Inclusions

Included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Tour guide.
• Round-trip train ticket (Voyager – Inca Rail or Expedition – Peru Rail).
• Round-trip bus ticket (Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu).
• Machu Picchu entry fee.
• Meals and drinks (unless specified).
• Accommodation in Aguas Calientes town

No Included

• Lunch (US$ 25 per person).
• Drinks.
• Optional Entry to Huayna Picchu Mountain (US$ 20 per person).
• Optional Entry to Machu Picchu Mountain (US$ 20 per person)​.

What to Bring

• Hiking boots or walking shoes.
• Poncho for rain.
• Warm jacket (waterproof and windproof).
• Sunscreen and sunhat.
• Layered clothing.
• Day-pack with a hip strap.
• Water bottle.
• First aid kit and prescription medicine.
• Spare glasses or contact lenses.
• Small torch, earplugs.
• Rainproof cover for daypack or backpack.
• Hat, scarf, gloves.
• Book, condoms.
• Toiletries in zip lock bags.
• Insect repellent.
• Camera with extra memory and battery.
• Padlocks for zippers​​.

Prices

Prices of the Tour to Machu Picchu by Train

The Tour to Machu Picchu by Train for 2 days with the Vistadome Train can be booked for any date that works for you, as long as there are at least 2 people in your group.

PRICING FOR THE TOUR TO MACHU PICCHU BY TRAIN

For a private service, add $40 USD per person.
All entrance fees are included in the price, and our groups are kept small—usually around 5 people, with a maximum of 8.

DISCOUNTS FOR THE TOUR TO MACHU PICCHU BY TRAIN

• Under 18 years old: Discount of $30 USD. You must provide a copy of your passport when booking.
• Under 11 years old: Discount of $40 USD. You must provide a copy of your passport when booking.

The Tour to Machu Picchu by Train offers a great experience with comfortable travel and small group sizes. The Tour to Machu Picchu by Train includes all necessary tickets and fees.

When booking the Tour to Machu Picchu by Train, make sure to check availability for your preferred dates. The Tour to Machu Picchu by Train is a popular choice for visitors who want a smooth and well-organized trip.

The Tour to Machu Picchu by Train ensures you see the best of Machu Picchu in just 2 days. The Tour to Machu Picchu by Train with the Vistadome Train provides scenic views along the way.

For the best experience, book the Tour to Machu Picchu by Train in advance. The Tour to Machu Picchu by Train is designed for comfort and convenience.

If you have any questions about the Tour to Machu Picchu by Train, feel free to ask. The Tour to Machu Picchu by Train is a great way to explore this amazing site.

The Tour to Machu Picchu by Train is available year-round, as long as there are at least 2 travelers. The Tour to Machu Picchu by Train is perfect for those who want a short but complete visit.

Don’t miss the chance to take the Tour to Machu Picchu by Train—it’s one of the best ways to see Machu Picchu.

Faqs

Travel Guide

Machu Picchu: A Guide to the Lost City of the Incas

Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas,” is a breathtaking testament to the ingenuity of the Inca Empire and one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. Perched high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, this UNESCO World Heritage site captivates visitors with its stunning architecture, mystical atmosphere, and panoramic views.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Andes Mountains, Cusco Region, Peru. Situated above the Urubamba River Valley.
• Historical Significance: Believed to be an estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti (mid-15th century), or a sacred religious site. It was abandoned around the time of the Spanish conquest and remained largely unknown to the outside world until its rediscovery by Hiram Bingham in 1911.
• Altitude: Approximately 2,430 meters (7,972 feet) above sea level.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season (May to September) offers sunny days and clear skies, ideal for views and photography. However, this is also the peak tourist season. The shoulder months (April, October) can also be excellent with fewer crowds but a slightly higher chance of rain.

Why Visit Machu Picchu?

• Awe-Inspiring Inca Architecture: Marvel at the precisely cut stone structures, built without mortar, that have withstood centuries of earthquakes and weather.
• Mystical Atmosphere: Experience the enigmatic energy of a site shrouded in history and surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
• Breathtaking Scenery: Enjoy unparalleled views of the cloud forest, the winding Urubamba River, and the surrounding peaks.
• Iconic Status: Visit a true Wonder of the World and tick off a major bucket-list destination.

