Take a full-day, private train journey from Cusco through the Sacred Valley to the gates of Machu Picchu. This guided tour packs a 2–3 hour exploration of the Inca citadel, free time in Aguas Calientes, and round-trip transport into one long, unforgettable day.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Pre-dawn in Cusco feels like a held breath — the city’s cobbled streets glow under sodium lamps while a private van threads uphill toward Ollantaytambo. By mid-morning the train slips through the Sacred Valley, rivers daring you to look away as terraced slopes and cloud-wreathed peaks redraw the map outside the window.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
12–16 hours
Fitness Level
Good aerobic baseline recommended; expect multi-hour walking at high altitude with uneven terrain and many stairs.
Wildlife
History
Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel attributed to Pachacuti; it was largely abandoned during the Spanish era and rediscovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911.
Conservation
Visitor numbers are regulated with timed entrance tickets and restricted paths; stick to marked routes, carry out waste, and respect fragile archaeological areas.
Reserve your spot on the Day Trip to Machu Picchu by Train from Cusco today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Carry your passport and ticket
Entrance to Machu Picchu requires the original passport that matches the ticket name; guards check IDs at the control point.
Acclimatize beforehand
Spend at least one day in Cusco or Ollantaytambo to reduce altitude symptoms — the site sits around 2,430 m (7,970 ft).
Expect wet weather
The cloud forest has unpredictable showers, especially in the rainy season; bring a waterproof jacket or poncho and protect electronics.
Wear sturdy footwear
Stone steps and narrow paths demand shoes with grip; sandals and flip-flops make the circuit harder and less safe.
Waterproof rain jacket
Protects against cloud-forest downpours common December–March and sudden showers year-round.
summer
Sturdy hiking shoes
Good tread and ankle support are crucial for wet stone steps and uneven trails.
Reusable water bottle (1–2 L)
Hydration is key at altitude; refill at Aguas Calientes before the ascent.
Sun hat and sunscreen
High-altitude sun is intense even on cool or cloudy days; protect exposed skin.