MACHU PICCHU BY EXPEDITION TRAIN | 1 DAY
To enter Peru, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of entry.
Group Size:
Up to 8 people
Difficulty:
Moderate
Type Service:
Group / Private
Departures:
Daily
Transport:
Van, Train, Bus
Max Altitude:
2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Discover the magic of Machu Picchu on a full-day journey aboard the Expedition Train. Travel through the spectacular Andean landscapes to Aguas Calientes, then continue to the iconic Machu Picchu Citadel, where you will explore its remarkable Inca architecture, history, and breathtaking mountain scenery with a professional guide.
ITINERARY
***CUSCO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTE – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
Today is the day to discover Machu Picchu, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Peru. We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 a.m. and travel by private van to the Ollantaytambo train station, where you will board the 6:10 a.m. Expedition Train. If you prefer to start your journey in Ollantaytambo, we can pick you up from your hotel between 5:20 and 5:30 a.m.
The train journey takes you through the spectacular Vilcanota River Canyon, where the landscape becomes increasingly lush and the mountains rise majestically on both sides of the railway. Along the way, you will admire the rich subtropical vegetation and, across the river, see ancient Inca terraces, some of which are still cultivated today.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, located at 2,040 m / 6,693 ft above sea level, your guide will meet you at the train station. You will have a short break to purchase a snack or prepare for the next part of your journey before taking the shuttle bus, which takes approximately 30 minutes to reach Machu Picchu, located at 2,430 m / 7,972 ft above sea level.
Once inside the citadel, your guide will accompany you on an approximately two-hour guided tour, visiting the most important areas of Machu Picchu and explaining its history, architecture, and cultural significance. You will also learn how the ancient city was organized into three main sectors: agricultural, residential, and religious.
After your visit, you will take the shuttle bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time for lunch (lunch is not included in the tour). Depending on your return train schedule, you may also have additional time to explore the town, shop for souvenirs, visit the museum, or relax in the hot springs.
For your return to Ollantaytambo, you will board the Expedition Train, with departures available at 3:20 p.m., 4:22 p.m., 4:43 p.m., or 6:20 p.m. The train follows the scenic Urubamba River through a narrow canyon surrounded by steep mountain slopes. Keep an eye on the high mountainsides near Aguas Calientes, as you may catch a glimpse of the impressive Wiñay Wayna from the train.
Upon arrival at the Ollantaytambo train station, our driver will be waiting for you at the exit. You will then continue by private vehicle to your hotel in Cusco.
Your estimated arrival in Cusco will be between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., depending on the train departure available at the time you book your Machu Picchu tour with us.
***We always prioritize Circuit 2 when booking your Machu Picchu entrance ticket. However, availability depends on the date of your reservation. If Circuit 2 is not available at the time of booking, we will reserve another available circuit, such as Circuit 1 or Circuit 3. We recommend making your reservation in advance.
Due to the limited time available on this one-day Machu Picchu Tour, the additional hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain is not possible.
The return Expedition train schedule is subject to availability and will depend on how far in advance you book the Machu Picchu Tour with us.
EXPEDITION TRAIN
The Expedition train service is designed to provide a comfortable journey to and from Machu Picchu. Each carriage features four seats arranged facing each other, allowing passengers to enjoy the journey together. Backpacks can be stored on the racks above the seats, making it convenient for travelers carrying their own luggage. The train also features panoramic windows, air conditioning, heating, snacks, and Andean music, creating a pleasant and lively atmosphere throughout the trip.
The Expedition train departs from Ollantaytambo, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, approximately 2 hours from Cusco. We provide private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to Ollantaytambo Train Station, where you will board the train to Aguas Calientes. On your return, our private van will be waiting for you in Ollantaytambo to take you back to your hotel in Cusco.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
INCLUDED:
- Airport transfer to your hotel upon arrival in Cusco.
- Hotel pickup with door-to-door service.
- Transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo Train Station.
- Expedition Train Ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
- Expedition Train Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
- Professional English-Speaking Guide.
- Round-Trip Bus Tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen.
- Transfer from Ollantaytambo Train Station to Cusco.
- All applicable taxes.
NOT INCLUDED:
- Meals.
- Extra expenses.
- Tips (optional).
PRICES & AVAILABILITY
The Machu Picchu by Expedition Train | 1 Day tour is available every day. We recommend booking at least 4 months in advance to have a better chance of securing Circuit 2 for your visit to Machu Picchu, subject to availability. Prices are listed in US dollars (USD) and are available for both private and group services.
GROUP PRICE
ONLY US$360 PER PERSON
PRIVATE PRICE
2 – 3 PEOPLE: US$410 PER PERSON
4 – 6 PEOPLE: US$390 PER PERSON
7 + PEOPLE: US$360 PER PERSON
DISCOUNTS
-18 – 25 years old: US$30 discount. A valid student ID is required. The card must clearly show the university name, student’s full name, photo, and expiration date. A copy of the student ID must be submitted at the time of booking for government approval.
-Under 18 years old: US$30 discount. Please send us a copy of the child’s passport at the time of booking.
-Under 11 years old: US$40 discount. Please send us a copy of the child’s passport at the time of booking.
WHY CHOOSE CALLANGA FAMILY EXPLORERS?
Because we are a local, family-owned travel company with roots in Cusco and a deep connection to the people, culture, and landscapes of Peru. Our story began in Cusco, shaped by a profound connection to the culture, landscapes, and traditions of our region, and by a passion for sharing the authentic spirit of Peru with travelers from around the world.
