MACHU PICCHU 2 DAY TOUR

HIGHLIGHTS

By taking our 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour, you will visit the authentic town of Maras, known for its charming colonial doorways. Admire the breathtaking landscapes of the Peruvian Andes and enjoy panoramic views of the Sacred Valley from above, with opportunities to take stunning photographs. Explore the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo and experience one of the most scenic train rides in the world, traveling from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes as the landscape gradually transforms before your eyes. In the afternoon, relax in the hot springs of Aguas Calientes and stroll through this lively town. The next morning, witness the breathtaking sunrise over Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Why should you take machu picchu 2 day tour with us?

• This machu Picchu 2 days trip is operated by AB Expeditons, a 100% local tour operator based in Cusco.
• Small groups of 2 to 8 people máximum. This fact sets us apart from other travel companies that take bigger groups.
• We dont share service of Machu Picchu 2 days trip with other companies.
• We are practical, punctual, reliable Travel company, welcoming individuals or groups. Check out our reviews on trip advisor.
• Our Tour Guides pride themselves on being up to date and have a comprehensive programme of continual professional development. We love showing what a fascinating and amazing Machu Picchu is.
• Your return train ticket is at 02:55 pm from Aguas Calientes. Therefore you arrive to Cusco early so you will sleep enough to do any tour the next day.
• We deliver on our promises. 
• Instant confirmation. 

MACHU PICCHU 2 DAY TOUR ITINERARY

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 8:00 a.m. and begin our scenic journey through the Andean highlands. After approximately one hour of driving, we will arrive at the beautiful Huaypo Lake, where we will take a short break to stretch our legs and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. This stunning lake offers excellent photo opportunities, surrounded by rolling hills and reflecting the bright Andean sky.

Our adventure continues with a visit to a viewpoint offering a breathtaking panorama of the Vilcanota Mountain Range, with the majestic Verónica and Chicón glaciers towering in the background—an ideal spot to capture more remarkable photographs of the Peruvian Andes.

Next, we will drive to the picturesque town of Maras, known for its charming colonial architecture. Here, you will have time to stroll through the narrow streets, admire traditional adobe houses, and take pictures at the famous colonial doorways that showcase the town’s rich cultural heritage.

We then continue to another spectacular viewpoint overlooking the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where you can admire its enigmatic beauty and sweeping landscapes. From there, our journey descends toward Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town renowned for its ancient streets, impressive stone architecture, and well-preserved water channels that still function today. You will have time to explore this fascinating place and appreciate the blend of Inca and colonial influences that make Ollantaytambo truly unique.

In the afternoon, we will board the train to Aguas Calientes. The journey itself is an unforgettable experience, offering unparalleled landscapes as we follow the Urubamba River downstream through the lush Sacred Valley. You will arrive in Aguas Calientes around 2:30 p.m., where we will check into a comfortable 3-star hotel.

After checking in, you will have the rest of the afternoon free to relax or explore at your own pace. You may choose to visit the butterfly sanctuary, located about a 40-minute walk from the village, or unwind in the hot springs, just a short 5-minute walk from the town center.

We will spend the night in Aguas Calientes, preparing for the next day’s adventure to Machu Picchu.

Optional:

We also offer the option to take the train from Poroy Train Station instead of traveling by van to Ollantaytambo. In this case, you will enjoy a short 30-minute drive from Cusco to Poroy, where you will board the train. This scenic journey lasts approximately four hours, taking you from the highlands of Poroy through the wide plains of Pampa de Anta, entering the Sacred Valley, passing Ollantaytambo, and continuing all the way to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, your guide will be waiting to meet you and will accompany you to your hotel. The following day, you will take the train back to Poroy.

Note: If you wish to choose this option, please inform us at the time of booking so we can purchase the correct train ticket. Please be aware that you will travel alone on the train, as the guide will depart from Ollantaytambo. Additionally, this service operates only during the dry season, from April to October.

Day 2: Machu Picchu!

Day two is the most magical day of your journey — the visit to Machu Picchu. We will wake up early to take one of the first buses for a 30-minute ride up to the citadel. After passing through the Machu Picchu checkpoint, your guide will lead you to the upper section near the Guard House, where you can witness the sunrise over the ancient ruins and capture the iconic “Postcard View” of Machu Picchu.

