Experience Machu Picchu in 2 days with our private tour from Cusco – the perfect itinerary for travelers seeking authentic adventure without extreme physical demands. This 2 day Machu Picchu tour includes a scenic train journey through the Sacred Valley, sunrise access to the citadel, expert archaeological guide, and comfortable hotel accommodation.
Day 1 features your departure from Cusco, a stop at iconic Ollantaytambo fortress, and a memorable train ride along the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes. Day 2 begins before dawn with early bus access to Machu Picchu, allowing you to watch the sunrise over the ancient ruins with an expert guide, followed by free exploration time.
Priced from $635 per person, this Machu Picchu tour is an all-inclusive package: private transport, train tickets, hotel, entrance fee, guide, and more. Ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers. Explore our complete itinerary, reviews, FAQs, and booking details below.
Overview
Looking for the perfect balance between time, comfort, and an authentic experience at Machu Picchu? Our private 2 day Machu Picchu tour from Cusco is designed for travelers who want to experience one of the world's Seven Wonders without weeks of trekking or excessive physical demands.
Unlike one-day tours that feel rushed and exhausting, our 2-day itinerary gives you time to acclimatize to the altitude, rest between activities, and truly absorb the energy of Machu Picchu. You'll arrive relaxed, well-rested in a comfortable hotel, and ready to fully appreciate the most sacred site of the Inca Empire.
Unlike longer treks like the Inca Trail or Salkantay, you don't need to be an experienced hiker. No camping, no sleeping on the ground, no multi-day backpacking. Just comfortable travel, quality accommodation, and expert-guided exploration of one of the world's most magnificent archaeological sites.
The Complete 2 Day Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
- Departure from Cusco at 9:00 AM in private transportation.
- Scenic drive through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo.
- Train journey along the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes.
- Hotel check-in upon arrival around 2:00 PM.
- Free afternoon to explore the town and surrounding attractions.
- Optional visits to the Machu Picchu Museum, orchid garden, or butterfly exhibit.
- Relaxing option at the thermal baths near the town center.
Day 2: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
- Early morning bus to Machu Picchu for sunrise views.
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu with expert explanations of the site’s history and highlights.
- Free time to explore independently.
- Optional hike to Huayna Picchu (advance reservation required).
- Return train to Ollantaytambo in the afternoon.
- Private transportation back to Cusco with hotel drop-off.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
At 9:00 AM, we depart from Cusco in private transport, heading to the charming town of Ollantaytambo, located in the heart of the Sacred Valley. From there, we board a scenic train to Aguas Calientes, following the stunning course of the Urubamba River. Arriving around 2:00 PM, we check into our hotel, and you have the entire afternoon free to explore at your leisure.
You can choose to visit the Machu Picchu Museum, the orchid exhibition, or the butterfly exhibit (a 40-minute walk from town). Alternatively, you can unwind in the thermal baths, located just a 5-minute walk from the town center.
Day 2: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
We wake up early to catch the first bus to Machu Picchu, arriving in time to witness the sunrise over the ruins—a truly magical experience. If you prefer, you can opt for a later visit.
Your expert guide will accompany you for approximately 2 hours, explaining the most fascinating details and history of the site. Afterward, you have free time to explore at your own pace or hike Huayna Picchu (optional, $65 per person, must be booked in advance).
In the afternoon, we return to Aguas Calientes, board the train to Ollantaytambo, and take a private bus back to Cusco, concluding our adventure with a hotel drop-off.
Includes
- Briefing
- Private Transport – Ollantaytambo’s train Station and back on day 1 and day 2
- Train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes Day 1
- Train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo Day 2
- Tickets to Machu Picchu
- (CONSETUR) Bus tickets round trip
- Private tour guide
- 01 Night Accommodation Hotel Seven Machupicchu ⭐⭐⭐
- First aid kit
What’s Not included
- Meals (L,D)
- Dinner
Packing List
- Comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear – Wear breathable layers and sturdy shoes suitable for walking.
- Light backpack – Carry only essentials to stay comfortable during the journey.
- Sun protection – Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Hydration and snacks – Keep a reusable water bottle and some energy-boosting snacks handy.
- Camera – Capture the breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable moments.
- Cash – Have some cash on hand for small purchases or unexpected expenses.
- Respect for archaeological sites – Follow the guidelines to preserve Machu Picchu’s beauty and history.
- Identification (Passport) – Ensure you have your passport or official ID, as it is required for entry.
Travel Information
Visiting Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. This private 2-day tour is designed to provide the best way to explore this world wonder with total comfort and without any worries. If you are a last-minute traveler, this program is perfect for you, as it includes all essential services to ensure an unforgettable journey. Plus, it is available year-round, allowing you to visit Machu Picchu in any season. To make your adventure perfect, here is some additional information about the tour:
Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is beautiful year-round, but timing affects your experience in different ways. The dry season (May to October) offers clear skies, fewer clouds, and excellent photography conditions.
