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The Amazing Train Journey to the Inca Citadel Machu Picchu, a highly sought-after travel destination, has captured the imagination of countless people. As one of the Wonders of the World, this architectural masterpiece radiates a unique energy that revitalizes the spirit and transports visitors to an ancient world filled with mystery and grandeur.
For those who prefer a more leisurely journey, our two-day tour to Machu Picchu offers the perfect experience. The scenic train ride lets you enjoy breathtaking landscapes as you follow the course of the Urubamba River, heading toward the picturesque town of Aguas Calientes, located at the base of the sacred mountain. Our team will carefully arrange every detail of your adventure, and an expert guide will accompany you throughout the excursion, sharing the fascinating history, legends, and secrets of this incredible place. All you have to do is relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience.
2 Days / 1 Night
15 km
Moderate
2700 m.a.s.l
Hiking Nature & Culture
16ppl Group
An Exciting Train Journey to the Charming Town of Aguas Calientes
Your thrilling two-day journey begins when we pick you up from your hotel at the scheduled time and take you to the Ollantaytambo train station. You’ll board the train at 12:55 pm, so there’s no need to rise early or rush. As you travel, you’ll pass through the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, featuring mountains, rivers, agricultural terraces, and more.
After about an hour and a half ride along the Urubamba River (also known as the Vilcanota River), you’ll arrive in Aguas Calientes, where your guide will escort you to your hotel to drop off your belongings. Since this area is pedestrian-only, you’ll explore on foot.
Next, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the town’s top restaurants before you have time to explore Aguas Calientes at your own pace. Nestled in a deep valley, the town offers several cafes and eateries, or you can take a leisurely stroll through its charming streets to admire the stone sculptures. We also suggest considering one of the following optional activities to make the most of your free time in Aguas Calientes:
• Allcamayo Waterfalls: For those looking to add an extra adventure to the itinerary, we recommend a 30 to 45-minute hike to the Allcamayo Waterfalls, located just outside Aguas Calientes. You’ll walk through a typical Cusco jungle landscape before reaching the impressive waterfall, which stands at about 30 meters high.
• Hot Springs: After your scenic train ride, take some time to unwind in the town’s natural hot springs. You’ll find small pools of warm, soothing water, perfect for relaxing before your Machu Picchu excursion.
• Butterfly House: A short 15-minute walk from Aguas Calientes, the Butterfly House is located along the same route that buses take to Machu Picchu. The house is home to over 100 native species of butterflies and more than 400 species in total.
• Artisan Market: Close to the train station, this market offers a variety of local handicrafts, including sculptures, traditional clothing, paintings, jewelry, and more, providing a great opportunity to take home a unique souvenir.
In the evening, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner, and your guide will give you all the details for the exciting day ahead. Be sure to rest early, as you’ll be waking up before dawn the next morning.
The Hidden Secrets of the World’s Wonder
The day to visit the Wonder of the World has finally arrived! We aim to be among the first to enter the citadel, so we ask that you leave your hotel early to catch the bus to Machu Picchu.
After a 25-minute ride, you’ll reach the entrance gate, where you’ll enjoy an approximately two-hour guided tour with an expert guide. They’ll lead you through the most important areas of Machu Picchu, including its houses, temples, plazas, and more.
For many years, Machu Picchu was regarded as a legend, as no one had seen it. It wasn’t until 1911 that explorer Hiram Bingham uncovered its remains. Located 2,430 meters above sea level in a lush tropical forest, Machu Picchu is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
You will also have the chance to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if you book your tickets in advance. From either of these peaks, you can enjoy stunning views of the entire citadel. Afterward, you will make your way back down to Aguas Calientes.
Once in town, you’ll have some free time to enjoy lunch at a restaurant of your choice (not included) before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. Our private transportation will be waiting there to take you back to your hotel in Cusco. Finally, you’ll have the opportunity to relax and unwind after this unforgettable adventure.
Permits & Entrance Tickets
Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu Archaeological Site (Circuit 2)
High-Quality Service & Safety
Pre-departure Briefing
Experienced Tour Guide
Our official guides are fluent in English and Spanish, professionally trained, and certified. We select them for their expertise, responsibility, passion for exploration, and pride in sharing our culture and history. Throughout your journey, they will ensure your safety and comfort, allowing you to relax and enjoy your experience without worries!
Medical Kit or First Aid Kit
All of our Salkantay Trekking guides are trained in first aid and participate in mandatory training sessions each February. Your guide will always carry a first aid kit and oxygen to address common emergencies such as altitude sickness, diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc. If necessary, we will arrange for your swift evacuation from the trail and ensure you receive medical care at a clinic.
24/7 Customer Service
We offer 24-hour telephone support, ensuring easy communication with Salkantay Trekking in the lead-up to your tour.
Accommodation
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
You will spend one night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, with luggage storage provided while you visit Machu Picchu. Rooms are available in double, twin, and triple configurations.
Meals
Day 1: Lunch and Dinner at a restaurant in Aguas Calientes
Day 2: Breakfast at the hotel
Transportation
Transfers
Day 1: Pickup from your hotel and transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station.
