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Cusco, Peru

Essential Machu Picchu 2 Days

OVERVIEW

Explore one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Perfect for tight schedules, this 2-day itinerary is specially Designed for travelers arriving in Cusco on Day 1, our 2-day Machu Picchu Essential tour offers a smooth and unforgettable experience. We handle all logistics, including seamless transfers, train tickets to Aguas Calientes, and an expert guided tour of the “Lost Citadel” on your second day.

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Journey Type Cultural
Duration 2 Days / 1 Night
Group Size Small Group / Private
Max Altitude 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Activity Level Moderate
Handcrafted Itinerary

Itinerary

Explore your day-by-day journey curated by Edgar Adventures local specialists.

Cusco Historic Center

Cusco Arrival & Train to Machu Picchu

Transfer to Ollantaytambo: Upon arrival at Cusco airport, bus station, or hotel, our team will meet you for a scenic 2-hour transfer to Ollantaytambo. Drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, with a brief stop at a viewpoint to enjoy panoramic mountain vistas (schedule permitting). We must arrive at least 30 minutes before the train departure.
TRAIN TIMETABLE (Afternoon)
DEPARTURE. ARRIVAL. – TRAIN CLASS
Ollantaytambo Aguas Calientes
11:52 am. 13:34 pm. – Expedition – Peru Rail
12:55 pm. 14:25 pm. – Expedition – Peru Rail
13:27 pm. 14:50 pm. – Vista Dome – Peru Rail
15:37 pm. 17:02 pm. – Expedition – Peru Rail
15:37 pm. 17:02 pm. – Vista Dome – Peru Rail
16:37 pm 10:05 pm. – Voyager – Inca Rail
19:04 pm. 20:45 pm. – Expedition – Peru Rail
21:00 pm. 22:40 pm. – Expedition – Peru Rail
Scenic Train to Aguas Calientes: Board the train for a breathtaking 1.5-hour ride along the Sacred River toward Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Enjoy views of lush valley landscapes and Andean peaks. (Daylight permitting) Upon arrival, our representative will transfer you to your hotel. And present a briefing for the next day program.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes: After checking in, explore the colorful town, enjoy local dining options, and rest for your Machu Picchu tour the next day.

Glamping Dome / Mountain Camp / Hotel Aguas Calientes →
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Bus Ride to Machu Picchu: Meet your local expert guide and take a scenic 25-minute shuttle bus ride up the winding mountain road directly to the citadel entrance.
Guided Tour: Enjoy an engaging, guided tour of this iconic World Heritage Site. Explore key landmarks—such as the Guardian’s House, Temple of the Sun, and Sacred Plaza—while taking in magnificent views of Inca terraces.
Note on Circuits: Landmarks visited depend on the booked circuit. Circuit 2 offers the most complete experience but requires early booking due to strict daily entry limits.
Free Time & Return to Cusco: Take the shuttle bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch and local exploring. Finally, board your return train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer back to your hotel in Cusco.

Hotel drop-off in Cusco →
Breakfast & Lunch
Services & Value

What's Included

Transparent Pricing • No Hidden Costs

INCLUDED IN THIS JOURNEY

Curated signature services included in your tour fare
Complimentary
  • Transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station
  • Round-trip train tickets (Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo)
  • 01-night Hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • Round-trip bus tickets (Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes)
  • Professional English / Spanish speaking guide
  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (subject to circuit availability)
  • Return transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco

NOT INCLUDED IN THIS JOURNEY

Personal & optional items not covered in the fare
Discretionary
  • Meals and drinks
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Personal expenses
Essential Machu Picchu 2 Days - Services & Value
Signature Experience
Essential Machu Picchu 2 Days
Need specific additions, dietary options or private adjustments? Our local destination specialists can customize any inclusion or comfort level for your party.
Custom Inquiry →
Unrivaled Andean Comfort & Private Speedboats
Signature Standard
The Edgar Difference

Unrivaled Andean Comfort & Private Speedboats

Travel with complete peace of mind. Our signature journeys feature private, modern high-speed boats across Lake Titicaca, climate-controlled vehicles with complimentary bottled water and on-board oxygen, and senior native guides born and raised in the communities you visit.

Guaranteed Entry Tickets & Prime Circuits
Scenic Expedition / Vistadome Train Journeys
Expert Academic & Archeological Guiding
100% Hassle-Free Door-to-Door Logistics
Direct Inquiry

Enquire About This Tour

From: $311.00 / person • Direct Operator Guarantee

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    Tailor-Made Specialists
    Small Groups (10-15 Pax)
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