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Machu Picchu by Train 2 Days Tour

Machu Picchu by Train 2 Days - Overnight Tour from Cusco

Discover the magic of Machu Picchu by Train in 2 Days, one of the most comfortable and complete ways to visit the legendary Inca citadel. This overnight tour from Cusco allows you to travel by scenic train, stay in Aguas Calientes, and explore Machu Picchu with a professional guide.

Designed for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace, this Machu Picchu 2-day train tour combines breathtaking landscapes, history, and personalized service, making it ideal for couples, families, and small groups.

Embark on a magical 2-day, 1-night adventure to Machu Picchu, traveling comfortably by train from Cusco to the heart of the Peruvian Andes. Discover the legacy of one of the world's most fascinating civilizations on a journey filled with majestic landscapes, living history, and ancient culture.

This tour has been designed by Machu Picchu Explorators to offer you a complete and personalized experience, ideal for those who want to explore the Inca citadel without rushing and with all the comforts.

Summary

Day 1: Cusco - Train Journey to Aguas Calientes

Your Machu Picchu by Train 2 Days tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco and transfer to the train station. Enjoy a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River valley until reaching Aguas Calientes.

After hotel check-in, enjoy free time to explore Machu Picchu Town, visit the hot springs, or relax before your big visit the next day.

Day 2: Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

Early in the morning, take the bus to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu for a guided tour of approximately two hours. Discover its temples, terraces, and panoramic viewpoints before returning to Cusco by train.

Itinerary

At 7:00 am, a representative from Machu Picchu Explorators will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco to take you by tourist transport to the train station in Ollantaytambo, where you will board the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes (also called Machu Picchu Pueblo).

During the approximately 1 hour and 45-minute journey, you'll enjoy a scenic trip along the Urubamba River and passing through spectacular Andean landscapes, deep valleys, and highland rainforest. Upon arrival, our staff will assist you with transportation to your 3-star hotel where you can rest.

In the afternoon, you'll have free time to explore the charming town of Aguas Calientes, visit its hot springs, the Machu Picchu Museum, the Mandor Gardens, and the butterfly station.

Rainy season (January - April): All trains depart from Ollantaytambo. Pickup will be at 8:00 am from your hotel in Cusco.

  • Accommodation included in selected hotels: Machu Picchu Sanctuary, Hatun Samay or similar.
  • Meals: Not included.

Day 2: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

Very early in the morning, after your breakfast at the hotel, our guide will accompany you to the bus station to go up to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

Once at the main entrance, you will present your original passport and entry ticket, and begin a 2- to 3-hour guided tour of the main sections of the Inca citadel: the Guardian's House, the temples, the agricultural terraces, and the strategic viewpoints that offer stunning views of the sacred city.

Afterwards, you will have free time to explore on your own or, if you purchased your additional ticket, climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (not included).

After the tour, you will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you can have lunch, buy souvenirs or relax before taking the Expeditions train back to Ollantaytambo. Finally, our private transportation will take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Estimated arrival: 7:00 pm

Tour Highlights

  • Small groups for more personalized attention
  • Comfort and safety at all times
  • Door-to-door service: from your hotel in Cusco and back
  • A perfect way to visit Machu Picchu without rushing
Include
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
  • Round-trip Expedition Train tickets
  • 1 night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (3★)
  • Official Machu Picchu entrance ticket
  • Consettur bus tickets (up & down)
  • Professional English/Spanish speaking guide
  • 24/7 assistance during the tour

Not Included

  • Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain
  • Food not mentioned in the program
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Personal expenses and tips

Important to Know

  • Advance reservations are essential, especially during peak season (May to October).
  • The weather in Machu Picchu can be unpredictable; we recommend bringing light, waterproof clothing.
  • This tour is ideal for all ages, but requires a basic physical condition to walk comfortably.
Packing List

To enjoy your experience to the fullest without any setbacks, we recommend bringing:

  • Original passport (required to enter Machu Picchu)
  • Identity document (if applicable for discounts or reservations)
  • Light backpack (20-30 L) to carry what you need during the visit
  • Comfortable and light clothing for hiking
  • Raincoat or rain poncho (variable weather)
  • Sun hat and sunglasses with UV protection
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Trekking shoes or sneakers with good non-slip soles
  • Cash (soles) for personal purchases and snacks
  • External battery or portable charger for your cell phone/camera
  • Swimsuit and small towel (if you wish to visit the hot springs of Aguas Calientes)
  • Reusable water bottle (let's avoid single-use plastics)
  • Energy snacks (dried fruits, energy bars)
  • Personal medication (if applicable)
FAQs

It's not necessary to be in great physical condition, but it's recommended to be in good physical condition to walk through the archaeological site, which has steps and some steep slopes.

We recommend only packing light. The train allows a maximum of 5 kg or a small backpack per person. You can leave your large suitcase in safekeeping at your hotel in Cusco.

Yes, you'll have a professional guide accompanying you during the approximately 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu.

Between the guided tour and free time, you'll be inside the Sanctuary for 3 to 4 hours, depending on the time-based entry policy.

These additional hikes are not included in this standard tour. If you wish to add them, advance notice is required and they are subject to availability and additional fees.

The tour runs normally even in the rain. We recommend wearing appropriate, waterproof clothing.

The service includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco.

Yes, we can customize the itinerary if you'd like to stay longer. You just need to coordinate this in advance.

Certifications and Credentials

AATC member travel agency in Cusco Peru
Registered travel agency in Cusco Peru
GERCETUR authorized tour operator in Cusco
Municipality of Cusco licensed travel agency
ESNNA commitment safe tourism Peru
Peru tourism official brand
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