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Aguas calientes, Machu picchu
The Machu Picchu Tour 1 day is a unique experience of discovering one of the 7 wonders of the modern world. Starting from the imperial city of Cusco in the morning, visitors are transported by train through the Sacred Valley of the Incas until they reach the town of Aguascalientes. The gateway to the Inca citadel. Enjoy a guided tour of the archeological site to learn about the history, architecture, and mysteries of Machu Picchu; walk through its temples and iconic plazas. You can take the opportunity to explore the small town of Aguascalientes. This all-inclusive tour guarantees you a unique experience, with everything organized for your comfort and enjoyment.
This tour is ideal for people traveling alone, as a couple, or in a group who want to have a Machu Picchu experience in one day, avoiding long hikes. It is an option for visitors who have little time. Join us and discover the wonder of Machu Picchu!
Pick-up time: 4:00 am. We will pick you up at your hotel around this time, although it could be earlier or later, depending on the train schedule and your check-in. If you are staying in the Sacred Valley, the pickup will be later, as it is closer to Ollantaytambo.
After the pickup, we will begin the journey to the Ollantaytambo train station by bus, where we will board the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguascalientes). The journey lasts approximately 1.5 hours and offers stunning views of the high Andes, the Cloud Forest, and the Urubamba River. There is the possibility of taking the train from Cusco (subject to availability), which takes approximately 3 and a half hours.
Upon arriving in Aguascalientes, the guide will be waiting at the train station.
We will arrive at the main gate of Machu Picchu depending on the entry time; we will have enough time to enjoy this wonder. Make sure to show your entry ticket and the passport with which you made the reservation. Once inside, you will explore Machu Picchu with our exclusive guide, who will take you on a complete 2 to 3-hour tour.
After the tour, you will take the bus back to Aguascalientes for lunch (lunch not included). You will have free time to visit the hot springs or simply stroll through the village, which is very walkable.
In the afternoon, it will be time to board the train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arriving at the Ollantaytambo station, you need to take the "bimodal service" bus to Cusco, which is from the same train company. This trip lasts approximately one and a half hours. At the San Pedro Station, Wanchaq, or Av. El Sol 843, our transportation will be waiting to take you to your hotel.
The estimated arrival time at your hotel is between 7:30 and 8:30 pm; it largely depends on the availability of train schedules.
If you want a panoramic experience, you can upgrade your train. The Vistadome Observatory features more comfortable seats and larger windows (this option can be one-way or round trip).
If you wish to include the trek to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain in your itinerary, please note that this involves an additional cost. The excursion can be done with a guide or without a guide. The estimated time to complete the trek is 3 to 4 hours, depending on your physical condition. It is essential to book well in advance due to high demand.
If you would like to include lunch in the tour, it is possible. The local restaurant offers a delicious buffet, located in the town of Aguascalientes.
For this trip to Machu Picchu, it’s essential to bring items that are comfortable for walking. Leaving Cusco, the morning will be cold, and upon arriving at Machu Picchu, you'll be in the warm cloud forest climate. Therefore, bring warm clothes and also lightweight clothing. Travel with a small backpack where you can store snacks, water, jackets, and anything else you might need for the trip.
If you plan to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, there are some essential items you’ll need to pack to ensure a safe and successful trip:
To travel more comfortably and responsibly, avoid packing the following items for your excursion to Machu Picchu:
In general, it’s best to travel light and be mindful of the environment and local regulations when preparing for your trip to Machu Picchu.
The Cusco airport currently only operates domestic flights. All international passengers arriving by plane must disembark in Lima and go through customs. It’s important to note that due to Cusco’s high altitude, flights may experience delays or cancellations. Additionally, any weather changes can halt air traffic. If you prefer a land alternative, buses are a viable option, though the journey can be long, especially from Lima. Buses from Lima can take approximately 20 hours to arrive.
Ausangate Adventure can pick you up from your hotel, as long as it’s located in Cusco’s Historic Center. We will pick you up at your hotel around this time, though it may be earlier or later depending on the train schedule and your entry time.
You can safely leave any additional luggage in Cusco, either at your hotel while you go on your trek. It’s important to make sure your bags are clearly labeled for easy identification.
This Machu Picchu tour may follow Circuit 1, Circuit 2, or Circuit 3 depending on your entry time and availability. Circuit 1 allows you to explore the upper part of Machu Picchu, including the main observatory, ideal for taking classic photos. Circuit 2 takes you through the most complete areas of the Citadel, including important buildings such as the observatory, temples, houses, the Sacred Rock, and the Temple of the Condor. Circuit 3 offers destinations located in the lower part of the archaeological site. Additionally, these circuit routes allow for hikes to the summit of Huayna Picchu, the Great Cave, and Huchuy Picchu.
