Cusco in 1 Day for Couples - Round-trip scenic train between Cusco area and Aguas Calientes
In Collaboration with VIPAC Travel. Updated on February 25, 2026.
Full-day guided visit to Machu Picchu with round-trip train, shuttle bus, Machu Picchu entrance (assigned circuit), and local English/Spanish guide. Pickup from your lodging in Cusco and return the same day. Circuit 2 (Classic) is prioritized; if unavailable, Circuit 3B or 1B will be offered and confirmed before ticket issuance. Passport/ID details are required for ticket issuance.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with VIPAC Travel, inspired by the tour Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Round-trip scenic train between Cusco area and Aguas Calientes
- Guided 2–2.5 hour Machu Picchu visit (Circuit 2 priority)
- Door-to-door pickup and return to your lodging in Cusco
Itinerary
Day 1
Early morning pickup in Cusco, scenic train to Aguas Calientes, shuttle to the Machu Picchu citadel, guided visit, return by bus and train to Cusco and hotel drop-off. Total duration ~14 hours.
Hotel pickup in Cusco (door-to-door transfer)
Team will pick you up from your lodging in Cusco and transfer you to the train station (Poroy or Ollantaytambo depending on final train allocation). Confirmed pickup time will be sent the day before.
Tips from local experts:
- Be ready in your hotel lobby 10 minutes before the confirmed pickup time; provide any restricted-access notes (stairs, pedestrian-only streets) when you book.
- Have the same passport/ID you provided for ticket issuance with you and accessible during pickup and the whole trip.
- Bring a small daypack only; luggage limits are enforced on train services—check with the operator if you need to store larger bags.
Transfer to train station and board scenic train
Transfer from Cusco lodging to the allocated train station (Poroy or Ollantaytambo). Board the scheduled scenic service (Vistadome, Expedition, Inca Rail options depend on availability). Train includes snack service on many departures.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm which station you depart from (Poroy or Ollantaytambo) the evening before — travel time from central Cusco differs significantly between the two.
- Keep your paper or mobile ticket and passport accessible for station check-in and boarding.
- If you get motion-sick, sit facing forward and avoid heavy meals right before boarding; glass-window panoramic cars have the best views for photos.
Arrival at Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)
Arrive in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Short walk from the station to the bus boarding area where the shuttle buses to Machu Picchu depart.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a short wait at the Aguas Calientes station before boarding the shuttle bus; carry water and sun protection for this brief wait.
- Use the restroom at the train station or in town before boarding the shuttle; facilities at the citadel are limited.
- Keep your guide's contact or meeting point information handy; your VIPAC guide will meet the group in Aguas Calientes.
Shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu entrance
Board the official shuttle bus that climbs a winding road up to the Machu Picchu citadel entrance. The ascent offers views of the Urubamba River canyon.
Tips from local experts:
- Buses run frequently but there may be a short queue — have your bus ticket ready and wear comfortable shoes for boarding steps.
- The road is steep and winding; if you are prone to motion sickness, sit facing forward and look at the horizon.
- Carry a light layer and rain protection—the microclimate changes quickly between Aguas Calientes and the citadel.
Guided visit to Machu Picchu Citadel (assigned circuit)
Guided circuit of Machu Picchu. Circuit 2 (Classic, ~2.5 hours) is prioritized; if unavailable the operator will consult you about Circuit 3B or Circuit 1B before issuing the ticket. Your local guide will explain the main terraces, urban sectors, and ceremonial areas.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry your passport/ID and the physical or mobile admission ticket—entry is checked at the citadel gate.
- Expect uneven steps and terraces; wear sturdy walking shoes and use the provided resting benches during the tour if needed.
- Photography is allowed in most areas—arrive with your camera charged and consider the morning light for soft, less-harsh photos.
Return by shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes
Board the shuttle bus down from the citadel to Aguas Calientes for lunch and to await your return train.
Tips from local experts:
- Buses back to Aguas Calientes can have short lines; if your group is tight on time, notify the guide to organize priority boarding.
- Keep a small amount of local currency for any incidental purchases in Aguas Calientes (snacks, water).
- Check with your guide where to meet for train boarding and reconfirm the train carriage/seat allocation if applicable.
Lunch and free time in Aguas Calientes
Leisure time to eat and relax in Aguas Calientes before boarding the return train. Lunch is not included in the tour price.
Tips from local experts:
- Restaurants in Aguas Calientes can be busy—choose a place close to the station if you have an early return train.
- If you have dietary restrictions, request options when you are seated; many eateries can accommodate simple allergies but confirm ahead.
- Allow at least 20–30 minutes to walk from restaurants back to the train station and complete boarding procedures.
Return train from Aguas Calientes to Cusco area
Board the scheduled return train to Poroy or Ollantaytambo station. From there, transfer back to your lodging in Cusco.
Tips from local experts:
- Be at the station at least 30 minutes before departure to check boarding details and luggage handling procedures.
- Keep your ticket and passport accessible until you reach your final drop-off in Cusco.
- If your train service has a dining or snack car, check opening times—otherwise pack light snacks for the trip back.
Drop-off at your lodging in Cusco
Arrival back in Cusco and drop-off at your lodging (or nearest vehicle-accessible point). The driver will assist with disembarkation.
Tips from local experts:
- Some historic-center lodgings are on pedestrian streets; if so, the driver will drop you at the nearest vehicle-accessible point—confirm details when you book.
- Allow time to change and rest after a long day; if you plan dinner out, request a recommended nearby restaurant from your hotel.
- Keep any small personal items and camera gear with you on the final transfer—verify that nothing was left on the train or bus before disembarking.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 7 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 2 |
| Total Places | 9 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Meal |
