Location
Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Peru
Trip Style
Private & Small Group Tour
Daily Departure
Every day
Welcome to the land of the Incas! Begin your journey in Cusco, the historical heart of the Inca Empire. Stroll through its narrow cobblestone streets, explore vibrant Andean markets, and visit the famous San Pedro Market. Venture into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where breathtaking landscapes, traditional villages, and impressive Inca ruins await. Discover the Pisac archaeological site, enjoy an authentic Andean buffet lunch, and explore the remarkable Ollantaytambo fortress. In the evening, board a scenic train ride through the Vilcanota Valley to reach Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes), setting the stage for your next day’s adventure to the legendary Machu Picchu.
Itinerary
- 07:00 am – 07:30 am – Pick-up from your hotel and departure to the Sacred Valley.
- Enjoy several stops along the way for stunning photo opportunities and to take in the valley’s breathtaking landscapes.
- Arrive at the Pisac Archaeological Site, where you’ll explore Inca terraces, temples, towers, and storages, all surrounded by panoramic views.
- Visit the Pisac market, a colorful Andean marketplace filled with handcrafted souvenirs and traditional textiles.
- Continue along the Vilcanota River to Urubamba, where you will enjoy a delicious Andean buffet lunch.
- Head to Ollantaytambo Fortress, an ancient Inca military, religious, and agricultural center with impressive stone terraces and water channels.
- In the afternoon, board the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town), a 90-minute journey through the stunning Vilcabamba mountain range.
- Upon arrival, our local representative will meet you and escort you to your selected hotel. You will receive a detailed briefing about the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.
- At a coordinated time meet your guide at your hotel and transfer to the bus station.
- Take a scenic 30-minute bus ride along the Hiram Bingham Road to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
- Begin your guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, exploring its mystical temples, terraces, and plazas while learning about the Inca civilization.
- Return to Aguas Calientes at a convenient time for an optional lunch or to explore the town at your leisure.
- Board your return train to Ollantaytambo, where our representative will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco.
Include
- Pick-up from your hotel
- Professional bilingual guide
- Private transportation
- Entrance fees to all sites, including Machu Picchu
- Buffet lunch in Sacred Valley
- Round-trip Vistadome train tickets (Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo)
- Hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (Hatun Inti Boutique or similar)
Round-trip bus tickets to Machu Picchu
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
Not Included
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Additional expenses (souvenirs, drinks, etc.)
- Tips for guides and driver
- Hotel accommodation in Cusco city
Suggestion
Packing List for a 2-Day Tour to Machu Picchu by Vistadome Train for a two-day trip to Machu Picchu you need to pack smart—keeping it light yet ensuring you have all essentials for comfort, weather changes, and exploring the ruins.
Valid Passport – Required for train boarding and Machu Picchu entry.
Train & Entrance Tickets – Printed or digital copies.
Cash & Credit Card – For meals, tips, souvenirs (ATMs are limited in Aguas Calientes).
Small Backpack (20-25L) – Large suitcases are not allowed on the train.
Clothing & Footwear (Layering is Key!)
Lightweight, Breathable Clothes – Daytime is warm, so opt for quick-dry shirts.
Warm Layers (Fleece or Sweater) – Mornings and evenings can be chilly.
Waterproof Jacket or Poncho – The weather in Machu Picchu is unpredictable.
Comfortable Hiking Shoes or Sneakers – Trails can be uneven and slippery.
Extra Socks & Underwear – To stay fresh after hiking.
Hat & Sunglasses – Protect from strong sun exposure.
Sleepwear – Light and comfortable for your stay in Aguas Calientes.
Toiletries & Personal Care
Toothbrush & Travel-Size Toothpaste
Deodorant & Wet Wipes – Refreshing after the hike.
Sunscreen The sun is strong in the highlands.
Bug Repellent – Essential to avoid mosquito bites.
Lip Balm with SPF – Prevents dry lips in high altitudes.
Small Towel & Hand Sanitizer
Tech & Accessories
Camera or Smartphone – Capture breathtaking views.
Portable Power Bank – Charging options are limited.
Flashlight or Headlamp – Useful for early morning hikes.
Snacks & Hydration
Reusable Water Bottle – Stay hydrated (disposable plastic is restricted in Machu Picchu).
Energy Bars, Nuts, or Dried Fruit – Quick energy boosts.
Electrolyte Sachets – Helps with hydration and altitude adjustment.
Extra Items (Optional but Useful)
Small Notebook & Pen – Jot down memories or notes from the tour guide.
Walking Stick (Foldable) – Helps with steep trails (must have a rubber tip and permit you use it).
What NOT to Bring:
Large Luggage – Only small backpacks are allowed.
Plastic Water Bottles & Single-Use Plastics – Restricted at Machu Picchu.
Drones & Tripods – Not permitted in Machu Picchu.
Heavy Books or Unnecessary Items – Pack light to enjoy the trip comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, we highly recommend booking your Machu Picchu entrance tickets in advance, as daily visitor limits apply, and tickets often sell out quickly, especially during peak season (May–September).
The Vistadome train offers panoramic windows on the sides and ceiling, providing stunning views of the Andean landscapes. It also includes onboard entertainment and complimentary snacks, making the journey more comfortable and scenic.
Cusco and the Sacred Valley are at high altitudes, so some travelers may experience mild altitude sickness. We recommend acclimatizing in Cusco for at least a day before the tour, staying hydrated, and avoiding heavy meals or alcohol.
Machu Picchu is in a cloud forest, and weather can change quickly. Bring a waterproof jacket or poncho, wear non-slip shoes, and store electronics in a waterproof bag. Rain rarely affects the tour experience significantly.
Yes, large luggage is not allowed on the train, but you can leave your main bags at your Cusco hotel or at the train station’s storage service. Only a small backpack (20-25L) is permitted for the trip to Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.