Machu Picchu Tour By Train (2 Days)

Planning a trip to Machu Picchu can feel overwhelming, especially with countless tour options promising the ultimate experience. Our review focuses on the 2-day Machu Picchu by Train tour offered by Happy Gringo Tours — an experience that promises a good mix of comfort, scenic beauty, and culture. While we haven’t traveled it ourselves, the detailed itinerary, combined with genuine traveler reviews, offers a compelling picture of what to expect.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are the scenic train journey through the Sacred Valley and the guided exploration of Machu Picchu, both of which are highly praised. The inclusion of overnight accommodation in Aguas Calientes gives you time to soak in the surroundings and avoid rushing your visit. A potential challenge is the reported concerns around organization and communication, especially from past reviews, which travelers should keep in mind. This tour caters well to those who want a relaxed, well-paced experience with some flexibility to explore on their own.

If you’re after a deeper connection with Machu Picchu over two days, enjoy scenic train rides, and value guided insights combined with free time to explore, this tour is a good pick. It’s suitable for travelers who prefer a structured experience but also want the chance to relax and absorb the unique atmosphere of the Inca site.

Key Points

• Includes all essential transportation: from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, train to Aguas Calientes, and bus to Machu Picchu.
• Offers a comfortable, scenic train journey through the Sacred Valley, providing beautiful views and a relaxing transfer.
• Includes a guided tour of Machu Picchu, with free time afterward for personal exploration or optional hikes.
• Overnight stay in Aguas Calientes allows for a less rushed experience and optional visits to local attractions.
• Price points around $540 per person, offering good value considering the train, guided tour, accommodation, and entrance tickets.
• Limited group size (max 15 travelers), creating a more intimate experience but still manageable.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Cusco to Aguas Calientes via Sacred Valley

The adventure kicks off early, with pickup from Cusco, followed by a scenic mini-bus ride to Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. This part of the journey is more than just transportation; it’s an introduction to the region’s stunning landscapes, with lush river valleys and terraced hills that highlight the Inca’s mastery of the landscape.

From Ollantaytambo, you’ll board the Tourist Train heading towards Aguas Calientes. This train route is often highlighted by travelers for its beautiful vistas, where you’ll pass along the river, through lush forests, and past small villages. It’s a leisurely ride that sets the tone for the relaxed pace of the trip.

Arrival in Aguas Calientes is around lunchtime, giving you the chance to settle into your hotel and explore a charming town that’s built around tourism. You might visit the Machu Picchu museum and orchid exhibition — a nice, quiet introduction — or simply relax in the natural hot springs (note that hot springs are not included, so consider bringing a small budget if you want to indulge).

Day 2: The Magnificent Machu Picchu

Waking up early to beat the crowds, you’ll catch the first bus to Machu Picchu, which is part of the experience — the ascent is quick and affords breathtaking views as the site comes into sight. The guided tour lasts around two hours, during which your guide will point out key areas and share stories about Inca civilization.

Following the tour, you’ll have free time to wander, take photos, or even climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if you have permits (though these are not included in the package). The optional climbs can take about 3 hours, round-trip, and are perfect for those wanting a more adventurous experience.

In the afternoon, you’ll return via train to Ollantaytambo, then continue by mini-bus back to Cusco. The full day provides a comprehensive look at one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites, with enough flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Practical Highlights and Considerations

Transport and Comfort

The journey from Cusco to Aguas Calientes involves a mini-bus to Ollantaytambo, followed by a comfortable tourist train. The train is known for its scenic routes, which make the trip part of the adventure rather than just transit. The bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is included, ensuring a smooth, hassle-free ascent.

Accommodation and Free Time

Staying overnight in Aguas Calientes provides a more relaxed visit. You’ll have the evening to explore the town, visit local spots, or simply unwind after the day’s travel. The tour recommends visiting the orchid exhibition or hot springs, offering a chance to enjoy local attractions beyond Machu Picchu.

Guided Tour and Free Exploration

The guided tour of Machu Picchu is a core part of the experience, giving insight into the site’s significance. Afterward, the free time allows you to soak in the atmosphere, take photographs, or hike up nearby peaks if permitted. This balance between guided and self-led exploration is often appreciated by travelers.

Price and Value

At $540 per person, this tour includes almost everything — transport, train tickets, entrance fee, guide, and hotel stay. While hot springs and meals are not included, the overall value is solid given the scope of the experience. It’s a good deal compared to booking all elements separately, especially with the convenience of organized logistics.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

While many travelers praise the stunning scenery and the ease of the train journey, some have noted issues with organization and communication. For instance, one review mentions that “Day 1 did not me,” hinting at some logistical hiccups. Another reviewer expressed success after constant anxiety, highlighting how important clear communication is when planning a trip like this.

Despite these comments, the overall rating remains high at 4.6 out of 5, indicating most travelers find the experience rewarding. The small group size (up to 15 travelers) helps foster a more personal atmosphere, but some reviews suggest that efficiency in coordination could improve.

The Experience’s Best Fit

This tour suits travelers who want more than just a day trip and prefer to savor the experience over two days. It’s ideal for those who enjoy scenic train rides, guided tours, and having some free time to explore independently. It’s also suitable for travelers who value comfort and convenience without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets themselves.

However, those looking for a highly organized, flawlessly executed trip should be aware of some recent reviews mentioning organizational shortcomings. It’s best for travelers who are flexible and prepared for minor hiccups.

The Sum Up: Who Should Take This Tour?

This 2-day Machu Picchu train tour offers a well-rounded, relaxed experience with excellent value for those wanting to extend their visit beyond a single day. The combination of scenic travel, expert-guided tour, and overnight stay delivers a more immersive experience than a quick trip.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate stunning vistas, enjoy guided insights, and want to maximize their time exploring at a leisurely pace. If you’re comfortable with minor organizational quirks and are eager to enjoy the natural beauty and archaeological wonder of Machu Picchu, this tour could be your perfect fit.

If you prefer a more streamlined, drop-in visit, or are concerned about potential communication issues, you might want to consider other options or prepare for some flexibility.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides transport from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, a scenic tourist train to Aguas Calientes, and a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.

How long is the train journey?
The train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours, offering beautiful views along the Sacred Valley.

Are entrance tickets to Machu Picchu included?
Yes, the tour includes the entrance fee to Machu Picchu, guaranteeing your visit without last-minute ticket hunting.

What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation in Aguas Calientes is included for one night, but specific hotel details are not provided. You can expect a comfortable lodging suitable for travelers on a tour package.

Can I climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
You can do so if you have the permits, but these are not included in this package and require separate booking.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the amount of walking and the bus/train transfers involved.

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

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 24 days ahead, especially during peak seasons.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, which helps maintain a smaller, more personalized experience.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not covered, so plan accordingly for breakfast, lunch, or dinner during your trip.

This detailed look at the Machu Picchu 2-day train tour should help you weigh whether it’s the right choice for your Peruvian adventure. Whether you prioritize scenic travel, expert-guided insights, or simply want to experience Machu Picchu comfortably, this tour balances all those elements with a touch of authentic exploration.