Visiting Machu Picchu is on almost every traveler’s bucket list, and yes, it’s absolutely possible to see this wonder of the world in just one day. If you’re short on time, or simply want to maximize your stay in Peru, a Machu Picchu day tour can be the perfect option for you.
This updated guide combines practical details, insider tips, and my own experience as a travel planner so you can plan a smooth, memorable, and hassle-free trip.
What Is a Machu Picchu Day Tour like and Who Is It For?
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A Machu Picchu day tour is a round trip from Cusco (or nearby towns such as Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, etc) that lets you visit the Inca citadel and return the same day. It’s ideal if:
- You don’t have many days in Cusco.
- You prefer a structured itinerary with train, bus, and tickets included.
- You want a guided visit without worrying about logistics (that quite often is confusing).
That said, it’s a long but rewarding day trip. Expect to start early and return late at night.
Options to Reach Machu Picchu in One Day
Train Departures: Poroy and Ollantaytambo
- Poroy Station: Just 25 minutes from Cusco. Convenient but with limited daily departures.
- Ollantaytambo Station: About 1h30 from Cusco. More frequent trains and often better availability.
💡 Good to know. Many travelers choose to spend the night in the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo). This not only helps with altitude acclimatization but also makes for a shorter and easier train ride the next morning.
Train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo
This is the most popular and comfortable way. You take a train (PeruRail or IncaRail) to Aguas Calientes and then a short bus up to Machu Picchu.
Bus + Train Combination (bimodal option)
Some tours include a bus ride from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, then the train (actually both train companies, Inca Rail and Peru Rail, offers this bus+train combination). It depends on availability. If trains from Cusco aren’t available, you’ll likely find more availability departing from Ollantaytambo station.
Private vs Group Tours
Private tours give you more flexibility and fewer crowds. Group tours are cheaper and social, but less personalized. According to my experience, I’ve seen many travelers quite disppointed with their group experiences given that often, guides give explanations in English and Spanish (travelers come from different countries and require a bilingual guide), this takes time and offer poor experiences. If I were in Machu Picchu for the first time (and maybe the only time ever), I would not mind hiring a private tour to fully enjoy my experience. It’s such an incredible place that it totally worths it.
How to Book Your One-Day Machu Picchu Tour
Book in Advance (from my own experience)
Tickets sell out quickly! Our suggestion is very clear, book your tour at least two months ahead to secure both the train and the entry ticket. Don’t risk last-minute planning.
It’s really frustrating, as a travel planner, getting many requests for a last minute trip to Machu Picchu and not be able to find availability until 1 or 2 months later. Especially during the high season where visitors are forced to stay more than 1 night in Aguas Calientes to get a ticket.
Please, avoid this awful and frustrating experience by booking in advance or contacting a reliable travel agent to organize your trip.
Train Companies
There are 2 train companies that offer the service to Machu Picchu.
- PeruRail: More traditional, larger trains. Different time schedules and train stations.
- IncaRail: Smaller, boutique-style service. Trains depart only from Ollantaytambo.
Both are reliable, but book as early as possible.
Quite often, we’re asked what the differences between Peru Rail and Inca Rail are. In fact, there are slight differences regarding time and place departures, as well as train furniture and extra services. You can check more details in our post Trains to Machu Picchu.
Entrance Tickets: Types and Options
The Ministry of Culture of Peru offers several ticket types (prices updated 2025):
- Machu Picchu Circuit 2 (most popular).
- Machu Picchu Circuit 1 (limited, 4 sub-routes, steep hike).
- Machu Picchu Circuit 3 (less crowded, access to the lower sections, 4 sub-routes).
- Machu Picchu Inca Trail (2 versions, 4 day trek and 2 day trek).
- Discounts available for students and children.
💡 Always buy tickets directly from the official website or trusted agencies. Learn more details about Machu Picchu tickets and circuits on our ultimate guide to choose the perfect ticket for you.
Suggested Itinerary for a Full Day Tour
- Early morning: Depart from Cusco or Ollantaytambo by train.
- Late morning: Arrive in Aguas Calientes, then take the bus to Machu Picchu.
- Midday: Guided tour of Machu Picchu (about 2–3 hours).
- Afternoon: Free time to take photos and explore.
- Evening: Return by bus + train to Cusco.
Yes, it’s a long day, but when you see Machu Picchu in person, every minute of travel is worth it.
You can also check our special itinerary for a one day trip to Machu Picchu all inclusive, and get some inspiration.
Practical Tips (Learned the Hard Way)
Be Patient with the Crowds
If you’re coming during the peak season (may-sep), the site may be full of tourists, and the lines could be long. Patience is part of the journey. Bring good vibes and a smile. You’ll be rewarded with a fantastic experience.