Huayna Picchu Mountain
You have the opportunity to climb the iconic mountain often seen in photos behind the Machu Picchu archaeological site. The hike takes about 45 minutes uphill, and while it can be intimidating on the descent if you have a fear of heights, it’s an incredible experience. This excursion can be done after your guided tour of Machu Picchu. Due to high demand, permits must be secured at least one month in advance. Please note that adjustments may be made to ensure your safety, especially in response to weather conditions.
The Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket costs an additional US$ 60.00 per person.
Machu Picchu Mountain
Another option is Machu Picchu Mountain, which is one of the mountains surrounding the archaeological site. The trail here is less steep, wider, and not as visually intimidating as Huayna Picchu. It takes about 1.5 hours to reach the summit. This hike also requires a separate entrance ticket, which we can arrange for you if we have enough time before your trip.
The Machu Picchu Mountain ticket costs an additional US$ 60.00 per person.
Day 1
Breakfast
Day 2
Lunch in Aguas Calientes and Dinner in Cusco
Travel Insurance
Tips for Our Staff
Tipping is a common practice on excursions in Peru. While we offer competitive salaries to our team, an extra tip is always appreciated.
Additional Costs or Delays Beyond Our Control
Potential disruptions like landslides, bad weather, changes to the itinerary for safety reasons, illness, pandemics, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, or natural disasters may cause additional costs or delays.
Availability: Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We won’t cancel your Trip !!!
How to Book?: Send us all Your Personal information, as well as a Deposit of 30%, and the Final Balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.
Group Service: Price per person: US$380
(You will be joined into a formed group of people who come from different countries/Nationalities): (Group Size: 04 Minimum – 12ppl Average – 16ppl Maximum)
Private Service: Price per person: US$450
Recommended for Honeymooners, Families with children & Groups of Friends (02 Person Minimum)
If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as GROUP SERVICE). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in Cusco.
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.
List of things you must bring:
How do I get to Machu Picchu by train?
You will begin your journey by taking a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. From Aguas Calientes, you’ll take a bus to the Machu Picchu entrance.
How long does the train ride to Aguas Calientes take?
The train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes takes approximately 1.5 hours, offering scenic views of the Urubamba River and the Sacred Valley.
What is the schedule for the train?
Trains usually depart in the morning or early afternoon. You will receive specific departure details closer to your tour date. Typically, you’ll board the train around midday on Day 1.
Do I need to book the train tickets in advance?
Yes, train tickets should be booked in advance, especially during peak seasons, as seats can sell out quickly.
What is included in the 2-day tour?
The tour includes train transportation to Aguas Calientes, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, one night’s accommodation in Aguas Calientes, meals (lunch and dinner on Day 1, breakfast on Day 2), and transportation back to Cusco.
Can I visit Machu Picchu on the same day I arrive in Aguas Calientes?
No, typically your visit to Machu Picchu will take place on Day 2. After arriving in Aguas Calientes on Day 1, you will have free time to explore the town before resting for the night.
What are the optional activities in Aguas Calientes?
While in Aguas Calientes, you can visit the Artisan Market, relax in the hot springs, take a short hike to the Allcamayo Waterfalls, or explore the Butterfly House.
How much time do I have to explore Machu Picchu?
On Day 2, after taking the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, you’ll have approximately two hours for a guided tour of the site. If you choose to hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, additional time will be required.
Can I hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, both hikes are available with additional permits. These must be booked in advance, and each hike takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. There is an extra fee of approximately US$60 per person for each hike.
What is the weather like at Machu Picchu?
The weather at Machu Picchu can be unpredictable. It is typically warm during the day, with cooler temperatures in the early mornings and evenings. Be prepared for possible rain, especially during the wet season (November to April).
How difficult is the hike to Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu?
The hike to Huayna Picchu is more challenging, with steep, narrow paths that can be intimidating for those with a fear of heights. Machu Picchu Mountain has a gentler ascent and is less intimidating, though still requires a moderate level of fitness.
What should I bring with me on the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, a camera, and a light jacket or rain poncho. For the hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, wear sturdy footwear and bring extra water.
Is there a place to store my luggage in Aguas Calientes?
Yes, most hotels in Aguas Calientes offer luggage storage while you visit Machu Picchu. Be sure to confirm with your accommodation beforehand.
What happens if my train is delayed?
In case of any delays due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, our team will assist in making alternate arrangements to ensure you reach your destination comfortably.
How do I return to Cusco after my visit to Machu Picchu?
After your visit to Machu Picchu, you will take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where private transportation will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco.
