Machu Picchu Overnight Tour 2 Days
The Train Based 2 Day Machu Picchu Overnight Tour is the perfect option for travelers that want to see the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu magnificence and beauty at a leisurely pace! You will begin the tour in Cusco with a bus ride before boarding a panoramic train for a ride through the breathtaking Andean scenery and along the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes your charming escape to the Inca citadel.
The afternoon will be free to explore the town, relax with the natural hot springs, or hike to the nearby viewpoints before checking into your comfortable hotel for the evening. The second day you will visit Machu Picchu with a professional guide, learning about the temples, terraces, and mysteries of the ancient site. After the guided tour you will have free time at Machu Picchu to take in the views before taking the train back to Cusco. You will experience historical perspectives, scenery, and memories that are one of a kind!
Important: Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train schedules are subject to availability. During the high season, availability can become limited several months in advance. Early reservations are recommended to secure your preferred travel date and the best available entrance circuit.
Overview of the Machu Picchu overnight tour
This two day experience unites breathtaking scenery, comfort, and culture for an incredible experience to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World! Starting in Cusco, you traverse the Andean valleys and down into the lush cloud forest. Once at Aguas Calientes, you have the afternoon free to explore the town, check out the hot springs or just relax before an exciting day following.
Enjoy Machu Picchu Without the Rush
A two-day journey, unlike just a day trip around Machu Picchu, will give you the chance to visit Machu Picchu leisurely, the way you want. You get to spend the night in Aguas Calientes so that you can get a feel of the town, have a good rest to prepare for the journey, and visit Peru’s most recognized sites in style.
Tour Highlights
- Spend the night in the charming town of Aguas Calientes.
- Enjoy one of Peru’s most scenic train journeys through the Sacred Valley.
- Explore Machu Picchu with a professional guided tour.
- Free afternoon to visit the hot springs, local cafés, or explore Aguas Calientes.
- Additional free time inside Machu Picchu after the guided visit.
- Comfortable hotel accommodation with breakfast included.
- Well-organized transportation throughout the entire journey.
- Ideal for travelers who prefer a more relaxed itinerary.
Machu Picchu Overnight Trip Summary
Day 1: Cusco – Aguas Calientes
Start the day with a bus and train ride from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy the scenic ride through the Andes and along the Urubamba River. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and spend the afternoon at leisure, with time to explore the town, shop for local crafts, or visit the hot springs.
Day 2: Machu Picchu – Cusco
Wake up early for Machu Picchu, and catch the first bus up for the sunrise over the ruins. Explore the citadel with a professional guide for about 2–3 hours, then enjoy some free time before returning to Aguas Calientes. Later, take the Expedition Train to Ollantaytambo and continue by private van back to Cusco.
Why Book with Uros Expeditions?
Planning an overnight visit to Machu Picchu involves coordinating transportation, train schedules, accommodations, entrance tickets, and guided visits. Our team takes care of every detail, allowing you to enjoy a smooth and worry-free experience from beginning to end. With carefully selected hotels, professional local guides, and reliable service, you can focus entirely on enjoying one of the most unforgettable journeys in Peru.
- Official Machu Picchu entrance ticket included.
- Round-trip panoramic train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
- Comfortable hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes with breakfast.
- Professional English-speaking guide inside Machu Picchu.
- Round-trip Consettur shuttle bus between Aguas Calientes and the citadel.
- Comfortable transportation between Cusco and Ollantaytambo.
- Free afternoon to explore Aguas Calientes at your own pace.
- Carefully coordinated schedules for a relaxed travel experience.
- Experienced local team with personalized assistance before and during your trip.
- 24/7 customer support from booking until the end of your journey.
Full Itinerary – Machu Picchu Overnight Tour
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Your journey starts with a 7:00 a.m. pickup from your hotel in Cusco. You will be taken to the San Pedro train station to board the Expedition Train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. The trip from Cusco will last approximately 5 hours, taking you through the high Andean landscape of Cusco to the lush cloud forest surrounding the ancient citadel. During the ride, you will see the beautiful contrasting landscapes of the Anta plains, Pomatales Canyon, and the valley of the Urubamba River and will follow the river on its snaking path through the mountain observe all throughout the trip.
During the rainy season (January – April) or if the train service from Cusco is no longer running, the departures will be from Ollantaytambo Station. In this case, the pick-up will be at 8:00 a.m. and you will tour through the Sacred Valley first and then board the train. The same applies if the tickets from Cusco are sold out. Possible train stations are San Pedro, Poroy and Ollantaytambo.
You will arrive in Aguas Calientes at about noon, check in at your hotel, and then have the rest of the afternoon to explore. A small market offers a chance for you to walk through downtown, visit the Butterfly Station, Mandor Gardens, Machu Picchu Museum, or relax in the thermal baths that gave Aguas Calientes its reputation of being a spa town.
Included:
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
- Train ticket to Aguas Calientes
- Hotel accommodation (Ferre Machu Picchu or similar)
Meals: Not included
Day 2: Machu Picchu Tour – Return to Cusco
Wake up early and enjoy breakfast at your hotel before meeting your guide to board one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu. The ride takes about 30 minutes, offering your first glimpses of the breathtaking landscape that surrounds the Inca citadel. Upon arrival, you’ll enter the site by presenting your passport and entry ticket, and begin your 2–3 hour private guided tour.