Prepare for Unpredictable Weather
At one point, it could be scorching hot. Minutes later, it could rain. Bringing a light rain jacket or poncho could save the day. Also, don’t forget sun protection and a bug spray!
Food and Snacks
You will find different food options in Aguas Calientes. Personally, I’m used to bring my own sandwiches and water, which keep me going without breaking the budget. However, if you prefer exploring the best restaurants, I can share with you my favorite ones: Full House, Indio Feliz, Chullos or Mapacho’s.
Packing List Essentials
- Passport (you need it to enter).
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Insect repellent.
- Light rain jacket or poncho.
- Refillable water bottle and snacks.
Approximate Prices for a Machu Picchu Day Trip
(Prices may vary depending on season and service level, but here’s a rough guide):
- Train ticket: $120–$600 (round trip, depending on train class).
- Bus Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu: $24 round trip.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu: $45–$65 (depends on the route selected).
💡 Pro tip: Always check the official Ministry of Culture website for entry ticket availability, if you see a few spots available, act fast. Book yourself or contact your travel agent to book it for you.
Hidden Gems and Additional Hikes at Machu Picchu
If you have a little extra energy (and manage to get the right tickets), there are a few hikes and hidden spots around Machu Picchu that make the experience even more unforgettable:
Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu)
The iconic peak you see in the background of most Machu Picchu photos. The hike is steep and challenging, but the panoramic views of the citadel are jaw-dropping. Tickets are limited, so book months in advance.
💡 My tip: There are 2 slot times for Huayna Picchu tickets; 7am and 9 am. Which one to choose? Try to book, if possible, the 9 am ticket. Too early may be foggy in Machu Picchu. A later ticket gives you high possibilities to have a clean and beautiful view from the top.
Machu Picchu Mountain
A longer, less crowded hike compared to Huayna Picchu. It’s physically demanding but offers stunning 360° views of the Andes and the ruins below. It’s combined with the Circuit 1 and allows you access to the upper terraces.
The Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
Combined with your Machu Picchu entrance ticket circuit 1, the Sun Gate is where the Inca Trail enters the citadel. It’s about a 45–60 minute uphill walk from the main site, and it rewards you with one of the most spectacular viewpoints.
Inca Bridge
A short and less demanding trail that leads to a stone bridge carved into a cliffside. It’s not as popular as the other hikes, but it’s fascinating if you like a bit of history and look for a flat-easy path.
💡 My tip: If you’re doing Machu Picchu in one day, you might only have time for a short extra walk, like the Sun Gate or Inca Bridge. In my experience, I met travelers who said these side hikes were the highlight of their trip. So, why not include these gems in your experience?
Best Time of Year for a Day Trip
Dry Season (May to September)
- Clear skies, warmer days, colder nights.
- Peak tourist season: more visitors and higher prices.
Rainy Season (November to March)
- Short showers, but also lush green landscapes.
- Fewer tourists and often lower costs.
- I went during this time and experienced both sun and rain in a single afternoon — Classic Machu Picchu!
Tour vs DIY: Which Is Better?
- Tour organized: Less stress, everything included, but slightly more expensive.
- DIY (do it yourself): Cheaper, but requires lots of planning.
Personally, I see travelers appreciate having everything pre-arranged. It gave them more time to enjoy the site instead of stressing over logistics. Also, if you have any issue that comes during your tour (delays, protests, lost of objects, assistance), your travel advisor can help you and guide you through the trip.
FAQs About Machu Picchu Day Tours
Can you really visit Machu Picchu in one day?
Yes! It’s tight, but perfectly doable with a train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo.
How much time do you spend inside Machu Picchu?
Usually 3–4 hours, depending on your ticket and schedule.
Is it better to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes?
If you have the time, yes. But if not, the day tour is still amazing.
Notice that if you need to get last minute tickets, an overnight in Aguas Calientes will be necessary.
What should I pack for a day trip?
Passport, entry tickets, comfortable shoes, water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a rain jacket.
What is the best circuit/route to visit Machu Picchu in one day?
Circuit 2 is the most popular ticket, this should be your first option. If not available, we could recommend go for the Circuit 3 (royal route), and finally the Circuit 1 (panoramic route).
Final Thoughts
A Machu Picchu day tour is intense but unforgettable. In my case, the early wake-up, the long lines, and the sudden tiny rain were all part of the adventure. By the end of the day, I was exhausted but looking at my photos, I realized every step was worth it.
✨ If you plan ahead, pack wisely, and keep an open mind, you’ll have one of the most magical days of your life at Machu Picchu.
If you want more information regarding Machu Picchu day trips or want to customize your own itinerary, do not hesitate to contact us. We are Machu Picchu Explorer, many travelers have trusted our services and we will be more than happy to organize your travel experience. We hope to hear from you soon! Happy travels!