Book Now with Quechuas Expeditions
Posted on Sara DVerified 10/10 Experience - Would Recommend! We had an amazing time on the Salkantay 5 Day Trek. Before the trip started, Quechuas had great communication and was very accommodating to our travel schedule, including adjusting our briefing time with our guide.The skydome accomodations were great (all fairly spacious, with exception of night 2, which was fine as we didn’t spend much time there), the food was delicious (a great variety and always more than enough to go around) and the trek itself was beautiful. Our guide Steven, as well as second guide Jorge, were very patient, knowledgeable and kind to us and the others in our group - not only did we get to see incredible scenery but we also learned a lot about the local landscape and culture.We rented sleeping bags, which we would highly recommend. We brought our own hiking poles but would recommend renting if you don’t bring your own.Overall, an amazing experience and we would highly recommend this company.Posted on Matthew WVerified Seamless and Supportive Inca Trail Experience – Highly Recommend We recently completed the 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek with Quechuas Expeditions in June 2025, and overall had a fantastic experience that struck the perfect balance between physical challenge and logistical ease.Our guide, Fernando (“Nando”), was outstanding—passionate, deeply knowledgeable about the trail’s rich history, and highly supportive throughout. He kept our group motivated and informed, and managed different paces and needs with professionalism and care. His English was great, and he always made time to answer questions or share interesting stories along the way.The porter and chef team were phenomenal. Every meal was different, delicious, and plentiful—we were never hungry, and dietary needs (including vegan and vegetarian) were handled without issue. They even baked a custom cake on the trail for a couple’s anniversary, which speaks volumes about their care and capability. The porters themselves were friendly, warm, and constantly going above and beyond to support us.Quechuas provided tents, sleeping bags, a toilet tent, and hot water for face washing each morning, plus coca tea as a wake-up touch. The duffel service was useful, though we did find the weight limits a bit tighter than expected once you factor in the sleeping bag. In the end, we paid for an extra porter—which was easy to arrange but worth noting for those planning their packing. One thing we didn’t know in advance: the porter bags aren’t waterproof, so future trekkers may want to use dry bags or line the inside with plastic.Another small consideration: due to how campsites are assigned (by the government, not the tour company), some days ended up being longer than the traditional day-by-day breakdown you might read online. While not Quechuas’ fault, for myself, as much heads-up as possible would’ve helped with my own mental preparation.All said, Quechuas Expeditions delivered where it mattered most. The logistics were smooth, the staff was superb, and their support allowed us to focus on enjoying the trail and the breathtaking views without worrying about the rest. This is a company that knows what it’s doing.Would I recommend them? Absolutely—whether you’re a first-time trekker or experienced hiker, they make an unforgettable journey that much more seamless and enjoyable. If I ever do this again, I would book with them without question, and if possible, request the exact same team. Thank you Fernando and team for a trip of a lifetime and memories that will stay with me forever 🙏Posted on Arianna OVerified Amazing trip on the Inca Trail with Quechuas Expeditions I never imagined that the Inca Trail could be so transformative. My partner and I decided to do the classic 4-day trek with Quechuas Expeditions and, honestly, it exceeded all our expectations. From the very first moment we felt very welcome. The service was impeccable, they were always attentive to our needs, solving all our doubts before and during the trek.The hike was not easy, but the views, the fresh mountain air and the energy of the group kept us going without thinking about how tiring it was. The meals at the campsites surprised us pleasantly, we really did not expect so much variety and flavor in the middle of the mountain. And the end, reaching Machu Picchu through the sun gate (Inti Punku) was simply magical, there are no words to describe that moment. It is definitely a unique experience that connects you with the history, culture and nature of Peru. Thank you Quechuas Expeditions for making this trip so special!Posted on naomiammarVerified Hardest challenge of my life but worth it One of the hardest things I have ever done (definitely underestimate the difficulty level), and I don’t know if I would have made it if it wasn’t for our awesome guide Frenando and all the amazing staff we had. What a fantastic group of people. The porters are so hard working, it’s so humbling. The chef Taco was fantastic! I am vegan and he made me the most amazing food the entire time. I couldn’t believe it. And then our guide Fernando topped it all. Knowledgeable, professional yet fun, very personable, very patient (we were slow!) and very encouraging. If you are considering taking on this challenge, I highly recommend Quechua’s Expeditions and if you can request Fernando. E sure to do so. He’s been doing this for 19yrs!Posted on cade cVerified Awesome trek We really enjoyed our trip. It was challenging and also rewarding. Beautiful views and even better food. I can’t rave enough about our cook Santiago! Food was unbelievable. Jose did a fantastic job leading us along the way. He did a good job of explaining what we are seeing! Looking for a physical challenge with beautiful views this is the trek for you.Posted on Lola UVerified Demanding, enriching and unforgettable thanks to the human team I will always be grateful to the rich food and attentions of Santiago, the cook, the professionalism and good advice of José, the guide, the kindness of the helpers, who have made it possible to improve the experience.Posted on Julia C.Verified Amazing trek, amazing guide and staff The Salkantay Trek was absolutely stunning, domes and the views were great with hot water available. What the trek made very special was our guide Nildo. Also, the chef Julian, horseman and second guide were incredible too. Nildo was knowledgeable, caring and passionate about everything he shared. I cannot imagine a better guide :-) Everything was very well organized.Posted on Emelie AVerified Hike of a lifetime! We had the most amazing time! The different sceneries along the trek are just unbelievable and although being two fairly unfit persons we could enjoy it all the way. Fernando and Steven are terrific guides making sure we were all comfortable and happy at all times. The food and accommodations along the way were also a lot more luxurious than what we’d expected. Would 100% recommend this to anyone who’s up for a hike!!

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