Next, you will begin exploring the main citadel with a two-hour guided tour. During this visit, your guide will share fascinating insights into the history, architecture, and culture of the Inca civilization while you explore the site’s most significant landmarks, including the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Three Windows, Inca’s House, Main Plaza, Wayrana, and the Sacred Rock, among others.

After the guided visit, you will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you will enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, you will board the train at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m. back to Ollantaytambo, and then continue by van to Cusco. We will drop you off at your hotel at approximately 7:00 p.m.

INCLUSIONS

Included

• Hotel Pick-Up: Our guide will meet you at the reception area of your hotel in Cusco. The guide will knock on your hotel or Airbnb door and will be easily identifiable by a red jacket displaying the AB Expeditions logo.
• Transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo: You will travel comfortably in our spacious van from Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station.
• Train Ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes: The package includes an Expedition train ticket departing from Ollantaytambo at 12:55 p.m.
• Round-Trip Bus Ticket to Machu Picchu: We include two bus tickets—one from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and another for the return trip from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
• Professional English-Speaking Tour Guide: Our guides are carefully selected graduates from prestigious universities and institutes. Each guide demonstrates professionalism, dedication, and a genuine passion for their work. Their expertise and enthusiasm ensure an exceptional and informative experience for every traveler.
• Guided Tour of Machu Picchu: Our knowledgeable guide will lead you through the most significant areas of Machu Picchu, offering in-depth explanations of each Inca site you visit. During this approximately two-hour tour, you will gain valuable insight into the historical, cultural, and architectural importance of this ancient wonder, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience.
• Return Train Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo: The package includes an Expedition train ticket for the return journey, departing from Aguas Calientes at either 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m.
• Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco: Upon your arrival in Ollantaytambo, our driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Cusco in our comfortable van.
• Oxygen Tank: As we reach elevations of up to 3,700 meters on the route to Ollantaytambo, our van is equipped with an oxygen tank for any potential emergencies.
• Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket: Your Machu Picchu entry ticket includes access to Circuit 2. We highly recommend booking in advance to secure this circuit. If Circuit 2 is unavailable, we will notify you within 24 hours so you may choose Circuits 1 or 3 to explore the citadel fully.
• First Aid Kit: Our guide carries a basic first aid kit at all times, equipped with essential supplies such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, and medical tape, to handle minor injuries or health concerns during the excursion.
• 24/7 Customer Service: Our telephone service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You may contact us at any time, and our dedicated team will be pleased to assist you with any questions or concerns.
• Hotel Drop-Off: Upon your return to Cusco, we will provide direct transportation back to your hotel.

Not Included

• Meals.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO UPGRADE

• Huayna Picchu Moutain: $65USD
• Machu Picchu Mountain: $65 USD
• Vistadome
• One way Vistadome Ticket: $50 USD
• Round trip Vistadome ticket: $100 USD

WHAT TO BRING FOR MACHU PICCHU 2-DAY TOUR

• Original passport.
• Tennis shoes or trainers.
• Long, comfortable pants and a wind jacket.
• Sweater and a light shirt.
• Rain jacket or poncho – in any season it can rain.
• Camera with a full battery and lots of memory!
• Insect repellent (for sand flies).
• Sunblock and sunglasses.
• Personal first aid kit (personal medications).
• Water bottle with 1-2 liters of water.
• Light backpack.
• Snacks (everything is more expensive in Aguas Calientes!).
• Padlock for a locker in the hostel.
• Flashlight if you plan to walk up to MP early in the morning.
• Towel.

IMPORTANT INFO 

• As per the new rules, you can stay in the Machu Picchu area for only 2 hours, but it is almost impossible to enforce this rule unless visitors would have been all the time harassed by guards who would have to ask them over and over again what time they enter (this rule should be more strict).
• When visiting Machu Picchu, you must bring your passport with you as you will need it to enter the site.
• With the standard entry ticket to Machu Picchu, you will not be allowed back in after you exit, even if you do not spend the full 2 hours allotted with each ticket. 
• With the Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain and Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu mountain ticket, you can exit after your hike to buy water and use the bathroom, and then afterward reenter with your guide for the citadel tour.
• Be careful with selfie-and-jumping pictures, as these cause most of the accidents in the mountains.
• Park rangers invite you to retire from Huayna Picchu Mountain at 12:30 pm, and from Machu Picchu Mountain at 12 pm.
• Training shoes or lightweight walking shoes are highly recommended.
• Strong insect repellent is recommended.
• Machu Picchu is a unique site, and if you want, you can get a pretty unusual stamp on your Passport.

