Machupicchu by train – 2 days- 1 night

Travelers dreaming of seeing the legendary Machu Picchu without the hassle often turn to organized tours that handle all the logistics. This 2-day, 1-night Machu Picchu tour offers a well-structured way to experience the Inca citadel, combining scenic train journeys, guided insights, and an overnight in the charming town of Aguas Calientes. While it’s designed to be both comprehensive and convenient, there are a few details worth considering before booking.

What immediately catches our eye about this tour are two standout features: small group sizes, which promise a more personal experience, and the early access to Machu Picchu—an advantage for beating the crowds and capturing those iconic photos. On the flip side, the package doesn’t include extra meals beyond breakfast and lunch, so you’ll want to budget for additional expenses if you’re a foodie or have specific dietary needs.

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a guided, stress-free visit that covers all the key sights without the need to navigate complicated transport or logistics on their own. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic insights from knowledgeable guides and prefer a more intimate atmosphere. If a quick, well-organized adventure to Machu Picchu sounds appealing, this tour might just be perfect.

Key Points

• Combines scenic train travel with a guided tour of Machu Picchu in just two days
• Includes overnight accommodation in Aguas Calientes for early access
• Small group size ensures a more personalized experience
• All major transportation and entrance fees are included in the price
• Plenty of opportunity to learn from knowledgeable guides about Machu Picchu’s history
• Ideal for travelers wanting a hassle-free, well-organized visit

An In-Depth Look at the Machupicchu by Train Tour

Easy and Convenient Logistics

This tour is designed to take the headache out of visiting Machu Picchu by handling all the transportation. Starting with a hotel pickup in Cusco, you’ll be driven to Ollantaytambo—roughly a 2-hour ride—where the train station awaits. This transfer is more than just a journey; it’s a chance to enjoy some scenic views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River, giving you a taste of the surrounding landscapes before heading into the mountains.

The train journey itself is a highlight, offering sweeping panoramas of lush countryside and terraced hillsides. Once in Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, ready for an early start the next day. The tour includes round-trip train tickets and bus tickets to ascend to Machu Picchu, streamlining what could otherwise be a logistical challenge.

Staying in Aguas Calientes

The overnight in Aguas Calientes is a key feature. It allows you to rise early on Day 2, catching the first bus up to Machu Picchu. The town is small but lively, with a handful of good hotels, and provides a restful base where you can even explore a little in the evening or relax after your busy day.

During the evening, there’s a briefing about the next day’s schedule, offering a chance to ask questions and clarify any uncertainties—something we always appreciate when tours prioritize clear communication.

Day 1: Scenic Drive and Relaxed Arrival

Your day begins with hotel pickup, then a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley. Passing by charming villages, lush farmlands, and river views, you’ll get a sense of the region’s tranquility. The stop in Ollantaytambo is a brief but worthwhile chance to snap photos of this Inca stronghold and grab a quick bite before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes.

Once in Aguas Calientes, the rest of the afternoon is yours to relax or explore. The included hotel accommodation is described as “top notch,” promising a comfortable night after your travel day.

Day 2: Sunrise at Machu Picchu

Rising early, you’ll board a bus to the Machu Picchu entrance, just in time to beat the crowds and catch the site in the morning light—a highlight for many visitors. The guided tour lasts about 2 hours, during which your guide will illuminate the significance of this mysterious citadel.

Post-guided tour, you’ll have some free time to explore on your own—climb a few terraces, take photos, or simply soak in the atmosphere. Then, it’s back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch and the return train to Ollantaytambo, with transport provided back to Cusco arriving around 7 pm.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers all major transportation costs—round-trip train and bus tickets, private transfers, and guided entrance to Machu Picchu. It also includes breakfast and lunch, which helps mitigate food expenses during your short stay.

However, meals outside the scheduled ones, gratuities, and any additional costs are not included, so travelers should prepare accordingly. It’s worth noting that the overall cost of $430 per person, when you factor in transport, entrance fees, and guided experience, offers good value compared to booking each component separately.

The Value of a Small Group Experience

With a maximum of 10 travelers, this tour emphasizes quality over quantity. Smaller groups tend to have better interaction with guides, more flexibility during the tour, and a more relaxed atmosphere. The reviews repeatedly praise the guides’ helpfulness, with one traveler mentioning how helpful and cheerful guide Ruti was, making the whole experience smoother and more engaging.

Authentic Insights and Guided Tours

The guided tour at Machu Picchu enhances the visit by providing context and stories that bring the stones to life. Previous guests highlighted how their guides made the experience more meaningful, especially with personalized attention in such intimate group settings.

Timing and Crowd Avoidance

An early start not only ensures fewer visitors at Machu Picchu but also allows you to enjoy the site when it’s quieter and more atmospheric. Many reviewers expressed satisfaction with the early access, noting that the tour’s timing made a difference in their experience.

Overall Impressions and Travel Considerations

This tour’s two-day format strikes a balance between seeing Machu Picchu without overly rushing or breaking the bank on extended stays. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience but prefer to keep things straightforward.

It’s important to consider that meals are limited to breakfast and lunch, so bring snacks or plan accordingly if you’re a big eater or have specific dietary preferences. Also, the group size and timing are tailored to ensure an immersive yet manageable experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This journey suits travelers who value organized logistics, professional guides, and early access to Machu Picchu. It’s perfect for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see the site without the stress of planning every detail. If you’re someone who enjoys small-group interactions and a guided narrative, this tour will feel very personalized.

It also works well for those who appreciate a balanced mix of travel, sightseeing, and downtime, with plenty of room to absorb the scenery and history.

The Sum Up

For anyone dreaming of Machu Picchu but wary of the complexities of independent travel, this organized 2-day tour delivers a well-rounded experience. From scenic train rides, knowledgeable guides, and early access, to a comfortable overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, it offers a compelling package at a reasonable price.

While it doesn’t include every meal or extra optional activities, the core elements—transport, entrance, and guided tour—are all thoughtfully arranged, ensuring you maximize your time and understanding of this incredible site.

This experience is best suited for travelers who prioritize convenience, guided insights, and a personal touch. If you want to see Machu Picchu with minimal hassle and a small, friendly group, it’s a solid choice that promises memorable moments.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back, bus tickets to Machu Picchu, a professional guided tour of the site, entrance tickets, plus breakfast and lunch during the trip.

How large are the groups?
The maximum group size is 10-15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and less crowded experience.

What are the starting times?
The tour begins at 8:00 am, with pickup from your hotel in Cusco, setting you on a smooth schedule for the day.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, as the tour is designed for a broad audience, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved and the bus ride to Machu Picchu.

Are meals included?
Breakfast on Day 2 and lunch are included, but other meals or snacks are not—so plan accordingly.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts, with a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

How reliable are the guides?
Reviews repeatedly mention helpful and friendly guides who make the experience informative and enjoyable. Ruti and Coco, in particular, received praise for their assistance.

Is the price worth it?
Considering the included transportation, guided tour, entrance fees, and the convenience of a well-organized package, $430 offers good value—especially when you factor in the time saved and the quality of the guide-led experience.

This 2-day Machu Picchu tour offers a fantastic way to tick one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites off your bucket list, all while enjoying the comfort of a guided, stress-free itinerary tailored for memorable experiences.