The Machu Picchu by Train 1 Day tour is the fastest and most comfortable way to visit the Inca citadel 🏛️. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, it combines road transfers from Cusco, a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley (1.5 hours), and a guided tour of the wonder of the world, returning to Cusco on the same day. Very low difficulty. 🚂🌄
This exclusive service is meticulously designed for travelers with limited time who wish to experience **Machu Picchu** without unnecessary physical exhaustion. Enjoy a comfortable train ride winding along the Urubamba River through beautiful Andean landscapes down to the high jungle, where the Inca citadel awaits you with its imposing beauty and mystery.
For those wishing to spend the night in Aguas Calientes and enjoy the hot springs, we recommend the Machu Picchu by train 2 days tour. If you prefer a moderate hiking adventure, the Short Inca Trail 2D/1N is the ideal alternative.
| Feature | Machu Picchu Train (1 Day) | Machu Picchu Train (2 Days) | Short Inca Trail (2 Days) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overnight Stay | No (Return to Cusco) | Yes (Hotel in Aguas Calientes) | Yes (Hotel in Aguas Calientes) |
| Physical Activity | Very low (Only in ruins) | Very low | Moderate (12 km of hiking) |
| Ruins Visit | Day 1 (Approx. 2 hours) | Day 2 (First shift option) | Day 2 in the morning |
| Best for | Travelers with short time | Families and relaxation | Adventurers and hikers |
🥾 Walking distance: 4 km / 2.5 mi of walking inside the citadel
⏱️ Estimated time: 16 hours of total excursion (transfers included)
⛰️ Maximum altitude: 3,399 m (11,151 ft) in Cusco / 2,430 m (7,972 ft) at Machu Picchu
🍽️ Meals: Not included
We begin our journey very early with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 03:30 AM. We will travel in our tourist transportation through the scenic Sacred Valley of the Incas to the train station in Ollantaytambo. From here, we will board the Expedition or Vistadome tourist train, enjoying a 1.5-hour ride along the Vilcanota River basin, crossing beautiful Andean canyons down to the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
Upon arrival, our staff will guide you to the eco-buses that take us up the winding Hiram Bingham highway to the entrance of the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. We will have a private guided tour of approximately 2 hours, visiting the most important temples, terraces, and sectors of this wonder of the world. After taking the classic postcard photos, we will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time to enjoy lunch and walk around the town. In the afternoon, we board the return train to Ollantaytambo, where our private transport awaits to take you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 08:30 PM.
Below are the details and characteristics of the one-day Machu Picchu train tour:
Cusco
03:30 AM
Hotel pickup in Cusco starts at 03:30 AM. The complete excursion takes all day, and you will be back at your hotel in Cusco around 08:30 PM.
Yes, the entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu Citadel is 100% included and guaranteed under the circuit available at the moment of your booking. We recommend booking in advance to secure the best entry schedules.
The standard service includes Expedition (PeruRail) or Voyager (Inca Rail) tourist trains. Yes, you can upgrade to the Vistadome train (featuring panoramic windows and onboard shows) by coordinating with us during your reservation.
Machu Picchu sits at 2,430 m (7,972 ft) above sea level, which is much lower than Cusco (3,400 m). Therefore, most travelers feel a great relief upon descending to the archaeological site and do not suffer from altitude sickness on this tour.
Yes, train companies limit carry-on luggage to a small backpack or bag of up to 5 kg (11 lbs) per person. You can leave the rest of your heavy luggage for free in the storage room of your hotel in Cusco.