Your guide will lead you through Machu Picchu’s most iconic landmarks the Temple of the Sun, Main Square, Guardhouse, Temple of the Condor, and agricultural terraces while sharing insights into the history, engineering, and spiritual importance of each site. After the tour, enjoy free time to wander at your own pace or take an optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking required).
By default, this tour includes Circuit 2, the most comprehensive route through the citadel. If unavailable, Uros Expeditions will secure Circuit 1 or 3, ensuring you don’t miss any major highlights. Because entry spaces are limited, we recommend booking as early as possible to secure your preferred schedule and circuit.
After your visit, return to Aguas Calientes by bus and enjoy lunch or some final shopping in town. In the afternoon, you’ll board the Expedition Train for a scenic 1.5-hour journey to Ollantaytambo, where a private van will be waiting for your transfer back to Cusco. You’ll arrive at your hotel around 7:00 p.m., ending your unforgettable Machu Picchu experience.
Included:
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2 or best available)
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Round-trip Expedition Train tickets
- Bus tickets to and from Machu Picchu
Meals: Breakfast at hotel (lunch and dinner not included)
Included/Not Included
Included
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2 or best available)
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Round-trip Expedition Train tickets
- Bus tickets to and from Machu Picchu
- Meals: Breakfast at hotel (lunch and dinner not included)
Not Included
- Huayna Picchu Mountain.
- Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Meals.
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Machu Picchu Overnight Tour 2 Days / 1 Night Prices
Our group tour service is designed for travelers who want to enjoy an authentic and social experience while exploring the destination. You will join a small group of like-minded travelers, allowing you to share the journey, meet new people, and create memorable moments together.
The service includes professional, English-speaking guides who will accompany the group throughout the tour, providing detailed information, cultural insights, and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Please note that group tours follow a set itinerary, and flexibility is limited compared to private services. However, this allows for a well-organized, efficient, and cost-effective experience.
- 1 Person 485 USD
- 2 People 395 USD
- 3 People 380 USD
- 4 People 375 USD
- 5+ People BEST VALUE 370 USD
Enjoy a two-day journey to Machu Picchu with services reserved exclusively for you and your group. Your private guide will meet you in Aguas Calientes and lead you through the citadel at a pace that suits your interests, giving you plenty of time to explore, ask questions, and take in the surroundings.
With a private tour, you won’t need to follow the schedule of a larger group. From your train journey and overnight stay to your guided visit, every part of the experience is designed to provide greater comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention, making your visit to Machu Picchu even more enjoyable.
Reservation Payment
- A deposit of 50% per person is required to secure your booking. The remaining balance can be paid online before your trip or in our Cusco office using a credit card, or bank transfer. If you require a different payment method, please contact us and we will be happy to assist.
- To process permits and entrance tickets, we require the following information for each traveler: full name exactly as shown on the passport, passport number, nationality, date of birth, and passport expiration date. Please ensure all details are accurate, as changes may incur additional fees or affect permit availability.
Student & Child Discount
- A US$20 discount is available for children under 17 years old and students under 25 years old. Child discounts are applied automatically at the time of booking.
- Students must provide a valid university ID card showing:
- the student’s name
- photograph
- university name
- valid expiration date.
Expired student IDs and ISIC cards are not accepted. To receive the discount, please send a copy of your student ID when making your reservation.
If the document does not meet the requirements established by the Peruvian authorities, the standard adult rate will apply. For assistance, contact us at info@urosexpeditions.com
Travel Information - Machu Picchu Overnight Tour by Train
Altitude Levels Along the Machu Picchu Overnight Tour by Train
This tour will cover a wide range of altitudes, providing a gentle and gradual descent from high Andean altitudes to a cloud forest. You will start in Cusco (3400 m / 11155 ft), traverse the Sacred Valley (2790 m / 9154 ft), and arrive at Aguas Calientes (2040 m / 6693 ft), which is the gateway to Machu Picchu. The Machu Picchu citadel itself is at an altitude of (2430 m / 7972 ft), which typically has warmer and more humid air. Because of the diminishing elevation, most travelers will find the itinerary to be very comfortable and have minimal or no altitude problems compared to higher altitude treks.
Physical Demand and Difficulty of the Machu Picchu Overnight Tour
The Machu Picchu Overnight Tour by Train is also rated easy to moderate, which makes it suitable for travelers of all ages. There will be sections that are walking at Machu Picchu, and those will involve clearly cobbled paths, some moderately uneven stairs, and slight inclines – at a relaxed pace, and there will be ample time to relax and take photo opportunities. This tour is focused more on exploration of the local culture and prevalence of scenic travel versus being physically demanding, and that is the perfect combination between adventure and comfort: walking moderately is enough fitness fitness to fully enjoy the experience.
