Machu Picchu Guided Day Trip from Cusco

What to expect on the day

After pickup from your lodging in Cusco, you ride the train through the valley to Machu Picchu town. Staff help you onto the shuttle bus up to the citadel, where an expert guide leads a tour of about 2.5 hours along a set route past terraces, temples and ceremonial sites. Entry is usually in the 9, 10 or 11 a.m. slots, and the tour may wait up to 40 minutes to start depending on your time slot and the train timetable. At the end of the day, you take the train back and are driven to your hotel in Cusco.

Prices and extra costs

• Included: Pickup and drop-off at your lodging in Cusco, a round-trip train ticket (or bus-and-train service), the round-trip shuttle bus to the citadel, the Machu Picchu entry ticket and an expert local guide in English or Spanish.
• Not included: Lunch, bottled water and tips.

What to bring

• Your passport, which must match the details on your entry ticket.
• Water, snacks or money for lunch in Machu Picchu town.
• A rain jacket, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes.

Tips for a better day

• Book early: Entry to Machu Picchu is limited. The operator suggests booking about 60 days ahead. Later bookings usually get midday or afternoon slots.
• Send your details: You must give your full name, passport number, date of birth and nationality so the entry ticket can be issued. Tickets are sent about 72 hours after payment.
• Arrive a day early: Be in Cusco at least 1 day before the tour. The operator contacts you the day before with your pickup time. From January to March, the trip runs by bus to Ollantaytambo and then by train.

Who it’s best for

Best for: Travelers short on time who want a guided visit to Machu Picchu without planning trains, buses and tickets themselves.

Consider another option if: You want a lower-cost day with more Inca sites and less time on trains. The Sacred Valley full-day tour visits Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

Restrictions

You need at least a moderate level of fitness, and the trip is not recommended for travelers with poor heart health. The entry ticket cannot be refunded or moved to another date. The operator gives priority to Circuit 2 and offers another circuit if it is sold out, after checking with you. Peruvian citizens must use their DNI, not a passport, for the ticket.

Cancellation policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations, and the Machu Picchu entry ticket cannot be changed to another date.