Discover Machu Picchu: Top Tours from Cusco

One of the most renowned and frequently visited locations in South America, the Lost City of Machu Picchu stands as Peru’s foremost archaeological site and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discovered centuries after its abandonment, its mountaintop setting among the Andean clouds renders it one of the most visually captivating historical sites globally.

This site continues to unveil its historical mysteries to archaeologists and historians, making it a must-see destination for anyone planning to visit Peru.

Below are 15 exceptional tours of Machu Picchu.

1. Day-Trip by Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu

The archaeological remains at Machu Picchu exemplify remarkable engineering achievements. Due to its elevated location, accessing the ruins can be challenging. This day tour from Cusco encompasses hotel pickup and drop-off, with the long-distance portion of the journey completed by train, offering a dramatic experience of the Andes.

While the day is lengthy at 16 hours, the breathtaking views and sites make it worthwhile. Comfortably seated, you’ll enjoy various dining options along the train ride, enhancing your travel experience.

2. 5-Day Tour from Cusco to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

This 5-day tour, designed for those with flexible schedules and a passion for adventure, allows travelers to immerse themselves in the rich culture and stunning sights of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. The package covers all site entry fees, meals as specified in the itinerary, and accommodations for four nights.

This tour offers an extensive range of activities and is ideal for those preferring to leave the logistics to seasoned tourism professionals.

3. Full-Day Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco

Most Machu Picchu tours commence in Cusco. Although it is possible to spend several days exploring the area, a full-day tour is generally adequate for most visitors, allowing ample time for additional excursions. Recognized as one of the New World’s wonders comparable to the Great Wall and Angkor Wat, it offers an exhilarating experience for first-time attendees.

Travelers will be transported by train to Machu Picchu, traversing a route similar to that taken by Spanish conquistadors in search of Peruvian gold.

4. Alternative Inca Jungle Excursion from Cusco

For those who have previously experienced Machu Picchu or seek something novel, this unique jungle excursion could be an excellent choice. It features biking, rafting, zip-lining, and hiking through dense vegetation, making it less suitable for those not in good physical condition.

The itinerary encompasses visits to both popular and lesser-known sites, ensuring a more tranquil experience devoid of large crowds.

5. 2-Day Maras, Moray Salt Mines, and Machu Picchu Combo Tour

Located midway between Cusco and Machu Picchu, Peru’s Urubamba Valley presents an attractive stop to explore towns featuring colonial architecture and Incan forts. This tour offers roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Cusco, a visit to the Moray Salt Mines, a Vistadome train ride to Aguas Calientes, and access to Machu Picchu.

Accommodation and meals are provided as outlined in the itinerary, and many guests have found that two days perfectly balance exploration without feeling hurried.

6. Machu Picchu Morning Combo Tour

Ideal for early risers eager to evade the crowds at this world-famous site, this morning combo tour begins with a local guide offering valuable historical insights into the culture and ruins that thrived in this mountaintop town. The tour includes a VIP ticket, entry to the archaeological site, and a two-hour guided exploration of the ancient citadel.

7. Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco

While both short and extended visits to Machu Picchu are possible, many travelers find that a full day allows them to appreciate the site thoroughly without feeling rushed. Some day tours can be lengthy, yet this all-inclusive trip from Cusco provides significant value while maintaining a comfortable pace.

Included in the experience are a private, knowledgeable guide, as well as transportation to and from the site via both bus and train.

8. Small Group 2-Hour Machu Picchu Tour

This two-hour economy tour is perfect for travelers with limited time and a modest budget. Despite its brevity, the small group size ensures personalized attention, allowing participants to visit key highlights that they would want to see, unlike larger tour groups.

Be ready for varying weather conditions and pack appropriately for the high altitudes.

9. 15-Day Tour from Lima Including the Amazon, Machu Picchu, and Lake Titicaca

Few tours encapsulate Peru’s essence as effectively as this extensive 15-day journey that begins in Lima. The itinerary includes 14 nights filled with visits to some of the region’s most stunning natural and archaeological sites. Almost all expenses related to food, accommodation, transportation, and site entrance fees are covered, allowing guests to focus on the adventure ahead.

This rapid-paced tour features the Amazon, Colca Canyon, Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca’s floating islands, and the iconic Machu Picchu, making it a favored choice among retirees and first-time international travelers.

10. 7-Day Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu Tour

If seven days feels excessive, yet you desire to explore more than just a day or two in the area, this 7-day tour encompassing Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu is an excellent alternative. This tour is tailored for serious travelers who wish to engage deeply with their surroundings and leaves no significant location unexplored.

Most essential components, including lodging, meals, transportation, and entry fees, are prepaid, alleviating the burden of logistical planning.

11. Luxury Pullman Train to Machu Picchu with Lunch

The luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham train, named after the esteemed explorer responsible for Machu Picchu’s discovery, provides a majestic arrival at these sacred ruins.

Designed in an early 20th-century style, the train offers a lavish atmosphere accompanied by exceptional dining experiences, including gourmet meals and a comprehensive bar. Guests are provided entrance fees and knowledgeable local guides to enrich their exploration of the archaeological site.

12. Cusco and Machu Picchu 4-Day Tour

Alongside Machu Picchu, this 4-day tour also includes archaeological visits to Pisac and the Ollantaytambo Fortress. This option is ideal for those seeking a more in-depth understanding of the area’s history.

First-time visitors will appreciate an extensive overview of the region while also allowing time to enjoy other attractions across South America.

Accommodations for three nights, select meals, and airport or hotel transportation are also included.

13. 4-Day Trip Machu Picchu Nature and Village Trek

This 4-day journey appeals to those wishing to avoid crowds while exploring the trails less taken. The itinerary includes visits to local highland villages, providing insight into the culture and customs of the ancient residents of Machu Picchu.

This trek not only reveals stunning mountain scenery but also ensures considerable physical activity, making it well-suited for fit and adventurous travelers.

14. Machu Picchu from Cusco: 4-Days on the Inca Trail

This 4-day tour emulates the historic migration of the Inca people, following the ancient paths to discover the remarkable sites hidden in remote locations. Though physically challenging, the experience rewarded participants with extraordinary perspectives of Machu Picchu and magnificent mountain vistas.

The majority of tour costs encompass all necessary expenses, providing clarity on what is included and excluded in the package.

15. Full-Day Tour by Vistadome Train from Cusco

Vistadome trains, designed with the traveler in mind, offer a stunning connection to one of the continent’s premier destinations through breathtaking mountain views. This all-day tour features a guide providing narrative on the historic and cultural significance of the site, which continues to unfold its secrets more than a century after it was uncovered.

Commencing early at 5:00 AM from your Cusco hotel, it’s advisable to retire early the night before to ensure a prompt start.