Machu Picchu Tour: Machu Picchu and Wayna Picchu by Train

Can you get to Machu Picchu without hiking?

Yes. You can take the train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, and then take a 20 min bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.

Days: 1 or more with overnight stay of your choice
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Closest airport to Machu Picchu: Cusco airport (CUZ)
Cusco Altitude: 11,200 ft.
Wayna Picchu Altitude: 8,924 ft.

Machu Picchu Itinerary with optional Wayna Picchu Climb:

A full day visit to the world famous Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, departing Cusco in the early morning to reach Aguas Calientes town after a 4-hour train ride. From this point, a 30 minute bus ride will take us up to the ruins to start a full-guided tour lasting between 2-5 hours. Afterwards you will enjoy free time to explore this impressive archaeological site. In the afternoon, we take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes then board the train that will take us back to Cusco, arriving about 8.30-9.00pm.

It is suggested that you arrive in Cusco at least one or two days before your train and Wayna Picchu trek to allow yourself time to acclimatize. The more acclimatized you are, the more you will enjoy it.

Transfers to and from hotel to train station
Return train ticket Cusco – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
Return bus ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Entrance ticket for Machu Picchu
Guided tour by bilingual guide

Items for Optional Wayna Picchu Trek:
Daypack with water bottle or camelback: max 20 litres (any bigger will not be allowed into Machu Picchu, but can be checked in storage. Note: You'll want water with you.) | Outlet daypacks
Hiking shoes Mens Womens | Mens Outlet Womens Outlet
Trekking poles with rubber tips or sticks for the climb up/down Wayna Picchu | Outlet trekking poles

Cusco Hotel Address and Phone Number for pickup and drop-off
Personal global phone number (if available)
Final/full payment is due 30 days before trip
Dates of train departure from Cusco and return to Cusco

Passport valid 6 months after trip date and that matches what was provided to purchase Inca Trail permit.
Copy of traveler's insurance to provide to the guides for their records.
Failure to provide either one of these, can, and has, resulted in travellers being unable to continue on tour, so don't leave home without it.

Travel Guard offers competitive plans. Insurance items to include: emergency evacation, medical, trip interruption, baggage delay, and adventure sports waiver. The adventure sports waiver insurance covers high-alitude hiking.

Machu Picchu Hotel

For a real treat, stay overnight at the only hotel on the grounds of Machu Picchu: The Belmond Sanctuary Lodge at Machu Picchu. (pictured below). This is a very luxurious hotel with landscaped ponds and direct views of the Huayna Picchu Mountain.

Hotels near Machu Picchu (in Aguas Calientes):

Just a twenty minute bus ride away from Machu Picchu, is the town of Aquas Calientes. All trekkers go to Aquas Calientes after their hike and all trains to Cusco depart from here. There are many nice hotels to choose from, ranging from hostel to 5 star luxury. The Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (pictured below) is a 5- star luxury hotel offering comfort, elegance and relaxation. Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel has spacious, luxurious rooms with a sitting area. All include a cable TV and are equipped with heating. Some rooms feature a private balcony with views of the mountains and the Urubamba River.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo (pictured below) is an intimate 85-casitas luxury hotel in sprawling Andean style village within the secluded12 acres of exquisite beauty. Follow stone pathways along the terraced hills, melding with the sacred energy of the mountains. Indulge in Inkaterra’s spa services which use sublime natural essences. A first-class restaurant boasts stunning views of the rushing Vilcanota River.

Terrazas del Inca Bed & Breakfast (pictured below) is located in the heart of the upper part of town, on the banks of the Aguas Calientes River. It is far from the noise of the main street, and in a peaceful place where you will find it very easy to relax. They have three terraces which have beautiful, panoramic views. You will be able to relax and enjoy a hot tea or a cold drink, while you listen to the soothing sound of the rushing river.

Hatun Sumay (pictured below) is located just a few steps from the central train station as well as the largest craft market in the region.

Cusco Hotels Luxury

Recommended Hotels in Cusco: Listed by price, high to low - located near the main square in Cusco
Hotel Monasterio - 5 stars, historic monastery (pictured below)