Two Magical Moments at Machu Picchu

Tour at a Glance

• Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night

• Starting Point: Cusco 

• Main Attractions: Sunset visit to Machu Picchu, overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, sunrise guided tour of Machu Picchu

• Fitness Level: Moderate, includes walking on uneven terrain and uphill sections

• Included: Train tickets, entrance fees, hotel accommodation, shuttle buses and professional guides

• Group Size: Small groups of 6 people or private tours available

Highlights of Machu Picchu Tour.

Why Book This Tour?

Best Time to Do This Tour

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Sunset at Machu Picchu

Your unforgettable adventure begins at 6:00 AM, with a private pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. From there, we travel through the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas, following the Vilcanota River past charming villages and dramatic mountain scenery. After approximately 2 hours, we arrive at the Ollantaytambo train station, where you’ll board the scenic train toward Aguas Calientes.

This 2-hour train ride is a journey in itself. Watch as the high Andes gradually give way to lush cloud forest, with waterfalls, orchids, and steep green cliffs lining the route an unforgettable transition from mountain to jungle.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), your local guide will welcome you at the station and accompany you to your hotel for check-in and rest. Then it’s time to enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, featuring fresh, regional flavors to energize you for the afternoon.

In the early afternoon, we board a shuttle bus for a 30-minute ride up the winding mountain road to the entrance of Machu Picchu. This visit follows Circuit 1, taking you to the upper terraces, where you’ll witness the most iconic and widely photographed panoramic views of the citadel, perfectly framed by the surrounding peaks.

As the afternoon sun casts a golden glow over the stones of this ancient marvel, your expert guide will provide a deep and inspiring introduction to Machu Picchu, its sacred purpose, ingenious construction, and spiritual significance in the Inca world. You’ll have about 2 hours to explore, absorbing the beauty, silence, and mystery of this extraordinary place.

Afterward, return by shuttle to Aguas Calientes to enjoy a relaxing evening. Unwind at your hotel, stroll the charming streets, or enjoy a warm meal as you reflect on the magic of your first glimpse of Machu Picchu.

• Accomodation: Inti Punko Hotel or Similar
• Meals.  Breakfast and Lunch.
• Tickets. Included

Day 2: Sunrise at Machu Picchu – Guided Tour – Return to Cusco

Today starts before dawn with an exciting purpose: to witness sunrise at Machu Picchu, one of the most awe-inspiring experiences in the Andes. After an early breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, you’ll board the shuttle bus for the winding journey up to the ancient citadel, arriving in the peaceful morning light, when the air is cool, the mountain mist lingers, and the crowds are still distant.

If the weather allows, you may be treated to a magical sunrise over the surrounding peaks, casting a golden glow over the stone walls of Machu Picchu and filling the site with a quiet, otherworldly energy. It's a moment of reflection, reverence, and wonder, a true highlight of your journey.

You’ll enter via Circuit 2, the most complete and scenic route available. This popular path covers nearly all the essential highlights of the sanctuary, so we strongly recommend booking at least 4–5 months in advance to secure access.

Your 2.5-hour guided tour begins at the upper terraces, where you’ll take those iconic postcard photos. From there, your expert guide will bring the citadel to life as you explore the Temple of the Sun, Sacred Plaza, Royal Quarters, agricultural terraces. You’ll learn about the Inca's profound connection to the cosmos, their sophisticated stonework, and the mysteries that still surround this lost city.

For those craving even more adventure, you may have pre-booked the optional hike to Huayna Picchu ($75 USD). This steep and exhilarating trail climbs to the jagged peak overlooking Machu Picchu, rewarding you with a bird’s-eye view of the entire site. The hike takes about 2 hours round-trip and is not recommended for those with a fear of heights or vertigo. The best conditions are between May and October.

After your visit, you’ll descend by bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time for lunch on your own at one of the town’s many cozy cafés or restaurants. In the afternoon, board your Expedition train for a scenic return to Ollantaytambo, where our private driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

You’ll arrive around 7:30 PM, bringing this extraordinary journey to a close, with your heart full of awe, your camera full of photos, and your soul forever touched by the magic of the Incas.

• Accomodation: None
• Meals. Only breakfast at Hotel.
• Tickets. Included

Inclusions for the Machu Picchu Tour

Below is a detailed overview of what is included in your tour with Champions Peru Travel. These inclusions ensure a hassle-free experience, allowing you to enjoy your trip with expert local guides.

✔️ Night Before Briefing: An informative session at 6 PM at your hotel, led by your experienced English-speaking tour guide. The briefing covers the itinerary, what to expect and answers your questions so you are well-prepared for your adventure.

✔️ Entrance Fees: All entry fees for Inca sites, attractions, and local markets you will visit are included, ensuring a seamless experience.

✔️ Round-Trip Expedition Tourist Class Train: Enjoy comfortable seating and scenic views on your journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back. Upgrades to the Vistadome or Luxury Hiram Bingham trains are available upon request.

✔️ Private Transportation: Private transportation is provided for the Sacred Valley tour and for your return transfer to Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu, ensuring comfort and convenience. Our fleet includes Hyundai and Mercedes Benz minivans for quality service.

✔️ Accommodation: Enjoy a stay in a carefully selected 3-star hotel with modern amenities before your visit to Machu Picchu. Luxury upgrades are available; please contact our sales team for details.

✔️ Meals: Some meals are included as specified in the daily itinerary. For meals not listed, your guide will recommend local options.

✔️ Bus Tickets: Round-trip bus tickets to Machu Picchu are included, providing convenient transportation from Aguas Calientes to the entrance so you can maximize your time at the site.

✔️ Machu Picchu Entry Fee: For the best experience, we recommend Circuit 2, the most popular route, which offers stunning views and access to iconic areas of Machu Picchu. To secure this ticket, please book your tour in advance. If Circuit 2 is unavailable, we will offer Circuit 3 plus Circuit 1 as an alternative for a comprehensive visit.

✔️ Guided Tour: Experience daily guided tours, including Machu Picchu, led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides who share insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of each site.

✔️ All Taxes: All applicable taxes are included, with no hidden costs.

These inclusions provide a comprehensive, enjoyable, and hassle-free experience as you explore the breathtaking Sacred Valley and majestic Machu Picchu.

EXCLUDED

• Accommodation in Cusco before and after the tour is not included.
• Gratuities for your guide and driver are optional but appreciated.
• Travel insurance is recommended but not included.

UPGRADES: Enhance your experience with the following optional upgrades:

Train Upgrades:

✔️ Vistadome Train: One-way ticket for $65 or round-trip for $120 per person, offering panoramic views on your journey.

✔️ Luxury Hiram Bingham Train: Return journey only, $520 per person, featuring gourmet meals, live entertainment, and exceptional views.

Hotel Upgrades:

✔️ Luxury 5-Star Hotels:

• Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel: $350 per person for a high-end experience in the Andean landscape.
• Sumaq Hotel: $290 per person, recognized for premium service.

✔️ Huayna Picchu Ticket: $75 per person. Due to high demand, we recommend booking in advance. This challenging hike takes place on the second day after your guided Machu Picchu visit and offers spectacular views from above.