Experience an unforgettable day exploring the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu aboard the exclusive Vistadome Observatory train. Enjoy a panoramic journey through stunning Andean landscapes where you can feel the energy of the mountains. Upon arriving at Machu Picchu, explore with a professional guide each corner that makes this wonder of the world a unique destination, experiencing an adventure designed to make the most of your visit.
Why choose this experience with us?
Small groups for a more personalized experience: Travel in groups of up to 6 passengers, enjoying a more comfortable, flexible, and attentive journey.
More time to enjoy Machu Picchu: Thanks to efficient planning and the small group size, you will have the necessary time to explore the citadel, take photographs, and enjoy its landscapes at a leisurely pace.
Local expert guide in Machu Picchu: Discover the history, architecture, and legacy of the Inca citadel accompanied by a professional guide who will enrich every moment of the visit.
Personalized accompaniment from the beginning: From the pick-up at your hotel in Cusco, a representative from Sakura Expedition will be attentive to every detail of your trip, coordinating your experience so you can enjoy an organized and worry-free journey.
Full Day | Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) – Machu Picchu – Cusco Discover the experience of visiting Machu Picchu in just one day. The journey begins early in a tourist vehicle, crossing the Sacred Valley until reaching Ollantaytambo. Next, you board the Expedition train to finally arrive and explore the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Technical details of the tour:
Duration:
All day (4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.)
Walking time:
2 to 3 hours during the guided tour
Maximum altitude:
Machu Picchu: 2,430 meters above sea level / 7,972 feet
Minimum altitude:
Aguas Calientes: 2,040 meters above sea level / 6,693 feet
Level of difficulty:
Easy
Temperature:
8 °C to 26 °C
Highlights of the tour:
Cusco (Imperial City or Qosqo): Also known as the navel of the world, it was the capital of the Tawantinsuyu empire. Currently, it combines colonial architecture with the Inca historical legacy.
Ollantaytambo: Historical town that preserves the original layout from the Inca era. It has an impressive archeological site and a wide range of tourist services.
Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town): Main center of tourist services and gateway to Machu Picchu. Here you will find the train station, as well as various attractions that complement the travel experience.
Machu Picchu: Ancient Inca citadel considered one of the main resting residences of the Inca elite. It was also an important sanctuary and astronomical center located amidst tropical mountain landscapes.
Full Day | Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) – Machu Picchu – Cusco
An unforgettable day in Machu Picchu aboard the Vistadome Observatory Train.
Today you will discover one of the most fascinating destinations in the world. From dawn in the Sacred Valley to your arrival at Machu Picchu, every moment of the journey has been carefully organized for you to enjoy a comfortable, personalized, and unforgettable experience.
The Full Day Machu Picchu experience begins around 4:00 a.m. with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. During the journey, you will be able to see various landscapes of the Sacred Valley while watching the sunrise among the mountains until you reach the town of Ollantaytambo, where the main train station to Machu Picchu is located.
Upon arriving at the station, we will board the Vistadome Observatory train from PeruRail, which is renowned for its exclusive service and features large panoramic windows on both the walls and the ceiling. It also features a spacious car with a balcony to enjoy every landscape along the route. The journey continues for two hours along the winding Urubamba River until reaching Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu village).
Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, our expert local guide will be waiting to begin the unforgettable adventure of discovering one of the most extraordinary wonders of the world. In the village, we will board a bus that will take us in 25 minutes to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
The journey takes you along a mountain road surrounded by lush vegetation, where each curve reveals new landscapes and spectacular views of the cloud forest that surrounds the Inca citadel.
Once inside the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, you will enjoy a guided tour in a small, personalized group lasting around 2 to 3 hours at your own pace. During the tour, you will get to know the main temples, agricultural terraces, plazas, and ceremonial enclosures of the Inca citadel, as you uncover the history and mysteries that surround it.
At the end of the guided tour, you will return to the town of Aguas Calientes by bus. In the afternoon, before returning to Cusco, you will have free time to have lunch or explore some of the tourist attractions that this magical town has to offer. At the scheduled time, you will board the panoramic Vistadome Train from PeruRail to begin the journey back to Ollantaytambo. The journey will be a new opportunity to admire the spectacular landscapes of the Sacred Valley, the Andean mountains, and the Urubamba River, while the colors of the sunset enhance the beauty of each spot.
Upon arriving at the town of Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will be waiting to take you comfortably back to the city of Cusco and directly to the door of your hotel, concluding this incredible one-day adventure to Machu Picchu.
Technical details of the tour:
Duration:
All day (4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.)
