Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu by Train (2 Days)

Introduction

This 2-day, small-group tour to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu offers a well-rounded, hassle-free way to experience one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. Designed for travelers who want to avoid the logistical headaches of arranging transport and accommodations independently, this package provides all-inclusive transportation, comfortable hotel stays, and guided explorations, ensuring you can focus on the experience itself.

What we love most about this tour is the seamless flow—from the scenic train journey through lush valleys to the exhilarating hike up Huayna Picchu, and the flexibility of free time to soak in the atmosphere. Plus, the small group size of just 15 people makes for a more intimate, engaging experience. On the flip side, potential travelers should note that the tour has a strict non-refundable policy, so it’s best suited for those confident about their plans.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers who appreciate comfort, expert guidance, and authentic exploration. If you’re after a memorable, well-organized adventure without the stress of planning every detail, this package might just be the perfect fit.

Key Points

• Small group size of no more than 15 people ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe.
• All-inclusive transport from Cusco, including trains, buses, and hotel transfers, simplifies logistics.
• The itinerary balances guided tours with free time, allowing flexibility to explore independently.
• The early morning Huayna Picchu hike offers spectacular panoramic views.
• Two options for return times give travelers flexibility at the end of their adventure.
• The tour’s price includes an overnight stay, guide services, and all transport, offering good value for a comprehensive experience.

An Overview of the Itinerary

Day 1: Journey to Aguas Calientes

The adventure begins with a hotel pick-up in Cusco around 10:00 a.m., followed by a roughly two-hour drive to the train station. From there, you’ll board a train at about 12:36 p.m., winding through the scenic Sacred Valley with stunning views of vibrant fields, traditional villages, and the mighty Vilcanota River. The train ride itself is a highlight—think of it as a moving postcard showcasing the Peruvian landscape in all its glory.

Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes, your luggage will be transferred to your hotel by staff at around 2:25 p.m., giving you a couple of hours to settle in. The evening briefing at your hotel around 7:30 p.m. prepares you for the early start the next day. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace—perhaps soaking in the town’s lively atmosphere, visiting local markets, or relaxing in your comfortable accommodation.

Day 2: The Big Trek and the Ruins

An early wake-up call at 4:00 a.m. kicks off the day. A short bus ride (about 30 minutes) transports you up the mountain to Machu Picchu’s entrance. By around 7 a.m., you’ll arrive at Huayna Picchu’s checkpoint, ready to ascend this famous peak. The hike takes approximately 45 minutes, and from the top, you’ll be greeted with one of the most breathtaking views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains. Expect to spend about 40 minutes descending and catching your breath.

Back at the ruins by around 10 a.m., your guide will lead a detailed tour of Machu Picchu, sharing insights into its history and architecture. Afterward, you’ll have free time—perfect for snapping photos, wandering the site on your own, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. You can then return to Aguas Calientes by bus, with the rest of the afternoon free for lunch and exploration.

The tour concludes with a return train to Ollantaytambo and a transfer back to Cusco, arriving at the hotel in the evening.

Transportation and Comfort

This tour’s hallmark is its all-inclusive transportation. From hotel pickups in Cusco to the train journey through the scenic Sacred Valley, every step is arranged for convenience. The train, departing from Ollantaytambo, offers comfortable and panoramic views, making the journey part of the experience rather than a chore.

The overnight stay in Aguas Calientes is in a centrally located hotel, close enough to the ruins to maximize your time. The transfers between Ollantaytambo and Cusco, as well as the bus to Machu Picchu, are streamlined, reducing stress and travel fatigue—a significant advantage for most travelers.

The Small Group Advantage

With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll benefit from a more personalized experience. Guides can tailor their insights, answer questions, and create a friendly atmosphere. This size also means less waiting and more interaction, especially during the guided parts of your visit.

