Machu picchu luxury train 2 days
The most complete Machu Picchu tour from Cusco aboard the Observatory Train, featuring panoramic views, Sacred Valley landscapes, and a guided visit to the citadel.
From:
$460USD
per person
- Immediate confirmation
- International cards accepted
Secure your spot with only 50%
Confirmation
Immediate
Duration
1 Day
Difficulty
Easy
Daily departures
365 days a year
Trip type
Group or private
Save your spot with only 50%
- Safe and secure payment
- Immediate confirmation
- International cards accepted
Machu picchu luxury train 2 days
The most panoramic way to experience Machu Picchu from Cusco in just one day, traveling aboard the Observatory Train.
Panoramic views, Sacred Valley landscapes, and a special train experience before discovering the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Group Tour
- Best price
- Independent traveler
- Fixed departures
Private Tour
- Flexible schedule
- Personalized service
- Private vehicle
Day 1: Machu picchu luxury train 2 days
Your Experience at a Glance:
5:30 AM
Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco
7:45 AM
Outbound Observatory Train
Ollantaytambo - Machu Picchu
9:15 AM
Arrival in Aguas Calientes
11:00 AM
Entrance to Machu Picchu
*Schedule subject to availability
2:55 PM
Return Expedition Train
Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo
4:31 PM
Arrival in Ollantaytambo and return to Cusco
6:31 PM
Arrival in Cusco, ending the service
at the door of your hotel
- Transporte
- Train
- Guide
- Tickets
- 16 Hours
5:30 a.m. – Pick up from Your Hotel in Cusco
Our Machu Picchu Observatory Train full-day tour begins with pick-up directly from your hotel in the city of Cusco.
We will board our transportation and head to Ollantaytambo, where we will begin our train journey to Machu Picchu.
During the journey, you can relax and enjoy the Andean landscapes as we make our way toward the Sacred Valley.
7:45 a.m. – Observatory Train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu
We will board the Observatory Train to Machu Picchu Pueblo, enjoying the landscapes of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River through its large panoramic windows.
During the journey, you will have access to the observatory car with an open-air balcony, ideal for taking photos as we travel through mountains and valleys. The experience also includes live Andean music and dances, an alpaca clothing fashion show, an audio tour, snacks, and beverages.
More than just transportation, the Observatory Train to Machu Picchu makes the journey part of the experience before reaching our destination.
*Observatory Train service subject to availability.
*Train services cannot be combined.
9:15 a.m. – Arrival in Aguas Calientes
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we will begin the next stage of our visit to Machu Picchu.
From the town, we will continue toward the Inca citadel. Here, we will wait in a short line to board the bus that will take us to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
11:00 a.m. – Entrance to Machu Picchu
Our service includes a private guide so you can enjoy Machu Picchu at your own pace, with more history, better photos, a better experience, and greater enjoyment.
*Entrance time subject to availability.
Free Time in Aguas Calientes
After the guided tour, you will have free time to have lunch on your own.
2:55 p.m. – Return Expedition Train from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo
After our experience at Machu Picchu, we will head to the train station to board the Expedition Train back to Ollantaytambo.
During the journey, you can relax after your visit and once again enjoy the landscapes along the railway route between Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.
*Expedition Train service subject to availability.
*Train services cannot be combined.
4:31 p.m. – Arrival in Ollantaytambo and Return to Cusco
Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo station, our transportation will be waiting to continue the overland journey back to the city of Cusco.
6:31 p.m. – Arrival in Cusco and Transfer to Your Hotel
We will arrive in the city of Cusco at approximately 8:30 PM. Our transportation will take you to the door of your hotel, where our Machu Picchu full day train service from Cusco city will come to an end.
After a full day, you will have traveled the route Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu Pueblo, Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo, Cusco, discovering one of Peru’s most iconic archaeological destinations.
*Expedition Train or Observatory Train service subject to availability.
*Train services cannot be combined.
*Machu Picchu entrance time subject to availability.
*NOTE:
Please note that Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train tickets sell out quickly.
In particular, due to the specific schedules described above, our clients generally book this tour 4 months or more in advance.
Therefore, if your travel date is approaching, we invite you to contact one of our travel advisors by clicking the green button in the bottom-right corner of your screen.
