Cusco: Machupicchu + Lunch | Full Day

Exploring the iconic Machu Picchu is a must-do experience for many travelers to Peru. This full-day tour from Cusco offers an opportunity to take in the breathtaking beauty and rich history of this ancient Incan citadel. With a guided tour, scenic train ride, and a pre-reserved lunch, the tour provides a comprehensive and convenient way to discover the wonders of Machu Picchu. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this excursion promises to leave you awestruck and eager to learn more about the captivating world of the Incas.

Key Points

• This full-day excursion to Machu Picchu includes hotel pickup in Cusco, transportation, train to Aguas Calientes, a guided tour, and pre-reserved lunch.
• The tour offers a 2.5-hour guided exploration of the Machu Picchu ruins, covering the site’s history, architecture, and cultural significance.
• Prices for the tour range from $385.00 to $346.50 per person, with up to a 10% discount and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour includes transportation to Ollantaytambo, the train ride to Aguas Calientes, and a bus ride to and from the Machu Picchu site.
• Comfortable shoes, a camera, and a WhatsApp number with country code are recommended for the tour, which is not suitable for individuals over 95 years old.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a full-day excursion to Machu Picchu, one of the 7 wonders of the world.

The duration is 1 day, with prices ranging from $385.00 to $346.50 per person, offering up to a 10% discount.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The tour includes pickup from the hotel in Cusco, transportation to Ollantaytambo, a train journey to Aguas Calientes, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, lunch, and return transportation to Cusco.

Itinerary Details

From the hotel in Cusco, near the Historic Center, guests will be picked up between 3:30 and 4:00 am for the transfer to Ollantaytambo, a journey of approximately 2 hours.

Upon arrival, they’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes.

At Machu Picchu, a professional guide will lead a 2.5-hour tour of the iconic site.

Afterward, guests will return to Aguas Calientes for a pre-reserved lunch.

The journey continues with the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus ride to Cusco.

Inclusions

The tour package covers transportation from the hotel in Cusco to Ollantaytambo Station, along with the Expedition train ticket for the journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back.

A professional guide fluent in English and Spanish accompanies the group. The package includes:

1. Consettur bus transport up and down to Machu Picchu.
2. Entrance ticket to the iconic Machu Picchu.
3. A pre-reserved lunch at a restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
4. All necessary transportation to ensure a seamless experience.

Excluded are tips, extra expenses, travel insurance, and drinks.

The tour is suitable for most, though not recommended for those over 95 years of age.

Exclusions

While the tour package includes several key elements, there are some exclusions to be aware of.

The cost of any food not specifically mentioned in the inclusions isn’t covered. Plus, tips for service personnel aren’t included in the price.

Travelers should also budget for any extra expenses they may incur during the day. Travel insurance isn’t provided, so it’s recommended to obtain coverage separately.

Finally, the cost of drinks throughout the day isn’t part of the tour package.

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Preparation and Restrictions

Comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended items for travelers to bring on this tour.

There are a few key preparation and restriction details to keep in mind. First, this tour isn’t suitable for people over 95 years old.

Plus, alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited. Travelers should also provide a WhatsApp number with country code to ensure effective communication throughout the process.

Pickup and Transfer

Your hotel pickup in Cusco, located near the Historic Center, takes place between 3:30 and 4:00 am. This early start allows for the approximately 2-hour transfer to Ollantaytambo Station.

The journey to Ollantaytambo is scenic, providing glimpses of the Andes mountains. At the station, you’ll board the expedition train that’ll take you to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

The train ride offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Once at Aguas Calientes, you’ll take the Consettur bus up the winding road to the Machu Picchu archaeological site, where your guided tour begins.

Machu Picchu Guided Tour

The guided tour of Machu Picchu lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

During this time, visitors will:

1. Explore the ruins and learn about the history, architecture, and cultural significance of this ancient Inca citadel.

2. Witness the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Andes mountains.

3. Discover the various structures, including temples, plazas, and the iconic Intihuatana stone.

4. Gain a deeper understanding of the site’s remarkable engineering and the Inca’s advanced construction techniques.

Throughout the tour, the professional guide will provide detailed explanations in both English and Spanish, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching experience for all participants.

Return to Cusco

After exploring the wonders of Machu Picchu, the journey continues as travelers head back to Cusco.

They’ll take the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, then a bus to Cusco. Along the way, they’ll enjoy a pre-reserved lunch at a restaurant.

Once back in Cusco, they’ll be transferred to their hotel, completing the full-day tour. The return trip is smooth and efficient, ensuring travelers have ample time to reflect on their experience at the iconic Machu Picchu.

With the tour’s included transportation and pre-arranged logistics, the journey back to Cusco is a seamless part of the overall Machu Picchu adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Visit Machu Picchu Independently Without a Guide?

Yes, it’s possible to visit Machu Picchu independently without a guide. Visitors can purchase their own entrance tickets and take public transportation to reach the site on their own.

What Is the Availability of Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meal Options?

The tour offers a range of meal options, including vegetarian and gluten-free choices. Guests can notify the operator of any dietary requirements when booking, ensuring their dietary needs are accommodated during the Machu Picchu visit and lunch.

Can I Upgrade My Train Ticket to a More Comfortable Class?

You can upgrade your train ticket to a more comfortable class, such as the Vistadome train, which offers panoramic windows and additional amenities. However, this will come at an additional cost not included in the tour package.

Is There Any Age Limit for the Machu Picchu Climb?

The tour has a minimum age requirement of 12 years old and does not accept participants over 95 years old. Children under 12 can join the tour with adult supervision.

Can I Store My Luggage During the Tour?

Yes, participants can store their luggage during the Machu Picchu tour. The tour operator provides luggage storage at the Ollantaytambo train station, allowing travelers to leave their belongings behind while they explore the ancient ruins.

Recap

This tour offers an unforgettable experience exploring the iconic Machu Picchu. Travelers will enjoy a scenic train ride, a guided tour of the ancient ruins, and a delicious pre-reserved lunch. With an early morning pickup and comfortable transfer, the day is efficiently structured to maximize the time at this UNESCO World Heritage Site before the return to Cusco.

You can check if your dates are available here: