Visiting Machu Picchu is one of those once-in-a-lifetime moments travelers dream about for years, but choosing how to visit can feel overwhelming. Train tours, short hikes, multi-day treks, sunrise entries, Huayna Picchu tickets, availability issues… It’s a lot.
This guide simplifies everything so you can confidently pick the Machu Picchu tour that matches your travel style, timeline, and budget. The clearest comparisons and practical tips for 2026.
The 4 Ways to Visit Machu Picchu
1. By Train: The Most Popular & Easiest Option
If you want to reach Machu Picchu comfortably and quickly, this is the classic route.
Perfect for:
- Travelers short on time
- Families
- Anyone who wants low-altitude effort
- 1-day or 2-day plans
Pros: Easy, fast logistics, predictable timeframes
Cons: No hiking experience
Price Range: Medium–High depending on train class
2. 2-Day Train Tour: A relaxed experience
This gives you extra time in Aguas Calientes, a softer pace, and the option to visit Machu Picchu early when the light hits the citadel beautifully.
Perfect for: relaxed travelers, photography lovers, people who prefer not to rush.
3. Short Inca Trail: Best for a mix of hiking + Sun Gate arrival
This 1-day or 2-day version of the Inca Trail lets you enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, the iconic arrival used by the Inca nobles.
Limited permits mean it stays quiet, scenic, and incredibly rewarding.
Perfect for:
- Travelers who want “just enough” hiking
- People looking for a deeper experience without a multi-day trek
- Those who want bragging rights but not the full 4-day trail
4. Multi-Day Treks: Inca Trail, Salkantay, Lares & Choquequirao
An option for hikers seeking adventure and immersion. Amazing, but not everyone has 4–7 days free, which is why this article focuses on the most popular train + short hike options. For more information about the hikes check this blog.
How to Choose the Right Machu Picchu Tour
Before choosing a tour, answer these:
1. How much time do you have?
- 1 day: Train or 1-day Short Inca Trail
- 2 days: Train + overnight
- 4+ days: Multi-day treks
2. What’s your travel style?
- Comfort: Train tours
- Adventure: Short or multi-day Inca Trails
- Budget: Standard train tours
- Photo/Slow travel: 2-day tour
- Family: Train tours
- Culture-lovers: Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu combo
3. Do you want to hike?
- No hiking: Train
- Light hike: Short Inca Trail
- Challenging: Classic Inca Trail, Salkantay
4. Do you want the Sun Gate?
Only available with the Short Inca Trail.
Comparing the Most Popular Machu Picchu Tours
Below is a simple breakdown of the most booked, most reliable, and most traveler-friendly options.
1. 1-Day Machu Picchu Tour by Train
Includes: transport, entry ticket, guided tour, round-trip trains
Travel Time: 15 hours round trip
Why it’s popular: Fast, smooth logistics, great for travelers with limited time.
Best for: Anyone who wants an effortless Machu Picchu experience.
2. 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour with Sacred Valley
Best for: travelers who want sunrise, photographers, people who dislike rushing.
Why choose this:
- Includes Sacred Valley tour
- Softer pace
- Less exhausting day
Includes: hotel, train tickets, guided visit, transfers.
3. Short Inca Trail
The most rewarding way to arrive at Machu Picchu without a long trek.
Why people love it:
- You walk on original Inca paths
- You enter through the Sun Gate
- Limited trekkers → peaceful and scenic
- Amazing for nature lovers
Includes: permits, transport, guide, meals (depending on version).
4. Multi-Day Trek Options
- Classic Inca Trail: 4 days, iconic, permit-limited
- Salkantay: high mountains, glaciers, big challenge
- Lares: culture + hot springs
- Choquequirao: the hardest one in Peru, minimal crowds
Not the focus of this guide, but good alternatives for adventure travelers.
Machu Picchu Tour Comparison Chart
| Tour Type | Duration | Fitness Level | Category | Price Range | Best For |
| 1-Day Train Tour | 1 day | Low | Cultural | $$ | Limited time, families |
| 2-Day Train Tour | 2 days | Low | Cultural | $$–$$$ | Photography, relaxed pace |
| Short Inca Trail (1 Day) | 1 day | Moderate | Hike | $$–$$$ | Adventure without long trek |
| Short Inca Trail (2 Days) | 2 days | Moderate | Hike | $$$ | Sun Gate + relaxed pace |
| Classic Inca Trail (4 Days) | 4 days | High | Trek | $$$$ | Bucket-list hikers |
How Much Should a Machu Picchu Tour Cost in 2026?
Approximate ranges:
1-Day Train Tour: From $297
Depends on train class, inclusions
2-Day Train Tour: From $407
Depends on train class, inclusions
Short Inca Trail:
- 1 day: From $377
- 2 days: From $442
Why some tours are cheaper:
- They use cheaper trains
- No proper guidance
- No organization around crowd timing
- Hidden fees
A reputable operator should handle:
✔ train timing optimization
✔ Machu Picchu ticket management
✔ bilingual guides
✔ safe transfers
✔ transparent inclusions
Why Book With a Trusted Operator and Why Apple Travel Peru stands out
A good operator makes the difference between:
“a stressful day and an unforgettable one“
Apple Travel Peru advantages:
- Expert local guides with deep storytelling
- Trains selected for the best schedule and views
- Crowd-avoidance strategies
- Seamless logistics from hotel pickup to return
- Fair pricing with no surprise add-ons
- 24/7 pre-trip support
Insider Tips for Choosing the Best Machu Picchu Tour
✔ Best time to visit:
Dry season (May–September) = ideal weather
Shoulder months (April/October) = fewer crowds
✔ Best entry time:
Afternoon entries often mean fewer crowds. Morning offers gentler light but more visitors.
✔ Book in advance if:
- You want the Short Inca Trail
- You’re traveling June–August
- You want Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
✔ Altitude tip:
Stay at least 1–2 nights in Cusco before visiting.
Which Machu Picchu Tour Should You Choose?
If you:
Only have 1 day: 1-Day Train Tour
Want a calmer experience: 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour
Want the most unique experience: Short Inca Trail
Are after epic trekking: Classic Inca Trail or Salkantay
Love culture & landscapes: Combine Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu
Final Thoughts
Machu Picchu is a journey with many possible paths. Whether you want comfort, adventure, culture, or photography, there’s a perfect tour for you. And with the right operator, the entire experience becomes smooth, meaningful, and unforgettable.
If you’re ready to explore your options, here a list of the best tour agencies:
FAQS
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes, especially in June–August and for Inca Trail permits.
Is the Short Inca Trail difficult?
Moderate. Good for travelers who want a challenge but not a multi-day trek.
Is altitude a problem?
Machu Picchu is lower than Cusco, so most travelers feel better, but acclimatization in Cusco is still recommended.
When is the cheapest time to visit?
February–March and November. Expect more rain.
Is a guide required?
For the Inca Trail: yes (mandatory).
For Machu Picchu: No, but highly recommended for context and direction.
