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Machu Picchu 2 day tour

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Tour typeHistorical
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Group sizeCustom group
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LanguageEnglish, Spanish
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Best timeAll year round
Xplore Cusco Duration icon
Duration2 Days

Overview

The 2 Day Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco offered by Xplore Cusco is the ultimate way to experience the lost city of Incas for travellers who have limited time in Cusco. This exclusive tour package is designed to provide you with the best Machu Picchu tour experience. With the guidance of a local expert, you will discover the fascinating history and cultural significance of this magnificent Inca citadel.

Your adventure will start with an early morning transfer from your hotel in Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station, followed by a comfortable three-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes. From there, Xplore Cusco will take you to the Machu Picchu citadel for an unforgettable two-hour guided tour with our expert local guide.

At Xplore Cusco, we take pride in providing you with the best tour experience possible. Our Machu Picchu tour is offered as both a private tour and a small group tour, ensuring you have the perfect balance of personal attention and the opportunity to connect with fellow travellers.

We include train tickets in expedition or voyager class as part of the tour package. If you want to upgrade your experience and enjoy a panoramic view, let us know while booking the tour, and we will arrange the upgrade to Vistadome train for you.

Join us on this signature tour, and let us provide you with a once-in-a-lifetime experience of the magnificent Machu Picchu.

Highlights

  • Discovering the fascinating history and cultural significance of Machu Picchu with a knowledgeable and experienced local guide.
  • Taking in the stunning views of the Andean mountains during the scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes.
  • Experiencing the charm of the quaint town of Aguas Calientes, nestled at the foot of the Machu Picchu mountain.
  • Hiking up to the entrance of the citadel and taking in the breathtaking panoramic views of the site.
  • Exploring the ruins of Machu Picchu, including the famous Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana Stone.
  • Learning about the advanced engineering and architectural techniques used by the Incas to construct this magnificent citadel.
  • Having the option to upgrade your train ride to the Vistadome class, which offers panoramic views of the stunning Andean landscapes along the way.

Included

Xplore Cusco Tickets icon
TicketsEntrance ticket for Machu Picchu citadel, Train Tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
Xplore Cusco Guide icon
GuideEnglish speaking, professional local guide
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TranportationRound trip transportation
Xplore Cusco Accommodation icon
AccommodationHotel 3 stars in Aguas Calientes
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Not Included

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Meals
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Pick up

Itinerary

Informative briefing: Xplore Cusco offers an informative briefing for our Machu Picchu 2 day tour. Our coordinator will meet you at your hotel to explain all the details, provide train tickets, and give your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.

Day 1: Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes

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We will start the 2 Day Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco by picking you up from your hotel in Cusco. From there, we will take you on a private transport through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to Ollantaytambo, where you will board the train to Aguas Calientes.

Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in the town. You will have the evening to yourself to relax or explore the town. You may also want to visit the famous hot springs that give the town its name.

Later in the evening, our tour guide will meet you at your hotel and brief you on the itinerary for the next day.

Day 2: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco

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On day 2 of the tour, we will start early in the morning by taking a bus to Machu Picchu citadel. The bus ride will be around 30 minutes up the hill. Upon arrival, our guide will assist you in clearing the security control and entering the citadel.

Once inside the citadel, you will be greeted with a breathtaking sight of the citadel, as the clouds clear and the sun’s rays illuminate the walls of Machu Picchu.

Our expert local guide will provide a two-hour guided tour, during which you will learn about the rich history and cultural significance of the Inca citadel.

After the tour, you will have some free time to explore the site on your own. If you have booked a hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, our guide will direct you to the trailhead. Alternatively, you can hike to the Sun Gate or Intipunku, the entrance to the citadel for those on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

After exploring Machu Picchu, we will take a bus back to Aguas Calientes where we will serve lunch at a local restaurant. At around 4:00 PM, we will take a train back to Ollantaytambo. Our representative will meet you on arrival and transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco. We will return to Cusco by 9:30 PM.

Join us on this unforgettable 2 Day Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco, and experience the magic and wonder of one of the world’s most iconic destinations with Xplore Cusco!

