Machu Picchu is the most famous destination in South America, and you don't need to trek to reach it. From Cusco, our tours take you to the citadel by panoramic train, by car, or a mix of both — in a single full day or over two to three relaxed days, with a night in Aguas Calientes at the foot of the mountain.
Climbing to 2,430 m, Machu Picchu rewards every visitor with perfectly carved terraces, temples aligned with the sun, and panoramic views of Huayna Picchu. This guide explains the tour options, how to get there, the timed-entry tickets, the best season, and how to choose between travelling by train and by car.
Machu Picchu Tours: Key Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Duration | Full day · 2 days · or 3 days |
| Altitude | Citadel 2,430 m / 7,972 ft (lower than Cusco) |
| How to get there | Panoramic train or by car via Hidroeléctrica |
| Difficulty | Easy (train) to moderate (car routes have a walk) |
| Entrance ticket | Required, timed entry — sells out in high season |
| Best season | April to October (dry season); open all year |
| From price | From $100 per person (2-day tour by car) |
By Train vs By Car: Which Tour?
Both options arrive at the same place — the difference is comfort, time and price. The train is faster, more comfortable and scenic; the car route via Hidroeléctrica is cheaper and more adventurous, with a pleasant walk along the railway to Aguas Calientes.
| By Train | By Car | |
|---|---|---|
| Time to get there | Fastest (~3.5 h) | Longer (~6–7 h) |
| Comfort | High — panoramic carriages | Minibus + short walk |
| Price | From $280 | From $100 |
| Scenery | Urubamba river canyon | Andes + jungle edge |
| Best for | Comfort & limited time | Budget & adventure |
Machu Picchu Tickets & Best Time
Entry to Machu Picchu is by timed-entry ticket on a fixed circuit, and daily numbers are capped, so tickets sell out weeks or months ahead in high season. We secure your ticket, train and bus as part of every tour. The dry season (April–October) has the clearest skies and is the most popular; the green shoulder months are quieter, and the site is open all year. Early-morning entries get the best light and the smallest crowds.
Which Machu Picchu Tour Is Right for You?
If you have limited time, the full-day tour by train is the classic choice. For a calmer pace, the 2-day tour lets you sleep in Aguas Calientes and reach the citadel early. Budget travellers love the 2-day tour by car via Hidroeléctrica, while the by car & train option mixes value and comfort. To see more of the region, add the Sacred Valley or the full Sacred Valley + City 3-day package. Whichever you choose, 1–2 nights in Cusco beforehand help you acclimatise.
Machu Picchu Tours FAQ
The dry season from April to October has sunny days and the clearest views, though it is busier. The green shoulder months (November to March) bring fewer crowds and lower prices, with some afternoon rain. Machu Picchu is open all year.
Most visitors take the train from Ollantaytambo (in the Sacred Valley) to Aguas Calientes, then a short bus up to the entrance. A cheaper, more adventurous option is by car via Hidroeléctrica, with a scenic walk along the railway. We arrange every leg for you.
Yes. Entry is limited daily and tickets sell out weeks or months ahead, especially in high season. Each ticket is for a specific date, time slot and circuit. When you book a tour with us, we secure your entrance ticket, train and bus.
Yes. The tours by train and by car require no trekking, so they suit most ages and fitness levels. The citadel itself has steep stairs and uneven paths, but the guided circuits can be walked at a gentle pace. Discounted tickets are available for children and students with valid ID.
A licensed guide is required for your first entry to the citadel, and we include one on every tour. A guide brings the history to life, points out details you would miss, and makes sure you follow the right circuit.