Area Information
Maximum Altitude
2,450 m.a.s.l. / 8,038 ft
Minimum Altitude
2,100 m.a.s.l. / 6,889 ft
Maximum Temperature
26°C / 78°F
Minimum Temperature
8°C / 46°F
Distance
3 km / 1.86 mi within Machu Picchu
Recomendaciones de un experto en viajes
What is the advantage of arriving at Machu Picchu during the early hours of the day?
Visiting Machu Picchu early allows you to begin your visit first thing in the morning and have greater flexibility for the rest of the day. In addition, the early hours can offer a special atmosphere, with changing light and mist gradually transforming the views of the mountains surrounding the citadel.
What should I prepare the night before if I am visiting Machu Picchu early?
Prepare a light backpack with your documents, Machu Picchu entrance ticket, water, sunscreen, and a layer for cold or rainy weather.
Organizing everything the night before helps avoid delays and makes an early morning departure much more comfortable, especially when every minute of rest counts.
Is it a good idea to visit Machu Picchu early if I have difficulty adjusting to very early schedules?
Not necessarily. Visiting Machu Picchu early means getting less rest and starting the day very early, which can be tiring if you are not used to it.
In that case, it may be better to consider a later time slot that allows you to arrive well-rested and fully enjoy the experience.
Why Is This Tour Different?
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off included
- Outbound journey aboard the Observatory Train
- Arrival at Machu Picchu
- Return journey aboard the Expedition Train
- Book with just 50%
Reserva con confianza
- Confirmación inmediata
- Más de 6 años creando experiencias
- Atención personalizada por WhatsApp
- Operador local especializado
- Salidas garantizadas
Day 1: Machu picchu luxury train 2 days
Your Experience at a Glance:
8:00 AM
Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco
10:32 AM
Outbound Observatory Train from Ollantaytambo
to Machu Picchu
12:00 PM
Arrival in Aguas Calientes and free time for lunch
12:20 PM
Bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu
12:50 PM
Entrance to Machu Picchu
5:00 PM
Return by bus to Aguas Calientes
5:35 PM
Return Expedition Train from Machu Picchu to
Ollantaytambo
7:44 PM
Arrival in Ollantaytambo and return to Cusco
9:00 PM
End of the tour at the door of your hotel in Cusco
- Transporte
- Train
- Guide
- Tickets
- 16 Hours
8:00 a.m. – Pick-up from Your Hotel in Cusco
We begin our Machu Picchu Observatory Train full-day tour with pick-up directly from your hotel in the city of Cusco.
We will board our transportation and head to the Ollantaytambo train station.
During the journey, you can relax and enjoy the Andean landscapes as we make our way toward the Sacred Valley.
10:32 a.m. – Outbound Observatory Train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu
We will board the Observatory Train to Machu Picchu Pueblo, enjoying the landscapes of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River through its large panoramic windows.
During the journey, you will have access to the observatory car with an open-air balcony, ideal for taking photos as we travel through mountains and valleys. The experience also includes live Andean music and dances, an alpaca clothing fashion show, an audio tour, snacks, and beverages.
More than just transportation, the Observatory Train to Machu Picchu makes the journey part of the experience before reaching our destination.
12:00 p.m. – Arrival in Aguas Calientes and Free Time for Lunch
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you will have free time to have lunch and get ready before visiting Machu Picchu.
This will be the ideal time to rest briefly and recharge before continuing with the most anticipated part of the tour.
12:20 p.m. – Bus to the Entrance of Machu Picchu
After your free time in Aguas Calientes, we will head to the bus station to begin the journey up to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
The bus ride will take us along the mountain road until we reach the entrance to the Inca citadel.
12:50 p.m. – Entrance to Machu Picchu
We will enter Machu Picchu to begin our guided tour of the Inca citadel.
Accompanied by our guide, you will explore the areas included in your circuit while learning about the history and key details of one of Peru’s most important archaeological sites.
5:00 p.m. – Return by Bus to Aguas Calientes
After completing our visit to Machu Picchu, we will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes.
Upon arrival in town, we will have enough time to make our way to the train station and prepare to board our return train.
5:35 p.m. – Return Expedition Train from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo
We will board the Expedition Train to begin our return journey from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo.