Temperatures are cooler (10-20°C at altitude), and you'll need warm layers. The rainy season (November to April) brings lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and misty mornings that create a mystical atmosphere.
However, afternoon rain is common, and some hiking trails may be slippery. Most travelers prefer May through August, especially July and August, though these months are also the busiest.
If you want fewer crowds, consider April, September, or October. December through February sees afternoon rains but stunning emerald-colored vegetation.
Altitude and Acclimatization
Machu Picchu sits at 7,972 feet (2,430 meters) above sea level. For most people, this altitude is manageable, especially since this tour doesn't involve intense physical exertion like multi-day treks. However, some travelers experience mild altitude sickness symptoms: headaches, shortness of breath, or mild fatigue.
The best prevention is to spend at least 24 hours in Cusco (which sits at 11,150 feet/3,400 meters) before going to Machu Picchu. This allows your body to acclimatize to the altitude. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol the first day, eat light meals, and rest.
On the morning of your Machu Picchu visit, move slowly and breathe deeply. Most travelers feel completely normal by their second day. If you have serious altitude concerns, consult your doctor before traveling to Peru.
Weather and What to Expect
In the dry season, expect cool mornings and mild afternoons. Bring a jacket and layers. The sunrise at Machu Picchu can be cold (around 45-50°F / 7-10°C), so wear warm clothing. By mid-day, temperatures rise to a comfortable 60-70°F (15-21°C).
In the rainy season, mornings are usually clear, but clouds roll in by afternoon. Bring a rain poncho or waterproof jacket. The mist and clouds actually create stunning atmospheric photography opportunities.
Regardless of season, always bring sun protection: the sun is intense at this altitude, and you can burn quickly even on cloudy days. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential.
Physical Fitness Requirements
This tour is accessible to people of most fitness levels. You don't need to be an experienced hiker or in peak physical condition. The activities are moderate: walking on paved paths around Machu Picchu (mostly flat with some gentle slopes), riding buses and trains, and exploring ruins at your own pace.
If you can comfortably walk 2-3 miles at normal pace, you can do this tour. The only challenging part is the altitude itself, not the physical exertion. People in their 70s and 80s complete this tour successfully every year. Children as young as 6-8 can participate if they're comfortable walking moderate distances.
If you have joint problems, mobility issues, or are recovering from surgery, mention this when booking so we can make accommodations.
Passports and Documentation
You'll need a valid passport to enter Peru. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. Most nationalities (US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, NZ) receive a 90-day tourist visa upon arrival—no advance application needed.
Keep your passport with you throughout the tour, as you'll need it to enter Machu Picchu. Make photocopies of your passport's main page and store them separately in case of loss. Travel insurance that covers trip interruption and medical emergencies is highly recommended, though not required.
Money, Costs, and What to Budget Beyond the Tour
The $635 tour price covers accommodations, train, entrance, and guide. Beyond that, plan for: meals on Day 1 (budget $30-50), optional activities in Aguas Calientes like the museum ($15-20) or hot springs ($10-15), gratuity for your guide ($15-30 is standard), and any personal items or souvenirs.
In Aguas Calientes, meals range from $8-25 depending on where you eat. Budget $100-150 total per person for meals and extras over the 2 days. ATMs are available in Cusco and Aguas Calientes. The Peruvian sol is the currency, but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.
Credit cards work at most hotels and restaurants, but bring cash for small vendors and tips.
Luggage and What to Carry
Bring lightweight luggage for this tour. You'll carry a small daypack (10-15L) to Machu Picchu with water, camera, sunscreen, and jacket. Your main suitcase stays at your Cusco hotel—most hotels offer free luggage storage.
If you're only on this tour without other activities, pack for 2 days: comfortable walking shoes already broken in, layers for variable weather, toiletries, and one change of clothes. Large suitcases are difficult to manage on the train and buses. A rolling carry-on or small travel bag works better than a large checked bag.
Label your daypack and keep valuables (passport, money, phone) on you at all times.
Health Precautions and Medical Considerations
Peru has modern medical facilities in Cusco and Lima, but basic medical care is available in Aguas Calientes. Get travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation. Vaccinations for yellow fever and typhoid are recommended by the CDC for Peru, though not required.
Consult your doctor 4-6 weeks before travel. Common issues are mild altitude sickness (headaches, fatigue), which usually resolve within 24 hours. Bring medications for headaches, nausea, and digestive upset. Drink bottled water only.
Food is generally safe in hotels and restaurants catering to tourists. If you have serious health conditions, inform us during booking so we can discuss whether this tour is appropriate for you.
Getting to Cusco and Arriving Prepared
Most travelers fly into Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, then take a connecting flight to Cusco (about 1.5 hours). Or, you can fly directly to Cusco depending on your departure city. Arrive in Cusco at least 1-2 days before your Machu Picchu tour to acclimatize to the altitude and rest from travel.
The city sits at 11,150 feet, so take it easy the first day: rest, drink water, eat light meals. Walking slowly and avoiding alcohol helps your body adjust. Cusco is a beautiful colonial city with excellent hotels, restaurants, and attractions. We can recommend hotels and help arrange your airport transfers if needed.
