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Machu Picchu Full Day Tour – Machu Picchu Tours From Cusco

DurationFull Day
DifficultyModerate
Max Altitude2,430 m.a.s.l.
Group Size2 to 12 People
LanguagesSpanish, English, Portuguese

Introduction to the Adventure

Full Day
Moderate
2,430 m.a.s.l.
2 to 12 People
Spanish, English, Portuguese

The Machu Picchu Full Day Tour takes us from Cusco to the legendary Inca citadel. We will travel through the Sacred Valley, enjoying stunning mountains, rivers, and fertile valleys along the way. The journey includes scenic train rides and comfortable transport, so we can relax and take in the views. This tour is a perfect mix of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes all in one day.

Once we reach Aguas Calientes, we will get ready to explore Machu Picchu. Our guide will show us the terraces, temples, and plazas, sharing stories about the Sun Temple and other ceremonial spaces. We will learn how the Incas designed this incredible city and what each area meant in their culture.

We will visit the main viewpoints for amazing panoramas of the mountains and the Urubamba River. Walking around, we will see terraces and stonework up close and get plenty of chances for photos. This is a great way to really appreciate the Inca Empire’s genius.

After exploring Machu Picchu, we will head back to Aguas Calientes to rest or have a meal. Then we will take the train back through the Sacred Valley to Cusco, finishing the day with a hotel transfer. This tour gives us unforgettable memories of history, culture, and the beautiful Andes.

  • Itinerary
  • Inclusions
  • Packing List
  • FAQs
  • Tips
  • Book Now
Day 01

MACHU PICCHU FULL DAY TOUR

We will start the Machu Picchu Full Day Tour by picking you up from your hotel in Cusco’s Historic Center between 3:00 A.M. and 4:00 A.M. We will travel in a private vehicle to the Ollantaytambo train station, enjoying views of the Sacred Valley, traditional villages, and high Andean mountains along the way. Our guide will share the history and importance of this valley in the Inca Empire.
We will board the train to Aguas Calientes, traveling about 112 km through the Urubamba River Valley. The ride offers stunning landscapes and great photo opportunities of rivers, mountains, and local farms. When we arrive in Aguas Calientes, we will take the shuttle bus to Machu Picchu and get ready for the full exploration of the citadel.
At Machu Picchu, we will walk through agricultural terraces, plazas, and temples. We will visit the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and other ceremonial areas. Our guide will explain Inca construction techniques, spiritual beliefs, and daily life. We will capture amazing views of Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, and the surrounding Andes.
We will explore hidden corners, stone stairways, and sacred plazas. Walking paths let us see terraces up close and learn about Inca agriculture and engineering. Optional short hikes to viewpoints offer unforgettable panoramas. After the guided tour, we will return to Aguas Calientes for refreshments or a light meal.
Finally, we will head back to Cusco by train and private transport, reflecting on the day. We will arrive around 8:00 P.M., completing an unforgettable full day of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

Day Statistics:

Distance traveled: Approximately 224 km round trip including train and road travel
Highest altitude: Machu Picchu citadel at 2,430 meters above sea level
Lowest altitude: Ollantaytambo train station at 2,792 meters above sea level
Route: Cusco → Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu → Aguas Calientes → Cusco
Difficulty level: Moderate (short walks, uneven stone paths, and optional steep viewpoints)

Included

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco’s Historic Center
  • Round-trip train tickets (Ollantaytambo ↔ Aguas Calientes)
  • Shuttle bus to and from Machu Picchu
  • Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (including terraces and selected temples)
  • Guided tour of the Inca citadel
  • Assistance throughout the tour

Not Included

  • Meals and drinks (lunch not included)
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks, extra activities)
  • Optional hikes such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
  • Tips for guide and driver
  • Travel or medical insurance

To ensure you enjoy your adventure to the fullest, we have prepared this detailed checklist. We recommend reviewing each category before packing your bags.

Documents & Essentials

Cash (soles) and/or credit cards
Cash (soles) and/or credit cards
Insect repellent
Insect repellent
Passport or ID card (and digital copies)
Passport or ID card (and digital copies)
Personal medications and basic first aid kit
Personal medications and basic first aid kit
Reusable water bottle
Reusable water bottle
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)

Clothing & Footwear

Lightweight and comfortable trousers
Lightweight and comfortable trousers
Polos or breathable t-shirts
Polos or breathable t-shirts
Sandals or light footwear for relaxation
Sandals or light footwear for relaxation
Swimsuit
Swimsuit
Waterproof or windproof jacket
Waterproof or windproof jacket

Equipment

Daypack (20–30 L)
Daypack (20–30 L)
Rain poncho
Rain poncho

Recommended

Energy snacks (bars, nuts, etc.)
Energy snacks (bars, nuts, etc.)
Photographic Camera
Photographic Camera
Portable charger
Portable charger
01

What is the duration of the Machu Picchu Full Day Tour?

The tour lasts approximately 17 hours, typically from 3:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.

02

What sites will we visit on this tour?

We will visit Aguas Calientes, the Machu Picchu citadel, agricultural terraces, and the Temple of the Sun.

03

Does the tour include hotel pickup?

Yes. Pickup and drop-off are included from hotels in Cusco’s Historic Center.

04

Are entrance tickets included in the tour price?

Yes. The tour includes Machu Picchu entrance tickets and access to selected temples and terraces.

05

Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?

Yes. The tour involves moderate walking on uneven paths, suitable for most ages with regular breaks.

06

What is the highest altitude reached during the tour?

The highest point is Machu Picchu at approximately 2,430 meters above sea level.

07

What should participants wear?

Wear comfortable shoes, layered clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Mornings and evenings may feel cool.

08

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No. Meals and drinks are not included, but participants may bring snacks or purchase food in Aguas Calientes.

09

Are optional hikes included?

No. Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hikes are optional and require separate tickets.

10

Is photography allowed during the tour?

Yes. Photography is allowed throughout the outdoor areas of Machu Picchu.

Tips for your trip

THINGS TO CARRY ON 

  • Original passport or valid ID (required for entry)
  • Comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven paths
  • Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Water bottle (refillable recommended)
  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and afternoons
  • Camera or smartphone for photos
  • Small backpack for personal items
  • Snacks for energy during the tour
  • Cash in Peruvian soles for souvenirs, drinks, or tips

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