Machu Picchu Tour with Vistadome Observatory Train - Circuit 2

Itinerary for the Machu Picchu Tour with Vistadome Observatory Train

Important: The itinerary may vary based on the availability of entry times to Machu Picchu and the selected train categories.

04:30 - 09:15 AM: Hotel Pickup - Bus Station - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes

Upon booking the tour with Guru Explorers and submitting the necessary travel documents, we will handle the purchase of train tickets and Machu Picchu entry tickets, taking into account your needs and, if possible, adapting them to the best itinerary.

The tour start time will depend on the coordination made and ticket availability at the time of booking. The tour begins with a private transfer from your accommodation in the center of Cusco to the bus station, where there is a bus service provided by the train company that will take you to the train station both ways.

The bus journey to the Ollantaytambo train station takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. If the group is in the town of Ollantaytambo, we can assist in arranging transport to the train station if necessary.

The exciting journey on the Vistadome Observatory train lasts 1.5 hours until you reach the town of Aguas Calientes. This train offers a unique panoramic experience, with wide windows and an observation car that allows you to enjoy spectacular views of the landscape, along with live music and dance performances. An unforgettable experience!

09:15 AM - 01:30 PM: Arrival in Aguas Calientes - Transfer to Machu Picchu - Circuit 2 Tour

Upon arriving at the central station of Aguas Calientes, our representative will be waiting for you at the exit to provide instructions and the meeting point for the shared tour experience to Machu Picchu.

Once it's time, you will queue at the Aguas Calientes bus station to board the tourist bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu. With the tour guide, you will have the opportunity to explore the best of Circuit 2, including fountains, temples, staircases, and architectural spaces of this enigmatic archaeological site.

The tour guide will explain the history and interesting facts of Machu Picchu during a 2:00 / 2:30-hour tour, during which you will also have time to take the best photographs.

01:30 - 08:00 PM: Free Time - Return to Cusco

After exploring the impressive Inca archaeological center, you will start the return to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time to have lunch or explore the attractions while waiting for your train back to Ollantaytambo.

Make the most of your stay in this town, which is accessible only by rail or hiking along Inca routes.

Depending on the tour package you choose, the return will be on the Expedition or Vistadome Observatory train, heading to the Ollantaytambo station; from there, you will take the bus back to Cusco, arriving approximately at 19:00.

Notes:

Availability

The itinerary of your trip may vary depending on the availability of train tickets and Machu Picchu entry tickets. We recommend taking precautions and booking in advance, especially during high season (May - October) or during holidays.

Train Ticket

Among the options, you can choose the Vistadome Observatory train for either the outbound or return journey. In such cases, the complementary train would be the Expedition train.

Trains to Ollantaytambo: Availability and Alternatives

Trains departing to and arriving from Ollantaytambo station are subject to availability. If there are no trains available, you can choose alternative services that depart from other stations.

The price of the Machu Picchu tour with Observatory train includes: 

• Briefing One Day Before the Tour
• Transfer from your accommodation in the historic center of Cusco. Due to limited access through the narrow streets of the city, the guide may suggest a nearby point for pickup.
• Shared Professional Guided Tour in English and Spanish at Machu Picchu (other languages are available for private tours).
• Shared Transportation (round trip) from Cusco to Ollantaytambo.
• Circuit 2 Entry Tickets to Machu Picchu (subject to availability).
• Vistadome Observatory Train Tickets (round trip, or one-way depending on the package and availability).
• Snacks on the Observatory Train.
• Tourist Bus Tickets (round trip) from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
• Transportation from Cusco Station to your hotel in the historic center of Cusco

The price of the Machu Picchu tour with Observatory train does not include:

• Transfer from hotels outside the city of Cusco
• Tips for the guide
• Beverages
• Breakfast, lunch, dinner, or any other meal not specified in the itinerary
• Additional Machu Picchu entries not mentioned, such as Circuit 3 with Huayna Picchu or Circuit 1 with Machu Picchu Mountain

Additional (Recommended):

• Private transportation for up to 3 people (car) from your hotel in the historic center of Cusco to Ollantaytambo (round trip): 90 USD

What to Bring for the Machu Picchu Tour:

• Consider that Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes are located at approximately 2,000 meters (6,561 feet) above sea level; the climate varies depending on the time of year you visit.
• It is recommended to bring: comfortable footwear (hard soles are not allowed in the Citadel), lightweight clothing, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and rain gear (especially from November to April).
• Insect repellent (important for Machu Picchu)
• Passport or ID (matching the reservation details)
• Student card approved by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture
• Travel insurance
• Swimwear and towel (optional for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
• Cash (local currency)

What Considerations Should You Have When Traveling to the Machu Picchu Ruins?

