Cusco City Tour Half Day (Private Tour)
Discover Cusco’s top highlights in a half-day tour filled with history and Inca sites. ...
Price from:
$ 75.00 USD
- info@comeseeperutours.com
- +51 992 372 063
Discover the magic of Machu Picchu in just one day with local experts in Cusco. This tour is designed for travelers wanting to experience the wonder of the Inca citadel without staying overnight or hiking for several days. From the moment you board the scenic train through the Sacred Valley to the moment you enter the legendary ruins, every detail is taken care of for you. With expert guides, comfortable transportation, and guaranteed tickets.
Don’t miss the opportunity to see Machu Picchu in one unforgettable day: book your day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco today!
If you'd like to customize this trip, our travel specialists will create the perfect tour for you.
Visiting Machu Picchu does not always involve long hikes or overnight stays. With our one-day tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco, you can visit one of the 7 wonders of the world in a single unforgettable day. This full-day tour is designed for travelers like you, looking to make the most of their vacation in Peru without spending too many days away.
Are you visiting Peru with limited time? A day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco is the perfect way to experience one of the most iconic wonders of the world in a single unforgettable day. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply want to check this ancient site off your bucket list, our full-day Machu Picchu adventure has everything you need.
Unlike multi-day packages, this tour focuses exclusively on what really matters: a hassle-free trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu and back, with every step taken care of by local professionals. You’ll travel through the Sacred Valley by our private trasnportation and then followed by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, guided by local experts who will make sure every minute counts.
If your itinerary in Peru is tight, or if you are planning several activities in Cusco and its surroundings, this day trip is your best option for you.
Tickets to Machu Picchu are limited and sell out quickly, especially during the high season (May to September). Our 1-day tours to Machu Picchu from Cusco include tickets, round-trip train tickets, a local private guide and everything you need for a hassle-free visit.
Booking in advance guarantees your spot, and we can secure tickets for Circuit 2, the most popular route at Machu Picchu, which offers the best panoramic views and access to the main archaeological sites.
For our Machu Picchu One Day Tour from Cusco, we offer Circuit 2 ( long high circuit). This circuit provides a complete exploration of the upper and lower parts of the citadel, ensuring that you don’t miss any of the highlights.
IMPORTANT: To secure your entrance to Machu Picchu with Circuit 2, we strongly recommend that you book your tour at least three months in advance. Due to high demand and limited entry tickets, the circuit 2 sells out quickly. By planning ahead and booking well in advance, you will avoid disappointment and guarantee yourself the opportunity to experience the full beauty and historical significance of Machu Picchu. Booking in advance also allows us to organize all the necessary logistics smoothly, guaranteeing a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
Our Machu Picchu 1 day tour from Cusco includes the ticket with circuit 1 or 2 which will guarantee your experience exploring most of the site for a longer time. To ensure this it is necessary to book well in advance.
On this tour it is not possible to visit Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu on the same day due to lack of time. To learn more about the new circuits and tickets available in Machu Picchu, see our travel blog.
Let us design your 1 day trip to Machu Picchu and make the most of it with the best itinerary, check our plan. If you have any questions about our itinerary, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our expert travel agents.
On our Machu Picchu one-day tour, we’ll pick you up right from your hotel in Cusco based on your train departure time in Ollantaytambo.
From Ollantaytambo, board the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) for a scenic two-hour ride. During the journey, enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains, traditional villages, and the Urubamba River flowing alongside the tracks. This leg of your day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco is the perfect start before exploring the Inca citadel.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, a representative of the company will be waiting for you at the train station with a sign with your name on it. From there, a short 25-minute bus ride will take you along winding mountain roads to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Once at the gate of Machu Picchu you will begin your guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Now it’s time to explore Machu Picchu with your expert local guide. Following the assigned circuit, you’ll discover good viewpoints and the most iconic temples of the Inca city. In about 2.5 hours, your guide will share the history, legends, and architecture that make this site one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
After an exciting visit to Machu Picchu, you will board the train back to the village of Ollantaytambo. There, our driver will be waiting for you to take you back to Cusco.
We recommend booking your Machu Picchu Day Trip in advance to ensure that you can follow this itinerary, which is organized according to the entrance schedule assigned on your ticket. Making your reservation in advance will allow you to make the most of your time and enjoy the experience without any setbacks.