During the journey, you can relax after your visit as we travel back through the valley toward Ollantaytambo station.
7:44 p.m. – Arrival in Ollantaytambo and Return to Cusco
Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo station, our transportation will be waiting to continue the journey by road to the city of Cusco.
The drive will take us back to the city after a full day exploring Machu Picchu.
9:00 p.m. – End of the Tour at Your Hotel in Cusco
We will arrive at the door of your hotel in Cusco at approximately 10:30 p.m., where our Machu Picchu full-day train tour from Cusco city will come to an end.
After a full day exploring one of Peru’s most important destinations, you can relax comfortably at your accommodation.
*NOTE 1:
Please note that Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train tickets sell out quickly.
In particular, due to the specific schedules described above, our clients generally book this tour 2 months or more in advance.
Therefore, if your travel date is approaching, we invite you to contact one of our travel advisors by clicking the green button in the bottom-right corner of your screen.
Area Information
Maximum Altitude
2,450 m.a.s.l. / 8,038 ft
Minimum Altitude
2,100 m.a.s.l. / 6,889 ft
Maximum Temperature
26°C / 78°F
Minimum Temperature
8°C / 46°F
Distance
3 km / 4 within Machu Picchu
Recomendaciones de un experto en viajes
Can I really visit Machu Picchu without waking up early from Cusco?
Yes. This option is designed for travelers who prefer to leave Cusco at a more comfortable time and visit Machu Picchu during the day, avoiding the early morning departures common on many tours. It is an excellent option if you value getting a better night’s rest before visiting the Inca citadel.
Who is the Machu Picchu tour without an early-morning departure from Cusco recommended for?
It is ideal for travelers looking for a more comfortable experience, families, or anyone who simply prefers to avoid waking up before dawn during their vacation. It also allows you to begin your journey to Machu Picchu feeling more rested and energized to enjoy the visit.
Is visiting Machu Picchu without waking up early from Cusco recommended if I want to avoid crowds completely?
Not necessarily. When visiting Machu Picchu without an early morning departure from Cusco, you may encounter other travelers entering during the day.
If your top priority is to visit the site with as few people as possible, keep in mind that no time slot guarantees a crowd-free experience, especially during the high season.
Why Is This Tour Different?
- Hotel pick up and drop-off included
- Outbound journey aboard the Observatory Train
- Arrival at Machu Picchu
- Return journey aboard the Expedition Train
- Book with just 50%
Reserva con confianza
- Confirmación inmediata
- Más de 6 años creando experiencias
- Atención personalizada por WhatsApp
- Operador local especializado
- Salidas garantizadas
Included
- 24/7 support and assistance after booking and throughout your trip.
- Direct Vistadome Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu on the outbound journey.
- One night at Raíces Boutique Hotel in Aguas Calientes or similar.
- Breakfast at the hotel on the second day.
- Entrance ticket to the Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu.
- Round trip bus tickets to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
- Private guided tour of Machu Picchu exclusively for you and your travel companions.
- Panoramic Observatory Train from Machu Picchu to Cusco.
Not Included
- Entrance ticket to Wayna Picchu Mountain: USD 65.00 per person.
- Meals, except those mentioned.
- Tips for guides.
- Travel insurance (Peruvian regulations recommend entering Peru with travel insurance purchased in your country of origin).
- We work with several clinics and can help you arrange medical care if needed (the clinics will accept the insurance you previously purchased; however, they do not provide travel insurance).
What to bring!
- Identification documents: passport, national ID card, DNI.
- Personal medications.
- Small daypack (with a rain cover if possible).
- Water (we recommend bringing 1 L per day).
- Rain poncho or rain jacket.
- Extra snacks.
- Hiking shoes and pants.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Lip balm.
- Mosquito repellent.
- Warm clothing (jacket, sweater, long-sleeved shirts, etc.).
- Cash in Peruvian SOLES.
Payment
AVOID SCAMS!
GET IN PERU will only charge you a deposit to purchase your train tickets, Machu Picchu entrance ticket, and bus tickets to reach the ruins.
You can pay the remaining balance when you arrive in Cusco, meet a member of our team waiting for you at the airport, and have your tickets in hand.
Contact your travel advisor for more details or visit our Terms and Conditions of Service section.
