Full Day Machu Picchu – Complete guide to visiting the wonder of the world in one day
Visiting Machu Picchu in a single day is one of the most unforgettable experiences of a trip to Cusco. The Full Day Machu Picchu tour allows you to discover the most famous Inca city in the world, leaving early from Cusco and returning the same day.In this guide, you will learn what the tour is like, what circuits are available, what is included, and how far in advance you need to purchase your tickets depending on the season.
Full Day Machu Picchu Tour Itinerary 2025
The tour begins very early, between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m., with pickup from your hotel in Cusco to the train station in Ollantaytambo. From there, you will take the tourist train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Sacred Valley. Once in Aguas Calientes, you will take an eco-friendly bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where your professional guide will be waiting to begin the tour according to the circuit you have purchased
Circuit tours available in Machu Picchu
Since 2024, entry to Machu Picchu has been organized into three main circuits, divided into sub-routes (A, B, and C), as established by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture. Each visitor must choose their circuit when purchasing their ticket, and it cannot be changed after purchase.
Circuit 1 – Panoramic
Ideal for those seeking classic, panoramic views of Machu Picchu from the upper part.
Includes access to:
Route 1-A – Machu Picchu Mountain
Route 1-B – Upper Terrace
Route 1-C – Intipunku Gate (Gate of the Sun)
Circuit 2 – Classic
The most complete and popular circuit, allowing visitors to explore the upper and lower parts of Machu Picchu, including temples, terraces, and main squares.
Includes access to:
Route 2-A – Classic Designed Route
Route 2-B – Lower Terrace Route
Circuit 3 – Machu Picchu Royalty
Explore the lower, urban area of the sanctuary, with access to the paths leading to Huayna Picchu and the Great Cave (Temple of the Moon).
Includes access to:
Route 3-A – Huayna Picchu Mountain
Route 3-B – Designed Royal Route
Route 3-C – Great Cave Route
Book in advance:
Circuits 1 (Panoramic) and 3 (Royal): book 2 to 3 months in advance, especially during high season (June to September).
Circuit 2 (Classic): can be booked 1 to 2 months in advance, depending on demand.
Tip: Tickets for Circuit 2-A (Designed Classic Route) and Circuit 3-A (Huayna Picchu) are the most popular; book early.
CIRCUIT 2 - UPPER TERRACE
Circuit 3 – Machu Picchu Realeza
How to get to Machu Picchu in one day from Cusco
Cusco → Ollantaytambo: transfer by tourist bus (approx. 1 hour 40 minutes).
Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes: tourist train (Expedition or Vistadome, approx. 1 hour 30 minutes).
Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu: eco-friendly bus (25 minutes) to the entrance gate. After your guided tour, you will have free time to have lunch in the village and then return to Cusco via the same route
What is included in the Full Day Machu Picchu tour?
- Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco
- Tourist transportation Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
- Round-trip tourist train
- Eco-friendly bus for the ascent and descent
- Entrance to Machu Picchu (depending on the circuit)
- Certified professional guide (Spanish/English)
- Personalized assistance throughout the tour
CIRCUIT 2-B LOWER TERRACE
INTI PUNKU CIRCUIT 1
Useful tips for your trip to Machu Picchu Full Day
- Purchase your tickets in advance: 2 to 3 months ahead of time if you choose circuits 1 or 3.
- Be on time for your train: schedules are strict and there is no tolerance.
- Bring only what you need: a small backpack, sunscreen, water, insect repellent, passport, and tickets.
- Check the weather: during the rainy season (November to March), bring a poncho or raincoat.
- Follow the rules: avoid touching structures or entering with walking sticks without rubber tips.
Best time to visit Machu Picchu in one day
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season (April to October).
During these months, the weather is stable and the views are clearer.
In the rainy season (November to March), the landscape is greener, but rainfall can be more constant.
Why choose TrekAdventureMachuPicchu?
We are a local agency with years of experience organizing personalized trips in Cusco.
Our Full Day Machu Picchu tour offers safety, punctuality, and certified local guides, guaranteeing an authentic experience.
📩 Contact us:
📧 info@trekadventuremachupicchu.com
📱 WhatsApp: +51 968 389 547