We believe travel should be about much more than visiting beautiful places. It should create meaningful connections, respect local cultures, and contribute positively to the destinations we call home. That is why we combine personalized service and authentic experiences with a strong commitment to responsible tourism.
When you travel with Callanga Family Explorers, you are not simply discovering Peru-you are traveling with a company that cares about its people, communities, and the natural heritage that makes every journey possible.
OUR PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDES
Our professional tour guides have extensive experience and knowledge. They will accompany you throughout your journey, sharing valuable insights into history, culture, nature, and local traditions while ensuring you enjoy a safe, comfortable, and memorable experience.
SMALL GROUPS
For the Machu Picchu by Expedition Train | 1 Day, the maximum group size is 8 travelers. This small group size allows for more personalized attention from our guide, better organization throughout the tour, and a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
OUR COMMUNITY & ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS
We believe tourism can create a positive impact beyond the journey itself. Through our community and environmental initiatives, we support children and schools in rural Andean communities, organize environmental clean-up campaigns, contribute to reforestation initiatives, and participate in projects that help protect the natural areas of the Cusco region.
Our commitment goes beyond words. Each year, we continue developing initiatives that support local communities and contribute to caring for the landscapes and environments that make Peru such a special destination. We also dedicate a portion of our tour revenue to community development initiatives, allowing our travelers to become part of this positive impact simply by choosing to travel with us.
For us, responsible tourism means giving back to the people and places that make every journey possible and helping build a more sustainable future for generations to come.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please take a moment to review the information below, as it provides helpful details about our services and answers many common questions.
ARRIVAL TO CUSCO
Upon your arrival at Cusco Airport, one of our representatives will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Please send us your complete flight details at least 15 days before your tour begins so we can coordinate your airport pickup. At the arrivals terminal exit, simply look for our representative holding a sign with your full name.
PRE-TOUR BRIEFING
Your pre-tour briefing will take place at your hotel at 6:00 p.m. on the evening before your Machu Picchu by Expedition Train | 1 Day tour. During this meeting, your guide will explain the itinerary, train schedule, transportation arrangements, Machu Picchu visit, and how the tour will be carried out. You will also receive your Machu Picchu entrance tickets, train tickets, and other necessary travel documents for your journey. This is also a great opportunity to ask any questions and receive recommendations from your guide so you are fully prepared for your visit to Machu Picchu.
PAYMENT METHODS
To confirm your reservation, we offer two secure payment methods. A 40% deposit of the total tour cost is required to secure your booking.
Payment Link: We accept credit and debit cards. We will send you a secure personalized payment link through Izipay, allowing you to complete your payment quickly and safely.
PayPal: You can make your payment directly to our PayPal account at info@callangafamilyexplorers.com. If you prefer, we can also send you a secure PayPal payment request by email, allowing you to complete your payment safely and conveniently. Your reservation will be confirmed once the required deposit has been received.
Before confirming your reservation, we require the following information for each participant in your booking:
- Full name
- Gender
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
***Please also send us a clear copy of each participant’s passport at the time of booking.
WHAT ABOUT THE REMAINING BALANCE?
To avoid credit card processing fees, you may pay the remaining balance in cash (US dollars only) during your pre-tour briefing in Cusco. ATMs are widely available throughout Cusco’s Historic Center if you need to withdraw cash. If you prefer, you may also pay the balance online by Visa or PayPal. Please note that a 6% processing fee applies to cover the transaction fees charged by the payment platforms.
CAN I CHANGE MY TRAVEL DATE?
Unfortunately, no. Once your Machu Picchu tickets have been purchased, the Peruvian government does not allow changes to the visit date. Tickets are personal, non-transferable, and non-refundable.
If you need to make any changes, please contact us as soon as possible. If you decide to cancel your trip, the deposit is non-refundable. For more information about our cancellation policy and other conditions, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT?
If you made your reservation using your current passport and later renewed it, you must travel with both passports: your previous passport and your new passport. This is necessary to verify that the information used for your reservations corresponds to your identity.
You may enter Peru using your new passport; however, you must present both passports when boarding the train and when entering Machu Picchu. Without both passports, you will not be permitted to use these services.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN MACHU PICCHU?
Weather conditions at Machu Picchu can change quickly throughout the day. Mornings are often cooler, while temperatures become warmer as the day progresses. During the rainy season, from November to April, rain showers are more frequent and can occur at any time.
We recommend bringing layers, a light jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and a rain poncho. It is also a good idea to carry sun protection, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the sun can be strong even when the weather feels cool.
ARE TIPS MANDATORY?
No. At Callanga Family Explorers, we believe in rewarding our staff through fair wages and responsible working conditions. Our staff are paid fairly for their professionalism, dedication, and hard work.
If you feel that our team has exceeded your expectations and would like to show your appreciation, tips are always welcome but are never expected or mandatory. Any gratuity is entirely at your discretion and is greatly appreciated as a gesture of thanks for exceptional service.
PACKING LIST
-Small daypack.
-Drinking water.
-Light snacks.
-Comfortable walking shoes.
-Camera or smartphone.
-Rain jacket or poncho.
-Fleece or light jacket.
-Basic personal toiletries.
-Sun hat or cap.
-Sunscreen.
-Insect repellent.
-Valid student ID, if applicable.
-Cash in Peruvian soles (PEN).
-Passport.