Walking time:
2 to 3 hours during the guided tour
Maximum altitude:
Machu Picchu: 2,430 meters above sea level / 7,972 feet
Minimum altitude:
Aguas Calientes: 2,040 meters above sea level / 6,693 feet
Level of difficulty:
Easy
Temperature:
8 °C to 26 °C
Entry Ticket to Machu Picchu:
Once your reservation is confirmed, the purchase of the entrance tickets to Machu Picchu will proceed according to the current availability, always seeking the best option for your tour. Your visit to Machu Picchu can follow one of the following circuits:
Circuit 2 - Route 2A or 2B: Allows you to enjoy the classic panoramic view of Machu Picchu and explore some of the main areas of the Inca citadel.
Circuit 3 - Route 3B: Offers a different perspective of Machu Picchu, following the lower sector of the Historical Sanctuary.
Circuit 1 - Route 1B: This route traverses the panoramic sector of Machu Picchu, where you can enjoy the best views and get the classic postcard photo from the Guardian's House sector.
Important: Machu Picchu offers different tour circuits, each designed to showcase different areas of the citadel. We will take care of managing the best available circuit at the time of confirming your reservation, always aiming to provide you with the best possible experience.
Due to high demand, we recommend booking in advance.
Accompaniment and security
Pre-tour informational meeting
One day before the start, our executive will meet with you to go over all the program details and address any questions. We want you to enjoy your adventure without worries from the very first moment.
Bilingual professional guide in private service at Machu Picchu (Spanish and English) We have highly trained professional guides who will accompany you and your group exclusively during your visit to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a private and personalized experience, with detailed explanations about the history, culture, and legacy of the Inca citadel.
Personalized accompaniment:
From the pick-up at your hotel in Cusco, a representative from Sakura Expedition will accompany you at the start of your journey, coordinating every detail until you meet our guide in Machu Picchu so you can enjoy an organized and worry-free experience.
Tourist Transport
Private transfers
To ensure you make the most of your adventure, we include pick-up and drop-off at your hotel.
On journeys longer than 2 hours, we prioritize your comfort with carefully organized services and, on certain segments, private transportation for a more comfortable and personalized experience.
Day 1: Private transfer from your hotel in Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station.
Day 1: Consettur bus uphill from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
Day 1: Consettur bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
Day 1: Private transfer from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
Exclusive train journey
Day 1: Vistadome Observatory Train Perurail from the Ollantaytambo station to the town of Aguas Calientes.
Day 1: Vistadome Perurail train from Aguas Calientes to the town of Ollantaytambo.
What is not included?
Day 1: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Travel insurance (recommended): For greater peace of mind during your trip, we recommend purchasing insurance that provides coverage for unforeseen events such as flight cancelations or delays, loss or delay of luggage, illnesses, accidents, trip interruptions, loss of tourist services due to delays, as well as medical assistance and personal protection throughout your entire adventure.
Tips: Optional.
Additional expenses due to causes beyond the agency's control: Adverse weather conditions, itinerary modifications for safety, illness, changes in government policy, political instability, strikes, or other similar circumstances.
Enhance your experience: (Upgrade)
Lunch at Indio Feliz - USD 30 per person
Enjoy one of the most renowned restaurants in Aguas Calientes, famous for its excellent cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.
Lunch at Café Inkaterra - USD 25 per person
Try a delicious meal by the Vilcanota River, in a natural setting perfect for relaxing before boarding the train back.
Additional night at Superior Hotel - Inquire about rate
Extend your stay in Machu Picchu and enjoy the experience with more calm and comfort.
Discover the most important things you should consider bringing on your trip to Machu Picchu:
Mandatory documents
Original valid passport or national identity card (mandatory to enter Machu Picchu) Physical student card or valid ID (if you booked with the student rate).
Recommended luggage
Small or day backpack to carry your essential belongings.
Comfortable and suitable clothing for walking
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho (especially between November and March) Hat or cap for the sun Sunglasses Comfortable shoes with good grip A special outfit for your photographs in Machu Picchu to capture unforgettable memories Personal items Sunscreen Insect repellent Personal medication Reusable water bottle Light snacks Cash in soles for personal expenses Equipment and extras Camera or cell phone Portable charger / power bank Headphones or personal music Important considerations Travel light to enjoy a more comfortable experience.
Always keep your documents and valuables with you.
When to visit Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu can be visited year-round, but it is important to consider the two seasons that characterize the Cusco region. The dry season, from April to October, usually offers sunnier days and clear skies, ideal for enjoying the landscapes. On the other hand, the rainy season, from November to March, features more frequent rainfall and greener, more lush vegetation.
