Pick-up time: 4:00 AM – 4:30 AM
A guide or driver will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco.
Travel by van or bus to the train station in either Ollantaytambo (1.5 hours).
Enjoy the pre-dawn views of the Sacred Valley along the way.
Stretch 2 – Train Journey to Aguas Calientes
Time: ~6:40 AM – 8:00 AM (Exact times depend on train schedules).
Board a scenic train operated by PeruRail (Expedition, Vistadome, or Hiram Bingham) or IncaRail.
Travel through breathtaking landscapes, with views of the Vilcanota River, lush valleys, and towering Andean peaks.
Light snacks and drinks are typically served on board.
Stretch 3 – Arrival in Aguas Calientes
Time: 8:00 AM
Arrive in the small town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
A guide or representative will meet you and assist with the transfer to shuttle buses.
Stretch 4 – Shuttle Bus to Machu Picchu Entrance.
Time: 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Board a bus for a 25-minute ride up a winding road to Machu Picchu’s entrance.
Prepare your entry ticket, passport, and any required permits.
Stretch 5 -Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (2-3 hours).
Enter the site and begin exploring this awe-inspiring Incan citadel. Your professional guide will lead you through the key landmarks:
The Sun Gate (Inti Punku): If part of your tour, this provides a spectacular site view.
Temple of the Sun: A prime example of Incan architecture and astronomy.
The Main Plaza: Central area of Machu Picchu.
Sacred Rock: A ceremonial stone used by the Incas.
The Agricultural Terraces: Learn how the Incas used innovative farming techniques.
Your guide will share historical, architectural, and cultural insights.
Stretch 6 – Optional: Additional Hikes
If you’ve pre-booked permits, take one of these hikes (requires extra time):
Huayna Picchu Mountain: A challenging climb with incredible views (2 hours round trip).
Machu Picchu Mountain: A less steep but longer hike for panoramic vistas (3 hours round trip).
Stretch 7 – Free Time or Lunch
Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
After the tour, you may explore the site alone or descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch.
Popular lunch spots include:
Full House Restaurant (near Machu Picchu’s entrance).
Local restaurants in Aguas Calientes, offer Peruvian cuisine.
Stretch 8 – Return Bus to Aguas Calientes
Time: 2:00 PM
Take the shuttle bus back down to Aguas Calientes.
Spend free time shopping for souvenirs or enjoying the town’s scenic views.
Stretch 9 – Train Ride Back to Ollantaytambo
Time: 3:30 PM – (Sometimes vary the schedule).
Relax and enjoy the return train journey.
If on the Vistadome train, enjoy cultural performances or snacks onboard.
Stretch 10 – Transfer Back to Cusco
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
From Ollantaytambo, a vehicle will take you back to your hotel in Cusco.
Key Information to Note:
Total Duration: 13–14 hours round trip.
Tickets & Permits Needed:
Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
Optional hike permits (Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain).
Train and bus tickets (round trip).
