Full-Day Machu Picchu Tour From Cusco

This basic full-day Machu Picchu tour starts and ends in Cusco. While Machu Picchu has long been the top visitor attraction in Peru, in recent years it is increasingly considered one of the top landmark attractions in the world. It was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007 and most recently, in 2013, voted the Traveler’s Choice #1 landmark attraction in the world by Trip Advisor.

Discovered formally (it was never lost to the locals) in 1911 by an American explorer Hiram Bingham, its terraces, stone masonry and mountain top views offer a breathtaking visual experience as well as a fascinating and mystical look into the lifestyle and mysteries of the Incas. A day in the ancient citadel deserves its place on the top of many bucket lists.

Day 1: Train to Aguas Calientes

Early in the morning you will be transferred from your hotel to the train station where you will board the train for the journey of a lifetime. This train ride will take you through the mystical Urubamba Valley to the city of Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu. In Aguas Calientes you will board the bus that takes you up the mountain to the entrance of the citadel of Machu Picchu. From here you will begin a walking tour of the terraced agricultural area and the legendary stone work of the living and working areas. Your local guide will explain the functional history of the site, as well as share legends and rituals surrounding the Incan beliefs and their deep reverence for the mother earth. It is still a mystery as to the purpose of this citadel and why it was abandoned suddenly.

After the tour you will be given an option of enjoying a buffet lunch in Machu Picchu or Aguas Calientes before taking the train ride back to Cusco. Upon your arrival you will be transferred to your hotel in Cusco to rest and reflect upon one of the most amazing days of your life.

Optional: Buffet lunch Sanctuary Lodge
Optional: Early morning climb to the summit of Huayna Picchu

End of Services

Included

• All services, tourist tickets, and entrance fees.
• All excursions come with a guide in the English language.
• Our prices include entrance fees and tourist ticket costs to determined historical, natural, or religious landmarks that are managed by the local authorities in many cases.

Not included

• Domestic and international airfare.
• Tips for guides, drivers, and waitresses, if not specified in the description.

Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking boots or shoes, hat, light jacket, sunglasses and sunscreen.