Regardless of the time of year you choose to travel, we recommend booking your ticket to Machu Picchu as far in advance as possible, as availability is limited and tends to sell out quickly on certain dates.
Does this tour operate every day?
Yes, we operate this tour year-round. However, tickets to Machu Picchu and train tickets have limited availability, so we recommend booking in advance to secure your spot and access a greater variety of schedules and circuits.
How many passengers is this Machu Picchu Tour for?
We believe that a visit to Machu Picchu deserves personalized attention and a comfortable pace. Therefore, our services are designed for small groups of between 2 and 6 passengers, allowing for a more exclusive, flexible, and enriching experience.
If your reservation is for 2 passengers, your departure is guaranteed and will be operated directly by Sakura Expedition, without joining other groups or agencies. If you are traveling alone, we can also help you join a small group that is already confirmed for the same date. Consult with your travel advisor to learn about the available options.
How far in advance should I book the Machu Picchu Tour?
We recommend booking it 3 to 5 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the high season. Every year, more travelers organize their visits several months in advance, and considering that tickets to Machu Picchu have a limited capacity, they sell out quickly.
Booking in advance will allow you to access a greater availability of circuits, entry times, and train services.
Which Machu Picchu circuit is included?
This program can be carried out on any of the three circuits of Machu Picchu, although it will depend on the availability at the time of confirming the reservation. Each circuit offers a different experience, whether it's tours of the Inca citadel, panoramic views, or both experiences combined.
Although many travelers usually request Circuit 2, Circuits 1 and 3 also allow you to enjoy Machu Picchu from unique perspectives. Our team will always manage the best available option for your trip.
Can I choose the entry time to Machu Picchu?
We will do our best to manage the entry time of your preference. However, the schedules are subject to the availability existing at the time of confirming the reservation and must align with the itinerary of the tour.
What type of train does the tour include?
The tour includes:
Outbound: The exclusive Vistadome Observatory train from PeruRail
Return: Vistadome Train by PeruRail.
Both services offer a panoramic experience thanks to their large side and ceiling windows, allowing you to enjoy the spectacular Andean landscapes throughout the journey. It also includes snacks, drinks, and cultural presentations on board that enrich the travel experience.
The main difference is that the Vistadome Observatory also features an exclusive observation car and outdoor balcony, from where you can appreciate the scenery in an even closer and more special way during the outbound journey.
What is the difference between the Vistadome and the Vistadome Observatory?
Both trains offer large panoramic windows, snacks on board, and a more comfortable experience than the Expedition. The main difference is that the Vistadome Observatory includes an exclusive observation car with an outdoor balcony, as well as live Andean music and dances during the journey.
If you want to enjoy the landscapes with greater comfort, the Vistadome is an excellent option. If you want a more complete, cultural, and exclusive experience on the way to Machu Picchu, the Vistadome Observatory is the best alternative.
How do I know if this program is for me?
The Machu Picchu Full Day Tour is an excellent option for travelers who wish to see one of the wonders of the world in a comfortable, safe manner without undertaking long hikes. It is especially recommended for families with children, seniors, and people who have little time but do not want to miss the opportunity to visit Machu Picchu.
Thanks to the organized transfers, train journey, and private guided tour, you can enjoy a complete experience with an easy level of difficulty, focusing on the history, culture, and stunning landscapes of Machu Picchu.
From what age is the Machu Picchu Tour recommended?
The Machu Picchu Full Day Tour is an excellent option for travelers of all ages, as it does not require long walks or significant physical effort.
It is recommended for children from 8 years old, who can enjoy the experience accompanied by their parents. Likewise, it is an ideal alternative for older adults who wish to visit Machu Picchu comfortably and safely.
There is no maximum age to take this tour. However, we recommend consulting your doctor before the trip if you have any particular health condition.
At what age do children pay at Machu Picchu?
Children from the age of 3 require a ticket for Machu Picchu and have special rates according to their age and nationality.
To access these benefits, it will be necessary to present a valid passport or identity document at the time of booking and during the visit. Our team will inform you of the corresponding rates based on the child's age.
What is the difficulty level of this tour?
The tour has an easy difficulty level. It is designed for travelers who wish to visit Machu Picchu while enjoying a comfortable, cultural, and accessible experience, without undertaking long walks or demanding treks.
What time will we return to Cusco?
The return to Cusco is scheduled approximately between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. depending on the train's departure time and the service's operational conditions.