5:30 AM – Hotel pick-up in Cusco
Your Machu Picchu tour begins early with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. You’ll head to the town of Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley, enjoying a scenic drive along the way.
7:30 AM – Arrival in Ollantaytambo
Arrive at the train station of Ollantaytambo and get ready to board your train to Aguas Calientes.
8:30 AM – Train departure to Aguas Calientes town
Board your train and enjoy a 2-hour ride through beautiful landscapes, mountains, the Urubamba river, and lush valleys all around you.
10:00 AM – Arrival in Aguas Calientes
Once you arrive at the town at the base of Machu Picchu, a representative of the company will assist you in boarding the shuttle bus up to the entrance.
11:00 AM – Bus ride to Machu Picchu
Enjoy a 30-minute winding bus ride up the mountain to the Machu Picchu entrance.
11:30 AM – Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Explore the ancient Inca citadel on a guided tour that lasts about 2.5 hours. Learn about its fascinating history, architecture, and spiritual significance, while soaking in the breathtaking views.
2:00 PM – Return to Aguas Calientes town
Take the bus back down to the town of Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included).
2:30 PM – Lunch break
Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a nice local restaurants in town (lunch not included into price tour).
4:30 PM – Train back to Ollantaytambo
Board your return train and begin your journey back through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo.
6:30 PM – Arrival in Ollantaytambo
Meet your private driver who will be waiting to take you
8:30 PM – Drop-off at your hotel in Cusco
Arrive back at your hotel in Cusco, full of unforgettable memories from your Machu Picchu day trip.
Get the most out of your day exploring the stunning ruins of Machu Picchu with this detailed itinerary! Don’t miss out – come on an unforgettable 1-day tour starting right in Cusco.
We choose the early morning tour so that you can be one of the first ones at the ruins and we will beat the traffic. Machu Picchu one day tour by train allows you to enjoy the magical scenery on the journey towards Aguas Calientes. See as much as possible in one day!
If you want to extend your visit or stay one night in Aguas Calientes town click on our 2 day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour.
Pre briefing: 2 days before your Machu Picchu tour we will contact you to arrange the exact time to call you and give you the orientation for your Machu Picchu 1 day trip.
Start: At 5:20 am from your hotel in Cusco
End: At 20:00 pm at your hotel in Cusco
Your epic Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco starts with an early pick up from your accommodation in Cusco to take you through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo train station.
Your pick up time for the Machu Picchu 1 day tour is based on your train departure time in Ollantaytambo. This information will be confirmed to you once your train tickets (chosen by you) have been purchased.
Here you will be boarding the train to Aguas Calientes. (Choose the type of train you wish to travel with when booking your Machu Picchu one day tour). The ride itself is a regarding experience as the views change drastically from snow capped Andean peaks to lush tropical jungle. You will be rewarded with sights of Andean villages and highland farms.
The train ride takes about 1.5 hours approximately.
The offered train type for this tour is EXPEDITION, however you can also upgrade to a VISTADOME train. (Upon request.).
Once in Aguas Calientes, your tour guide will be picking you up from the train station and will be transferring you to the bus terminal where you will embark on a 25 minutes ride, up the hill to Machu Picchu citadel.
Aguas Calientes is the closest town to South America’s most famous Inca ruins, (Machu Picchu).
Here the authorities will be verifying your original passport against your entrance ticket, so make sure to carry your passport with you.
As you enter the citadel, you will be rewarded with a sight of the golden rays of the morning sun shimmering on the walls of the Inca Citadel.
You will be exploring Machu Picchu for 2 . 5 hours through circuit 1 or 2 (the best and longest circuits to visit Machu Picchu). We will then visit the main sites like the Plaza, remains of Inca temples and royal quarters, ceremonial sites and more.
After this detailed tour of the citadel, you wil have some free time to explore the citadel on your own. If you have booked to hike Machu Picchu mountain or Huayna Picchu mountain, our tour guide will be directing you to the respective trail head.
Once you have had your fill of the Inca citadel, we will be taking the bus back to Aguas Calientes town. You will have some free time to saunter through the narrow cobble stone streets rimmed with local shops selling souvenirs.