The Highlights of the Experience

Visiting Machu Picchu

This tour guarantees entry during a prime morning slot, when the site is less crowded and the light is ideal for photos. Your guide will help you understand the site’s significance, architectural marvels, and the stories behind its construction. Reviews praise the guides for their knowledge, with one mentioning, “Jose did a wonderful job giving me a private tour of Machu Picchu,” highlighting the quality of service.

Hiking Huayna Picchu

The ascent to Huayna Picchu is a key highlight. The trail is steep and narrow, demanding a good level of physical fitness—moderate fitness is recommended. But the effort pays off with spectacular panoramic views that are truly hard to beat. One reviewer called the view from the summit “spectacular,” sharing how they appreciated the guide’s patience in waiting for fog to clear so they could capture a perfect shot.

Free Time and Flexibility

After the guided tour, you’ll have some free time to explore more independently. Many travelers use this opportunity to revisit favorite spots, take additional photos, or relax in the surroundings. The flexibility to choose your return time (either around 6:20 p.m. or later) allows you to tailor the experience according to your energy levels and interests.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes breakfast, hotel pickup in Cusco, ground transportation to Ollantaytambo, round-trip train tickets, and a night in Aguas Calientes. All these elements combine to create a smooth journey, removing the usual stress of booking separate tickets or arranging transfers.

However, meals aside from breakfast are not included, so you’ll want to budget for lunch and dinner during your free time in Aguas Calientes. The tour’s price reflects good value when considering the logistics and guided expertise, but travelers should be aware of additional personal expenses.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to booking transport, accommodations, and guided visits separately, this package offers convenience and potentially cost savings. The inclusion of a night in Aguas Calientes means you avoid the rush of early morning departures and the hassle of last-minute arrangements. Plus, the small-group format ensures a more personalized experience, often leading to more meaningful engagement with guides and fellow travelers.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Insights

Travelers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer shares, “Jose stayed in the rain waiting for the fog to clear so I could get a good photo,” illustrating their dedication. Such interactions elevate the experience from simply ticking off a famous site to creating authentic memories.

The Atmosphere and Visuals

Expect to see lush landscapes, towering mountains, and the mystique of Machu Picchu—a site that looks just as breathtaking in person as in photos. Hiking Huayna Picchu adds a sense of adventure and a rewarding sense of accomplishment, along with unrivaled views that are perfect for photography.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu tour strikes a fine balance between convenience and authentic exploration. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value clear logistics, guided insights, and a small-group atmosphere. The included transportation, overnight stay, and guided tour make it a hassle-free way to see one of the world’s most treasured archaeological sites.

While the non-refundable policy might deter some, the overall value for the comprehensive experience is notable. The early morning hike up Huayna Picchu adds excitement and stunning vistas, making this tour perfect for adventure-seekers and photo enthusiasts alike.

If your goal is to enjoy Machu Picchu at its best—without the stress of planning every detail—and you’re comfortable with a fixed schedule, this tour is an excellent choice. It promises memorable sights, expert guidance, and the luxury of doing less and experiencing more.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness?
Yes, the tour recommends a moderate level of physical fitness, especially for the Huayna Picchu hike, which involves some steep and narrow sections.

What does the tour include?
It includes hotel pickup in Cusco, ground transportation to Ollantaytambo, round-trip train tickets, overnight hotel in Aguas Calientes, guided tour of Machu Picchu, and the hike up Huayna Picchu.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included, but lunch and dinner are not. You’ll have free time in Aguas Calientes to find food and relax.

Can I choose my return time?
Yes, the tour offers two options for your return, giving some flexibility to suit your preferences.

Is the tour non-refundable?
Correct, the experience is non-refundable and cannot be altered once booked, so plan carefully.

What’s the size of the tour group?
A maximum of 15 travelers ensures a more intimate tour experience with personalized attention.

This detailed, well-structured tour review should help you decide whether this Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu experience aligns with your travel style. Whether it’s the scenic train ride, the guided exploration, or the breathtaking views from Huayna Picchu, it promises a memorable adventure, all wrapped up in comfort and convenience.