• Train schedules and access to Machu Picchu may vary depending on availability. We recommend making reservations as early as possible.
• Due to train company regulations, carrying backpacks, large bags, or suitcases is not permitted. Only small bags or backpacks up to 7-8 kg are allowed.
• For the transfer from Cusco, please consider that sometimes access may be limited due to the narrow streets of the city; if this is the case, the guide will suggest a nearby pickup point.
• Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
• Due to environmental, climatic, or other external factors beyond our control, the travel itinerary may vary. If this occurs, you will be notified in advance.
• Guru Explorers values your time and strives to adhere to tour schedules; however, changes may occur due to reasons beyond our control (weather, natural disasters, field conditions, protests, among other demonstrable reasons). We will do our best to offer efficient options and solutions for your enjoyment.

Not Allowed:

• Pets
• Smoking
• Large bags or suitcases

Not Recommended For:

• Individuals in wheelchairs

Cancellation Policies:

• Cancellations 14 days or more in advance: A penalty of 150 USD per person will be charged, which covers administrative fees, Machu Picchu entry tickets, and train company fees.
• Cancellations 7 to 13 days in advance: A penalty of 60% of the total tour price will apply.
• Cancellations 6 days or less in advance: No refund will be provided.
• No refunds for additional tickets to Machu Picchu Mountain, Huayna Picchu Mountain, or other extra services.

Date Changes:

Please note the following:

• Changes 14 days or more in advance: A penalty of 100 USD per person will be charged, covering administrative fees and a new Machu Picchu ticket subject to availability.
• Changes 7 to 13 days in advance: A penalty of 120 USD per person will apply, covering administrative fees and a new Machu Picchu ticket subject to availability.
• Changes 6 days or less in advance: A 100% penalty will apply, and a new reservation must be made.

Important: No refunds will be provided for delayed flights, train delays, protests, bad weather, or other factors external to Guru Explorers

Be part of the experience you will have on the Machu Picchu Tour with Vistadome Observatory Train - Circuit 2.

If you are still wondering why choose us, we would like you to read 7 outstanding features of our service:

1. QUALITY: When you go to a teacher, it's because you want to answer all the questions. When it comes to travel, money, time and enjoyment there is a lot to be solved and that's what Guru Explorers is all about, giving you the perfect balance for the adventure you DESERVE. 
2. EXPERIENCE: To become Guru Explorers, we are still world travelers, but experts in Cusco, Lima, and the most important destinations in Peru. We live bad and good experiences, valuing that in the details is the difference, that's why we know what elements are essential for your trip, we are travelers and we strive to enhance your experience!
3. TRANSPARENCY: We are here to provide you with the best information and description of our tours. We are not in favor of hidden costs. We provide the necessary information so you can choose the inclusions or upgrades you are looking for.
4. SECURITY: You trust us with your time, your money and your expectations and that is why we fine tune every detail to guarantee the trip you dream of.
5. FLEXIBILITY: Although we have pre-established packages; we adapt to your needs and make tailor-made plans for you to visit any place in Peru, with the expertise of a Guru Explorers. We adapt trips for special occasions such as your corporate travel, honeymoon, birthday, social, cultural or sporting event in your visit to Peru, offering you a complete advice to achieve and exceed your expectations.
6. PASSION: Before being tour guides, we are travelers, explorers, adventurers; that makes us passionate about creating the best experiences in the time you invest for you and your loved ones.
7. SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: We promote Responsible and Sustainable Tourism, not affecting the traveler, nor exploiting the communities that receive them or their environment. We create experiences that are more humane and respectful of heritage.

What does the Vistadome Observatory train include?

It includes an observation car where you will enjoy traditional dances and live music performances. Additionally, it includes snacks on board, an alpaca clothing fashion show, ambient music, and more.

What other trains are available to Machu Picchu?

By contacting an agent, you can also choose from other options such as the Vistadome train, The 360°, Premium, and Lounge trains, among others.