Machu Picchu By Train - 1 Day
Itinerary
Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu
Transport to Ollantaytambo & Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Russell Experience Peru
Experience the magic of Machu Picchu with Russell Experience Peru, combining comfort, breathtaking landscapes, and expert local guides. This Machu Picchu guided tour from Cusco is perfect whether you’re coming from the famous Inca Trail or starting your adventure directly from Cusco.
Early Departure from Cusco
Your adventure begins early in the morning with hotel pickup or an agreed meeting point in Cusco. Our professional driver will accompany you throughout the journey.
Be sure to pack:
Passport and Machu Picchu tickets
Water and snacks
Light jacket for the morning chill
Along the way, enjoy the Sacred Valley scenery, with its agricultural terraces, picturesque Andean villages, and snow-capped mountains. This route is also part of the experience for those trekking the Classic Inca Trail, letting you connect with Inca history before arriving at Machu Picchu.
Train Journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
After approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, you’ll arrive at Ollantaytambo train station. Here, board the Expedition Train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town).
The journey follows the Urubamba River, passing deep valleys and steep cliffs. Panoramic windows allow you to enjoy every view while relaxing with a complimentary hot drink and snack.
For travelers coming from the Inca Trail, this is the perfect time to rest before the final ascent to the citadel.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
From Aguas Calientes, a 25-minute bus ride takes you up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Upon passing the checkpoint, you’ll stand in front of one of the world’s most iconic archaeological wonders.
Your expert guide will lead a 2-hour tour, sharing the history, mysteries, and culture of this Inca citadel. Highlights include:
The Sun Temple
The Room of the Three Windows
The Intihuatana Stone, an ancient solar clock
Agricultural terraces with panoramic views
If you completed the Inca Trail, you may enter through the Sun Gate (Intipunku) for a truly unforgettable first view of Machu Picchu.
Optional Activities
Climb Huayna Picchu for a breathtaking aerial view
Hike Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic vistas of the valley and citadel
Visit the local museum or relax in the hot springs of Aguas Calientes
Return to Cusco
After the visit, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, with time for lunch or last-minute shopping. In the afternoon, board the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, enjoying the Sacred Valley scenery again.
From Ollantaytambo, our private transport will bring you back to Cusco, ending your experience at San Francisco Square or your hotel.
Travel Tip: Machu Picchu has limited daily entries, and Inca Trail permits sell out months in advance. Book with Russell Experience Peru to secure your spot and enjoy a Machu Picchu guided tour from Cusco without any hassle.
What's Included?
Transfers In / Out: Pickup from your hotel in Cusco and return at the end of the tour.
Transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station (round trip).
“Expedition” Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (round trip).
Professional bilingual tour guides (English / Spanish).
Entrance to Machu Picchu (Circuit 1, 2, or 3), depending on availability.
Guided tour of Machu Picchu with detailed explanations of history, culture, and Inca architecture.
Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (round trip).
1 lunch in Machu Picchu included.
Entrance to additional sites such as Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, or Great Cavern (Machu Picchu Circuit 3).
Entrance to additional sites such as Machu Picchu Mountain, Inti Punku, or Inka Bridge (Machu Picchu Circuit 1).
Additional costs or delays beyond our control, including natural disasters, adverse weather, itinerary changes due to passenger health conditions, pandemics, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, or other unforeseen events.
Why Choose Russell Experience Peru?
Local guides with deep knowledge of Inca culture
Comfortable private transport from Cusco to Machu Picchu
Customizable itineraries to suit your interests and pace
Authentic experiences with attention to every detail
Optional Add-Ons & Upgrades
Upgrade to Vistadome Train ($50 USD) – enjoy panoramic windows and enhanced comfort on your journey to Machu Picchu.
Upgrade to Vistadome Observatory Train Return ($75 USD) – return in style with spectacular scenic views.
Huayna Picchu Entrance – subject to availability and time slots: 7:00 am / 8:00 am / 9:00 am / 10:00 am ($75 USD)
Machu Picchu Mountain Entrance – subject to availability and time slots: 8:00 am / 9:00 am ($75 USD)
Guided Tour for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain* ($75 USD per group) – enjoy expert explanations while exploring these iconic peaks.
Note: Machu Picchu is one of the most visited destinations in the world, with limited daily entries. Booking in advance is essential to secure your spot. If you don’t, you may need to hire a private guide or adjust your schedule accordingly.
Important Information
Circuit 1: Panoramic
One of the most remarkable aspects of visiting Machu Picchu is the chance to enjoy its wide, panoramic views — not only of the Inca citadel itself, but also of its surrounding sacred mountains. These landscapes were considered spiritual spaces, deeply connected to the Andean deities.
