CITY TOUR IN CUSCO AND MACHUPICCHU TOUR BY TRAIN
This exciting two-day route: City Tour in Cusco and Machu Picchu, are must-see destinations that will help you immerse yourself in the incredible history, impressive architecture, and unmatched culture of the region.
The City Tour is perfect for acclimatizing and getting an introduction to the history and achievements of Inca culture. During the City Tour in Cusco, you will explore the majestic Qoricancha Temple, the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay. The panoramic view of these archaeological sites is simply spectacular.
The next day, during your train journey to Machu Picchu, you will have the opportunity to explore more deeply the Andean landscapes and the lush Cusco jungle. Upon arrival at this majestic site, you will understand why Machu Picchu is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Visiting this stunning Inca citadel is like traveling back in time through Inca history and culture. Let yourself be amazed by these incredible destinations Cusco and Machu Picchu are waiting for you!
Overview
CITY TOUR IN CUSCO AND MACHU PICCHU TOUR BY TRAIN
DURATION: 2 Days / 1 Night
ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT:
- CITY TOUR EN CUSCO
SCHEDULES:
FIRST OPTION: MORNING
- DEPARTURE: 09:30 HRS.
- RETURN: 14:30 HRS.
SECOND OPTION: AFTERNOON
- SALIDA: 12:30 HRS.
- RETURN: 18:30 HRS.
MACHU PICCHU
- DEPARTURE: 12:30 HR
- RETURN: 18:30 HRS.
Itinerary
ITINERARY:
DAY 1: CITY TOUR IN CUSCO
In the morning or afternoon, according to the chosen time slot, we will pick you up from your hotel and/or accommodation 15 minutes before the tour begins.
We will start the tour in the impressive Main Square of Cusco, beginning at the iconic fountain where the guide will give us a brief introduction about the most important points of the Main Square, highlighting the majestic Cathedral.
Then we will head down one of the narrow streets, like many in Cusco, to the Inca Palace of Qoricancha, where the Convent of Santo Domingo de Guzmán is also located, considered during the Inca era as the most important palace built for the Sun God. After finishing the visit, we will board our tourist bus which will take us to the four ruins located around the city of Cusco, starting with the archaeological site of Sacsayhuamán, which is strategically built on a nearby mountain from where you can see the entire city of Cusco. It is famous for its megalithic limestone stones, some of which are 9 meters tall and weigh approximately 100 tons. This is where the Inti Raymi or Sun Festival is held every year.
Then we visit the archaeological site of Qenqo, which means labyrinth or zigzag. It served a strictly religious function and it is believed that the Incas mummified their dead here. On the outside, it has a semicircular enclosure with trapezoidal niches and a monolith shaped like a puma, which measures approximately six meters.
Next, we head to the archaeological site of Puka Pukara, which means “red fortress” because the limestone stones with which this site was built have taken on the reddish color of the soil. This place served as a strategic control point for people entering the city of Cusco during the Inca era.
And finally, we visit the archaeological site of Tambomachay, or “tambo,” which means supply and rest place, strategically located along the Inca road network. Here we can also see water fountains for religious or supply purposes, as well as niches to house mummies and offerings — a truly magical place.
At the end of our tour, we return to our transport which will take us back to the city of Cusco, dropping us off at a point near the Main Square, thus ending the tour.
DAY 2: MACHU PICCHU TOUR BY TRAIN
Early in the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco, depending on our train schedule, and transfer you to the train station in Ollantaytambo (a car ride of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes). [If the train departs from Poroy, the car ride is about 30 minutes, followed by a 3.5-hour train ride.]
Upon arriving at the Poroy or Ollantaytambo station, we will board the train to the town of Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. During the train journey, we will enjoy spectacular landscapes, towering mountains, rivers, and a wide variety of flora and fauna typical of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Upon our arrival in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), a staff member from the agency (guide or transfer) will be waiting for us to provide all necessary instructions as we head to the bus station. There, we will board the bus that makes a zigzagging route for about 30 minutes up the mountain to the entrance of the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu, at 2,430 meters above sea level (7,970 feet).
After getting off the bus, we will meet with the group and head to the entrance control, where we must present our ticket and identification document. Then, we will begin a guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel lasting approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. The guide will share the fascinating history of the Incas, the impressive architecture, and the spiritual significance of this place, as we explore the most iconic areas and enjoy panoramic views — a perfect opportunity for unforgettable photos of this world wonder.
At the end of the tour, we will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy lunch (not included) at a local restaurant or spend free time in town — visit the local hot springs or explore the artisan market.
In the afternoon, according to our train schedule, we will head to the train station to board our return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (about 2 hours) or to Poroy (about 3 hours and 30 minutes), where our agency staff will be waiting to transfer us back to the city of Cusco. We will arrive in Cusco at approximately 8:30 PM, ending a day full of discovery and adventure.
End of services.
Included
THE PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- Informative briefing one day before the trip at your hotel at the time of your preference (We are available between 08:00 – 20:00 hrs.)
- Guide, transportation, and entrance tickets for the City Tour
- Tourist transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station
- Round-trip train ticket (Expedition or Voyager) from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back
- Round-trip Consettur bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary and back
- Entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary
- Professional bilingual tour guide (Spanish – English) for the guided visit to Machu Picchu
- Tourist transportation from the Ollantaytambo train station back to your hotel in Cusco
Not Included
NOT INCLUDED:
- Tips, snacks, meals, and services not mentioned in the inclusions
- Optional buffet lunch in Machu Picchu: USD 25.00 (upon client request)
- Hotel night in Cusco
What To Bring
WHAT TO BRING:
- Passport or ID.
