Itinerary
Discover what awaits you in the Machu Picchu Classic Tour by Train – 1 Day
day 1
CUSCO - OLLANTAYTAMBO - MACHUPICCHU - CUSCO
From the Andes to the cloud forest of Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu in a single day from Cusco, crossing Andean landscapes to the majestic Inca citadel. You travel in a small group of 2 to 6 travelers, with a guide who accompanies you so you can discover Machu Picchu without rushing.
-
Pick-up in Cusco and transfer to Ollantaytambo
By private transport, around 4:00 a.m. · Cusco → Ollantaytambo
We start early with pick-up at your hotel in Cusco. Our staff will assist you during the transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station, where the journey to Machu Picchu begins.
-
Scenic journey to Aguas Calientes
By tourist train · Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes
We board the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo, also known as Aguas Calientes. Along the way you will see the mountains, the Urubamba River and the landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, as we leave the Andes behind and enter the green cloud forest.
-
Ride up to Machu Picchu
By Consettur bus, about 25 minutes · Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu
When you arrive in Aguas Calientes, our guide will meet you and give you the instructions to continue. We then head to the Consettur bus station to ride up a winding road, surrounded by mountains and vegetation, to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
-
Machu Picchu Highlight
Guided visit, about 2 to 3 hours · Machu Picchu citadel
We explore the impressive Inca citadel with our expert guide. Traveling in a small group, you get more personalized attention: you can listen to the explanations, ask your questions and take in every corner without rushing. You will discover its temples, plazas and terraces, learn about the history and mysteries of the Inca civilization and have time to admire the scenery and take unforgettable photos.
-
Free time in Aguas Calientes
By bus and at your own pace · Machu Picchu → Aguas Calientes
After the guided visit, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes. You will have time for lunch, to stroll around town and, if time allows, to relax in its famous hot springs.
-
Return to Cusco
By tourist train and private transport · Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo → Cusco
At the agreed time, we board the return train to Ollantaytambo, where our vehicle will be waiting to take you to your hotel in Cusco. You will arrive at approximately 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., at the end of a day full of nature and history.
Day details
- Group: Small, 2 to 6 travelers
- Difficulty: Easy
- Guided visit: 2 to 3 hours
- Return to Cusco: approx. 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
- Meals: Not included
Machu Picchu in a single day, in a small group with personalized attention. Looking for a train with better views? Discover Machu Picchu by Vistadome train.
What is this day like? check our photos
Includes
Machu Picchu
- Official Machu Picchu entrance ticket: We arrange it once your booking is confirmed, according to availability and the assigned time slot, on one of these circuits: Circuit 2 (Routes 2A or 2B), with panoramic views and the main sectors of the citadel; Circuit 3 (Route 3B), through the lower sector; or Circuit 1 (Route 1B), with panoramic views from the Guardhouse. We always arrange the best option available for your date.
- Professional bilingual guide: Guided visit in Spanish or English, in a small group of 2 to 6 travelers, to discover the history, culture and secrets of the Inca civilization.
Support and safety
- Pre-tour briefing: The day before the trip, we go over the itinerary with you, coordinate the details and answer your questions.
- Personalized assistance: From pick-up at your hotel, a Sakura Expedition representative assists you at the start of the trip and coordinates your meeting with the guide at Machu Picchu.
Transportation
- Private outbound transfer: From your hotel in Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station.
- Round-trip tourist train: PeruRail Expedition or Inca Rail Voyager, between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
- Consettur buses: Up from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- Private return transfer: From Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
Not include
Meals
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Optional
- Train upgrades and special lunches: See rates under Additional services (Prices tab).
- Tips: Optional.
- Travel insurance (recommended): For greater peace of mind, we recommend insurance covering flight cancellations or delays, lost or delayed luggage, illness, accidents, trip interruptions, loss of tourist services due to delays, as well as medical assistance and personal protection throughout your adventure.
Unforeseen events
- Additional expenses due to causes beyond the agency’s control: adverse weather, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, changes in government policy, political instability, strikes or similar circumstances.
Prices Machu Picchu Classic Tour by Train – 1 Day
Rates per person
Traveling solo? The tour is confirmed with a minimum of 2 people. Message us to check availability for your date.
Requirements for the student discount
Accepted
- Physical university ID card (PVC card)
- Valid during the year of travel
- Showing full name, photo, university and expiration date
Not accepted
- ISIC cards
- Digital certificates
- Screenshots
Send a copy when you book.
Payment
Option 1
Full payment at booking
Pay the total when you make your booking.
Option 2
Deposit of US$ 200 per person
Secure your spot; the balance is paid no later than the day before the tour.
Additional services
- Vistadome train upgrade (return) – US$ 25 per person: Return to Cusco with spectacular panoramic views, comfortable seats and a superior travel experience on one of the most popular trains.
- Vistadome Observatory train upgrade (outbound) – US$ 66 per person: Start your adventure with panoramic windows, an open-air observatory car and live Andean music, as you take in the Sacred Valley scenery on the way to Machu Picchu.
- Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge Tinkuy (Machu Picchu) – US$ 45 per person: The best option for lunch next to Machu Picchu, with a varied buffet in a unique setting just steps from the citadel.
- Lunch at Café Inkaterra – US$ 25 per person: A dining experience in a natural setting by the Vilcanota River, ideal for relaxing and rounding off your visit with excellent food.
Need accommodation in Cusco?
Our team will help you find the best option for your stay.
Packaging list
- Documents and money: Original, valid passport or ID, valid physical student card (if applicable) and cash in soles.
- Clothing and footwear: Comfortable walking clothes, a waterproof jacket or rain poncho, a hat or cap, comfortable shoes with good grip and a special outfit for your photos.
- Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Health: Personal medication.
- Gear: A small daypack of about 30 liters, a reusable water bottle, light snacks, a camera or phone and a portable charger / power bank.
Recomendations
- Choose your season: Cusco has two seasons: the dry season, from April to October, with little rain, and the rainy season, from November to March, when rainfall is more frequent.
- Book early: Once you have your date, book as soon as possible, as Machu Picchu tickets are limited. This also helps you plan your hotels, trains and flights better.
- Documents in order: Bring your original passport or ID and check its expiration date before you travel.
- Travel light: Bring only a small backpack with the day’s essentials; your main luggage can stay at your hotel or at our office, free of charge.
F.A.Qs
When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu can be visited all year round, but it is worth keeping Cusco’s two seasons in mind. The dry season, from April to October, usually brings sunnier days and clear skies, ideal for the scenery. The rainy season, from November to March, has more frequent rain and greener, lusher vegetation. Whatever the season, we recommend booking your ticket as early as possible, as availability is limited and sells out quickly on some dates.
Does the tour run every day?
Yes, it runs all year round. Even so, Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets are limited, so we recommend booking in advance to secure your spot and have more choice of times and circuits.
How many travelers are in the small group?
We believe a visit to Machu Picchu deserves personalized attention and a comfortable pace, so we work with small groups of 2 to 6 travelers. If your booking is for 2 people, your departure is guaranteed and operated directly by Sakura Expedition, without joining other groups or agencies. If you are traveling solo, check with our sales executive.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking 4 to 6 months ahead, especially in high season. Every year more travelers plan their visit months in advance and, since Machu Picchu tickets have limited capacity, they sell out quickly. Booking early gives you more choice of circuits, entry times and trains.
Which Machu Picchu circuit is included?
The tour can be done on any of the three Machu Picchu circuits, depending on availability when the booking is confirmed. Each offers a different experience: a walk through the citadel, panoramic views or both. Although many travelers ask for Circuit 2, Circuits 1 and 3 also let you enjoy Machu Picchu from unique perspectives. Our team will always arrange the best option available for your trip.
Can I choose my Machu Picchu entry time?
We will do our best to get your preferred time, but it depends on availability when the booking is confirmed and must fit the tour itinerary.
Which train does the tour include?
It includes the PeruRail Expedition or Inca Rail Voyager train, with comfortable seats and large windows to enjoy the scenery. You can also request an upgrade to a higher category, such as Vistadome or Vistadome Observatory, subject to availability and at an additional cost.
How do I know if this tour is right for me?
It is an excellent way to see one of the wonders of the world comfortably and safely, without long hikes. It is especially suited to families with children, older adults and travelers short on time who don’t want to miss Machu Picchu. With organized transfers, the train journey and a guided visit in a small group, you will enjoy a complete, easy experience focused on the history, culture and scenery of the citadel.
From what age is the tour recommended?
It is ideal for travelers of all ages, as it requires no long hikes or great physical effort. We recommend it for children from age 3, accompanied by their parents, and it is a great option for older adults. There is no maximum age: every year many travelers over 75 visit Machu Picchu without any problems. Even so, if you have a health condition, check with your doctor before the trip.
From what age do children pay at Machu Picchu?
Children need a Machu Picchu ticket from age 3 and get special rates depending on their age and nationality. To get them, they must show a valid passport or ID when booking and during the visit. Our team will let you know the applicable rates.
How difficult is the tour?
It is easy. It is designed for travelers who want to see Machu Picchu in a comfortable, cultural and accessible way, without long walks or demanding treks.
What time do we get back to Cusco?
The return to Cusco is expected between approximately 7:00 and 8:00 p.m., depending on the train schedule and operating conditions.
How long is the guided visit at Machu Picchu?
It lasts about 2 to 3 hours and may run a little longer depending on the group’s pace. Since it is a small group, you will have time to stop, take photos and learn in detail about the history and secrets of Machu Picchu with your guide.
Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
No. Given the length of the tour, there is not enough time for these hikes. If you would like to do one of them, we recommend our 2-day Machu Picchu tour. Please note that these tickets depend on availability and usually sell out in advance.
Can I bring a suitcase or a large backpack?
To travel more comfortably, we suggest bringing only a small backpack with the day’s essentials.
Where can I store my luggage?
As it is a one-day tour, you don’t need to bring luggage. You can leave your main luggage free of charge at your hotel in Cusco or at our office. There is also a luggage storage service at the train station before boarding.
Who meets us when we return to Ollantaytambo station?
In Ollantaytambo, our staff will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name, to assist you and take you back to Cusco.
Does the tour include transfers from and to my hotel?
Yes. It includes the transfer from your hotel in Cusco to the train station and the return from Ollantaytambo to your hotel.
Does the guide lead a large group?
No. The guided visit is in a small group of 2 to 6 travelers, so you and your group can enjoy a more comfortable and personalized experience. If you are traveling solo, check the options with our sales executive.
Are the transfers private or shared?
The road transfers are private, both outbound and return. The tourist train and the Machu Picchu buses are shared services.
What is the booking process?
1. Availability check: Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com or via WhatsApp at +51 941 411 418 to check available dates. We will send you a booking form that each participant must complete.
2. Traveler details: To buy your Machu Picchu ticket and train tickets, we need each participant’s full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy) and nationality. Without this information we cannot buy tickets.
3. Deposit: Once we receive the completed forms, we request a deposit of US$ 200 per person to buy the entrance and train tickets. Book early, as spaces sell out quickly.
4. Final confirmation: Once everything is secured, you will receive your official confirmation invoice and your booking will be 100% guaranteed.
Is tipping customary?
Tips are entirely voluntary. Our whole team is paid fairly, so any gratuity is up to you.