Duration and Daily Schedule of Your Machu Picchu Overnight Adventure
This is a two-day, one-night trip starting with an early 7:00 a.m. pickup from your hotel in Cusco, and ending on the second day sometime around 7:00 p.m. On Day 1 you will take a lovely train ride to Aguas Calientes, check in to your hotel, and then have free time in the town, or to go to the hot springs. Day 2 will be focused on your guided excursion to Machu Picchu – one of the most beautiful archaeological sites in the world. After this excursion, you will return to Cusco aboard the Expedition Train and private transport. Everything is planned out for you by Uros Expeditions to keep you on time and relaxed throughout the entire experience.
Climate and Weather Conditions During the Machu Picchu Overnight Trip
The climate on this route changes with altitude. Cusco tends to be cool with an average temperature of 10-18°C (50-64°F), and in Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu the climate is warm and humid, and tends to average 18-25 °C (64-77°F). The dry season (April – October) is generally clear skies and sunny days with no rain – this is the best time to visit for sightseeing and photography. The wet season (November – March) has a chance for small showers late afternoon, and is full of lush green scenery – the crowds are also light in the wet season. Overall, in any season of the year, we suggest you bring a light rain jacket or poncho the weather in the Andes can change quickly.
Best Time to Go on the Machu Picchu Overnight Tour by Train
The ideal time to take this tour is from May to September when conditions are stable and visibility is at its highest. Machu Picchu can often reveal its best side during this window, with misty sunrises and bright blue mornings. However, please note from June to August is peak travel in this region, and trains and entrance tickets tend to sell out quickly. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can visit in the months of April, May, September or October. Weather is still great and crowds are much smaller.
Machu Picchu Tickets and Entry Circuits Explained
Entrance to Machu Picchu has strict regulations by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture, and they have assigned specific visiting circuits to preserve the site. This tour automatically includes Circuit 2 that offers the most comprehensive experience visiting the main temples, terraces and viewpoints. Should Circuit 2 sell out, Uros Expeditions will confirm the next best available option (Circuit 1 or 3). Each ticket is registered to your name and passport ( you must have your original passport with you to enter.) It is always best practice to book in advance, especially during high season for your preferred route and time.
Train Services on the Machu Picchu Overnight Tour: Expedition & Vistadome Options
As standard service on both outbound and return journeys, you will be traveling in the Expedition Train, which includes comfortable seating, large panoramic windows and snack service. It will be a fun way to get to Machu Picchu while enjoying the Sacred Valley and Urubamba River canyon en route. If you are seeking an upgraded experience, it is possible to upgrade your train ticket to the Vistadome Train, which features wider windows, glass ceilings, live Andean music and performances while on board. Each traveler is allowed one small daypack onboard the train — any bigger luggage will need to be stored at your hotel in Cusco.
What to Bring
- Packing smartly will allow you to enjoy your time fully at Machu Picchu, without carrying unnecessary weight. We recommend that you bring:
- Passport (needed to board the train and enter Machu Picchu)
- Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots
- Layered clothing (temperatures vary throughout the day)
- Rain jacket or poncho (yes, even during dry season)
- Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses (UV radiation is high in the Andes)
- Your own reusable bottle for water/say hydrated
- Insect repellent for Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- Camera or smartphone for pictures and video
- A small backpack with your necessities for each day
- Cash in soles for small purchases, snacks or tipping
Frequently Asked Questions
This tour is perfect for travelers who want to experience Machu Picchu without rushing. By spending the night in Aguas Calientes, you can slow down, rest, and enjoy the journey as part of the experience. It is especially ideal for first-time visitors, couples, and anyone who prefers a more relaxed and meaningful visit to one of the world’s most iconic sites.
While Machu Picchu sits at a much lower altitude than Cusco, the journey begins in the Andes. Spending at least one day in Cusco before the tour helps your body adjust and makes the overall experience more comfortable, especially if you are arriving from sea level.
The guided tour inside Machu Picchu lasts approximately two to three hours. Afterward, depending on park regulations and your circuit, you may have some free time to take photos, enjoy the views, or simply pause and absorb the atmosphere of this extraordinary place.
Accommodation is provided in a comfortable, well-located hotel in Aguas Calientes. These hotels are selected for their cleanliness, private rooms, hot showers, and convenient access to restaurants and the bus station, giving you a restful night before visiting Machu Picchu.
Staying overnight allows you to disconnect from the long travel day and approach Machu Picchu with fresh energy the next morning. Instead of arriving tired, you wake up close to the entrance, enjoy the quieter early hours, and experience the citadel in a calmer atmosphere before the crowds build up.
On the second morning, you rise early and take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu. As daylight slowly reveals the stone terraces and temples, your guide walks you through the most important sectors of the citadel, sharing stories about Inca life, spirituality, and engineering that bring the site to life.
This tour is considered easy to moderate. You will walk on stone paths and stairs, but there is no trekking involved. The overnight stay makes the experience much more comfortable, allowing you to explore Machu Picchu at a steady pace without feeling rushed or exhausted.
Bring your original passport, comfortable walking shoes, a light rain jacket, warm layers for the evening, sun protection, and a small overnight bag. Larger luggage can be left in Cusco or stored at the hotel, as only small backpacks are allowed inside Machu Picchu.
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