You can also stop by a restaurant of your choice for lunch (Not included in the price).
At around 04:22 PM, (Depending on availability) we will be taking the train back to Ollantaytambo. Our representative will be meeting you at the train station and will be driving you back to Cusco. We will be reaching by 09:00 PM.
Important: Machu Picchu is open to visitors daily from 6:00 to 17:30.
There are 9 entry time slots with a limited number of visitors to choose from. We allow you to choose when you want to visit Machu Picchu.
Easy / Beginner
Full Day
6,690 ft (2,040 m).
7972 ft (2430 m).
Yes
Our exclusive full-day tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu offers travelers a round-trip Expedition train. However, for those looking for an even more immersive experience, we offer the option to upgrade to the Vistadome train for a nominal fee of $30 per leg. This upgrade guarantees a better trip to Machu Picchu, as you will have panoramic windows that will allow you to enjoy nature in all its splendor.
Make the most of your Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco with our insider tips. Get all the information you need to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable!
Consider the temperature and climate conditions in Cusco and how they will change as you travel to Machu Picchu. Pack light layers of clothing that are comfortable but appropriate for the situation. Always include a raincoat or umbrella, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, insects repellent and appropriate walking shoes. Read more below!
NOTE: When traveling to Machu Picchu on PeruRail Vistadome, or PeruRail Expedition: Carry a bag or backpack (carry-on luggage) with a maximum weight of 5.0 kg/11 lbs, measuring no more than 62 linear inches/157 linear cm (height + length + width). If you need special assistance with your luggage, please contact us at info@comeseeperutours.com.
The cost of the Machu Picchu tour is per person and based on the number of participants.
Our Machu Picchu tour is an exclusive tour and is only offered in private service.
To book our Machu Picchu 1 day tour it is necessary to make a deposit of 60% of the cost of the tour.
The remaining balance must be paid in cash on the day of the tour.
We use PayPal as the most secure payment method for our clients which charges a 7% commission for deposit, which must be assumed by the client. To make the deposit you can do it directly through the website or through a link, any of these 2 options the commission will be charged automatically, if you see that the commission has not been charged please contact us.
After you have made the deposit we will send you a confirmation email with the details of the tour.
Once your reservation has been confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not be increased for any reason.
If you have any questions about pricing, train tickets, or entry times, we are more than happy to assist you. Write to us at info@comeseeperutours.com , you can also contact us by phone:
Celular – WhatsApp: +51 969 760 991.
Celular – WhatsApp: +51 992 372 063.
Vistadome train: for an extra $35 per leg
When booking a tour with Come See Peru, you agree to all our terms and conditions.
Come See Peru is a Local Operator based in Cusco city, located in Av. Velazco Aztete Lote E-2, Cusco 08006, Peru. Please email us at info@comeseeperutours.com or call our team at +51-969760991 or +51-992372063.
Legal name: COMESEEPERUTOURS E.I.R.L
RUC: 20608161156
More: Terms and Conditions
Not sure about the date you have chosen for your Machu Picchu tour?
If we have not yet purchased your tickets you still have the option to notify us. If you wish to change your travel date too close to your travel date it will not be possible. Anyway we will send you a reconfirmation of your travel date before we buy the tickets. Once you have confirmed your travel date there is no way to change your travel date.
To book the Machu Picchu 1 day tour with us a deposit is required. A deposit of 50% of the tour cost is required. Note that the deposit is non-refundable as it is used for the purchase of the tickets for your trip to Machu Picchu, such as: Machu Picchu tickets, train tickets. (Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable).
We use PayPal as the most secure method for our customers. When you pay with PayPal, your financial information is never shared with us, and you can pay using only your email address.
PayPal charges a 7% fee which must be paid by the traveler. The PayPal fees will be automatically added to the total cost during the transaction.
The remaining balance must be paid upon your arrival to Cusco before the start of the tour. The total balance must be paid in ” CASH “You can pay the remaining balance with Peruvian Soles or Dollars.
(Bills must be in good condition – no torn bills are accepted).
When booking a tour with Come See Peru, my team and I will work hard to make sure you have the best experience of your life. Our team will make sure that you are safe, and that you are having a good time. However there are some facts outside of our control that may affect your trip.
Therefore we suggest that you take a look at our terms and conditions.