Machu Picchu offers four different hiking routes that take you to the highest points of the site. Along these narrow mountain paths, you’ll be rewarded with extraordinary scenery and the most breathtaking perspectives of the Inca city — views that go far beyond the famous postcard photo.
Each route requires a different level of physical effort, but every step is worth it. The reward is a close encounter with the captivating beauty of its architecture, the ingenious spatial organization of buildings perched on the mountainside, and the perfect harmony between Inca construction and nature.
Circuit 2 – Classic Circuit
The Classic Circuit combines a visit to the mid-level agricultural terraces and the entire urban sector of the Inca city of Machu Picchu.
Along the way, you’ll explore ancient buildings that once served as residences and ritual spaces for observing the stars — a glimpse into the spiritual and scientific life of the Incas.
This circuit offers two route options, both requiring a moderate level of physical effort, making it perfect for travelers who want to experience the heart of Machu Picchu without extreme hiking.
Circuit 3 – Machu Picchu Royalty
This circuit is made up of four routes and focuses on visiting the most sacred and important spaces once reserved for Inca royalty. Highlights include the Temple of the Sun, the Inca’s House, the Temple of the Condor, and other iconic structures that reveal the power, spirituality, and sophistication of the Inca elite.
The main circuit requires minimal physical effort, making it accessible to most visitors. However, if you choose to extend your experience by hiking Huayna Picchu Mountain, Huchuy Picchu Mountain, or heading to the Great Cave, be prepared for a more physically demanding journey that will also require extra time.
Packing List
Essential
Clothing
Recommended
Equipment
Prices & Discounts – Machu Picchu day trip with Russell Experience Peru
At Russell Experience Peru, we believe the adventure begins the moment you start the journey.
That’s why we offer two train options to kick off your Inka Trail and Machu Picchu experience — so you can choose the one that matches your travel style.
Option 1: Expedition Train Service
“The Adventure Starts in the Journey” – The classic, comfortable Expedition service, perfect for travelers who want a great balance between price and comfort.
Price: $295.00 USD per person.
Option 2: Panorámic Vistadome Train
“A journey for your senses” – Travel with large panoramic windows that let you fully immerse yourself in the stunning Andean landscapes, with more spacious seats and premium service.
Price: $345.00 USD per person.
Special Discounts
We love making the Inka Trail dream more accessible. Here’s how you can save:
Students (18 to 24 years old): $20 USD discount.
You must be under 25 on the day of your trip and have a valid student ID. Email us a scanned copy at the time of booking.Under 18 years old: $20 USD discount.
Simply send us a scanned copy of the passport.
Cancellation Policies
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be modified for any reason. If you cancel or request a modification, no refund will be given.
Frequent Asked Questions
Is it really possible to visit Machu Picchu in just one day?
Absolutely! With an early train from Cusco or the Sacred Valley and a well-planned itinerary, you can explore Machu Picchu and return the same day. This is a popular option for travelers short on time.
When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
The dry season (May to September) offers the clearest skies and best views, but it’s also the busiest. The wet season (October to April) has fewer crowds and a lush green landscape — just be ready for occasional rain showers.
Do I need to bring my original passport on the Machu Picchu 1-day tour?
Yes — you must present your original passport with your Machu Picchu entrance ticket. Make sure it matches the name and number on your booking.
Is this day trip to Machu Picchu safe for children?
Yes! Machu Picchu is family-friendly, and many children enjoy the adventure. Just be aware of uneven paths and keep a close eye on younger kids for safety.
How long in advance should I book Machu Picchu 1-day tours from Cusco?
We recommend booking at least 2–3 months in advance — even earlier during high season (May–September) — as entrance tickets and train seats are limited.
I’m staying at an Airbnb. Can you still pick us up?
Yes — we can arrange pickup from most Airbnbs in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, as long as we have the address in advance.
Is it possible to climb Machu Picchu Mountain on your Machu Picchu day trip?
Yes, but you’ll need to request this in advance and pay for the additional permit. Keep in mind it adds several hours and requires good physical condition.
Is it possible to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain on your Machu Picchu day trip?
Yes, with advance booking. Huayna Picchu has limited permits per day and involves a steep climb — best for travelers who are fit and comfortable with heights.
I’m 70 years old. Can I make this tour?
Yes — many senior travelers visit Machu Picchu. The main circuit is not overly strenuous, but we recommend choosing routes that match your comfort level and informing your guide so they can adapt the pace.
Do I need to be very physically fit?
A basic fitness level is enough for the standard tour. You’ll walk on uneven paths and climb some steps, but the pace is manageable. If you add mountain climbs, you’ll need to be in good shape.
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be modified for any reason. If you cancel or request a modification, no refund will be given.