Machu Picchu Full Day Tour from Cusco
- DurationFull day
- DifficultyEasy
- Max. altitude3,400 msnm
- ServiceGroup or private · Max 16
- LanguagesEnglish, Spanish
Overview
A Full Day Machu Picchu Trip is one of those journeys that stays with you long after it ends. From the moment you leave Cusco and board the train through the Andes, the day begins to feel like something extraordinary. The landscapes shift around you, the anticipation builds, and by the time you reach Aguas Calientes and continue up toward the sanctuary, the experience already feels unforgettable before you have even stepped inside the citadel.
Once at Machu Picchu, the sense of wonder only deepens. Ancient terraces, stone temples, and cloud-wrapped mountain peaks come together in a way that feels almost unreal. This is more than a visit to a famous site. It is a chance to stand in one of the world’s most remarkable places and truly absorb its beauty and history. The maximum altitude reached during this Full Day Machu Picchu Trip is approximately 2,430 m / 7,970 ft, and the experience is ideal for travelers who want something iconic, meaningful, and beautifully organized in a single day.
Itinerary
- Day 1Itinerary Full Day Machupiccu
-
Day 1Itinerary Full Day Machupiccu
Today we will visit our full day Machupicchu trip one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Your pick time up will be early because it is a tradition to visit Machu Picchu in the morning in order to enjoy the sunrise. At 4.00am you will be pick up from your hotel and take by our private minivan then head towards the bus station to catch up our bus that will take us (25 minutes) to the main entrance of Machu Picchu. At 6:00.a.m Machu Picchu opens its doors and we will go straight to the view point, where you will be able to take the classical postcard photos of Machu Picchu. After that the guide will start a guided, 2 hours tour and teach you all the information you will need about Machu Picchu, visiting the most important areas of the citadel. Then you will have free time to explore the site by yourself.
If you have a ticket to climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain you will do that second time from 9 to 11 am), after the guided tour. At mid day we will go back to Aguas Calientes to have lunch and then - take the train back to Ollantaytambo, from where you will continue by private van back to Cusco, finally dop off at your hotel.
Overview:
- Tour Location: Cusco Machupicchu, Peru
- Tour Type: Day tour / guide tour 4 hours
- Start/End Time: Pick up is at 4 am from your hotel and you should be back to Cusco at 7.00 PM
- Consideration: Please remember to take the necessary things or follow the company recommendations
Included
Included
- Professional English, Spanish speaking Tour Guide
- Machupicchu permit – Ticket circuit #2
- Bus up and down (round trip)
- Round trip train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aaguas calientes and from aguas calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Private van return to your hotel
Not included
- Today lunch is not included in aguas calientes but our guide will recommend good restaurant
- Extra hike - Huayna Picchu mountain, if you want to climing let us know in advance
Recommendations
- Arrive in Cusco at least one day before the tour to acclimatize to the altitude.
- Bring your original passport, as it is required to enter Machu Picchu and board the train.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes or light hiking shoes with good grip.
- Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions in the mountains.
- Carry a light rain jacket or poncho at all times.
- Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat due to strong UV radiation.
- Bring a small backpack for personal items, water, and essentials.
- Stay hydrated throughout the day, especially during the guided tour.
- Avoid heavy meals and alcohol the night before the tour.
- Carry some cash in Peruvian soles for meals, souvenirs, or personal expenses.
- Follow your guide’s instructions inside the archaeological site.
- Respect the rules of Machu Picchu and do not touch or climb restricted areas.
Route map
Approximate route. Your guide will share the detailed map before departure.
Gallery
FAQs
What is included in a Full Day Machu Picchu tour?
A Full Day Machu Picchu tour usually includes round-trip train tickets, bus transportation from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, entrance ticket to the citadel, and a professional guided tour inside Machu Picchu. Some tours also include hotel pick-up and private transportation back to Cusco, depending on the itinerary selected.
How long is the guided tour in Machu Picchu?
The guided tour inside Machu Picchu typically lasts around 2 to 3 hours, depending on the circuit assigned and the pace of the group. During the visit, your guide will explain the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the main temples, plazas, and viewpoints. After the guided tour, you may have limited free time depending on park regulations.
What is the best time of year to visit Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu can be visited year-round. The best time is during the dry season from April to October, when weather conditions are more stable and views are clearer. The rainy season runs from November to March, with greener landscapes but occasional showers, especially in January and February.
Is the Full Day Machu Picchu tour physically demanding?
The Full Day Machu Picchu tour is considered easy to moderate. Most of the visit involves walking on stone paths and stairs within the citadel. While there are some steps and uneven surfaces, no long-distance hiking is required, making it suitable for most travelers with average fitness.
Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to this tour?
Yes, Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain can be added to the Full Day tour, but these hikes are optional and require separate permits. Tickets are very limited and must be booked well in advance. These hikes are more physically demanding and are recommended for travelers seeking additional adventure and panoramic views.
Questions about this tour?
Machulas Journey
Why travel with Machulas Journey
Award-winning local team
Travel & Hospitality Award 2022. We are based in Cusco and operate our own tours.
Small groups
Personal attention on the trail and flexible private departures.
Permits handled for you
Inca Trail permits, Machu Picchu tickets, trains and buses booked by our team.
Expert local guides
Bilingual guides who share the history and culture of the Andes.
Responsible travel
Fair treatment of porters and respect for local communities (ESNNA code).
Secure booking
Card payments with Izipay or PayPal and a clear refund policy.
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