Tour to Machu Picchu: The Wonder of the Ancient World

1 Day
15 Per
Tours
Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes, Cusco

Package Detail

Experience the awe of visiting Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel that continues to captivate the world with its mysterious construction and natural beauty. This tour takes you from Cusco, one of the most important cities of the Inca Empire, to the peak of Machu Picchu, on a journey filled with history and breathtaking landscapes.

Location and Altitude
Cusco: At 3,400 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level, Cusco is the gateway to the Sacred Valley and the majestic Andes. Our adventure begins here.
Machu Picchu: Located at 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level, Machu Picchu is perched atop a mountain, surrounded by a lush green landscape.
Travel Time
The train ride from Cusco to Aguas Calientes takes about 3 hours, passing through valleys, rivers, and mountains.
From Aguas Calientes, we take a bus that ascends a winding mountain road with stunning views, reaching Machu Picchu in about 30 minutes.
Mode of Travel
The journey begins with a comfortable train ride from the Poroy or Ollantaytambo stations. The train features panoramic windows so you can fully enjoy the stunning scenery on your way to Aguas Calientes.
Then, a bus will take you up to the entrance of Machu Picchu, crossing through lush jungle landscapes surrounded by nature's beauty.
History of Machu Picchu
Built in the mid-15th century by Inca Emperor Pachacuti, Machu Picchu is considered one of the greatest feats of Inca engineering.
The citadel was abandoned by the Incas and remained hidden in the jungle until its rediscovery by explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911.
While its original purpose remains a mystery, it is believed to have been a religious sanctuary, an astronomical center, and a retreat for the Inca elite.
What You’ll See on the Tour
During the tour, you’ll explore the impressive temples of Machu Picchu, such as the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, and the agricultural terraces that surround the citadel.
You’ll also learn about the perfectly assembled stone structures, which were built without mortar, one of the most fascinating features of Inca architecture.
Additionally, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu.

Package Plan

Duration: 1 day

Difficulty Level: Easy - Moderate

Activity: Cultural and historical exploration

Distance from Cusco: Approximately 110 km

Day 1: Cusco - Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu

6:00 AM - Departure from Cusco

Meet at the pickup point (hotel or station)
The tour begins with an early departure from Cusco. We’ll head to the train station in Poroy or Ollantaytambo (depending on train availability).
Recommendation: Light breakfast before departure.

7:00 AM - Train Journey to Aguas Calientes

The train, with comfortable seating and panoramic windows, travels along the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River, offering stunning views of mountainous landscapes and native flora.
The journey takes about 3 hours, during which you'll enjoy a unique environment. We recommend bringing a camera and binoculars to spot local wildlife (birds, exotic flowers).

10:30 AM - Arrival at Aguas Calientes

Arrival in Aguas Calientes, a small and picturesque town in the heart of the Machu Picchu Valley.
Free time to grab a snack or explore the local market. You can also take the opportunity to buy souvenirs and local handicrafts.

11:30 AM - Bus to Machu Picchu

After arriving in Aguas Calientes, we’ll take a bus up a winding mountain road to the entrance of Machu Picchu (about a 30-minute ride).
During this trip, enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and tropical vegetation.

12:00 PM - Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Upon arrival, we’ll start the guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel. Our expert local guide will share historical and cultural insights as we visit the main sites:
The Main Plaza
The Temple of the Sun
The Sacred Rock
Agricultural Terraces
Intihuatana (the Inca sundial)
During the tour, you’ll learn about the remarkable Inca engineering, its religious significance, and the mysterious abandonment in the 16th century.
You’ll have time to take photos and enjoy the surrounding landscapes, with panoramic views of the Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu mountains.

2:30 PM - Free Time to Explore

After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore the site at your own pace.
You can hike to the Sun Gate or enjoy additional views from the terraces.

4:00 PM - Return to Aguas Calientes

We’ll take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you can rest and explore the town if you wish.
If time permits, you can enjoy a local meal or drink at one of the town’s restaurants.

6:00 PM - Train Back to Cusco

We’ll board the return train to Cusco. During the trip, relax and enjoy the views as we make our way back to the city.
The return journey takes approximately 3 hours, and we’ll arrive in Cusco around 9:00 PM.
End of tour and transfer to the hotel.

Travel Recommendations:

Clothing: Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing, and bring a light jacket. The weather can vary throughout the day.
Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the sun at high altitudes can be intense.
Hydration: Bring a water bottle and light snacks for the train ride.
Altitude: While Machu Picchu is at a lower altitude than Cusco, it’s important to stay hydrated to avoid discomfort from altitude changes.
Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as there are some uneven areas in the citadel.