The Machu Picchu Day Tour by Train begins very early in the morning with a hotel pickup in Cusco, typically around 4:00 AM. From there, you will enjoy a comfortable private van ride of approximately two hours, traveling about 70 kilometers (43 miles) through the breathtaking Sacred Valley to reach the Ollantaytambo train station, which sits at an altitude of 2,792 meters (9,160 feet).
At around 6:10 AM, you will board the Expedition or Vistadome train—both popular options for this journey—heading towards Aguas Calientes, the small town located at 2,040 meters (6,692 feet) and known as the gateway to Machu Picchu. The train ride lasts roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes, during which you will be treated to stunning views of the Urubamba River, verdant mountains, and traditional Andean villages scattered along the way.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes at about 7:40 AM, you will take a 30-minute bus ride ascending a winding road that climbs 600 vertical meters (1,968 feet) up to the Machu Picchu archaeological site, perched at 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level. This shuttle bus ride is essential, as the ruins themselves are inaccessible by private vehicles.
Your guided tour of Machu Picchu typically starts around 8:15 AM, led by an experienced, English-speaking guide who will reveal the secrets of this ancient Incan citadel over the course of approximately two hours. You will explore iconic landmarks such as the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, and the Intihuatana stone, all while learning about the cultural and historical significance of each site.
After the guided segment, you’ll have about an hour of free time to wander independently, take photographs, or simply soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Andean peaks and cloud forests.
At around 11:30 AM, you will descend by shuttle bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you will have the option to enjoy a leisurely lunch and explore the small town’s markets and hot springs if time permits.
The return train departs Aguas Calientes around 3:20 PM, retracing the scenic route back to Ollantaytambo. You’ll arrive at Ollantaytambo station near 5:30 PM, where a private vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to Cusco. The journey concludes with your arrival at the hotel, typically between 7:30 and 8:00 PM, after a full day of exploration, culture, and natural beauty.
This itinerary covers approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) round-trip and offers a manageable altitude profile, making it accessible for travelers with varying fitness levels while delivering an unforgettable encounter with one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
