Start a Conversation
Hello! Have questions about our destinations? Chat with one of our team members on WhatsApp
Start a Conversation
Hello! Have questions about our destinations? Chat with one of our team members on WhatsApp
Our 1 day Machu Picchu tour from Ollantaytambo is a simple and memorable way to visit Machu Picchu in just one day, starting from Ollantaytambo or Urubamba. Travel by scenic train through the Sacred Valley, then take the bus up to the famous Inca citadel for a guided visit with history, incredible views, and local insight.
Ready to make Machu Picchu part of your trip? Let’s plan your day from Ollantaytambo.
Moderate
Hike, Culture, Adventure
3,399 m
Group Service
Our 1 day Machu Picchu tour from Ollantaytambo is a practical and comfortable way to visit the Inca citadel without starting the journey in Cusco. Departing from Ollantaytambo or Urubamba means you are already closer to the train station and deeper in the Sacred Valley, which helps reduce travel time and makes the day feel smoother.
Travel by scenic train along the valley and the Urubamba River, then take the bus up to Machu Picchu for a guided visit filled with history, incredible views, and local insight. You’ll see the most important areas of the citadel, have time for photos and quiet moments, and return comfortably the same day.
This full-day experience begins early in the morning and returns in the evening. Travelers are picked up from their hotel in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba and transferred to the nearby train station. Return time is typically between 6:30 and 8:00 p.m., depending on train schedules. The total duration is approximately 12 to 14 hours, offering a complete and efficient journey to Machu Picchu.
Despite being a one-day tour, it delivers a well-rounded experience, combining scenic train travel, a guided visit of the citadel, and smooth transfers throughout the day.
Difficulty Level
This tour is considered easy to moderate and is suitable for most travelers, including families and older adults in good physical condition. The main challenge is walking within Machu Picchu, which involves stone steps and uneven paths.
The pace is comfortable and flexible, allowing time to explore without rushing. Visitors should be prepared to walk for a few hours and adapt to changing weather conditions.
Altitude Range
This journey takes you through diverse elevations, descending from the Sacred Valley into the cloud forest:
Urubamba: 2,871 m / 9,419 ft
Ollantaytambo: 2,792 m / 9,160 ft
Aguas Calientes: 2,041 m / 6,693 ft
Machu Picchu: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Huayna Picchu (optional): 2,720 m / 8,920 ft
Since the tour starts at a lower altitude than Cusco, altitude discomfort is generally less intense. However, staying hydrated and well-rested is still recommended.
Transportation
The tour includes all ground and rail transportation. After pickup from your hotel in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, you’ll be transferred to the train station (typically 10–25 minutes).
The train journey to Aguas Calientes takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, passing through the Sacred Valley with stunning views of mountains, rivers, and lush cloud forest landscapes.
From Aguas Calientes, a 30-minute bus ride takes you up to Machu Picchu. After your guided visit, you’ll return the same way, followed by a comfortable transfer back to your hotel.
Best time to Go
Machu Picchu is open year-round. The dry season (April to October) offers clear skies and ideal conditions for exploring and photography.
The rainy season (November to March) brings fewer crowds and vibrant green landscapes, with occasional afternoon showers that add a dramatic, misty atmosphere to the ruins.
What Sets Our 1-Day Tour Apart
Small Groups: Maximum 7 travelers, or upgrade to a private experience for more flexibility and comfort.
Direct Transfers: No unnecessary stops or shared transport delays, everything is smooth and efficient.
Expert Guides: Passionate, English-speaking guides who turn history into a vivid, engaging story.
Best Circuits: Access to Circuit 1 or 2, including the classic panoramic viewpoints. Optional Huayna Picchu permits available.
Stress-Free Planning: We handle all logistics, train tickets, entrance permits, and bus transfers, so you can focus on the experience.
Your journey begins early in the morning with a hotel pick-up from Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, in the heart of the Sacred Valley. After a short transfer to the train station (approximately 10–25 minutes), you’ll board a scenic train bound for Aguas Calientes (2,041 m / 6,693 ft).
The train ride is one of the most breathtaking experiences in South America, winding through dramatic Andean landscapes, lush valleys, and the edge of the cloud forest. As the journey unfolds, the changing scenery reveals the region’s rich biodiversity, with mist-covered mountains and the Vilcanota River guiding your path.
Hidden high in the Andes, Machu Picchu (2,430 m / 7,972 ft) remains one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you will be assisted by our local team and guided to the bus station for a scenic 30-minute ride up a winding mountain road to the entrance of the citadel.
Guided Visit of Machu Picchu & Optional Huayna Picchu Hike
Once inside Machu Picchu, your guided tour will bring the ancient city to life. You will explore its most important sectors, including temples, terraces, ceremonial spaces, and panoramic viewpoints, while learning about its history, architecture, and spiritual significance.
For those seeking an added challenge, there is the option to hike Huayna Picchu (2,720 m / 8,920 ft), the iconic peak that rises above the citadel. This steep and rewarding hike is limited to a small number of visitors per day and offers unforgettable views from above, along with access to hidden terraces and ancient Inca structures.
During your visit, you will discover remarkable landmarks such as the Temple of the Condor, Temple of the Three Windows, the Principal Temple, the Temple of the Sun (Torreón), and the Sacred Plaza, each reflecting the advanced engineering and spiritual depth of the Inca civilization.
Return to the Sacred Valley
After your visit, you will descend by bus to Aguas Calientes and board the train for your return journey to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our private transport will take you back to your hotel in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba.
This carefully designed itinerary allows you to experience the magic of Machu Picchu in a single day, combining comfort, efficiency, and an immersive cultural experience.
Meals: Not included
Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our 1-day tour from the Sacred Valley, including details on logistics, tickets, and what to expect throughout your journey. Prepare for a seamless and memorable visit to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
How long does the 1-day Machu Picchu tour take?
The tour lasts approximately 12 to 14 hours. It begins early in the morning with hotel pick-up in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba and concludes in the evening upon your return to the Sacred Valley.
What is the highest altitude reached during the tour?
The highest point of the tour is Machu Picchu at 2,430 m / 7,972 ft. Since the journey starts in the Sacred Valley, altitude levels are lower and generally more comfortable than Cusco.
Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the tour is appropriate for most travelers with a basic level of fitness. It involves moderate walking within the archaeological site, including steps and uneven paths, but no strenuous hiking is required.
How do I get to Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo or Urubamba?
The experience includes a short transfer to the train station, followed by a scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes, and a 30-minute bus ride up to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
Is the Machu Picchu entrance ticket included?
Yes, your entrance ticket is included in the tour package. Optional permits for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain can be arranged in advance at an additional cost (subject to availability).
What train options are available?
Travelers can choose between Expedition, Vistadome, or 360° panoramic trains, all offering comfortable seating and spectacular views of the Andes and surrounding landscapes.
Can I book this tour at the last minute?
Last-minute bookings are possible depending on availability. We recommend contacting us directly so we can assist in securing train tickets and entrance permits.
What should I bring for the tour?
We recommend bringing your passport, comfortable walking shoes, a light waterproof jacket or poncho, sunscreen, a hat, water, and some cash for personal expenses in Aguas Calientes.
Are meals included?
Meals are not included. However, you will have time to enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes, where a variety of restaurants offer traditional Peruvian cuisine.
Need help deciding on the right trip? Whether it s a quick question or full itinerary advice, we re here to help.