Circuit 1 (Panoramic) - 4 Routes
Circuit 2 (Classic) - 2 Routes
Circuit 3 (Royalty Route)
Travelers booking their trip to Peru, especially to Cusco, often worry about altitude sickness. The air at high altitudes has less oxygen than at sea level, which forces the body to work harder to obtain the necessary oxygen.
Over several days at high altitude, the body adapts to the lower oxygen levels in the air. Therefore, we always recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before starting any trek in the Andes. Cusco is a fascinating city with plenty to do, so if you have more time to acclimatize, you won’t get bored.
Altitude sickness can initially manifest with symptoms similar to the flu or a hangover. You may experience a headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, and difficulty breathing during exercise. If any of these symptoms become severe, please inform your guide.
Most of the time, these symptoms are mild. We recommend taking it easy, allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids like water or coca tea. Coca tea has been used since ancient times to prevent altitude sickness. Coca leaves contain alkaloids that help transport oxygen in the blood, aiding your body in mitigating the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid excessive alcohol and coffee consumption, as they increase urination and dehydrate you. Avoid smoking, as it makes it harder for your body to obtain oxygen. Avoid sleeping pills, as they can cause shallow nighttime breathing, making it harder to absorb oxygen while you sleep.
Remember, the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even those in excellent physical condition can suffer from altitude sickness if they ascend too quickly. Go slowly, and you’ll allow your body to adapt to the altitude.
Your healthcare provider can prescribe medications such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone to help prevent altitude sickness. Start taking them two days before reaching high altitude and continue while you are at high elevation.
Machu Picchu's weather is variable and depends on the season, as it’s located in a high jungle region of the Peruvian Andes. During the dry season, from April to October, the weather is pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging between 20-25°C (68-77°F) and cold nights that can drop to 6-11°C (43-52°F). This is the best time to visit due to the lower likelihood of rain.
In the rainy season, from November to March, precipitation is frequent, especially in January and February. During this period, daytime temperatures are slightly warmer, while mornings and nights remain cool. It’s crucial to be prepared for sudden rain with waterproof clothing and to dress in layers to adapt to fluctuating temperatures.
Regardless of the time of year, the weather in Machu Picchu can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions.
Each Ausangate Adventure guide is trained in first aid, and we also carry oxygen for the trek. If you need oxygen, you can request it directly from the guide.
Protests and strikes are common in Peru and may affect our travel plans. Roads can be blocked, and trains may stop. However, our entire operations team will stay in communication with you. Your safety is our top priority, and we will take the best measures to protect you in any unforeseen situation.
Please take special care of your belongings and ensure you collect all your items when leaving our vehicles, hotels, or restaurants. You are solely responsible for your personal items during the tour.
Tour in shared service.
This group service means that you will take the tour with other people, this standard service is done with a group between 12 to 18 people, we have confirmed departures for every day, so if it is only one or two people, don't worry, they can join to one of our groups.
From: $298.
Tour in private service.
This service is an exclusive way to make this trip where the service is much more personalized, prices vary according to the number of people in your group. Please consult info@ausangateadventure.com WhatsApp +51 914201334
There are several ways to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco:
Train: The most popular option is to take the train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, followed by a bus to Machu Picchu. It is the easiest and most comfortable way.
Inca Trail: A more challenging but rewarding option is to hike the Inca Trail, a four-day trek with campsites along the way.
Salkantay Trek: A harder alternative to the Inca Trail but manageable for those in moderate physical condition.
Some of the main attractions at Machu Picchu include:
Yes, you have the option to walk from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on a private tour. In group tours, due to the itinerary schedule, the entire group must travel together on the way there; you would only have the option to walk back. The bus takes approximately 25 minutes to reach the site, while walking takes around 1 hour, depending on each person’s physical condition.
Yes, you can stay overnight in Aguas Calientes. You can send a message when booking to purchase train tickets for your preferred days. We can also help you book a hotel, specifying the category of accommodation you prefer.
The Expedition and Vistadome trains are both operated by Peru Rail.
The luxury train is the Hiram Bingham, inspired by the 1920s, departing from the Poroy station. For more information, check the full itinerary.
Huayna Picchu Mountain is one of Cusco's main attractions and is considered one of the most fascinating short hikes in the world. The classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu features Huayna Picchu in the background. It is recommended to book 3 to 6 months in advance due to high demand. The hike is of moderate to difficult difficulty and is not allowed for children under 12.
The Machu Picchu Citadel refers to the ruins themselves and is the classic tour. Machu Picchu Mountain is an additional hike, done on the same day, depending on ticket availability.
PeruRail’s Expedition and Vistadome trains are the best options for a one-day tour to Machu Picchu. IncaRail also offers services but with fewer trains and daily departures. The early morning trains (6:00 am to 9:00 am) with return times around 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm are ideal for maximizing your time at Machu Picchu.
The best time depends on your preferences:
Yes, we can pick you up from an Airbnb. Please provide the exact address and contact number of the host. Our one-day tour includes transportation from Cusco to Machu Picchu, so you won’t have to worry about making your own way there.
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