Machu Picchu: Group tour from Aguas Calientes with guide

Summary

Walking Machu Picchu’s paths with a local guide & new friends

Start your day in Aguas Calientes’ misty main square before joining a small group for a guided tour of Machu Picchu. Ride up together by bus, explore ancient terraces and temples with a local guide sharing stories in Spanish and English, pause for photos or just silence among the ruins — these are moments you’ll carry home long after leaving Peru.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the mist curling around the rooftops in Aguas Calientes — it felt like the whole town was holding its breath. We met our group by the main square, where our guide, Julia, greeted us with this easy smile and a quick rundown in both Spanish and English (her Quechua slipped out sometimes too). There was this mix of nerves and excitement as we lined up for the bus; I kept fiddling with my ticket, trying not to drop it in the drizzle. The ride up to Machu Picchu Sanctuary only took about 25 minutes, but it felt longer — maybe because everyone went quiet when we caught that first glimpse of green terraces through the window.

At the entrance, Julia pointed out where to find the bathrooms (trust me, you’ll want to go before heading in), then led us through those stone gates I’d seen in so many photos. But honestly? Being there is nothing like seeing it online. The air smelled like wet earth and eucalyptus leaves, and every step on those ancient stones felt heavier than I expected. Julia stopped often — sometimes just to let us catch our breath or snap a photo, other times to tell stories about Pachacuti or how they built those walls without mortar. She laughed when I tried repeating one of the Inca names; I probably butchered it but she just grinned and said I had “good spirit.”

The circuit took about two hours, maybe a bit more since we lingered at some spots (no one rushed us). There were moments when sunlight broke through and everything glowed gold for a second — then clouds rolled back in and it all looked mysterious again. I remember standing by the Temple of the Sun while Julia explained its alignment with the solstice; someone’s phone chimed nearby and we all laughed at how modern life sneaks in even here. By the end, my shoes were muddy and my head was full of questions I hadn’t thought to ask before. Walking back toward the exit, I realized I’d barely checked my watch once.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Machupicchu Guided Tour

• Meet at Aguas Calientes train station or main square
• Bus ride to Machupicchu main entrance
• Guided tour of Machupicchu Archaeological Site

Top questions

Where does the Machu Picchu group tour start?

The tour starts at either Aguas Calientes train station or the main square of Machu Picchu town, depending on your arrival time.

How long does the guided tour inside Machu Picchu last?

The guided tour lasts approximately 2 hours to 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Is transportation from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu included?

The tour includes lining up together for public bus transport from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu Sanctuary.

Are mountain hikes included in this group tour?

No, mountain hikes are not included. The guide can give recommendations if you have separate mountain tickets.

What languages do guides speak on this tour?

Guides speak Spanish and English; some may also use Quechua terms during explanations.

Where is the meeting point if I arrive on the same day?

If you arrive on the same day as your tour, you’ll be met at Aguas Calientes train station with a sign showing your name.

Can infants join this group tour?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting your group at either Aguas Calientes train station or main square (depending on arrival), lining up together for bus transport up to Machu Picchu Sanctuary, entry into Machu Picchu with a local professional guide for around two hours of exploration (circuit depends on your ticket), plus helpful recommendations throughout your visit.