Essential Machu Picchu 2 Days
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.
Itinerary
Explore your day-by-day journey curated by Edgar Adventures local specialists.
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.
Guided Machu Picchu Tour & Return to Cusco
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.
What's Included
INCLUDED IN THIS JOURNEY
Curated signature services included in your tour fare- 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- Meals and drinks
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses

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.
Enquire About This Tour
From: $311.00 / person • Direct Operator Guarantee