MACHUPICCHU FULL DAY

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Explore Tours

Machu Picchu is an iconic tourist destination that stands majestically high in the Peruvian Andes. Known as «the old mountain» in Quechua, this ancient Inca city was built in the 15th century and rediscovered in 1911. Its stunning location, surrounded by mountains covered in lush vegetation, makes Machu Picchu a truly magical place. The tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore its impressive structures, agricultural terraces, and sacred temples, all while immersing themselves in the history of the Inca Empire.

 

Advance Facilities

The tour begins early, at 4:00 AM, with visitors being picked up at their hotel in Cusco. From there, a minivan ride is made to the Poroy or Ollantaytambo train station. During the journey, passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the Andean landscape. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, the base town for visiting Machu Picchu, travelers will board a bus that will take them to the entrance of the archaeological site.

Challenge

After the guided tour, visitors will enjoy free time to explore Machu Picchu at their own pace. They can choose to have lunch at one of the local restaurants or enjoy lunch at one of the luxurious establishments available in Aguas Calientes (advance reservation recommended). For those seeking more adventure, there are options for additional hikes to places such as the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) or the Inca Bridge, which offer stunning panoramic views.

Included/Exclude

  • Transportation: Pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Transportation by minivan to the train station (Poroy or Ollantaytambo). Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back.
  • Professional Guide: A tour guide who provides information about the history and highlights of Machu Picchu during the tour.
  • Site Visits: Access to Machu Picchu, including the guided tour of the Inca citadel.
  • Free Time: Opportunity to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace after the guided tour.
  • Entrance Fees: Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (usually included in the cost of the tour, but it is important to check with the tour operator).
  • Food: Breakfast, lunch, or dinner (although there are options to eat in Aguas Calientes or at the Machu Picchu cafeteria).
  • Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, tips, and any additional expenses not mentioned.
  • Optional Activities: Additional hikes such as climbing Huayna Picchu or the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) may require separate tickets.
  • Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance is recommended.

Tour Amenities

Car Parking
Outdoor Seating
Reservations
Restaurant
Wireless Internet

Tour Plan

04:00 – 04:30: Hotel Pickup
The day begins early with pickup at your hotel in Cusco. Comfortable transportation will take you to the train station.
04:30 – 05:30: Travel to Train Station
Passengers will travel by minivan to the Poroy or Ollantaytambo train station. During this journey, you can enjoy the stunning views of the Andean landscape.
05:30 – 06:30: Train Trip to Aguas Calientes
Once at the station, you will board the train to Aguas Calientes, the base town for visiting Machu Picchu. This trip offers spectacular views of mountains and valleys.
06:30 – 07:00: Breakfast in Aguas Calientes
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, visitors can grab a quick breakfast or grab some snacks to go. It is important to arrive early to maximize your time at Machu Picchu. 07:00 – 07:30: Bus to Machu Picchu
From Aguas Calientes, take a bus up to Machu Picchu. The trip takes approximately 30 minutes and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

07:30 – 09:30: Guided Tour in Machu Picchu
Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, you will meet a professional guide to begin a tour of the ancient Inca citadel. For approximately two hours, you will explore the highlights of the site, including temples, plazas, and agricultural terraces, while learning about its history and architecture.
09:30 – 12:00: Free Time in Machu Picchu
After the guided tour, visitors will have free time to explore Machu Picchu at their own pace. They can capture stunning photos and enjoy the views. They also have the option of taking additional hikes to places such as the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) or the Inca Bridge.

12:00 – 13:00: Lunch
Visitors can choose to have lunch at the cafeteria near the entrance of Machu Picchu or return to Aguas Calientes to enjoy a meal at one of the local or upscale restaurants (reservations are recommended in advance).
13:00 – 15:00: More Exploration or Rest
After lunch, travelers can continue exploring Machu Picchu or simply relax and enjoy the magical atmosphere of the place before heading back.

15:00 – 16:00: Return to Aguas Calientes
When you are ready to leave, you will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. It is important to plan your return well in advance so you don’t miss the train.
16:00 – 17:00: Free Time in Aguas Calientes
Once in Aguas Calientes, visitors can enjoy some more free time to explore the town, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax before the return trip.
17:00 – 18:00: Train Trip to Ollantaytambo
You will board the train that will take you back to Ollantaytambo. During this journey, you will be able to enjoy the impressive views of the Andean landscape again.
18:00 – 19:00: Transportation to Cusco
Upon arriving in Ollantaytambo, you will be transferred by bus to Cusco. This journey takes approximately one and a half hours.
19:00 – 23:00: Arrival in Cusco
You are expected to arrive in Cusco around 11 PM, thus closing a day full of exploration and discovery in one of the most emblematic wonders of the world. This itinerary details each stage of the Machu Picchu tour, ensuring that visitors get the most out of their experience while enjoying the natural beauty and rich history of the place.

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