2-Day Trip to Machu Picchu without Tickets

Embark on a remarkable adventure to discover one of the Seven Wonders of the World with this 2-day expedition to Machu Picchu, complete with a dedicated guide and transfers from Cusco to Aguas Calientes.

Description

Day 1: Cusco - Aguas Calientes

Your journey begins at the scheduled time when our team will pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco. Following this, we will embark on a scenic drive lasting around 2 hours to the train station in Ollantaytambo.

Once at the station, we’ll board the train for a delightful 1.5-hour trip to Aguas Calientes, where you will be captivated by the stunning views of the Andes mountain range. Be sure to capture the breathtaking scenery along the way!

Upon reaching our hotel in Aguas Calientes, you can unwind by dropping off your luggage and then take the opportunity to explore the area at your leisure for the remainder of the afternoon and evening.

Day 2: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco

Rise and shine, Cusco! We’ll start with breakfast at the hotel before taking a bus to the renowned Machu Picchu citadel. On arrival, a guided tour lasting approximately 2.5 hours will lead you through significant Incan landmarks, including the Sacred Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, and the Royal Residence.

You will then have 30 minutes of free time to further explore the archaeological site at your own pace. Alternatively, you may choose to hike the nearby Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountains, both of which provide spectacular views of the ancient Incan city.

In conclusion, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before taking the train back to Ollantaytambo. A bus transfer will then bring you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Pickup

Pickup services will occur between 6 am and 9 am from hotels situated in the historic center of Cusco. If your accommodation is beyond the city center, we will arrange to meet you at the Cathedral's entrance in the Plaza de Armas. The exact pickup time will be confirmed prior to the activity.

Accommodation

During the reservation process, you can select from two different accommodation categories, both of which include breakfast:

Standard: stays at a 2-star hostel such as Rock Rivers or a similar property.Superior: stays at a 3-star hotel like Hotel Hatún Inti Classic or similar.

Types of Trains

The journey to Machu Picchu is conducted on panoramic trains, featuring large windows and glass ceilings, providing a flying-like experience. You may choose between economy class (Expedition or Voyager train) and first class (Vistadome or The 360º train).

Departure Stations & Duration

Trains to and from Cusco may depart from either Poroy station (30 minutes from Cusco) or Ollantaytambo station (1.5 hours from Cusco), subject to availability.

Please note that during the rainy season (from December to March), Poroy station is not in operation, and a bus transfer will be arranged to Ollantaytambo.

Upon confirmation of your booking, the details regarding pickup time, train station, and schedule will be emailed to you, ensuring it aligns with your Machu Picchu entrance ticket.

The duration of transfers will vary based on the departure station. Travel time between Poroy and Aguas Calientes is approximately 4 hours, while from Ollantaytambo, it is about 1.5 hours.

Huayna Picchu Tickets

Access to Huayna Picchu mountain is not included in the tour package. If you plan to visit it during your activity, simply indicate this at the time of booking for a fee of 65 USD per person. Keep in mind that the hike will be self-guided.

Machu Picchu Mountain Tickets

Entry to Machu Picchu mountain is also not part of the initial offer. If you wish to explore it on the day of your visit, please let us know during the booking process. This option is priced at 65 USD per person, with the hike needing to be undertaken independently.

Important

If the tour faces cancellation due to strikes or adverse weather conditions, we will offer an alternative date. Should rescheduling not be feasible, a full refund will be issued.

2-Day Trip

Please be aware that tickets for the archaeological site are not included and must be acquired independently. To ensure a smooth excursion, please align your schedule with the following operational timings:

Regular Routes

Regular route 2-ARegular route 2-B

Schedules: 6 am, 7 am, 8 am, 9 am, 10 am, and 11 am.

Alternative Routes

Alternative route 3-B

Schedules: 6 am, 7 am, 8 am, 9 am, 10 am, and 11 am.

Please adhere strictly to the mentioned schedules, as discrepancies may incur extra operational fees. If the alternative routes are fully booked, the local tour operator will present you with remaining scenic tour options, which may involve an additional guide fee ranging from 70 USD for one person to 35 USD for two individuals.