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- Duration 1 day
- Difficulty Easy
- Group size 8 to 12 people
- Max. altitude 2,430 m (7,970 ft)
- Travel style Tour, adventure
- Departure Cusco
Our Machu Picchu day trip leaves Cusco around 4:00 a.m., rides the train from Ollantaytambo or Poroy to Aguas Calientes, takes the bus up to the citadel for a guided tour and returns to Cusco between 8:00 and 10:00 p.m. Trains, bus, entrance fee and guide are included, from US$300 per person.
It is the option for travelers short on time in Cusco: Machu Picchu in a single day, with no trekking and no night away. We travel in groups of 8 to 12 people with a professional guide in English, Spanish or Portuguese, and you spend about 4 to 5 hours at the citadel between the guided tour and free time.
How to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco in one day
Machu Picchu is in the Cusco region, above the Urubamba River valley, and the usual way in is by train. We pick you up before dawn and drive you by private transport to Ollantaytambo or Poroy station, depending on availability. The train (tourist or Vistadome class, depending on your option) runs through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, and from there a bus climbs to the entrance in about 25 minutes. If your train leaves from Ollantaytambo, you will pass through one of the best-preserved Inca towns in the valley.
Machu Picchu altitude
The citadel sits at 7,970 ft (2,430 m) above sea level, roughly 3,300 ft (1,000 m) lower than Cusco at around 11,150 ft (3,400 m), so altitude symptoms are usually mild there. The hardest part of the day trip is not the altitude but the schedule: about 16 to 18 hours from pickup to drop-off, with many hours on the train and in the vehicle. Sleep well the night before and bring water and snacks for the journey.
Machu Picchu day trip schedule
| Time | What we do |
|---|---|
| Around 4:00 a.m. | Pickup in Cusco and private transfer to Ollantaytambo or Poroy station |
| Morning | Train through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes and 25-minute bus up to Machu Picchu |
| Guided tour | 2 to 3 hours: Temple of the Sun, Main Plaza and agricultural terraces |
| Free time | Explore on your own and take photos in the citadel |
| Afternoon | Bus down, lunch in Aguas Calientes (not included) and train back |
| 8:00–10:00 p.m. | Arrival in Cusco by private transport |
Is it hard? Who is it for?
It is rated easy: there is no trekking, only walking inside Machu Picchu on stone stairs and uneven paths. It is ideal if you have only a few days in Peru or prefer not to sleep away from Cusco. If you travel with small children or older relatives, or simply want a slower pace, the 2-day tour is usually more comfortable.
Best time for a Machu Picchu day trip
Machu Picchu is open all year. From April to October there is less rain, and June to August is high season, so we recommend booking 1 to 2 months ahead. March to April and September to October tend to be less crowded. From November to March it rains more often, so pack a poncho or a waterproof jacket.
Bring your original physical passport: it is required to enter Machu Picchu. Food, trekking poles and large backpacks are not allowed inside the citadel.
Day trip, 2-day tour or Short Inca Trail?
If you can spare one more night, the 2-day Machu Picchu tour follows the same train route but overnights in Aguas Calientes with dinner included, so you reach the citadel early and rested. If you want to arrive on foot, the Short Inca Trail enters through the Sun Gate after a hike of about 12 km (7.5 miles), and the Classic Inca Trail does it in four days. The day trip is the fastest way to see Machu Picchu.
To plan your trip, read our guide: How to Get to Machu Picchu: Train, Bus, Hidroeléctrica and Hiking.
To plan your trip, read our guide: Huayna Picchu 2027: Tickets, the Climb, Circuits and Tips.
To plan your trip, read our guide: Machu Picchu Weather 2027: Month by Month, Rainy Season and What to Pack.
To plan your trip, read our guide: Train to Machu Picchu 2027: PeruRail vs Inca Rail, Stations and Tips.
Book with a local agency in Cusco
We are a Cusco-based agency and we arrange your trains, entrance ticket, bus and guide. Book through the form on this page or contact us with your travel dates; if you would like to add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, let us know when you book.
Full itinerary
Machu Picchu Full Day Tour Itinerary
Early departure from Cusco
We leave Cusco very early, around 4:00 a.m., by private transfer to the train station in Ollantaytambo or Poroy. The train ride through the Sacred Valley offers spectacular views of mountains and rivers.
Arrival in Aguas Calientes and ascent to Machu Picchu
After a train ride of approximately 1.5 hours we arrive in Aguas Calientes and take the bus up to Machu Picchu. The 25-minute ride climbs the mountain to the entrance of the citadel.
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
You will enjoy a 2 to 3-hour guided tour of the most important areas of Machu Picchu, where the guide explains the history and architecture of the Incas. Highlights include the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza and the agricultural terraces.
Free time at Machu Picchu
After the guided tour you will have free time to explore the citadel at your own pace, take photos or simply enjoy the mountain landscape that surrounds the site.
Descent to Aguas Calientes and lunch
We return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you can have lunch at one of the many local restaurants (not included). You will also have some time to walk around the town and shop for souvenirs if you wish.
Return to Cusco
After lunch we board the train back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy. On arrival at the station, a private vehicle takes you back to Cusco, arriving between 8:00 and 10:00 p.m.