Bathroom

Bad news, there are no bathrooms or food stalls in Machu Picchu. Make sure you use the bathroom before you enter the site. It is right in front of the entrance and costs two soles.

Mistake

If it is cloudy and rainy and you will leave the viewing platform where the most classic photos are taken and start the tour around Machu Picchu, with the hope to come back when the weather improves, we would like to inform you that this is impossible. Once you are on the trail you only have to move forward and follow the circuit – there are many guards with whistles watching, and you won’t stand a chance.

Food and Water

When it comes to food and water, bring your own. The ticket says that eating inside the site is prohibited, but you can bring a small snack with you, only try not to eat too openly, and it comes without saying that you should not litter. Also, you should bring your water in reusable flasks or canteens, because Machu Picchu tries to fight against single-use plastic bottles.

Prohibited objects inside Machu Picchu

Walking sticks are not allowed unless the person needs them.

It is not allowed to enter Machu Picchu with drones, hiking poles, tripods, or selfie sticks as well. Older people can carry a cane, but with a rubber tip, not a metal one.

Professional cameras are not allowed. Permits for professional cameras are over $300 so avoid bringing a professional-looking camera in to save some money.

You cannot enter Machu Picchu with your travel backpack. Only smaller models are allowed so leave your backpack in Aguas Calientes in your Hotel.

FREQUENT ASK QUESTIONS

How To Book Machu Picchu 2 Day Tour  With Ab Expeditons?

In order to book the Machu Picchu 2-day tour with us, you need to click the Book Now button above, then select the date of your departure, then fill out all the personal information of each participant, and the last step is the payment which you can do with credit card or debit card. Please, send us only the deposit of $150 per person. 

Also, you will find some extras on our booking platform such as Machu Picchu Mountain, Huayna Picchu Mountain, and Vistadome. Those extras, you need to book in advance because those tickets run out in advance like Machu Picchu tickets. So you can’t book them at the last minute.

Once we receive your deposit, we will you a manual confirmation so everything will be 100% organized. All start dates, once confirmed, are guaranteed.

What About The Outstanding Balance?

Your remaining balance can be made in cash 1 day earlier your trip in USD or soles or if you prefer PayPal at least one week prior to your trip(a 7% service fee applies). Also, you can pay us with a Credit card Visa(a 5% service fee applies). It is better to pay us with cash because there is not any transaction fee. Please let us know what you prefer.

What Circuit Does The Macchu Picchu 2-Day Tour Follow?

We always buy the Machu Picchu ticket with Circuit 02 – Ruta Clasica Diseñada for our Machu Picchu 2-day tour. So you will go first to the guardhouse where you will take a postcard picture of Machu then Visit all the Inca sites of Machu Picchu.  

How Long In Advance Should I Book Machu Picchu 2 Day Trip?

• If you are thinking to book in the high season from May to August, we recommend you to book 2 – 5 months in advance to secure the early slots.
• If you are thinking to book in shoulder season April, September, October, and November. We recommend you book 1 – 2 months in advance.
• If you are thinking to book in the rainy season from December to March, you can find availability all the time, except on Christmas and New Year. For Christmas and new year, we recommend you book 2 months if possible.

I See On The Official Website That Circuit 2 Tickets Are Not Available Anymore For My Preferred Date. Is There Any Way You Can Still Arrange My Trip With Circuit 2?

Unfortunately, when Circuit 2 tickets for Machu Picchu are sold out, we are unable to secure them as we also purchase tickets directly from the official Peruvian website. To address this issue, we we will buy two tickets: one for Circuit 1 and one for Circuit 3. With this arrangement, you will explore Circuit 3 with our guide for two hours, then exit and re-enter Machu Picchu to visit Circuit 1 on your own for one hour. By buying tickets for both circuits, you will still be able to see most of the site, including the iconic photo spots and all the temples. Since we will buy 2 tickets, there will be an additional charge of $45 for the extra tickets.