Travel Your Way
$ Price per person
Our tour packages are available in both group and private formats. Consult with one of our travel experts to tailor your journey and enjoy a personalized experience led by our specialized local guides.
Budget friendly
Group Tour
From:
$Soon…USD
per person
- Best Price
- Ideal for Independent Travelers
- Fixed Departures
Recommended experience
Private Tour
From:
$Soon…USD
per person
Minimum 2 travelers
- More Personalized Service
- Personalized Hotel Pick-Up
- Better Photo Opportunities
- Flexible Schedule
- More Time at Each Destination
- Specialized Local Guides
Always Included
- Daily Departures
- Expert Travel Advisors
- 24/7 Support
- Flexible Payment Options
Recommended experience
Private Tour
From:
$Soon…USD
per person
Minimum 2 travelers
- Exclusive Guide for Your Group
- More Personalized Service
- Personalized Hotel Pick-Up
- Flexible Schedule
- More Time at Each Destination
Budget friendly
Group Tour
From:
$Soon…USD
per person
- Best price
- Ideal for Independent Travelers
- Fixed Departures
Always Included
- Daily Departures
- Expert Travel Advisors
- 24/7 Support
- Flexible Payment Options
Secure your spot with only 50%
Pay the rest later
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- Instant Booking Confirmation
- All Major International Cards Accepted
- Pay in Your Preferred Currency
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Everything You Need to Know
Before You Travel
What Is the Machu Picchu Observatory Train Full Day Tour?
The Machu Picchu Observatory Train Full Day Tour is a one-day excursion from Cusco that combines a panoramic journey aboard the PeruRail Vistadome Observatory, transportation to Machu Picchu Pueblo, and a visit to the Inca citadel, returning to Cusco on the same day.
With Get In Peru, you can choose a morning or afternoon departure, using the Observatory Train for the outbound journey and the Expedition Train for the return.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: Choose this tour if you want to make the train journey an important part of the experience and visit Machu Picchu without adding an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
🚆 Did you know…? PeruRail classifies the Vistadome Observatory as its “Premium Panoramic” service, designed for travelers who prioritize scenery and a more immersive experience during the journey.
What Does a Machu Picchu Tour by Observatory Train from Cusco Include?
A Machu Picchu tour by Observatory Train from Cusco begins with pickup from your hotel and transfer to Ollantaytambo, where you will board the Vistadome Observatory bound for Machu Picchu Pueblo.
You will then continue to Machu Picchu according to the time and circuit assigned to your entrance ticket. After the visit, you will return by Expedition Train to Ollantaytambo and then continue by transportation to your hotel in Cusco.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: Always confirm which tickets, buses, guide services, and transfers are included before booking, as purchasing only the Observatory Train ticket does not automatically include entrance to Machu Picchu.
🎟️ Did you know…? PeruRail specifies that the Vistadome Observatory ticket does not include entrance to Machu Picchu, because the train journey and admission to the citadel are separate services.
What Is the Observatory Train to Machu Picchu Like?
The Vistadome Observatory to Machu Picchu is a panoramic train featuring large windows and an observation car with an open-air balcony, allowing you to enjoy and photograph the Andean landscapes during the journey.
The service also includes onboard experiences such as Andean music and dances, an audio tour, snacks, and beverages, although certain activities may depend on the direction and schedule of the journey.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: Don’t spend the entire journey in your seat; when the staff opens the observation car, take advantage of the outdoor space to enjoy the scenery and take photos.
📸 Did you know…? The observation car is specially designed to provide a panoramic experience and features an open space that allows you to enjoy the surroundings with fewer visual barriers.
What Is the Difference Between the Observatory Train and the Expedition Train?
The main difference is that the Vistadome Observatory prioritizes the panoramic experience, while the Expedition is designed for a more practical and essential journey to Machu Picchu.
The Observatory includes an open air observation car, cultural experience, wide panoramic views, snacks, and beverages, while the Expedition offers panoramic windows, interiors inspired by Inca culture, ambient music, and an audio tour.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: Taking the Observatory on the outbound journey and the Expedition on the return is a good combination if you want to enjoy the panoramic experience while you still have energy and daylight, and return in a more practical way after visiting Machu Picchu.
