Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does the complimentary Cusco airport pickup work?

We include a complimentary pickup transfer from Cusco Airport to your hotel. Please share your complete flight details with us at least 14 days prior to arrival. Our representative will meet you directly outside the arrival terminal holding an Apple Travel sign. (Please step completely outside the building, as airport rules prohibit drivers from waiting inside the terminal).

Where and when does the pre-tour briefing take place?

Your pre-tour briefing takes place at 6:00 PM the evening before your trip at our Cusco office: Calle Garcilaso 210, Office 201, Second Floor (Casa del Abuelo), Cusco.

Can I store my luggage at your office during the tour?

Yes! You can store your main luggage free of charge in our secure Cusco office or at your Cusco hotel while on tour. Train companies enforce a strict carry-on limit of 5 kg (11 lbs) per passenger, so we recommend bringing only a small daypack on the train.

What time do we return to Cusco at the end of the day?

Return times depend on your allocated Vistadome train schedule. Typically, travelers arrive back at their Cusco hotel between 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM following the rail journey to Ollantaytambo and your private hotel transfer.

How do I book the 1-Day Vistadome Tour?

Step 1: Complete the reservation form on our website by clicking BOOK NOW. We require the full legal name (matching your passport), gender, passport number, date of birth (DD/MM/YYYY), and nationality for every traveler.

Step 2: Pay a non-refundable deposit of $211 USD per person to confirm your booking so we can immediately secure your official government permits and Vistadome tickets.

How do I pay the remaining balance?

You can pay your remaining balance in cash (US Dollars or Peruvian Soles) at our Cusco office to avoid card transaction fees. (Multiple ATMs are located near the main plaza). Alternatively, online payments via VISA or PayPal incur a 5.5% processing fee. PayPal payments should be sent to appletravelperu@gmail.com.

Can I change my departure date after tickets are purchased?

Peruvian government regulations make official Machu Picchu permits and train tickets non-refundable, non-transferable, and strictly tied to the booked date. Consequently, departure dates cannot be changed once tickets are issued, and initial deposits remain non-refundable.

Do I need my original passport on the tour?

Yes, you must bring your original physical passport. Train agents and government rangers inspect physical passports at checkpoints to verify that details match your entry permit. If you renew your passport before traveling, send us copies of both old and new passports so we can update your registration for a $25 USD fee (or carry both physical passports on tour to avoid the fee).

Is the Vistadome Train experience worth it?

Upgrading to the Vistadome provides a vastly superior travel experience compared to standard rail options. Carriages feature large wrap-around panoramic side and roof windows, comfortable leather seating, complimentary local snacks, and onboard cultural entertainment, including a live Saqra dance performance and an alpaca fashion show on the return trip.

How long is the Vistadome Train ride?

The rail ride between Ollantaytambo station and Aguas Calientes takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes each way through the dramatic Urubamba River valley.

Can I climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain on a 1-day tour?

Yes, you can add an optional extra mountain hike to your 1-day itinerary ($75 USD per person). Because government permits are strictly limited and sell out months in advance, you must request this extra ticket at the time of your initial booking. Extra mountain climbs require an early train departure to ensure adequate time inside the sanctuary.

How much free time will I have at Machu Picchu?

After your official 2 to 2.5-hour guided circuit tour concludes, you will have time for final photos before taking the shuttle bus back down to Aguas Calientes to enjoy lunch or explore the town prior to your return train.

What is the weather like on this tour?

Weather in the Andes changes rapidly throughout the day. We recommend dressing in flexible layers to handle chilly early morning transfers, warm mid-day sun, and sudden mountain rain. A warm fleece, sun protection, and a waterproof shell or poncho are essential items to bring along.

Is tipping expected for the guide and driver?

Tipping is completely voluntary but deeply appreciated by our local guides, drivers, and field staff. If you are pleased with your service, leaving a gratuity is a customary way to support local team members and their families.

How should I prepare for altitude sickness on a 1-day tour?

Machu Picchu sits at 2,430 meters (7,972 ft), which is significantly lower than Cusco at 3,400 meters (11,155 ft). However, because your day trip starts and ends in Cusco, we recommend spending at least 24 to 48 hours acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley prior to your tour date, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding heavy meals or alcohol early on.

Which Machu Picchu entrance circuit is included in this tour?

Peru’s Ministry of Culture enforces strict circuit routes and entry time slots to protect the citadel. Your 1-day tour includes the official entry permit for the classic panoramic and historic views (such as Circuit 2 or Circuit 3, depending on government availability at the time of booking).

Are meals included in Aguas Calientes?

Light gourmet snacks and beverages are served on board both legs of the Vistadome train. Main meals (lunch in Aguas Calientes and dinner in Cusco) are not included, allowing you the flexibility to choose from local restaurants in town during your free time.

Is There “Free Exploration” Time?

• One-Way Circuits: You cannot wander back to previous sections or revisit temples once you have passed them. All movement through the citadel follows designated one-way paths.
• Time for Photos & Absorption: After your guide finishes explaining key sites along the circuit, you can take a short rest, take photos, and absorb the scenery at specified platform zones before heading to the exit gate.
• Strict Re-Entry Prohibition: Re-entry is strictly prohibited once you pass through the main exit turnstiles.
• Extra Mountain Add-Ons: If you purchase an additional permit for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, your time limit inside the site is extended to 6–7 hours to accommodate the extra hike.

Town Free Time (Aguas Calientes)

The bulk of your flexible free time occurs down in the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). After taking the 25-minute shuttle bus down from the citadel, you typically have 1.5 to 3 hours to grab lunch, explore local artisan markets, or relax before boarding your return Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo.