group size (up to 12 travelers) ensures that everyone receives personalized attention and can ask questions freely.

Timing is tight but well-structured. The early departure maximizes your time at Machu Picchu, allowing for your guided exploration before the crowds arrive. The late return to Cusco means you’ll be exhausted but fulfilled.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

For those seeking a full-day, guided, and scenic Machu Picchu experience, this tour offers an impressive balance of value and convenience. The included train ride and expert guide make it ideal for first-timers or travelers who prefer a structured itinerary. The focus on authentic, meaningful exploration—paired with the stunning views along the Sacred Valley—ensures you’ll leave with a collection of memorable moments.

However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace or wish to include additional activities or hikes, you might want to explore other options. But for a well-organized, all-in-one day trip that maximizes your time and ensures a memorable visit, this tour does not disappoint.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back, bus transfers to Machu Picchu, entrance tickets, and a professional guide in English or Spanish.

Are meals provided?
No, meals are not included. Travelers should bring their own snacks or plan to buy lunch in Aguas Calientes.

How long does the entire tour last?
The day typically lasts 10 to 12 hours, with pickups around 4 AM and return to Cusco around 10 to 11 PM.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness. The day involves walking and bus transfers, so consider individual mobility.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport and vaccination card for entry, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and any personal essentials. Snacks or lunch are your responsibility.

Can I customize the schedule?
The schedule is fixed, but arrangements for different arrival or departure times are possible if coordinated in advance.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of scenic train rides, expert guiding, and organized logistics makes it a convenient and authentic way to experience Machu Picchu.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

In summary, this full-day Machu Picchu tour by tourist train offers an excellent way to see one of the world’s most incredible sites without the stress of planning every detail. It’s perfect for travelers who value comfort, expert guidance, and memorable scenery—an experience worth considering for your Peruvian adventure.