Refunds will be only provided for DAY TOURS Not for Machu Picchu tours since the deposit of the total cost is used to buy the Machu Picchu tickets, the train tickets and bus tickets which by the way are not refundable.
To protect your travel investment, we strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Obtaining travel insurance before leaving home is highly recommended and very easy.
Are you taking the Machu Picchu 1 day tour with us and still have questions? take a look at the most frequently asked questions from our clients who have already taken the tour.
Visit Machu Picchu any day of the week but don’t visit Machu Picchu on weekends!
Peruvians get free specially on Sundays, due to the fact that locals do not pay entrance fees and visit Machu Picchu for free. Machu Picchu is more active those days.
How many days do you need in Machu Picchu? For most travelers with limited time, one day is enough. Leaving Cusco and returning the same day, but an extra day allows you to explore the site at a more relaxed pace. You can take a look at our 2-day Machu Picchu tour from Cusco.
Book your Machu Picchu ticket easily in 6 steps by yourself, just make sure you are on the right website.
Step 1: Visit the official Machu Picchu website, (www.machupicchu.gob.pe)
Step 2: Go to the official ticket platform.
Step 3: Choose the slot time of your visit.
Step 4: Fill in your personal information.
Step 5: Confirm your information.
Step 6 : Verify your reservation.
Step 7 – Payment.
For the best experience, visit Machu Picchu early in the morning between 6am and 8am then Machu Picchu is likely to be crowded.
By arriving right at 6 am, you’ll be able to watch the sunrise and beat the crowds.
It is also advisable to visit Machu Picchu in late afternoon, especially at 3 o’clock in the afternoon.
If you want to be one of the first people to enter Machu Picchu, then jump in one of the first shuttle busses from Aguas Calientes town.
Take the Machu Picchu 1 day tour by train and enjoy a full day exploring the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Our full day tour to Machu Picchu by train starts early in the morning from Cusco. You visit Machu Picchu between 9am to 10am.
The train back is at 14:55pm or 16:00pm depending on the type of train, the tour ends in Cusco at your hotel at 7 or 9pm.
We leave from Cusco by car, the car ride is about 1 hour and a half to the train station in Ollantaytambo. The train ride is 1 hour and a half to Aguas Calientes.
Yes! The train is equipped with air conditioning and bathrooms
You can book up to 72 hours before the activity as long as there is space available. Book now to guarantee your place.
In Come See Peru you can reserve up to 50% of the total cost of the tour, pay the rest upon arrival.
The deposit is necessary to buy your Machu Picchu tickets for the Machu Picchu day tour and also to buy the train tickets, otherwise we do not guarantee your tour for the date requested.
We can buy your tickets with the expired passport, however 10 days before your trip at the latest we must change your Machu Picchu ticket with the new passport information once you have already obtained the renewed passport.
Yes! that is correct, Machu Picchu is located in Cusco Peru. To get to Cusco you must fly from Lima to Cusco.
Machu Picchu is located 74 kilometers from Cusco, the best way to get there is by train from Ollantaytanbo or Cusco.
Machu Picchu, recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, is a destination not to be missed if you are planning to visit Peru, it attracts thousands of travelers every year due to its majesty, history and natural beauty. We believe before embarking on this adventure, it is essential to know certain details that will help you enjoy a safe and comfortable experience. From the altitude to the climate and the different ways to get there, here we provide you with a complete guide on what you should know before traveling to Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu is located in the Cusco region in southwestern part of Peru. Although many people believe that Machu Picchu is at a higher altitude than Cusco, this is wrong, it is actually at a lower altitude than Cusco, even lower than the Sacred Valley.
Altitude: 2,430 meters (7,970 feet / 1.51 miles) above sea level.
Despite being an impressive mountain, it is not at higher altitudes than Cusco, which makes it a goos place for acclimatization for many travelers.
Altitude: 3,400 meters (11,155 feet / 2.11 miles) above sea level, due to this high altitude, travelers could experience altitude sickness (soroche). It is advisable to stay at the lower elevationest for at least one or two days before Cusco.
Altitude: 2,040 meters (6,693 feet / 1.27 miles) above sea level.
It is the starting point to reach Machu Picchu and an ideal place to spend the night before exploring the citadel if you are looking for an extended experience.