What to bring

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  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Lightweight and comfortable clothing
  • Warm layers for the cooler evenings
  • Sunscreen and hat
  • Insect repellent
  • Water bottle
  • Camera

What to wear

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  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Lightweight and comfortable clothing
  • Warm layers for the cooler evenings
  • Sunscreen and hat

Not allowed

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  • pets
  • smoking
  • alcohol
  • bags
  • umbrella

Recommendations

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  1. Acclimatize: As you will be traveling to high altitude regions, it is recommended that you spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco before embarking on the tour. This will give your body enough time to acclimatize to the high altitude.
  2. Bring Cash: Make sure to carry enough cash with you for the tour. You will need cash for purchasing souvenirs, meals that are not included in the tour, and for tips.
  3. Stay Hydrated: It is important to stay hydrated throughout the tour. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at regular intervals.
  4. Pack Light: As you will be traveling by train and bus, it is recommended that you pack light. You can leave your excess luggage at your hotel in Cusco.
  5. Wear Comfortable Shoes: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on uneven terrain during the tour.
  6. Protect Yourself from the Sun: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  7. Bring Insect Repellent: Insect repellent is recommended to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects.
  8. Take Care of Your Valuables: Always keep your valuables such as passports, money, and electronic devices with you at all times.

More info

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Extra optional activities in Machu Picchu 2 day tour

If you’re looking for some extra activities to do during your Machu Picchu tour, we have several options for you to choose from:

Huayna Picchu

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to challenge yourself, you can opt to hike up Huayna Picchu, the mountain that towers over the citadel of Machu Picchu. The hike takes around 2-3 hours, and once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.

Machu Picchu Mountain

Another option for those who want a bit more of a challenge is to hike up Machu Picchu Mountain. The trail is steep and can be strenuous, but the views from the top are truly awe-inspiring.

Mandor Waterfall Walk Tour

For those who want a more peaceful and relaxing experience, the Mandor Waterfall Walk Tour is a great option. You’ll walk for about an hour through lush vegetation to reach the 30-meter waterfall of Mandor, where you can cool off in the crisp pool.

Sun Gate

The Sun Gate, or Intipunku in Quechua, is the entrance to Machu Picchu for those who have hiked the Inca Trail. If you haven’t hiked the trail, you can still visit the Sun Gate by hiking up from Machu Picchu. The hike takes around 2 hours and offers stunning views of the citadel.

Inca Bridge

This is a short hike that takes you to an Inca rope bridge that spans a deep canyon. It’s a thrilling experience to cross the bridge, and the views from the other side are breathtaking.

Huchuy Picchu

This is a lesser-known peak that offers spectacular views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains. The hike is challenging but rewarding, and it’s a great option for those who want to get away from the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

Important info

Bathroom

Unfortunately, there are no bathrooms in Machu Picchu. You should go to the bathroom before entering the site. There is a bathroom right in front of the entrance, and it costs two soles.

Mistake

If it’s cloudy or rainy and you plan to leave the viewing platform where people usually take pictures to start the tour around Machu Picchu with the hope to come back later when the weather is better, we want to inform you that this is not allowed. Once you start the tour, you must follow the circuit, and you won’t be able to go back.

Food and Water

You should bring your own food and water. You are not allowed to eat inside the site, but you can bring a small snack with you. Just be discreet and don’t litter. Also, bring your water in a reusable bottle because single-use plastic bottles are not allowed in Machu Picchu.

Prohibited Objects

  • You cannot bring walking sticks, drones, hiking poles, tripods, or selfie sticks into Machu Picchu.
  • Older people can bring a cane, but it must have a rubber tip, not a metal one.
  • Professional cameras are not allowed, and permits for them cost over $300.
  • You should avoid bringing a professional-looking camera to save money.
  • You cannot bring a large travel backpack, only smaller ones are allowed.
  • You should leave your backpack in your hotel in Aguas Calientes.

FAQs

What should I bring for the Machu Picchu tour?
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You should bring comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, a camera, and plenty of water.
Do I need to be in good physical condition to visit Machu Picchu?
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While the tour is not particularly strenuous, there will be a fair amount of walking and climbing stairs at Machu Picchu. Visitors should be prepared to walk on uneven terrain and be able to handle the altitude.
Can I visit Machu Picchu without a guide?
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No, all visitors to Machu Picchu are required to be accompanied by a licensed guide.
Can I bring food or drinks into Machu Picchu?
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No, food and drinks are not allowed inside Machu Picchu. You will need to consume any food or drinks before entering the site.
Is the tour suitable for children?
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Yes, children are welcome on the tour. However, parents should be aware that there will be a fair amount of walking and climbing stairs at Machu Picchu.
What is the altitude of Machu Picchu?
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Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of approximately 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level.
Are there restrooms available at Machu Picchu?
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Yes, there are restrooms located at the entrance and exit of Machu Picchu.
Can I book additional activities such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
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Yes, you can book these activities as extra options when you book your tour. However, availability may be limited, so it's recommended to book in advance.

Additional items for your tour

Optional items

Upgrade your Train Experience

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