By Equipo PAT
Machu Picchu in 2 days with one night in Aguas Calientes is the most relaxed way to see the citadel. On day one you tour the Sacred Valley and take the train. On day two, you catch the first bus and watch the sunrise. Our program costs from $459 and includes the hotel, train and guide.
Is it worth seeing Machu Picchu in 2 days?
Yes, and for several reasons. Sleeping in the town lets you enter first thing, when there are fewer people and the light is softer. In addition, you avoid the early start of leaving Cusco at 4 in the morning. For that reason, many travelers prefer this format over the day trip.
On the other hand, the trip stops being a race. On the first day you visit the Sacred Valley, something many one-day programs do not include. However, it costs more than a one-day program, because it includes lodging.
What is the Machu Picchu 2 days itinerary?
This is the program of our tour, just as we run it. Times can vary with the train and the season, so confirm them when you book.
Day 1: Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes
- 8:00 am: pickup at your hotel in Cusco.
- Morning: Pisac market and archaeological complex, with its terraces.
- Midday: lunch in Urubamba, optional for $20 per person.
- Afternoon: Ollantaytambo fortress, where descendants of the Incas still live.
- 4:36 pm: train to Aguas Calientes, about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
- 6:15 pm: arrival in Machu Picchu Pueblo and night at the hotel.
Day 2: Machu Picchu and return to Cusco
- 5:30 am: first bus to the citadel, about 30 minutes.
- 6:00 am: arrival and sunrise at Machu Picchu.
- Morning: guided visit of about 2 hours.
- After that: about 4 free hours to explore on your own.
- Afternoon: bus to the town, train to Ollantaytambo and transfer to Cusco, arriving around 8:00 pm.
What is the night in Aguas Calientes like?
You arrive around 6:15 pm, so the afternoon is already over. First you drop your luggage at the hotel. Then you can stroll through the town, have dinner and rest. It is a small place, with steep streets and restaurants for every budget, so you do not need to book complicated plans.
On the other hand, the wake-up is early. The bus leaves at 5:30 am, so it helps to go to bed early. If you are interested in the town’s hot springs, remember that the entrance is not included and you would need extra free time. So get your clothes and backpack ready the night before.
What does the Machu Picchu 2 days tour include?
Our Machu Picchu 2 days and 1 night program is rated easy and costs from $459. This table sums up what is in and what is out.
| Included | Not included |
|---|---|
| Pickup at your Cusco hotel and transport | Meals |
| Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes train, round trip | Visit to the Aguas Calientes hot springs |
| Machu Picchu ticket | Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico) for the Sacred Valley sites |
| Professional bilingual guide | Tips and personal expenses |
| 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes | |
| Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu bus, round trip |
As you can see, you still need to budget for meals and the Cusco Tourist Ticket. Check where to buy it before you travel. In addition, bring cash for lunch and shopping.
What can you do with your free hours at Machu Picchu?
After the guided visit, you have four hours to explore at your own pace. First you can walk the terraces and the temples you liked most. Then, if you have the energy, hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) or the Inca Bridge. They are two short hikes with very good views.
However, do not try to see everything. The citadel sits at 2,430 m (7,970 ft) and has stairs. For that reason, drink water and take breaks. Also, the sun is strong even with clouds, so bring a hat and sunscreen.
When is the best time to do Machu Picchu in 2 days?
The dry season, from May to September, brings more clear skies. By contrast, from December to March it rains more and the citadel looks greener. For that reason, always bring a light poncho. To choose the month, read the best time to visit Machu Picchu.
Book ahead, because Machu Picchu tickets have limited spots. You can find official information on the Machu Picchu website and ticket sales at tuboleto.cultura.pe.
How does this option compare with other routes?
It depends on your time and your budget. If you prefer a single day, choose Machu Picchu by Train, from $359. By contrast, if you like walking, look at the Short Inca Trail, also two days, from $429.
To see every way to get there, read how to get to Machu Picchu: train, road or trek.
How should you prepare before you travel?
- Acclimatize in Cusco one or two nights beforehand. See our guide to how to acclimatize to altitude.
- Bring your original passport, which you need for entry and for the train.
- Pack a small backpack for the night in town.
- Download your itinerary and confirm the train time.
- If you want more ideas for Cusco, read what to do in Cusco in 3 days.
So, if you want to see Machu Picchu without rushing, book the two-day program and write to us to confirm dates.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Machu Picchu in 2 days cost?
Our Machu Picchu 2 days and 1 night program costs from $459. It includes the train, a hotel in Aguas Calientes, the ticket, the bus and a bilingual guide.
What time do you reach Machu Picchu on the second day?
We take the first bus at 5:30 am and reach the citadel around 6:00 am, in time to see the sunrise.
How long is the guided visit?
It lasts about 2 hours. After that you have about 4 free hours to explore, hike to the Sun Gate or reach the Inca Bridge.
Are meals included?
No. Meals are not included. The optional lunch in Urubamba on the first day costs $20 per person.
Is the two-day program difficult?
No, it is rated easy. You travel by vehicle and by train, although there are short walks and stairs in the citadel.
