Rainbow Mountain Trek
Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. Experience the breathtaking colors of the Andes...
The Machu Picchu Full Day Tour by Train is perfect for travelers who want to experience this world wonder in just one day, without rushing the highlights.
Your journey begins with hotel pickup in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, followed by a scenic train ride through the Andes to Aguas Calientes. From there, a short bus transfer takes you up to Machu Picchu, where a professional guide will lead a detailed tour of the Inca citadel, sharing its history, architecture, and spiritual importance.
After the guided visit, you’ll have free time to explore and take photos before returning by train and transfer to your hotel.
A smooth, well-organized experience designed to help you make the most of your visit to Machu Picchu in one unforgettable day.
Your day begins with pickup from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco between 3:45 and 4:15 AM. If you are staying in the Sacred Valley, such as Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, Pisac, or Calca, transfer arrangements can be coordinated in advance. You will travel by comfortable tourist vehicle for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to the Ollantaytambo train station.
Upon arrival, your guide will meet you at the train station holding a sign with your name. You will receive important instructions and have around 20 to 30 minutes of free time before continuing to the entrance.
The bus ride up to Machu Picchu takes approximately 30 minutes along a winding mountain road. Arrival at the site is generally between 9:00 and 10:00 AM, depending on train schedules and bus queues.
Your guided tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours. Entrance tickets are included and assigned according to availability, usually Circuit 1 or 2, with alternatives if necessary. A licensed professional guide will explain the history, architecture, temples, terraces, and ceremonial areas of this extraordinary Inca citadel, with time for photos and personal exploration.
After the visit, you will take the 25 to 30-minute bus ride back down to Aguas Calientes. You will have free time to enjoy lunch, explore the town, or shop for souvenirs.
Your return train to Ollantaytambo departs around 2:30 PM or 3:20 PM and takes approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, our driver will be waiting for you and will transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving between 6:30 and 7:00 PM.
This full-day experience offers a smooth and well-organized way to discover Machu Picchu with Salas Travel Peru.
Pre-tour briefing in Cusco (one day before departure)
Private transportation from your hotel to the train station
Round-trip train ticket to Aguas Calientes
Bus ride up to Machu Picchu
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
Professional guided tour inside the citadel
Return bus to Aguas Calientes
Train back to Ollantaytambo
Private transfer from Ollantaytambo to your hotel
Breakfast
Lunch
Being well prepared will help you fully enjoy your visit to Machu Picchu. Weather conditions can change quickly, and you’ll be out for most of the day, so packing smart is essential.
Original passport (required for entry)
Student ID (if you booked with a student discount)
Train and entrance tickets (printed or digital copies on your phone)
Small, comfortable daypack
Lightweight layers (mornings are cool, midday can be warm)
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Hat or cap
Insect repellent
Refillable water bottle
Light snacks such as nuts or energy bars
Camera or smartphone
Cash in Peruvian soles for meals, souvenirs, or tips
Pack only what you truly need to stay comfortable throughout the day. Keep your backpack light, and check the weather forecast before your trip to choose appropriate clothing.
With the right preparation, your Machu Picchu experience with Salas Travel Peru will be smooth, comfortable, and unforgettable.
Proper acclimatization is essential before starting the Lares Trek. We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek to adapt to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
If you have already been at high altitude elsewhere in Peru, we still advise spending at least one full day in Cusco to rest and recover before beginning the trek.
Popular activities before your trek include a Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley excursions, Moray & Maras, or visiting the Qeswachaka Bridge.
A mandatory briefing is held at 5:00 PM the day before departure, either at our main office in Cusco or at your hotel. The meeting lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes and covers final details, packing guidelines, and itinerary review.
If you are unable to attend, you must coordinate an alternative time in advance.
Any remaining balance must be paid at least two days before departure to confirm your reservation.
Payments can be made in cash (USD or Peruvian soles) at our office. Card or PayPal payments are accepted but include a 5% service fee applied by the payment processor. Bank checks and traveler’s checks are not accepted.
You will receive a duffel bag during your briefing. This bag will be carried by horses and delivered to you at each campsite.
The maximum allowed weight is 5 kg (11 lb), including your sleeping bag, sleeping mat, clothing, and personal items.
You may store your main luggage at our office or at your hotel free of charge during the trek.
We recommend keeping valuables in your hotel safe and not leaving important items inside stored luggage.
Pick-ups are available within Cusco city. We recommend staying in the historic center for easier access.
Your pickup time will be confirmed the day before departure. Due to traffic and narrow streets, pick-up times may vary by 30–45 minutes.
After visiting Machu Picchu, transportation back to Cusco is fully included.
You will take the bus between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes (one-way included), followed by train service to Ollantaytambo. From there, our staff will transfer you back to Cusco and to your hotel.
If you prefer a round-trip bus ticket between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, it can be arranged for an additional cost.
Group tours include travelers of different ages and physical conditions. Each participant may hike at their own pace.
The guide reserves the right to make itinerary adjustments if necessary after consulting the group.
Strikes and demonstrations occasionally occur in Peru and may affect travel plans. In such cases, our operations team will coordinate alternative arrangements.
Your safety is always our highest priority.
Please keep track of your personal items at all times. We are not responsible for lost or forgotten belongings during the trek.
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially during high season (May to September). Entrance tickets and train seats have limited availability and can sell out quickly.
Your entrance is assigned based on availability at the time of booking. Circuits 1 or 2 are usually preferred, but alternatives may be confirmed if needed.
The tour involves walking on stone paths and some stairs. A moderate level of fitness is recommended, but it is manageable for most travelers.
Breakfast and lunch are not included. You will have free time in Aguas Calientes to enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.
Train times are subject to availability. Any changes will be communicated in advance, and all logistics will be adjusted accordingly.
Entry time and duration depend on the circuit assigned. In some cases, additional time may be allowed, but re-entry is not permitted once you exit.
Yes. The original passport used for booking is mandatory for train boarding and entrance to Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu is open year-round. Tours operate in most weather conditions, and light rain is common, especially during the rainy season.
These answers will help you prepare confidently for your visit with Salas Travel Peru.
Absolutely incredible experience! The guide was so knowledgeable about the Inca history. The train ride through the Sacred Valley was breathtaking. Highly recommend Salas Travel.
Everything was perfectly organized from start to finish. We didn't have to worry about a single ticket or transfer. Machu Picchu is stunning!
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