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January 10, 2024 · Apple Travel Peru
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It was my best experience with Apple Travel. I had incredible excellent service. The team is very attentive and friendly.
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Experience the iconic ancient citadel of Machu Picchu on a seamless, budget-friendly 1-day excursion aboard the classic Expedition Train. This popular itinerary offers breathtaking Andean views, comfortable travel, and an immersive guided exploration of Peru’s legendary World Heritage Site.
First, your journey begins early in the morning in Cusco, taking private tourist transportation through the Sacred Valley to the historic train station at Ollantaytambo. Next, you will board the Expedition Train, designed for travelers seeking comfort and value with overhead windows and spacious seating.
During the scenic rail ride, you will descend along the rushing Vilcanota River as dramatic snow-capped peaks transition into lush cloud forest valleys. Afterward, upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, you will board the short Consettur shuttle bus up to the main entrance of Machu Picchu Citadel. Here, our expert bilingual guide leads a captivating 2-hour tour through the main temples, plazas, and sacred Inca structures.
Finally, after exploring the ruins and capturing unforgettable photos, you will return via Expedition Train and private transfer directly back to your hotel in Cusco.
Group or Private
Cultural and Scenic Overland
Average 5 (Maximum 8)
N/A (Day Tour)
Easy
1 Day
Machu Picchu Tour with Expedition Train 1 Day
Your day begins at approximately 4:00 AM when your guide and private driver pick you up directly from your hotel lobby in Cusco. First, we embark on a scenic 1-hour and 45-minute drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to Ollantaytambo Train Station. During this peaceful morning drive, you will pass traditional Andean farming villages, ancient terraces, and snow-capped mountain peaks framed by early morning light.
Upon arriving in Ollantaytambo, you will board the 6:10 AM Expedition Train bound for Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). In fact, the Expedition Train is engineered specifically for adventurous travelers seeking quality and comfort at an accessible price point. Because overhead windows line the carriage, you will enjoy unobstructed views of the changing landscape, steep granite cliffs, and sub-tropical vegetation as the train follows the Vilcanota River.
Following your arrival in Aguas Calientes at approximately 7:30 AM, your guide meets you at the station and escorts you to the Consettur shuttle bus for a 25-minute ride up the winding mountain road to the Citadel gates. Next, your professional bilingual guide leads a comprehensive 2-hour tour through Machu Picchu (Circuit 2B or 3B, subject to official availability). Specifically, you will explore key sectors including:
Throughout the tour, your guide shares detailed insights into Inca engineering, culture, and history.
Once your guided tour concludes, you will take the shuttle bus back down to Aguas Calientes for time to eat lunch or explore the town. Subsequently, at 6:20 PM, you will board the return Expedition Train back to Ollantaytambo. Finally, upon arrival at Ollantaytambo station, our private driver meets you and transfers you directly back to your Cusco hotel, arriving at approximately 10:00 PM.
The 1-Day Expedition Machu Picchu tour operates daily on any date with a minimum of 2 participants!
| Group Size | Price |
| 2 to 8 people (Group Service) | $327 USD per person |
| Private Service (2 to 3 people) | $367 USD per person |
| Private Service (4+ people) | $347 USD per person |
All entrance fees and round-trip Expedition train tickets are included! We operate our group tours in small groups averaging 5 people with a maximum of 8!
Please take a moment to read through this guide as it covers everything you need to know about our services and what to expect on your tour.
We include a complimentary transfer from Cusco Airport to your hotel. Therefore, please share your complete flight details at least 14 days prior to arrival. Meanwhile, our representative will wait outside the arrival terminal holding an orange sign for Apple Travel. (Be sure to step completely outside the building, because airport rules prohibit drivers from entering the terminal).
Specifically, your pre-tour briefing takes place at 6:00 PM the evening before your trip at our Cusco office:
Yes! In fact, you can store your main luggage free of charge in our secure Cusco office or directly at your Cusco hotel while you are on the tour. Because train companies restrict carry-on bags to 5 kg (11 lbs) per passenger, we recommend taking only a small daypack on the train.
