Itinerary
Early Morning — Cusco to Ollantaytambo
Your day begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
You’ll travel through the Sacred Valley, passing traditional Andean towns, terraced hillsides, and towering mountains. This scenic ride sets the tone — picturesque and rich with cultural landscapes.
Arrival in Ollantaytambo signals the next part of your journey: boarding the Vistadome Train. With panoramic windows and unobstructed views, every moment of the ride becomes part of your travel experience. Expect snack service and local melodies that highlight the mood as the train winds alongside rivers and through dramatic terrain.
Vistadome Train — Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
The Vistadome experience is designed to be more than transportation — it’s scenic immersion.
Large windows on both sides and above showcase the shifting landscape: Andean peaks fade into cloud forest valleys, the Urubamba River curves beside the tracks, and lush greenery appears as you approach the lower elevations.
This stretch of the journey is both relaxing and spectacular — a preview of what awaits on foot at Machu Picchu.
Arrival in Aguas Calientes & Transfer to Machu Picchu
Following your arrival in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), you’ll board a bus that ascends to the citadel gate. This short but scenic ride zigzags upward until the iconic stone structures of Machu Picchu appear before you.
At the entrance, your professional guide will meet you for a comprehensive tour of the site, covering key sectors such as:
- The Main Plaza
- The Temple of the Sun
- The Temple of the Three Windows
- The Sacred Rock
- Agricultural Terraces
- Residential Areas
Your guide weaves history, culture, and Inca ways of life into the narrative, bringing the citadel to life before your eyes.
After the guided portion, you’ll have free time to wander, photograph, or simply take it all in.
Afternoon — Return to Cusco
When your visit concludes, you’ll take the bus back to Aguas Calientes to board the Vistadome for your return trip to Ollantaytambo.
From Ollantaytambo, private transport brings you back to Cusco, where your tour ends with hotel drop-off.
Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
- Private transportation Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
- Round-trip Vistadome Train tickets (Ollantaytambo ↔ Aguas Calientes)
- Paradise tickets for Machu Picchu
- Round-trip bus tickets (Aguas Calientes ↔ Machu Picchu)
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish) at Machu Picchu
- Light snacks and beverages on the train
Not Included
- Meals and drinks not specified
- Travel insurance
- Optional ticket upgrades (e.g., Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain)
- Tips and personal expenses
Frequently Asked Questions
How early must we start?
This is a full-day tour. Pickup times are early — typically between 3:30 AM and 4:30 AM in Cusco — to ensure a seamless transfer and train boarding schedule.
How long is the Vistadome Train ride?
The ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. Large panoramic windows and onboard local snacks make the journey scenic and enjoyable.
Is the Vistadome experience worth it?
Yes. Compared with standard service, the Vistadome offers a more comfortable, experiential train ride with extra amenities, views, and cultural touches — ideal for travelers who want more from the journey itself.
Can I climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, but these must be booked well in advance as permits are limited. Availability depends on official quotas at the time of reservation.
What should I bring?
- Passport (required for entrance verification)
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunscreen and hat
- Light rain jacket
- Water bottle
- Camera or phone
- Extra cash for meals and souvenirs
How much free time do I have at Machu Picchu?
After the guided portion, you’ll have additional time to explore independently before returning to Aguas Calientes for your train back.
What time do we return to Cusco?
Return arrival times in Cusco vary depending on train schedules, but it is typically in the evening between 8:00 PM and 9:30 PM.