Planning Your Visit:

1. Getting There:

• To Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo): This is the town at the base of Machu Picchu and the primary access point.
  • Train: The most common and scenic way. Trains run from Cusco (Poroy station) or more frequently from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. PeruRail and Inca Rail are the two main operators. Book train tickets well in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Trekking: The classic Inca Trail (4 days), the Short Inca Trail (2 days), or alternative treks like the Salkantay or Lares treks culminate at Machu Picchu. These require booking months ahead through a licensed operator.
• From Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu Citadel:
  • Bus: Shuttle buses run frequently up and down the winding road to the entrance of Machu Picchu (approx. 25-30 minutes). Buy bus tickets in advance in Aguas Calientes or online to save time.
  • Hiking: You can hike up from Aguas Calientes (approx. 1.5-2 hours). It’s a steep and challenging climb but rewarding for the fit and adventurous.

2. Entrance Tickets:

• Essential to Book in Advance: Tickets to Machu Picchu are limited and sell out, often weeks or even months ahead, particularly for specific circuits or additional hikes.
• Official Website or Authorized Dealers: Purchase tickets from the official Peruvian Ministry of Culture website (machupicchu.gob.pe) or through licensed tour operators and travel agencies.
• Circuits: As of recent regulations, Machu Picchu visits are organized into different circuits (e.g., Circuit 1, 2, 3, 4) that cover specific areas of the citadel. Research which circuit best suits your interests as they offer different routes and viewpoints. Some circuits are more comprehensive than others.
• Additional Hikes (Require Specific Tickets):
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain: A popular, steep climb offering incredible views down onto the citadel. Permits are very limited and sell out extremely fast (book 3-6 months in advance).
  • Machu Picchu Mountain: A longer, less steep but higher climb on the mountain opposite Huayna Picchu, also offering fantastic panoramic views. Permits are also limited.
  • Huchuy Picchu Mountain: A shorter, easier hike near Huayna Picchu.
  • Inca Bridge: An optional, short walk to a section of an Inca trail.
• Passport Information: You will need your passport details to book tickets and your original passport to enter the site.

3. Guided Tours:

• Highly Recommended: While not always strictly mandatory depending on current regulations (always check!), a guided tour significantly enhances the experience. Licensed guides provide invaluable insights into the history, architecture, and significance of the various structures.
• Booking: You can hire a guide at the entrance of Machu Picchu or book one in advance through a tour operator or your hotel in Aguas Calientes. Group and private tours are available.

What to Expect During Your Visit:

• Early Start: Many visitors aim to arrive early for sunrise (though the sun actually rises over the mountains, not directly onto the citadel initially) or to beat the biggest crowds.
• Security Checkpoint: You’ll need to show your ticket and passport.
• Navigating the Site: The citadel is extensive, with numerous temples, residential areas, agricultural terraces, and plazas. Follow your chosen circuit.
• Key Areas to See:
  • Temple of the Sun: A semi-circular tower built around a large rock.
  • Intihuatana Stone: A carved pillar believed to have been used for astronomical observations.
  • Royal Tomb: A cave-like structure below the Temple of the Sun.
  • Temple of the Three Windows: Features large trapezoidal windows.
  • Principal Temple & Sacred Plaza: Important ceremonial areas.
  • Guardhouse: Offers classic panoramic photo opportunities.
• Rules and Regulations:
  • No large bags or backpacks (small daypacks usually allowed).
  • No food or sugary drinks (water in reusable bottles is generally permitted).
  • No drones.
  • No tripods (monopods sometimes allowed, check current rules).
  • Do not climb on walls or touch the stones.
  • Follow designated paths.
  • Smoking is prohibited.
  • Re-entry is generally not allowed with standard tickets unless you have a ticket that specifically permits it (e.g., for a later additional hike).

Practical Tips for Your Visit:

• Acclimatize: Spend a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley (which is at a lower altitude than Cusco but higher than Machu Picchu) to adjust to the altitude before visiting Machu Picchu. Aguas Calientes itself is lower than Cusco.
• Stay in Aguas Calientes: Staying overnight in Aguas Calientes allows for an early start to Machu Picchu. There’s a range of accommodation options.
• What to Pack for the Day:
  • Original Passport (essential!)
  • Machu Picchu Ticket (printed or digital)
  • Comfortable Walking Shoes/Hiking Boots
  • Layers of Clothing: The weather can change quickly. Bring a light jacket, fleece, and potentially a rain poncho/jacket.
  • Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat.
  • Insect Repellent
  • Water (in a reusable bottle)
  • Camera/Phone (ensure batteries are charged)
  • Small Daypack
  • Cash: For buses, guides (if not pre-booked), snacks, and souvenirs in Aguas Calientes.
• Toilets: Located outside the main entrance of the citadel. There are no toilets inside.
• Leave No Trace: Help preserve this incredible site for future generations by taking all your rubbish with you.