How long does the guided tour in Machu Picchu last?
The guided tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, although it may be slightly extended depending on your walking pace. Since it is a small group service, you will have enough time to make stops, take photographs, and learn in detail about the history and secrets of Machu Picchu with your expert guide.
Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to this tour?
No. Due to the duration of the program, we do not have enough time to include the visit to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. If you wish to undertake any of these hikes, we recommend our 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour. Please note that entry is subject to availability and often sells out in advance.
Can I bring a large suitcase or backpack?
To enjoy a more comfortable experience, we suggest bringing only a small backpack with your essential belongings for the day.
What options are there for storing luggage? Can I take it to Aguas Calientes?
Since it is a one-day program, it is not necessary to bring luggage. We recommend carrying only a small backpack with the essential items for the excursion.
Additionally, you can leave your main luggage at your hotel in Cusco, as most offer luggage storage services for their guests. Alternatively, you can also use the luggage storage service available at the train station before boarding.
This way, you can enjoy the visit with greater comfort and freedom throughout the entire journey.
Who will greet us upon our return to the Ollantaytambo station?
Upon your arrival in Ollantaytambo, our staff will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name to assist you and comfortably transfer you back to Cusco.
Does the tour include transportation to my hotel?
Yes. Our service includes transfers from your hotel in Cusco to the train station and the return from Ollantaytambo back to your hotel, providing you with a comfortable and safe experience from start to finish.
Is the guide service in a large group and shared?
The guiding service is completely in a small group. At Sakura Expedition, we prioritize personalized attention so that you and your group can enjoy a more comfortable, flexible, and enriching experience during your visit to Machu Picchu, with a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 6 passengers. If you are a single traveler, you can consult with the sales executive.
Are the transfers private or shared?
The land transfers included in this program are private, both for the outbound and return journeys, ensuring greater comfort, punctuality, and peace of mind during your trip, with the exception of the tourist train and the bus to Machu Picchu.
What is the reservation process like?
Step 1: Check availability
Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com to check available dates. We will send you a personalized reservation form that each group participant must complete.
Step 2: Passenger Information
To manage your official entry to Machu Picchu and the train tickets, we need the following information:
Full name
Gender
Passport number
Date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy)
Nationality
Without this information, it is not possible to purchase tickets to Machu Picchu or train tickets.
Step 3: Deposit and Confirmation
Once we receive the completed forms, we will request a deposit of the amount indicated by your travel advisor to proceed with the purchase of tickets and train passes. We recommend booking in advance, as spots fill up quickly.
Step 4: Final Confirmation
When the tickets and train passes are confirmed, you will receive your official confirmation invoice. At that moment, your reservation will be guaranteed 100%.
How is the outstanding balance paid?
The outstanding balance can be paid in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our Cusco office or according to the instructions of your travel advisor.
Can I leave my luggage at your office?
Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both free of charge.
Do you give tips?
Tips are completely voluntary. All our team members receive fair compensation, so any gratuity is at your discretion.
Why choose Sakura Expedition for your trip?
Sakura Expedition is a 100% local, Peruvian company specialized in adventure and cultural tourism in the Cusco and Peru destination. We have a team of certified guides and operational staff committed to providing unique, safe, and high-quality experiences.
We are distinguished by responsible and sustainable tourism, respect for local communities, and personalized attention in every service. Backed by our tourism quality certification, we guarantee excellence standards in every detail of the operation, from planning to tour execution.
With Sakura Expedition, your satisfaction is guaranteed.
What sets us apart?
Small groups
Enjoy a more comfortable, personalized experience with greater attention from our guides.
In-house operation and local team
We directly coordinate our own programs, this way we have control to maintain high standards of quality, punctuality, and organization.
Certified professional guides
Our team shares their work with passion, in history, culture, and the traditions of Peru, making each tour a memorable experience.
Personalized attention
We accompany you from the beginning of your reservation, during, and after your trip, offering continuous assistance and timely responses to your inquiries.
Responsible and sustainable tourism
We promote responsible tourism together with our allied communities, respecting their traditions and contributing to the sustainable development of local families.
Commitment to safety
We work with safety protocols, appropriate equipment, and trained personnel to offer you a more peaceful experience.
Local company with tourism quality certification
We are a 100% local and Peruvian company, based in Cusco. Our commitment to excellence has allowed us to obtain the CALTUR Gold Certification this year, the highest recognition for tourism quality in Peru.
Our commitment
At Sakura Expedition, we don't just organize trips; we create authentic experiences that connect our travelers with the history, culture, nature, and essence of Peru.