Budget 1-Day Machu Picchu Tour via Expedition Train

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)