Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco: Train, Guided Walk & Lunch

Summary

From Cusco to Machu Picchu by train with a guide and local lunch

You’ll start before dawn in Cusco with hotel pickup and head by train through mountain valleys toward Machu Picchu. Walk ancient stone paths with your guide, listen to stories among silent ruins, then enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes before heading back as dusk settles over the Andes.

What’s the experience like?

We shuffled out of the hotel lobby in Cusco while it was still dark, a little dazed — I think it was 4:30 am? The van was already waiting, headlights catching the mist. Our guide, Mariela, handed me coca tea in a paper cup and grinned like she’d done this a hundred times (she probably had). The drive to Ollantaytambo was quiet except for the sound of someone’s zipper getting stuck and the low hum of Quechua music on the radio. I kept looking out the window at the hills, half-expecting to see something ancient move in the shadows.

The train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (or Machu Picchu Pueblo — people use both names) rolled through valleys just waking up. Sunlight slid over green slopes and sometimes you’d catch a whiff of wet earth when they opened the doors at little stations. Mariela pointed out where the river bends looked like snakes in old Inca stories. I tried to take photos but mostly just stared. When we got off, there were vendors selling fruit and empanadas; I grabbed one without really knowing what it was. Tasted sweet, maybe guava?

After that came the bus ride up — switchbacks through thick cloud forest, windows fogging up every few minutes. At Machu Picchu’s entrance, Mariela made sure our tickets matched whatever circuit was available (apparently it changes based on crowds), then led us through stone gateways into that first open view. People always talk about “the view” but honestly, it’s the silence that hit me hardest — just wind and distant birds until someone’s phone beeped (not mine this time). We wandered past mossy walls and steep terraces while Mariela explained how even the smallest stones were set by hand. She laughed when I tried to pronounce Pachacutec properly — I definitely didn’t get it right.

I had an hour after our guided walk to just sit near one of those old stairways and watch clouds drift over everything. Lunch back in town was simple but good — rice, chicken stew, some kind of purple corn drink that stained my tongue. The train ride home felt quieter; everyone seemed tired but happy in that way you only get after seeing something you’ve been dreaming about for years.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco

• Pick up from hotel at 4:30 a.m.
• Transfer to Ollantaytambo train station
• Board train to Machu Picchu town
• Arrive at Machu Picchu town
• Take bus to Machu Picchu citadel
• Two-hour guided walking tour
• Free time for photos and relaxation
• Return to Machu Picchu town
• Enjoy lunch in local restaurant
• Train back to Ollantaytambo
• Transfer back to hotel in Cusco

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

The tour lasts around 14 hours including travel time from Cusco and back.

Is hotel pickup included for this Machu Picchu day trip?

Yes, door-to-door hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco are included.

Do I need to book my Machu Picchu ticket in advance?

Yes, tickets are provided according to availability so booking months ahead is recommended.

What type of train is used from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes?

The tour uses Voyager or Expedition tourist trains for round-trip travel.

Is lunch included during the day trip?

Yes, lunch at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes is included after visiting Machu Picchu.

Are guides provided at Machu Picchu?

A multilingual local guide leads your walking tour at Machu Picchu citadel.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options and all areas visited are wheelchair accessible.

How much time do we spend at Machu Picchu itself?

You’ll have about two hours with your guide plus extra free time afterward.

What’s included

Your day includes early morning hotel pickup in Cusco, transfer by van to Ollantaytambo station, round-trip train tickets to Aguas Calientes, bus rides up to Machu Picchu citadel, entry ticket (according to availability), a guided walking tour of the site itself, plus a traditional lunch before your return journey home.