machu picchu by train

Machu Picchu Full Day by Train

Overview

Machu Picchu in One Day from Cusco

Prepare for an unforgettable adventure with this day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco. This magnificent Inca citadel is a testament to the beauty and ingenuity of Inca architecture.

Traveling to Machu Picchu by train is a magical journey through the epic landscapes of the Andean highlands, following the Urubamba River (Wilka Mayu), which takes you through the cloud forest to reach the small town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu).

This full-day tour offers the perfect balance of adventure and culture, ideal for travelers who want to experience the magic of Machu Picchu in a single day. If you’re short on time, this day trip to Machu Picchu is an incredible way to connect with Peru’s rich history while enjoying the sacred city of Machu Picchu.

Return to Cusco in the afternoon with unforgettable memories to last a lifetime.

Join us on this adventure from Cusco or the Sacred Valley and visit the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

We can also help you with two optional extensions:

You can also choose to climb Huayna Picchu or hike to Machu Picchu Mountain; both offer spectacular views of Machu Picchu. Please note that you will need a separate ticket for these two options.

Looking for tours to Machu Picchu?

Look no further! We offer Machu Picchu tours that will exceed all your expectations. From day trips to a more relaxed two-day train journey and beyond, we have the perfect Machu Picchu tours for you.

archaeological cusco inca machu picchu Peru site tourist

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Enjoy this day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco with private service.
  • Door-to-door service: Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley.
  • Enjoy breathtaking scenery and mountains during the train journey to Machu Picchu.
  • Visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
  • Expert guides from the PumAdventures Team will accompany you through the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Prices & Inclusions

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide’s discretion.

$490 usd

per person

INCLUDES

  • Private Transport
  • Transfers as required.
  • Train to Machu Picchu and back (train travel is between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes)
  • Private ground transport between Cusco and Ollantaytambo.
  • Bus up and down to Machu Picchu
  • Additional inclusions
  • Entry fee to Machu Picchu
  • Pre-trek briefing
  • Meals
  • Lunch
  • Trekking Team
  • Guide service for 3 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu.

DOES NOT INCLUDE

  • Meals
  • Breakfast on the first morning.
  • Dinner on the last night.
  • Hotel
  • Other
  • Entrance to the hot springs
  • Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Entry
  • Tips for the guide

Itinerary

Machu Picchu in one day from cusco (Private Service)

Travel by train to Machu Picchu! We’ll pick you up from your hotel around 4:00 a.m. If you’re staying in the Sacred Valley, the pick-up is between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to the Ollantaytambo train station, where you’ll board the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes).

In Aguas Calientes, our team will be waiting for you, and then we’ll take the bus to Machu Picchu, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour.

Our team will lead you on a 3-hour walking tour of the historic citadel of Machu Picchu, known as the site of the Crystal Condor. This ancient sanctuary is more than just an architectural masterpiece. It’s also a gateway to the wisdom of the entire Inca civilization and a source of powerful energy that constantly inspires travelers from all over the world.

Machu Picchu, surrounded by three majestic peaks that form a natural energy triangle, offers a sacred space to pause, reflect, and connect with something much greater than oneself. As we walk its ancient paths, each one reveals its own story and significance, inviting us to delve into its timeless wisdom.

In this particularly powerful setting, we fully participate in a heart-opening ceremony, deeply embracing the presence of Pachamama (Mother Earth) and all the universal energies that surround us.

After the tour, we will return to Aguas Calientes by bus for lunch, and in the afternoon, you will take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where we will transfer you back to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel. Please note that this tour does not include the entrance fee to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Due to the schedule of this day trip by train to Machu Picchu, it is not possible to arrive in time to complete these hikes.

FAQs

The Machu Picchu day tour includes round-trip train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes (Pueblo), bus transportation to the Machu Picchu entrance and back to Aguas Calientes, a guided tour of the Machu Picchu sanctuary, entrance fees, and all transfers to and from your hotel in Cusco (Historic Center) or the Sacred Valley.

The trip begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel (3:40 a.m. – 4:00 a.m.) in Cusco and from the Sacred Valley (4:40 a.m. – 6:00 a.m.), depending on your train and entrance tickets.

The train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. The beautiful journey offers stunning views of the Andean mountains, the sacred river, and the Amazonian cloud forest.

It’s not possible due to time constraints. A 2-day trip is recommended if you wish to visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, layers of clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a raincoat, and a small backpack for your belongings. Most importantly, don’t forget your passport, which is required to enter Machu Picchu, your entrance tickets, and a small camera or cell phone to capture the breathtaking views.

Yes, the tour is suitable for travelers of all ages. The combination of train and bus makes it accessible and enjoyable for everyone, including children.

The tour does not include meals. However, you will have free time to explore Aguas Calientes Pueblo and find a restaurant for lunch.