- Wear slippers or light shoes.
- Bottle of water.
- Raincoat (long poncho) in rainy season.
- Long-sleeved shirts.
- Long pants.
- Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat for sunny days.
- Fly repellent.
- Sunglasses.
- Camera or camcorder.
- Have on hand money of low denomination soles or dollars.
- Personal medications.
Prices
COSTO POR PERSONA EN DÓLARES AMERICANOS, EN SERVICIO COMPARTIDO/ GRUPAL:
TYPE OF TOURIST | TOUR COST |
ADULT | USD 315.00 |
STUDENT
(under 17 years old) |
USD 295.00 |
CHILD
(under 11 years old) |
USD 245.00 |
DISCOUNTS:
- Tourists with a passport from the Andean Community (Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia) receive a discount on the cost of the tour.
- Special discounts for groups of more than 4 people.
❖ ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: ENTRY AND OPTIONAL SERVICES:
Below, we present additional options you can add to your Machu Picchu experience, as well as important details you should know before your trip.
Optional Hikes: Huayna Picchu Mountain, Huchuy Picchu Mountain, or Machu Picchu Mountain:
If you wish to add more adventure to your visit to Machu Picchu, you can choose to hike one of the surrounding mountains. These peaks offer stunning panoramic views and a deeper connection with the natural environment. General entry to Machu Picchu is included in the tour, but if you wish to ascend to one of the surrounding mountains, you will need to purchase an additional ticket, as these hikes are not part of the general circuit.
A continuación, te presentamos opciones adicionales que puedes añadir a tu experiencia en Machu Picchu, así como detalles importantes que debes conocer antes de tu viaje.
MOUNTAIN | PRICE (USD) | DESCRIPTION | ENTRY TIME |
HUAYNA PICCHU | USD 65.00 | The iconic mountain behind Machu Picchu. It’s a challenging hike with steep paths, and the views from the top reward you with an unmatched panoramic view of the citadel. | 07:00 am and 09:00 am (subject to availability) |
HUCHUY PICCHU | USD 50.00 | Ideal for those looking for a shorter hike. From its summit, you can enjoy an elevated view of Machu Picchu without the difficulty of Huayna Picchu. Available only during the high season. | 09:00 am and 10:00 am (subject to availability) |
MACHU PICCHU | USD 65.00 | The highest mountain in the area, perfect for those looking for a physical challenge and peaceful views, far from the crowds. | 07:00 am and 09:00 am (subject to availability) |
Important: The visit to these mountains does not include a guide service. If you wish to add any of these options, we recommend contacting us in advance to check availability.
Train Schedules and Machu Picchu Entry Times:
- Train Schedules: The departure and return times will be subject to availability, and the exact pick-up time will be confirmed the day before the tour.
- Machu Picchu Entry: The allocation of entry tickets will depend on availability through the official website of the Ministry of Culture of Peru. In case tickets for Circuit 2 are unavailable, you may be assigned to Circuit 1 or 3, depending on availability. It is important to note that tickets tend to sell out faster as the date of use approaches, so we recommend booking in advance.
Informative Meeting or Briefing:
The day before the tour, our team will contact you via WhatsApp or email to coordinate the time for the informational meeting, which will take place at your hotel. During this meeting, our staff will provide a detailed explanation of the itinerary and hand you your train, bus, and Machu Picchu entrance tickets. We will also confirm the exact pick-up time from your hotel on the day of the tour.
TRAIN OPTIONS FOR YOUR TRIP TO MACHU PICCHU:
EXPEDITION (PERU RAIL) NOTE: ALREADY INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGE |
VOYAGER (INCA RAIL) NOTE: ALREADY INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGE |
The PeruRail Expedition is designed for adventurers seeking comfort without losing the connection to the essence of Inca culture. With decor inspired by Andean culture, this train features panoramic windows and spacious seats. There is a point on the train where local snacks and beverages are sold. |
The Voyager train, equipped with comfortable seats and panoramic windows, allows you to enjoy the breathtaking Andean landscapes and jungle along the Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes route. It offers ambient music and a performance of the Ollantay drama. Local snacks and drinks are also available for purchase on board. |
VISTADOME (PERU RAIL) NOTE: ADD USD 30.00 PER LEG |
360° (INCA RAIL) NOTE: ADD USD 30.00 PER LEG |
The PeruRail Vistadome features large panoramic windows. On the return trip, you will enjoy a cultural show with music, traditional dances, and a fashion parade featuring alpaca garments, as well as a delicious snack made with local ingredients. | The 360° train by Inca Rail boasts wide side windows and a glass ceiling, allowing you to fully enjoy the landscape. It also features an outdoor observation car, comfortable seats with folding tables and USB plugs, live music, and a performance of the Ollantay drama. Onboard service includes complimentary snacks and drinks. |
VISTADOME OBSERVATORY (PERU RAIL) NOTE: ADD USD 60.00 PER LEG |
|
The panoramic cars feature large windows and transparent roofs, ensuring spectacular views. The Observation Car with a balcony and bar allows passengers to relax outdoors and connect with nature. Live music, traditional dances with audience interaction, and a selection of local drinks are also offered. Onboard, passengers can enjoy snacks made from local ingredients. |
The cost of the tour is for shared service, meaning you will be part of a group on the tour. If you prefer a private service, feel free to contact us for more information. For more details or any additional inquiries, you can email us at libertyperutravel@gmail.com or contact us directly via WhatsApp: +51 980 806 947 (Operations Area) / +51 908 851 331 (Reservations Area). We are here to make your experience unforgettable!
Map CITY TOUR IN CUSCO AND MACHUPICCHU TOUR BY TRAIN