The Inca Trail varies in altitude, reaching up to 4,200 meters (13,780 feet / 2.5 miles) at Dead Woman’s Pass (The highest point of the trek). Trekkers can experience a considerable temperature difference, from the cold of the high mountains to the hot and humid climate near Machu Picchu area.
The climate in Machu Picchu is tropical, consisting of a dry season and a rainy season during the year. Here are the main characteristics of the climate in the region:
Daytime temperature: Varies between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C (77°F).
Nighttime temperature: Can drop to 8°C (46°F) or 10°C (50°F).
Climate: Mostly dry, with low rainfall. Nights and early mornings can be chilly, so it is important to bring warm clothing.
Daytime temperature: Stays between 17°C (62°F) and 23°C (73°F).
Nighttime temperature: Can range from 12°C (54°F) to 15°C (59°F).
Weather: It rains frequently, especially from January to March. If you are planning traveling during this season, it is essential to bring waterproof clothing and be prepared for sudden changes in the weather during the day.
There are many ways to get to Machu Picchu, depending on your available time, budget and the type of experience you are looking for.
The most common and fastest way to get to Machu Picchu is to take a train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes town. Railway companies offer different types of services, from economical options to luxurious ones such as the Hiram Bingham by Belmond.
Travel time by train: About 2-4 hours, this depends on where you take the train from.
Frequency: Trains depart every hour a day from Cusco (Ollantaytambo) to Aguas Calientes.
For those looking for adventure, the Inca Trail is an excellent option. This 4-day trek takes you through beautiful Andean landscapes and archaeological inca ruins. During the trek, you will pass through altitudes of up to 4,200 meters (13,780 feet), which requires good physical preparation and acclimatization.
If the Inca Trail is not available, there are other trekking routes such as the Salkantay Trek or the Lares Trek, which will also allow you to reach Aguas Calientes by trekking and then Machu Picchu.
Although you can take a day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco, it is also recommended to spend at least 2 days in the area to enjoy the full experience. This will allow you to:
Day 1: Arrive in Aguas Calientes, explore the town and stay at the hotel.
Day 2: Visit Machu Picchu very early to see the sunrise, do an additional hike (such as climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain) and return in the afternoon.
Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu pueblo is a small town where you can enjoy a number of activities before or after your visit to Machu Picchu:
The famous hot springs of Aguas Calientes, which have healing properties, are located a short distance from the town of Aguas Calientes.
If you like handicrafts, you can visit the Machu Picchu market where you will find typical products of the region, such as textiles, ceramics and souvenirs, although we recommed to buy in Cusco.
If you are feeling energetic, you can take a light hike around Aguas Calientes or climb up to the Mirador de Mandor, a panoramic view of the area, also you can climb the Putucusi mountain.
In Aguas Calientes there are a variety of dining options, from inexpensive menus to gourmet restaurants. Some typical dishes you should try are:
Ceviche: The famous Peruvian dish of raw fish marinated in lemon and chili, the ceviche is typically made with trout.
Cuy chactado: A typical dish of the region, prepared with guinea pig (guinea pig). For best resturants in Cusco to try Cuy, check our article.
Lomo saltado: A delicious dish of meat sautéed with potatoes and rice. (hihgly recommended to try).
Aguas Calientes has a wide range of accommodation, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some recommended options include:
3-4 star hotels: there are several options that offer comfort and services such as Wi-Fi, spas and panoramic views, such as the Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel or Inka Terra Hotel.
Cheaper accommodations: If you are on a tight budget, you can find more affordable hostels or family accommodations. Such as Vista Machu Picchu, Casa del Sol hotel.
Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain (2 hours).
Route 1-B: Upper Terraces (2.5 hours).
Route 1-C: Intipunku (Sun Gate) (2 hours).
Route 1-D: Inka Bridge (1 hour).
Route 2-A: (2.5 hours).
Route 2-B: (2 hours).
Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu (3 hours).
Route 3-B: Temple of the Moon (2 hours).
Route 3-C: Huchuy Picchu (2 hours).
We recommend purchasing tickets in advance, as spaces are limited, specially if you are looking for circuit 2. It is advisable to hire a tour guide for a better experience during your exploration of Machu Picchu.
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