🔎 Did you know…? PeruRail defines the Expedition as its Essential category and the Vistadome Observatory as its Premium Panoramic category.
Is It Better to Visit Machu Picchu in the Morning or in the Afternoon?
Both schedules allow you to visit Machu Picchu, but they offer different experiences. The morning departure starts earlier from Cusco and allows you to return sooner, while the afternoon option avoids such an early pickup and concentrates the Machu Picchu visit during the final hours of the day.
Get In Peru offers both alternatives so you can adapt the Machu Picchu Observatory Train Full-Day Tour to your travel pace and to the availability of entrance tickets and trains.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: Choose the morning option if you prefer to finish the tour earlier; if you do not want to wake up very early and have the entire day available, consider the afternoon departure.
🌤️ Did you know…? PeruRail currently offers Vistadome Observatory services from Ollantaytambo at both 7:45 AM and 10:32 AM, although schedules are subject to operational changes.
How Long Is the Observatory Train Journey from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu?
The Vistadome Observatory journey from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo takes approximately one and a half hours, although the exact travel time depends on the selected service and schedule.
During the journey, you will travel through the Sacred Valley, following part of the Urubamba River as the landscape gradually changes before reaching Machu Picchu Pueblo.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: Consider the train journey part of the tour, not just a transfer; keep your camera ready throughout the trip.
⏱️ Did you know…? According to the official 2026 schedules, the 7:45 AM service arrives in Machu Picchu Pueblo at 9:15 AM, while the 10:32 AM service arrives at approximately 12:11 PM.
Which Machu Picchu Circuit Is Included in the Observatory Train Tour?
The Machu Picchu circuit will depend on the ticket available at the time of booking, so it should not be assumed that all travelers will follow exactly the same route inside the citadel.
Currently, Machu Picchu is organized into 3 circuits that include 10 official routes, some of which operate only during high season.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: Before booking, ask which circuit is available for your travel date, especially if you are looking for a specific photo spot or area of Machu Picchu.
🏛️ Did you know…? Circuit 2 Machu Picchu Classic is currently divided into routes 2 A and 2 B, while Circuits 1 and 3 offer other perspectives and sectors of the Inca city.
How Much Luggage Can I Bring on the Observatory Train to Machu Picchu?
For a Machu Picchu Full Day Tour by Observatory Train, the most practical option is to travel with a small backpack containing only what you need for the day, such as documents, sun protection, a rain jacket, water, and personal items.
PeruRail has specific luggage policies and also offers free luggage storage at the Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu stations for passengers who need to store additional baggage.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: Since this is a full day tour, leave large suitcases at your hotel in Cusco and bring only a lightweight backpack so you can move around more comfortably.
🎒 Did you know…? PeruRail currently allows up to 12 kg of luggage on the Expedition, Vistadome, and Vistadome Observatory services.
How Far in Advance Should I Book Machu Picchu with the Observatory Train?
It is advisable to book the Machu Picchu Observatory Train in advance, because you need to coordinate two separate availabilities: the train schedule and the entrance ticket for a specific Machu Picchu circuit and time slot.
Waiting until the last few days may reduce the available options for circuits, entrance times, and train services.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: If you already know your travel date to Cusco, check Machu Picchu availability first and then coordinate the train schedules around that entrance time.
📅 Did you know…? Both train schedules and Machu Picchu entrance tickets operate with specific availability; in addition, PeruRail warns that its schedules may change due to operational reasons.
Is the Machu Picchu Observatory Train Full Day Tour Worth It?
Yes, the Machu Picchu Observatory Train Full Day Tour is worth it for travelers with limited time who want to visit Machu Picchu from Cusco in a single day while enjoying a panoramic train experience along the way.
Get In Peru’s program combines the Vistadome Observatory for the outbound journey, Machu Picchu, and the Expedition Train for the return, while also offering morning and afternoon departure options to suit different travel styles.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: If the train journey and the landscapes of the Sacred Valley are important to you, prioritize the Observatory; if you are simply looking for a more basic rail option, a standard service may be enough.
💎 Did you know…? The Vistadome Observatory features a panoramic car, observation car, and bar car, making the journey to Machu Picchu a travel experience in itself rather than just a means of transportation.
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