Secure Booking & Local Experts

Budget 1-Day Machu Picchu Tour via Expedition Train

December to May Rainy Season (Green Season)
June to November dry season (yellow season)

Places to visit

Ollantaytambo Aguas Caliente Machu Picchu
Considerations Permit Required *
Group Size Minimum of 2 people, up to 12

Machu Picchu by Train - 1 Day Tour

Machu Picchu is the main reason why many travelers come to Peru, and if you are short on time, this tour is perfect for you.

The tour starts in Cusco, from where you will transfer to the village of Ollantaytambo. You also have the option to start from Ollantaytambo if you are already staying there, in the Sacred Valley. From there, you will board the Expeditions Train for a scenic ride through the lush jungle to the town of Aguas Calientes. Then, a short bus ride will take you to the entrance of the citadel of Machu Picchu.

This legendary Inca wonder is shrouded in mystery and history. A professional guide will accompany you through its most important sectors, sharing stories, legends and fascinating facts. In addition, you will have free time to explore on your own and ask all the questions you wish.

 

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Machu Picchu

    An early start today, pick up will be at 4am, drive in our van to the town of Ollantaytambo and to the train station. Our train will depart at 610am which will be the Expedition train. From here the train enters a narrow canyon. Covered in lush sub-tropical jungle, be sure to look carefully for the Inca terraces, some are still farmed today.

    On arrival in Aguas Calientes the guide will meet you at the station. Walk to the bus station before taking the shuttle up to Machu Picchu. The guide will give you a tour of the site this will last around 2 hours. Tour the important parts of the citadel. Learn about the three sectors, the agricultural, residential and the religious.

    When you have had your fill of the exceptional views of Machu Picchu, you will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may also have time for some shopping, sightseeing or a visit to the museum or hot springs. 

    The Expedition train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 3:20pm, 4:22pm, 4:43pm or 6:20pm, following the spectacular Urubamba River. Close to Aguas Calientes, the canyon is narrow and the river has many beautiful sections of whitewater. You can also see Wiñay Wayna from the train, if you look up high on the steep canyon wall! Back at Ollantaytambo, the driver will meet you at the exit from the train station to take you back to your hotel in Cusco in our private vehicle. You can expect to arrive at the hotel by between 7:00pm to 10pm depending on your return train schedule. 

    The Expedition Train

    Traveling to Machu Picchu on the Expedition Train is a once in a lifetime experience. The train is designed for the comfort and relaxation of the passengers. The carriages feature four seats that face each other that is perfect for sharing experiences. The train has large panoramic windows, air conditioning heating, snacks to buy and cheerful Andean music to compliment the atmosphere.

    This service leaves from Ollantaytambo, a delightful town in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a 2-hour drive from Cusco city. Travel in our comfortable car from Cusco and meet the train in Ollantaytambo. On arrival into Aguas Calientes take the bus up to the ruin. On the return journey take the Expedition train from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo, then travel back to Cusco and your hotel.

    Note Our standard tours and treks include the EXPEDITION TRAIN which runs from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back to Ollantaytambo.

    Important Information

    • Hiking up to the Sun Gate and Inca Bridge its available as of JUNE 1st, 2024 and the price for these options will be US$75 per person.
    • Hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mt. is also not possible due to the time restraints of the one-day tour.
    • Return Expedition Train time depends on availability and how much in advance you have booked.
    • Our day trip package includes circuit 2A or Circuit 2B (If the tickets are available, for it, please book in advance)

What’s Included in This Tour?

What is included in the Machu Picchu Day Tour?

  • Transfer at 4:00am from your hotel to Ollantaytambo by private van
  • Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
  • Round-trip bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (30mins)
  • Admission ticket for the Machu Picchu Citadel – Circuit 2A or Circuit 2B, depending on availability.
  • Guided tour in English about 2 hours – with free time for photos.
  • Small group from 2 to 8 people with an experienced guide fluent in English
  • Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, then transfer to your hotel in Cusco

Not Included

  • Hiking Huayna Picchuor Machu Picchu Mt. is not possible due to the time restraints of a one-day tour.
  • Drinks
  • Meals
  • Tips for your guide

Pricing

  •  $390 USD per person

The Machu Picchu Tour is available on any date that is best for you, as long as we have a minimum of 2 guests!

***Private service is available for $40 USD more per person.

***All entrance fees are included and we operate our tours in small groups averaging 5 people with a maximum of 8!  

Packing List

  • A small daypack with water to drink
  • Snacks if you like
  • Comfortable shoes or runners
  • Camera
  • Rain jacket or poncho
  • A fleece or jacket,
  • Basic toiletries
  • Hat for the sun,
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent.
  • Passport  (you cannot board the train or enter Machu Picchu without your passport)
  • Student ID card if appropriate.
  • Money for souvenirs and tips

Budget 1-Day Machu Picchu Tour via Expedition Train

$390.00
USD / person
1 day
Designed and operated in Cusco

Your trip is personal.
Our support is too

Plan directly with local specialists who know Peru, understand the logistics and stay available throughout your journey.

  • Book directly with a trusted local operator in Cusco.
  • Receive personal guidance before confirming your trip.
  • Travel with experienced guides and carefully planned logistics.
  • Get direct assistance before and during your journey.
Travelers hiking the Short Inca Trail through the Peruvian Andes

Verified traveler reviews

Travelers tell it best.

Genuine feedback from travelers who explored Peru with our local team.

5.0
Excellent

Read reviews on TripAdvisor
N
5.0 | Excellent

A memorable Short Inca Trail experience

We did the Short Inca Trail as a couple with Wari Expeditions and really enjoyed the experience. The hike was moderately challenging, but we had time to take in the scenery along the way. Visiting Wiñay Wayna and arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate were highlights for us.

Traveler from USA

J
5.0 | Excellent

Excellent experience

The full-day tour to the Sacred Valley was an incredible experience. Everything was very well organized, from the punctual pick-up to the comfortable transportation. The guide was very knowledgeable and friendly, and the sites we visited, such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Moray, were absolutely breathtaking. The buffet lunch was also very good. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Cusco!.

Traveler from Canada

S
5.0 | Excellent

Perfectly organized

My friend and I took the 4-day tour in Cusco with Wari Expeditions. Everything was perfectly organized: guides, smooth logistics, and unforgettable moments at Machu Picchu. Highly recommended for an authentic and stress-free experience!

Traveler from USA

F
5.0 | Excellent

Unforgettable Short Inca Trail Adventure with Wari Expeditions

ExceI recently went on the Short Inca Trail with Wari Expeditions and it was an unforgettable experience! The guides were amazing and went above and beyond to ensure that we had a safe and enjoyable trip.

Traveler from Lima

You Might Also Like

Discover a few more experiences tailored to your travel style.

Train Vistadome from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu
1 Day
5.0

Machu Picchu Tour 1 Day by Vistadome Train

Small Group EN/ES
Starting from $490.00

Travel Affiliations & Certifications

"Being the locals, we know our homeland the best!"