How to Plan Your Full Day Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco

Machu Picchu is a top destination for travelers to South America. This ancient city is located in the Cusco region of Peru and is situated high up in the Andes Mountains. It’s a fascinating place to visit for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone interested in ancient civilizations. If you’re planning a trip to Cusco, then you should make sure you include a full day tour to Machu Picchu in your itinerary. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan your full day tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco. We’ll cover transportation, tickets, guides, and more to ensure that you have a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Highlights of the Tour

The full day tour of Machu Picchu from Cusco offers the following highlights:

• A scenic train ride that reveals great views of the landscape.
• Fabulous views of the Andes mountain on this full day trip to Machu Picchu
• Visit the ruins and terraces of Machu Picchu with an expert guide
• Choose from three train options to suit different budgets

Choosing Your Train Option

When booking your full day tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco, you have a choice of three train options to suit different budgets. These are:

1. The Expedition Train – This is the budget-friendly option and is suitable for those who want to see Machu Picchu but don’t want to spend too much money. The train has comfortable seats, large windows, and an onboard snack service.
2. The Vistadome Train – This is a mid-range option and is suitable for those who want a more comfortable experience than the Expedition Train. The Vistadome Train has panoramic windows that allow you to enjoy the stunning Andes Mountains scenery while you ride.
3. The Hiram Bingham Train – This is for the luxury traveler who wants to experience Machu Picchu in style. The Hiram Bingham Train is named after the famous American explorer who rediscovered the lost city of the Incas. The train has luxurious seating, an elegant dining car, and an observatory car where you can enjoy a cocktail while looking out at the incredible scenery.

Booking Your Tickets

To ensure that you have a ticket to enter Machu Picchu, you need to pre-book a tour. Daily visitor numbers are capped, so it’s crucial to plan ahead and secure your spot. You can book your full day tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco on GetYourGuide. Booking your tour on GetYourGuide is simple – you can choose your preferred train option, select your date, and pay online. You will receive a confirmation email that includes all the details of your tour, including the meeting location and time.

Getting to the Train Station

On the day of your tour, you will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco and driven to the train station. The train station is located approximately 3.5 hours from Cusco, so it’s essential to arrive on time for your train departure.

Enjoying Your Tour

Once you arrive at Machu Picchu, you’ll be met by an expert guide who will take you on a tour of the site. The guide will provide fascinating insights into the history of Machu Picchu, including how it was built, what it was used for, and why it was abandoned. After your tour, you’ll have some free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own. You can take in the stunning views, wander around the ruins and terraces, or simply sit and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Tips for Your Visit

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your full day tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco:

• Wear comfortable shoes – There is a lot of walking and climbing involved at Machu Picchu, so wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat – The sun can be intense at high altitude, so protect yourself from the UV rays.
• Stay hydrated – It’s essential to drink plenty of water at high altitude to prevent altitude sickness.
• Bring a raincoat – The weather can be unpredictable in the Andes, so bring a raincoat in case of rain.

Book Your Tour Now

A full day tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t want to miss. With comfortable train options, expert guides, and pre-booking options, planning your tour is simple and stress-free. Book your tour today and experience the magic of Machu Picchu for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cusco, Peru

Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, sits high in the Andes Mountains. Today it is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Peru. It offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some frequently asked questions about Cusco that will help you plan your visit.

1. What is the best time to visit Cusco?

Cusco has a mild and dry climate all year round, making it a great place to visit at any time. However, the peak tourist season is from June to August, so the prices are higher, and the crowds are bigger. The best time to visit Cusco is in May, September, or October. The weather is still good, and the crowds are smaller.

2. How do I get to Cusco?

The easiest way to get to Cusco is to fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ). Many airlines offer daily non-stop flights from Lima to Cusco. You can also take a bus from Lima or other Peruvian cities, but this can be a long and tiring journey.

3. How do I get around Cusco?

The historic center of Cusco is a pedestrian zone, so you can walk to most places of interest. Taxis are readily available, but make sure you negotiate the fare beforehand. You can also rent a bike or take a bus to explore the surrounding areas.

4. What are the top things to see in Cusco?

Cusco is full of historical and cultural landmarks that are well worth a visit. Some of the most popular include:

• Machu Picchu – The iconic Inca citadel located about 80 km northwest of Cusco.
• Cusco Cathedral – A beautiful baroque-style cathedral built in the 16th century.
• Sacsayhuaman – An impressive Inca fortress that overlooks the city of Cusco.
• Qorikancha – A temple dedicated to the Inca sun god.

5. What are some popular outdoor activities in Cusco?

Cusco is surrounded by natural beauty and offers many outdoor activities. Some of the most popular include:

• Hiking the Inca Trail – A four-day trek that leads to Machu Picchu.
• Mountain biking – Many companies offer guided tours of the surrounding mountain trails.
• Rafting – The Urubamba River offers great white water rafting opportunities.
• Horseback riding – A unique way to explore the Andean countryside.