I See There Is Not Any Single Ticket Available In The Oficial Website For My Desired Date, But I See In Your Wesite Is Available. Can You Still Organize My Trip To Machu Picchu?

Yes, we can still arrange your trip to Machu Picchu. If tickets for your preferred date are sold out, we can purchase permits for the Short Inca Trail, which will allow you to visit Machu Picchu via Circuit 3. However, this option is more expensive and only provides access to the lower part of the site, meaning you won’t be able to capture the iconic view of Machu Picchu. Organizing this option would incur an additional fee of $30.

Alternatively, you can try purchasing tickets directly in Aguas Calientes. Our guide will assist you with the process, but you must queue in person as tickets are non-transferable. The downside of this option is that if you arrive late, you may end up with less desirable tickets, and the exact time of your visit won’t be known until you make the purchase.

How About The Student Discount?

According to Peruvian Law, you have to be under 18 years old at the time of your visit to Machu Picchu (if you are 18 or over, you need valid student cards). Below is a sample of a valid student card

• All students from 11 to 17 years old have a discount of $20 USD.
• For children from 2 to 11 years old, a discount is $30 USD.

All students have to send a copy of their passport and student card at the time of their booking to get the student discount. Send us a copy at info@abexpeditions.com

How If I Cancel My Machu Picchu Two-Day Tour, Can I Get A Refund?

Unfortunately, we can’t refund the deposit. What we can do is, we can postpone your trip for another date, but you have to let us know 72 hours in advance and you need to pay a penalty of 25% of your deposit.

May I Change The Departure Date After The Permits Have Been Purchased?

Yes, it is possible. But you should let us know 72 hours before, and you have to pay the penalty of 25% of the deposit which Peru Rail and Machu Picchu office charges us.

Do I Need To Bring My Original Passport On The Machu Picchu 2-Day Tour?

Yes! You must bring your original passport and it is very important that it should be the same passport you sent us to reserve your Machu Picchu ticket. Your passport will be checked at the Machu Picchu checkpoint when you board the train.

Can I Book The 2-Day Tour To Machu Picchu With My Expired Passport?

If you are renewing your passport, go ahead and email us a copy of your old passport to book your Machu Picchu ticket. If you no longer have your old passport, any government issue ID will be accepted, as long as the name is the same. Once you receive your new passport. Please email us a copy of your new passport ASAP to change the information on your ticket.

What Is The Schedule Of My Train Ticket?

It will depend on the train availability. We usually book the 12:55 pm schedule from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes on day 1 and the return train ticket is at 02:55 pm so you arrive in Cusco at 06:30 pm and you have enough time to sleep and do any tour the next day, like Rainbow Mountain.

Can I Stay In The Sacred Valley For My Machu Picchu 2 Day Tour?

Yes, you can stay in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo. By staying in the Sacred Valley, your pickup will be 1 hour and a half after the Cusco pick up so you will sleep more.

Can I Book My Own Hotel In Aguas Calientes?

You can book any hotel in Aguas Calientes. It will decrease the price to $40 per person. If you decide to book your own hotel, don’t forget to tell us where you plan to stay so our guide will take you there safely.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Machu Picchu?

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is the shoulder months, April, May, September, October, and November. The chances of rain are few during these months, and the temperature is pleasant it is away from the cold winter nights of peak season. During these months, there will be fewer crowds too.

Is This Two-Day Tour To Machu Picchu Safe For Children?

We recommend this tour for children and families because it is easy and safe. Machu Picchu has easy access and all facilities for visitors. Children have discounts of $30, so feel free to send us an email to get your quotation.

I’m Staying At Airbnb, Can You Still Pick Us Up?

Yes, we will need your exact address to arrange your pick-up and drop-off. It has no extra cost.

Can I Do This 2 Day Train Tour To Machu Picchu Alone?

Of course, as a solo traveler, you will enjoy Machu Picchu in a private service for an additional cost of $95, so you will pay $465 in total.

Is It Possible To Hike Huayna Picchu Mountain On The Second Day?

Yes, It is possible to hike Huayna Picchu Mountain after your guided tour at Machu Picchu.