Our team is trained in first aid and carries a first aid kit. In case of an emergency, we will evacuate you immediately and ensure you receive the necessary treatment.

Reviews from our travelers

Trusted by Thousands of Happy Travelers

At Pumadventures, our focus is on creating great travel experiences, and our travelers’ recommendations reflect the care we put into every journey.

★★★★★
5.0
out of 5 - 100 reviews
Reviews on Tripadvisor
More Than a Tour

“The tour guides made this trip! There was far more to this adventure than the sites, though the sites were powerful. Along with Puma, Rebi and Neliba shared their experiences and led ceremonies snd rituals from the heart. The energies were often palpable. The accommodations were exceptional. Some participants had the energy to find time to enjoy the evenings in social gatherings. If you are highly affected by the energies and experiences you may wish to spend time assimilating.”


John C. Sep 2025
Life Changing

“Last year through Sacred Journeys, we met Puma and his family of medicine teachers. Since then we've been studying with his school and decided to go back this fall. We arranged our own tour with two of our good friend (they had an Andean wedding).The love, the intention, the teachings are incredible. I can't recommend strongly enough going on a trip with Puma Adventures. Life-changing!”


Rodney B Oct 2025
Puma Adventures

“Returning home after my incredible tour of Peru with Puma Adventures, my first thought was that I’d do it all over again! The itinerary was beautifully planned — a perfect blend of history, culture, and spiritual experiences. Our guides were passionate, knowledgeable, and truly brought Peru’s rich heritage to life. Everything ran smoothly and at a pace that let me take it all in. Thanks to Puma Adventures, I experienced Peru in a way I’ll never forget!”


Wynne R. Oct 2025
Exceeded our expectations in every way!

“Our trip with PumaAdventures exceeded our expectations in every way. Puma and his excellent team took us on an amazing journey of ancestral knowledge, sacred sites, local customs, and spiritual guidance, in a deep and meaningful way that we would have never accomplished on our own. He and his team are professional, organized, and efficient, but also kind, compassionate, generous, openhearted and living lives of teaching and service. This trip was an extraordinary journey - mentally, physically, and spiritually. We cannot recommend it highly enough. Do it for yourself!”


Lynn F. Oct 2025
Reviews on Trustpilot
Pumadventures adds a personal touch and truly tends to its guests in every way.

“This was my second trip to visit Peru with Pumadventures and I highly recommend this fantastic group of people. The travel adventure is a perfect mix of experiencing the magical sites Peru has to offer, the guides are very knowledgeable, and each daily excursion offers exquisite and authentic shopping (supporting small business), as well as glorious meals. Shaman Puma and his family also offer a humbling and truly touching insight into their traditions and how to live in ceremony every day. This trip and visit to Peru will change your life!”


Melanie. Nov 3, 2025
A truly magical journey with Puma and…

“A truly magical journey with Puma and his family, full of ancient wisdom love and generosity. All the trips we took were thoughtfully organized and Alfredo and Magadaly were shared their vast knowledge of their lineage with love. I also felt extremely supported and held during our plant ceremonies! Gracias for an amazing wonderful experience! Hasta pronto! Elba”


Elba HeviayVaca. Aug 20, 2025
Being in the presence of Puma Fredy's awesomeness!

“Being in the presence of Puma Fredy's love and wisdom was the most important thing to me. Also being in the sacred land of Peru, sitting with medicine, meeting the other healers such as Mama Irene and don Sebastian. Listening to the music of Tito de la Rosa. Being with the amazing Shift Network team that include the guides Odon, Nelida and Rebelino, etc. Listening to Ali Maya, Lindsay Wise, Dr. Dan and Dr. Chris. All of this was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life! Also meeting the other like-minded participants who I've made relationships with. And last but not least, learning about myself!!”


Steve A Dec 22, 2022
Outstanding!!! Pumadventures is the most professional…

“Pumadventures is the most professional tour operating business I’ve ever experienced. Around 100 peoples needs needed to be met and they went above and beyond to look after our needs. They had enough guides to lead smaller groups and these guides were very knowledgeable especially Odon, the leader of my small group. PA is a really close family group and they all made us feel welcomed, safe and they really looked after our well being.”


June Stetar. Dec 23, 2022
Reviews on Google

“We did a fantastic private day tour with Pumaadventure. We choose the Sacred Valley Tour and had Nelida as tourguide and Jimmy as driver. We had an absolute amazing day together. This tour operador does an great job and we would recommend it to the fullest.”


A.R. Kuhn March 15, 2024

“Pure care, beauty, kindness, thoughtfulness & the most spectacular settings. I am infinitely grateful for the Pumadventures crew! ❤❤❤”


Darci Faulkner April 2, 2024

“Wonderful place for brunch with friends. Great service with live piano.”


Kevin Wayne May 12, 2024
Scroll to Top
Pumadventures - logo

Awaken Your Spirit of Adventure!

Get Our Travel Updates