6. What are some traditional dishes to try in Cusco?

Peruvian cuisine is known for its unique flavor and variety. Some traditional dishes to try in Cusco include:

• Cuy – Roasted guinea pig, a local delicacy.
• Chicha – A traditional corn beer.
• Lomo Saltado – A stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and fries.
• Pisco Sour – A popular cocktail made with pisco brandy.

7. What should I know about altitude sickness in Cusco?

Cusco sits at an altitude of 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level. Many visitors experience altitude sickness, which can cause headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. To avoid altitude sickness, you should take it easy for the first few days, drink plenty of water, and chew coca leaves, which are a natural remedy. It is also recommended that you visit a doctor before travel if you have a pre-existing medical condition.

8. Is it safe to visit Cusco?

Cusco is a generally safe place to visit, but like any tourist destination, there are some risks to be aware of. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in crowded areas. You should also be careful when walking alone at night and avoid unlit areas. It is always a good idea to keep your valuables in a safe place and stay aware of your surroundings.

9. What souvenirs should I buy in Cusco?

Cusco is famous for its colorful textiles, jewelry, and ceramic arts. Some popular souvenirs to buy include:

• Alpaca wool sweaters, scarves, and gloves
• Handwoven blankets and tapestries
• Colorful beaded jewelry
• Ceramic bowls, vases, and figurines

10. Do I need a visa to visit Cusco?

Most visitors to Peru do not need a visa. Citizens of most countries can enter Peru with a passport and a tourist card, which is issued on arrival. However, you should check with your local embassy or consulate to make sure you have the necessary documents before traveling.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cusco: A Complete Guide

If you are planning a trip to Peru, then one destination that you should not miss is Cusco. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views, Cusco has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America. If you are wondering how to spend your time in Cusco, then you have come to the right place. In this guide, we will take you on a tour of the most popular tourist attractions in Cusco and recommend some fun activities that you can enjoy during your stay.

1. Visit Historical Landmarks

Cusco is known for its rich history and is home to some of the most important landmarks in South America. One of the most popular landmarks is Machu Picchu, which is a 15th-century Inca citadel situated on a mountain ridge. You can either take a train or hike up to Machu Picchu, which is an unforgettable experience for tourists. Other historical landmarks that you can visit include the Cusco Cathedral, the Plaza de Armas, and the Sacsayhuamán fortress. Each of these landmarks has its unique history, and you can learn a lot about the Inca civilization and Spanish colonialism in Peru by visiting them.

2. Explore the Local Food Scene

Peruvian cuisine is famous all over the world, and Cusco offers a great opportunity for you to sample some of the best dishes. The local cuisine is a blend of Spanish, Inca, and other Latin American influences, and you can find a variety of dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Some of the popular dishes that you must try include ceviche (a seafood dish), lomo saltado (a beef dish), and papa a la huancaína (a potato dish). You can visit local markets, restaurants, and street vendors to sample these dishes.

3. Experience the Nightlife

Cusco has a vibrant nightlife scene and offers plenty of options for tourists. You can find a variety of bars, clubs, and music venues that offer different types of entertainment. The Plaza de Armas is the center of the nightlife scene in Cusco, and you can find many bars and clubs in this area. You can also visit local music venues where you can experience traditional Andean music performances.

4. Go on a Trek

Cusco is located in the Andes mountains and offers plenty of opportunities for trekking enthusiasts. You can follow the Inca Trail, which is a four-day trek that takes you to Machu Picchu. Alternatively, you can go on a one-day trek to Rainbow Mountain, which is a stunning natural landmark with colorful stripes of rock. Other popular treks include the Ausangate Trek and the Lares Trek.

5. Visit Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is located near Cusco and is home to many natural and historical landmarks. You can visit the Pisac ruins, which is a complex of Inca ruins located on a hilltop. You can also visit the Moray archaeological site, which has a series of circular terraces that were used for agriculture. Other popular landmarks that you can visit in the Sacred Valley include the Ollantaytambo fortress and the Chinchero village.

6. Attend Cultural Festivals

Cusco is known for its vibrant cultural festivals, which are celebrated throughout the year. One of the most popular festivals is the Inti Raymi, which is a festival of the sun celebrated in June. During this festival, you can witness traditional Andean music and dance performances, and a reenactment of the Inca ceremony of the sun. Other popular festivals that you can attend include the Qoyllur Rit’i festival, which celebrates the Andean snow peaks, and the Corpus Christi festival, which is celebrated in June.

7. Visit Museums

Cusco has many museums that showcase the rich history and culture of the region. The Inca Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the Inca civilization. The museum has a collection of artifacts, including pottery, textiles, and metalwork. The Casa Concha Museum is another popular museum that showcases the history of Machu Picchu. You can also visit the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, which features a collection of ancient artwork from Peru and other Latin American countries.

Book Your Tour Now

Cusco is an amazing tourist destination that offers plenty of opportunities for adventure, exploration, and relaxation. By following this guide, you can make the most out of your time in Cusco and experience the best that this historic and culturally rich city has to offer. Whether you are interested in history, food, music, or nature, Cusco has something for everyone. So, start planning your trip to Cusco today, and get ready for an unforgettable journey in one of the most beautiful cities in South America.