Step 1: Complete the reservation form on our website by clicking the BOOK NOW button. We require the following details for every traveler in your group to reserve Machu Picchu entrance permits and Expedition tickets:
Step 2: Pay a deposit of $211 USD per person to confirm your booking so we can purchase your non-refundable official tickets.
We would greatly appreciate it if you pay your balance in cash (US Dollars or Peruvian Soles) at our Cusco office to avoid extra credit card fees. Multiple ATMs are available near the main plaza in Cusco. Alternatively, online payments via VISA or PayPal incur a 5.5% processing fee. PayPal payments should be sent directly to appletravelperu@gmail.com.
Peruvian government regulations make official Machu Picchu permits and train tickets non-refundable, non-transferable, and strictly tied to the booked date. Consequently, you cannot change departure dates once we issue tickets, and initial deposits remain non-refundable.
Yes, absolutely. You must bring your original physical passport on the tour. Government rangers and train agents check physical passports at every checkpoint to ensure your details match your entry permits.
Note: Boarding the train and entering Machu Picchu without a matching, valid original passport is strictly prohibited by Peruvian authorities.
Welcome to Cusco, located at 11,152 ft (3,399 meters) above sea level. Because high altitude causes reduced oxygen levels, we recommend resting for the first few hours upon arrival in Cusco and drinking plenty of water or traditional coca tea. Staying hydrated and avoiding heavy meals during your first day will help your body adapt smoothly before your Machu Picchu trip.
Overall, tipping is voluntary but greatly appreciated by our local guides, drivers, and support staff. Indeed, if you are pleased with the service provided, leaving a gratuity is a customary way to support local team members and their families.
Indeed, we are a local, sustainable, and responsible tour operator. We integrate universal environmental and social standards to safeguard the local ecosystem and support Andean communities while respecting local heritage and traditions.
January 10, 2024 · Apple Travel Peru
It was my best experience with Apple Travel. I had incredible excellent service. The team is very attentive and friendly.
Read moreOctober 21, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
Incredible service and experience in Inca Trail 4 days travel. Everything was top of the notch. Thanks Ivanoe, my guide.
Read moreOctober 19, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
The 2 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu was everything I expected and more. Gorgeous from beginning to end. The tour guides were great and very knowledgeable.
Read moreOctober 11, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
It was a great experience with all the team Apple Travel. I enjoyed my whole trip. Thanks a lot for being part of my vacation in Cusco.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A very organized Salkantay experience with caring guides, strong support at altitude, and memorable food after long hiking days.
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The guide and chef made the trek feel safe, enjoyable, and personal, even when altitude made the journey challenging.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A difficult hike became possible thanks to a patient guide who encouraged the group and helped through the hardest sections.
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The guide adapted the pace and itinerary well, combining knowledge, courtesy, and flexibility throughout the tour.
Read moreJan 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A smooth multi-day trip with patient guiding, careful logistics, clean transport, and thoughtful help at every site.
Read moreJan 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The experience exceeded expectations with a local guide whose knowledge and enthusiasm made the journey feel meaningful.
Read moreOct 29, 2025 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide brought history and culture to life while keeping the group comfortable and helping capture great memories.
Read moreFeb 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The team handled planning easily and adjusted the route around weather and walking ability without losing key highlights.
Read moreApril 21, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
Expert guides, strong porters, and memorable meals helped turn a demanding trail into a remarkable group experience.
Read moreApril 18, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guides kept the schedule smooth and attentive, making the first visit to Machu Picchu easy to recommend.
Read moreApril 9, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide, cook, and porter team brought great energy, answered questions, and even helped celebrate a birthday.
Read moreApril 17, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide respected a slower pace, shared useful knowledge, and made the route feel supportive and enjoyable.
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