How to Plan Your Machu Picchu by Train 1 Day Tour from Cusco

If you are short on time and planning to visit Machu Picchu, taking a train tour can make the experience more relaxing and convenient for you. The tour operates from Cusco, and you can book in advance using the following link- book the tour here. In this blog post, we will guide you through the planning process and give you an overview of what you can expect during your tour.

Overview

This private day tour takes you from Cusco to the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu via train. The tour comes with a knowledgeable guide and a driver who will arrange all the logistics for you. You don’t need to worry about organizing buses, trains, or tickets. The tour is designed to make your experience smooth and hassle-free.

What’s Included

The tour includes the following:

• Private transportation
• Private roundtrip transfer Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
• Roundtrip train tickets Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
• Entrance fees to Machu Picchu
• Breakfast and dinner
• Gratuity (optional)

Additional Expenses

The tour does not include the following expenses:

• Extra snacks or drinks
• Tipping for your guide or driver (optional)

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for this tour is Plaza de Armas in Cusco. You can request a pickup service from your hotel for an additional fee.

Itinerary

4:00 am – 5:00 am: Hotel Pickup and Transfer to Ollantaytambo Train Station

Your driver will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and transfer you to Ollantaytambo Train Station. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you reach the station, you will board the train to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo.

7:45 am – 9:15 am: Train Ride to Aguas Calientes

The train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. The train route is known for its stunning landscapes, including snowcapped mountains, forests, and rivers.

9:15 am – 10:00 am: Bus Ride to Machu Picchu

When you arrive at Aguas Calientes, you will take a bus to Machu Picchu. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes, and you can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

10:00 am – 12:00 pm: Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Your guide will take you through the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu, providing you with insights into the history and culture of this ancient Incan city. You will visit various sites, including the Sun Temple, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the Intihuatana Stone.

12:00 pm – 1:30 pm: Free Time to Explore Machu Picchu

After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore the site on your own. You can take a leisurely walk around the city, visit the cafes and restaurants, or explore the souvenir shops.

1:30 pm – 2:45 pm: Lunch at a Local Restaurant

You will have lunch at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes. The lunch is included in the tour cost, and you can choose from a variety of options, including vegetarian and gluten-free meals.

2:45 pm – 4:15 pm: Train Ride to Ollantaytambo

After lunch, you will take the train back to Ollantaytambo. The train journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

4:15 pm – 6:00 pm: Transfer to Cusco

When you arrive at Ollantaytambo Station, your driver will be waiting for you to transfer you back to Cusco.

Conclusion

If you want to experience Machu Picchu in a hassle-free and convenient way, this private day tour is the right choice for you. The tour includes transportation, train tickets, entrance fees, and meals, making it an all-inclusive package that saves you time and money. We hope this blog post has provided you with all the information you need to plan your Machu Picchu by Train 1 Day Tour from Cusco. Don’t forget to book your tour in advance using the following link- book the tour here.

An Insider’s Guide to Cusco: The Hidden Gems and Experiences

If you want to experience the true essence of Cusco, Peru, you need to go beyond the regular tourist spots and delve into the city’s hidden gems and cultural experiences. As a local, here’s my personal guide to the best off-the-beaten-path suggestions, local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and history.

Discovering Local Attractions

Most tourists visit Machu Picchu, but Cusco has much more to offer. One of my favorite places is San Blas, a bohemian neighborhood with narrow cobblestone streets, colorful colonial houses, independent cafes, artists’ workshops, and boutiques. Its charming atmosphere makes it ideal for a casual stroll and a glimpse into the artistic scene in Cusco. For a different perspective, visit the lesser-known ruins of Q’enqo, just outside the city. These ancient Incan ruins boast an underground chamber and stairways that are both eerie and impressive.

Another hidden gem in Cusco is the Planetarium Cusco. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about Andean astronomy and the Inca’s relationship with the sun, stars, and planets. The planetarium is located a short distance from the city, providing an ideal place for stargazing while learning about the Incan culture.

Dining Spots: Exploring Local Cuisine

Cusco is a food destination not to be missed, thanks to its Andean ingredients, colonial-era Spanish influences, and international flair. To taste the local cuisine, start your day with a cup of Peruvian coffee and some quinoa porridge, a nutritious and delicious staple of the Andes. For lunch, head to Mercado San Pedro, a vibrant local market with endless food stalls selling dishes made from fresh and organic produce. Try the adobo or chicharron, pork dishes bathed in a savory sauce served with potato and corn. And for dinner, head to a chicha bar, where you can sip on traditional Peruvian corn beer and enjoy some traditional snacks like potato croquettes or ceviche.

Experiencing The Local Culture of Cusco

Cusco is the cultural capital of Peru, with rich artistic traditions and festivals that celebrate the vibrant culture of the Andes. One way to experience the local culture is to visit the Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo, a cultural center where you can watch traditional dance performances that showcase the different styles and costumes of the Andes. Another option is to visit the Museo de Arte Precolombino, which presents a collection of pre-Columbian art from Peru’s ancient civilizations and offers workshops on weaving, pottery, and traditional music.

Uncovering Cusco’s Fascinating History

Cusco is a city with a long and captivating history full of fascinating tales and legends. One interesting place to visit is the Inca Museum, located in a historic colonial mansion. The museum presents a comprehensive collection of archeological finds from the Inca Empire, including textiles, pottery, and mummies. Another remarkable place to visit is the Sacsayhuaman fortress, located on the outskirts of Cusco. This massive Incan structure boasts an impressive ceremonial platform and stones, some weighing up to 130 tons.

Going Off-the-Beaten-Path for Unique Experiences

For travelers who want a unique and adventurous experience, I would recommend visiting the rainbow mountain, also known as Vinicunca, located at 5020 meters above sea level. The mountain is a natural wonder with its vibrant stripes of colors such as green, turquoise, red, and yellow. Another option is to visit the Maras Salt Mines, a unique and beautiful complex of salt pans built into the hills covering a large area. Finally, for the bravest of travelers, you must try the local delicacy, cuy, a.k.a. guinea pig. It is usually served roasted and is a staple of Peruvian cuisine.

In conclusion, there are many hidden gems in Cusco, and you will discover even more while visiting the city. Make sure to immerse yourself in the local culture, try the delicious cuisine, and explore off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Cusco is full of surprises, and the memories of your trip will stay with you for a lifetime.