Location the Machu Picchu 2 Days
Frequently Asked Questions About Our 2 Day Machu Picchu Tour
Resolvemos todas tus dudas antes de reservar tu viaje.
This is a completely private tour. You’ll have private transportation in a vehicle just for your group, a dedicated guide, and private accommodations. You won’t be mixed with other tour groups or waiting for strangers. If you’re traveling as a couple or family, you’ll have the guide and driver just for you. This allows flexibility to move at your pace, stop for photos, and customize the experience to your interests.
If you’re a solo traveler booking this tour, you have the option to join other solo travelers to share costs, or do the entire tour privately.
Absolutely. Many travelers choose to stay 1-2 extra nights to fully explore Machu Picchu, relax, and explore the town. We can easily adjust your itinerary and train tickets. An extra night at your 3-star hotel costs approximately $80-120 depending on the hotel. Extra nights give you more freedom to explore Machu Picchu without rushing, visit the museum, soak in thermal hot springs, or simply rest and enjoy the mountain atmosphere. Let us know when booking if you’d like to extend your stay.
Your hotel in Aguas Calientes is a comfortable 3-star property called Hotel Seven Machu Picchu. It features private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, hot water, and included breakfast. The hotel is centrally located within walking distance of restaurants and shops. Rooms are clean and comfortable with everything you need for a restful night.
If you prefer a luxury upgrade, we can arrange 4-star or 5-star accommodations for an additional cost ($50-150+ per night depending on the property). All accommodations include breakfast, which is important for fueling your Machu Picchu day.
Your tour includes Circuit 2, the most comprehensive route through Machu Picchu. This circuit covers all the main temples, the Sacred Plaza, the Temple of the Condor, the Intihuatana Stone, and the best viewpoints. It takes approximately 2 hours with your guide and gives you an excellent understanding of the site’s layout and significance.
Circuit 2 is ideal because it balances time efficiency with comprehensive coverage of all major structures. If availability is limited due to last-minute booking, you might be assigned Circuit 3, which is still excellent but slightly shorter. Both circuits are stunning.
No, Huayna Picchu (also called Wayna Picchu) is not included in the base tour price. However, you can add it for $65 per person if you wish. Huayna Picchu is a steep hike (about 45 minutes up and down) that climbs a nearly vertical stone stairway to a small temple perched on a peak overlooking Machu Picchu. The views are spectacular, but spots are limited and sell out 40+ days in advance.
If you want to hike Huayna Picchu, mention this when booking so we can secure your reservation. It’s physically challenging, and you need to be comfortable with heights and steep stairs.
All tickets (train and Machu Picchu entrance) will be sent to you via email, WhatsApp, or iMessage 1-2 weeks before your tour. The tickets are digital and can be shown on your phone or printed. Printed copies are also provided during your pre-trip briefing in Cusco. Keep your tickets safe—you’ll need them to board the train and enter Machu Picchu. If you lose them, inform your guide immediately.
The train ticket shows your name and seat number. The Machu Picchu ticket shows the date and time of your entry circuit and your circuit assignment.
If you book 1-2 weeks before your tour dates, we’ll do our best to secure all services. Last-minute bookings are possible but depend on train and Machu Picchu ticket availability. During peak season (July-August), last- minute bookings are harder to confirm. Train schedules may vary, and your circuit assignment might change.
We guarantee 100% to secure your Machu Picchu entrance ticket since we have an allocation. The train and hotel are usually available even on short notice. Contact us to check availability before booking.
Your entrance is scheduled in the early morning (typically 5:30-6:30 AM) to catch the sunrise. This is one of the main benefits of this tour—most other tours arrive mid-morning when crowds are heavy. The early time ensures you see the site when it’s most beautiful and has fewer tourists. If you absolutely prefer a later entrance time (mid-morning or afternoon), let us know during booking, and we can arrange it.
However, we don’t recommend it— the sunrise experience and smaller crowds in the early morning are truly special.
The tour operates rain or shine. Machu Picchu is spectacular in any weather. In the dry season, rain is rare. In the rainy season, it typically rains in the afternoon, and mornings are often clear. Even if it rains during your visit, the mist and clouds create stunning atmospheric conditions and fewer crowds. Bring a rain poncho or waterproof jacket. The Inca built Machu Picchu to function in any weather—their engineering includes excellent drainage systems.
Many travelers say their favorite Machu Picchu photos were taken during light rain or mist. There are no refunds for weather, but honestly, weather rarely spoils the experience.
Large suitcases are not practical on the train or buses. Space is limited, and you’ll be moving constantly. The train has overhead storage, but it fills quickly. We recommend leaving your main luggage at your Cusco hotel in their storage room (complimentary at most hotels). Pack just an overnight bag and a small daypack for Machu Picchu.
If you must bring a large suitcase, inform us in advance—additional fees may apply, and we can’t guarantee it will fit. Rolling carry-on bags work better than large checked luggage.