What is included
- Private transport from Cusco to the train station
- Round-trip train tickets (tourist or Vistadome class, depending on the option booked)
- Round-trip bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
- Professional guide in English, Spanish or Portuguese
- Return transport to Cusco
Not included
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, requires advance booking)
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips for the guide or driver (optional)
Frequently asked questions
1. Is advance booking required?
Yes. We recommend booking at least 1 to 2 months in advance, especially during the high season (June to August).
2. Can I bring a digital passport or do I need a physical one?
You must bring your physical passport to enter Machu Picchu; it is a mandatory requirement.
3. How much time do we spend at Machu Picchu?
Around 4 to 5 hours in total, including the guided tour and free time. If you are looking for a similar experience, consider Choquequirao, the sister city of Machu Picchu.
4. Is it possible to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain on this tour?
Yes, but it requires advance booking because spots are limited, and there is an additional cost. We recommend adding this option when you book the tour.
5. Is this tour suitable for older adults or people with limited mobility?
The tour is of low difficulty, although some areas of Machu Picchu have stairs and uneven paths. If you have a health condition that may affect your experience, consult your doctor before traveling.
6. What should I do if I get altitude sickness symptoms during the tour?
Drink coca tea, rest and stay well hydrated. For more tips, read 10 Essential Tips for an Unforgettable Trip to Cusco.
7. Should I bring cash?
Yes. Some shops and restaurants in Aguas Calientes do not accept credit cards, so carry some cash for personal expenses.
8. What train options are available for this tour?
You can choose between the tourist train and the Vistadome train, depending on availability and your preference.
9. Is it worth visiting Machu Picchu during the high season?
Yes, absolutely. Just make sure to book in advance, as it gets quite crowded.
10. Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, Machu Picchu is open every day of the year. However, access may occasionally be affected by heavy rain or other unexpected circumstances.
11. Are there restrooms inside Machu Picchu?
No. The restrooms are located just outside the entrance, and there is a small fee to use them.
12. Can I bring food or drinks inside Machu Picchu?
No, food and drinks are not allowed inside. Have your snacks before or after the visit, and eat well before entering the site. Discover the local Andean gastronomy.
13. Are drones allowed at Machu Picchu?
No, the use of drones is strictly prohibited within the archaeological site.
14. Are there restrictions on large backpacks at Machu Picchu?
Yes, only backpacks up to 40 x 35 x 20 cm are allowed. A small backpack will make your visit to Machu Picchu more comfortable.
15. What is the best time of year to visit Machu Picchu and avoid large crowds?
The best months are March to April and September to October. These are shoulder seasons, but be prepared for occasional rain. For another great experience, also consider Choquequirao.
16. Are trekking poles or umbrellas allowed?
No, trekking poles, umbrellas and similar items are not allowed unless they are required for medical reasons.
17. Can I touch or lean on the walls of Machu Picchu?
No. Touching, moving or removing any stone is prohibited in order to preserve the site.
18. Are there any clothing restrictions for visiting Machu Picchu?
High heels and hard-soled shoes are not allowed. Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking.
19. What is the maximum group size for the tour?
Groups range from 8 to 12 people, which allows a personalized and comfortable experience. With this size, the guide can answer all your questions and give detailed explanations.
20. What is the altitude of Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu sits at 2,430 m (7,970 ft), roughly 1,000 m (3,300 ft) lower than Cusco. Most travelers feel better there than in Cusco itself.
21. What time does the Machu Picchu day trip leave and return?
We pick you up in Cusco around 4:00 a.m. and you are back in Cusco between 8:00 and 10:00 p.m., depending on the train schedule.
22. Is lunch included on the day trip?
No. After the visit you go down to Aguas Calientes, where you can have lunch at one of the many local restaurants before the train back.
Recommendations and what to bring
What to bring
- Your original passport: it is required to enter Machu Picchu and to board the train
- Light, comfortable clothing and a warm jacket for the early start and the evening return
- A rain poncho or light rain jacket (umbrellas are not allowed inside Machu Picchu)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and insect repellent
- A reusable water bottle and light snacks for the journey (eating is not allowed inside the citadel)
- A small backpack, no larger than 40 x 35 x 20 cm
- Cash in soles for lunch, restrooms and small purchases in Aguas Calientes
Recommended footwear
- Comfortable sneakers or lightweight hiking shoes with good grip for the stairs and stone paths of the citadel
Local remedies
- Coca tea: available in Cusco and Aguas Calientes; it helps prevent altitude discomfort before the trip
- Coca or muña candies: they help keep your energy up during the day
Medication
- Pain relievers for minor headaches or mild discomfort
- Your personal medication and something for an upset stomach; take altitude medication only on your doctor's advice
Possible issues during the tour
- Fatigue: the day starts around 4:00 a.m. and is long, so rest well the night before and carry some snacks for the journey.
- Dehydration: Machu Picchu can be warm and humid, so drink enough water before and after the visit.
- Altitude sickness: Machu Picchu is lower than Cusco, but some people may feel mild symptoms. Spend a day or two acclimatizing in Cusco before the tour; coca tea or coca candies can help.
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