TourismCusco

Tours & experiences

Machu Picchu Day Trip from Ollantaytambo and Urubamba

About this experience

Discover Machu Picchu with a private, personalized experience designed for travelers staying in the Sacred Valley, including Urubamba and Ollantaytambo.

This full-day tour stands out by offering door-to-door service, transfers, train rides, and a dedicated local guide who brings the Inca citadel to life with stories of its temples, terraces, and sacred sites.

Unlike standard group tours, you will enjoy a relaxed pace and the freedom to immerse yourself without feeling rushed. Travel aboard a scenic train to Aguas Calientes, then ride the bus up to Machu Picchu, where your guide will lead you through the most iconic spots and hidden corners. You will also capture breathtaking photos from the best viewpoints and meet the famous llamas along the way.

Best of all, your guided visit takes place in the AFTERNOON—when the site is noticeably quieter—giving you space to truly appreciate this wonder of the world, without the morning rush.

At a glance

  • Duration: 11 hr–12 hr
  • Private experience

Choose your tour option

Select a date and travellers to compare current prices and departure times.

Machu Picchu Classic Tour
Regular Tourist Train
Pickup included
Machu Picchu Premium Tour
Vistadome Panoramic Train
Pickup included

Plan your experience

Time on the tour11 hr–12 hr
Getting therePickup offeredSee pickup details
Guide languagesEnglish (live guide)
Tour arrangementPrivate experience

Set aside 11 hr–12 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.

Before you go

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Local guides to help you plan

What is included

  • Round-trip shuttle bus tickets to Machu Picchu
  • Private hotel pickup and drop-off in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo
  • Official Machu Picchu admission entrance ticket
  • Private professional English-speaking tour guide
  • Round-trip scenic train tickets (Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes)

Not included

  • Lunch
  • Optional tips and gratuities for guide and driver
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs

Itinerary and highlights

We board the train at Ollantaytambo train station

Meet your guide and catch the shuttle bus up to Machu Picchu citadel

Upon arriving at the entrance gate of Machu Picchu, your private guide will lead you to the Guard House, where you will be treated to the best panoramic views of this ancient wonder. Here, you will have time to take in the stunning scenery and capture iconic postcard-worthy photos.

After soaking in the breathtaking views, you will begin an in-depth guided tour of Machu Picchu’s urban sector. You will explore its main temples, royal residences, and other significant structures, while your guide shares fascinating historical insights, stories of the Inca civilization, and sacred legends surrounding this mystical site. The guided visit typically lasts 2.5 - 3 hours. approx.

After completing your visit, you will board the shuttle bus back to Aguas Calientes Town where you will have time to enjoy lunch before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo, and your driver will meet there to drive back to your Hotel.

Meeting and pickup information

  • We pick you up from your hotel/hostel/Airbnb anywhere in Ollantaytambo and Urubamba. IMPORTANT: After you made your reservation, please send us immediately via the Tripadvisor messenger the pickup location as well as if you'd like to be dropped-off in Ollantaytambo or Cusco. This messenger will be available within your booking confirmation.

Languages and tickets

  • English — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • Cusco Local Friend

Accessibility and practical details

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Total tour duration includes the travel time.

Cancellation policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 11 hr–12 hr. Check your chosen tour option for its specific itinerary.
What are the pickup arrangements?
We pick you up from your hotel/hostel/Airbnb anywhere in Ollantaytambo and Urubamba.

IMPORTANT: After you made your reservation, please send us immediately via the Tripadvisor messenger the pickup location as well as if you'd like to be dropped-off in Ollantaytambo or Cusco. This messenger will be available within your booking confirmation.
Which guide languages are listed?
English (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Child tickets: age 3–10; Adult tickets: age 11+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What is the cancellation policy?
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Traveller reviews and photos

Traveller experiences load when you reach this section.