Machu Picchu Tour by Expedition or Vistadome Train – 1 or 2 Days

Includes

1. Hotel pickup.
2. Roundtrip train.
3. Consettur bus.
4. MP entrance.
5. Guide.

Excludes

1. Lunch/Dinner (Day 1).
2. Hotel (on 1D tour).
3. Extra mountain entrance.
4. Others not mentioned.

Before this tour, plan your day with the understanding that it involves very early logistics, fixed transport connections and timed access to Machu Picchu. The experience is low difficulty, but good preparation will help you enjoy the visit with less stress.

Acclimatization and altitude:

1. Although Machu Picchu is lower than Cusco, it is still recommended to spend some time adjusting to the Andes before the tour if you have just arrived.
2. Rest well the night before, especially because the pickup is very early and the day includes several transport stages.
3. If you are sensitive to altitude, avoid heavy meals and alcohol before the trip and keep hydrated throughout the day.

Fitness level and difficulty:

1. This is listed as a low difficulty cultural tour, not a demanding trekking route.
2. You should still be comfortable walking on uneven stone paths, standing during the guided visit and climbing some steps inside the archaeological site.
3. If you choose the 2-day option with Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, expect a more demanding hike that requires a separate entrance.

Documents and permits:

1. Carry your original passport or official ID, ideally the same document used for the reservation.
2. The tour includes the Machu Picchu entrance, but additional mountain entrances are not included and must be requested separately.
3. Train and entrance schedules are important; follow the guide’s instructions so you do not miss transport connections.

What is included and not included:

1. Included services are hotel pickup, roundtrip train, Consettur bus, Machu Picchu entrance and guide.
2. Lunch and dinner on Day 1 are not included, so plan personal expenses for meals.
3. The hotel is not included on the 1-day tour. The 2-day option includes overnight in Aguas Calientes according to the confirmed program.
4. Extra mountain entrance tickets and any service not mentioned are not included.

Meals and dietary needs:

1. Bring snacks for the travel day, especially if you prefer eating at specific times or have dietary restrictions.
2. Use your free time in Aguas Calientes to organize meals that are not included in the program.
3. If you have allergies or strict dietary needs, inform the travel team in advance so they can guide you on the best way to prepare.

Weather and season:

1. The route can include cool mornings, humid conditions near Machu Picchu and stronger sun during the day.
2. Pack for changing weather: light layers, sun protection and a rain layer are recommended year-round.
3. During rainy periods, paths may be wet, so comfortable footwear with good grip is especially useful.

Pack light but strategically for this Machu Picchu train tour. A small daypack with essentials is usually the most practical option because the day includes transfers, train travel, bus transport and walking inside the citadel.

Documents and money:

1. Original passport or official ID for train, entrance and identity checks.
2. Booking confirmation or tour details saved on your phone and, if possible, available offline.
3. Cash in Peruvian soles for meals not included, drinks, restrooms, tips or personal expenses.
4. A small wallet or secure pouch to keep documents accessible but protected.

Clothing and footwear:

1. Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking shoes with good grip for stone paths and steps.
2. Layered clothing: a light base layer, an insulating layer for early morning and a breathable outer layer for the day.
3. Rain jacket or poncho, especially useful because weather can change quickly around Machu Picchu.
4. Hat or cap and sunglasses for sun exposure during the visit.

Trekking and day-use gear:

1. Small daypack to carry documents, water, snacks and weather layers.
2. Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during transfers and free time.
3. Light snacks such as fruit, energy bars or crackers for the long travel day.
4. Optional walking poles only if you normally use them; follow site regulations if bringing any equipment.

Health and hygiene:

1. Sunscreen with good protection, applied before the visit and reapplied when needed.
2. Insect repellent for the warmer and more humid environment around Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes.
3. Personal medication and basic motion-sickness or stomach remedies if you are prone to discomfort while traveling.
4. Hand sanitizer, tissues and any personal hygiene items you may need during a full-day excursion.

Electronics and useful extras:

1. Phone or camera with enough memory for photos of the train route and the citadel.
2. Portable power bank, especially recommended because the day starts very early and ends after several transport stages.
3. Offline access to important travel details in case mobile signal is limited.
4. Compact plastic or waterproof bag to protect electronics and documents from rain or humidity.

Is this Machu Picchu Tour difficult?

No. This is a low difficulty cultural tour and does not require a long trek. You should be comfortable walking on stone paths, climbing some steps and staying active during the guided visit.

What is the difference between the 1-day and 2-day option?

The 1-day option visits Machu Picchu and returns to Cusco the same day by train and road transfer. The 2-day option includes overnight in Aguas Calientes and gives the possibility of adding Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain the next day with an extra entrance.

What train is used for the tour?

The tour is offered by Expedition or Vistadome train. Both connect Ollantaytambo with Aguas Calientes; the final option depends on the selected service and availability at the time of booking.

Does the tour include the Machu Picchu entrance?

Yes. The program includes the Machu Picchu entrance as part of the confirmed services. Extra entrances for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are not included and must be arranged separately.

Are meals included in the tour?

Lunch and dinner on Day 1 are not included. You should bring snacks and budget for meals during free time, especially in Aguas Calientes.

Where does the tour start?

The tour starts with a very early hotel pickup, followed by transfer to Ollantaytambo station. From there, the route continues by train to Aguas Calientes and then by bus to Machu Picchu.

Can I hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?

Yes, this is possible with the 2-day option, but it requires an extra mountain entrance. These tickets are separate from the standard Machu Picchu entrance and should be requested in advance.

Is this tour available as private service?

Yes. The tour can be arranged in group or private service. A private option is useful if you prefer a more flexible pace, a more personalized guide experience or are traveling with family or a small group.