In 2023, we had the privilege of visiting one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World: Machu Picchu.
To reach Machu Picchu, you can either do a same-day round trip or stay overnight in Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to explore the ancient citadel.
For some logistical reasons, we preferred to do a day trip instead of spending the night in Aguas Calientes, and here we’ll explain all the details.
How to Get to Aguas Calientes
You can only get to Aguas Calientes by train or by hiking. If you choose to stay overnight, you’ll need to check in at a hotel in Aguas Calientes and check out the next day. However, if you plan to visit Machu Picchu early in the morning and leave later, there is a chance of cloudy weather, which is quite common at dawn. Since we didn’t want to risk visiting Machu Picchu covered in fog, we chose not to stay overnight.
Advantages of a Same-Day Round Trip
- Save time: A day trip can save you an entire day, which you can use to explore other destinations in Peru.
- Save money: You can cut down on hotel and food expenses in Aguas Calientes.
- Comfort: Returning to your hotel in Cusco at the end of the day is more comfortable, especially if you already have a room reserved. Plus, you don’t need to check out and leave your larger luggage behind (since the train only allows bags up to 10kg).
- Luggage: Leaving your bags at the hotel in Cusco means less weight to carry during your visit to Machu Picchu.
- Flexibility: If the weather turns bad or you don’t feel well, it’s easier to cancel or postpone your trip while staying in Cusco.
Advantages of Staying Overnight in Aguas Calientes
- No rush: By staying overnight, you can visit Machu Picchu at a slower pace without worrying about train schedules back to Cusco.
- See Machu Picchu at sunrise: Many travelers dream of seeing Machu Picchu at dawn, which is easier if you’re already in Aguas Calientes.
- Fewer crowds: Staying overnight allows you to enter the site earlier, before the trains from Cusco arrive, making the experience less crowded.
- Complete experience: Staying in Aguas Calientes gives you time to enjoy the hot springs and experience the town’s nightlife.
- Visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: If you plan to hike to the top of these mountains, staying overnight is essential since entry to the park is only allowed at 6am, 7am, or 8am.
Our Machu Picchu Itinerary
Our itinerary started early at 4:30 am, leaving the hotel in Cusco towards Wanchaq train station. From there, we took a bus to Ollantaytambo, where we boarded the train to Machu Picchu.
Getting to Machu Picchu by Train
The departure was scheduled for 7:45 am, arriving at 9:15 am in Aguas Calientes. We chose the Peru Rail Vistadome Observatory, one of the most comfortable trains, with panoramic windows that make the journey even more special.
Upon arrival, we headed to the bus station that takes visitors up to the entrance of the citadel. It’s possible to walk, but the hike takes around two hours.
Exploring Machu Picchu
Our tickets were for 10:00 am. At the entrance, we met our guide and chose the Machu Picchu Circuit 2, considered the most complete, lasting about 2.5 hours. Attention: Tickets must be purchased in advance.
After the visit, we returned by bus to Aguas Calientes and had lunch at Full House restaurant. The place has an amazing view of the river, and it was there that we had a special moment: we had just gotten engaged! 💍
Return to Cusco
Since our return train was only at 4:40 pm, we had time to walk through the streets of Aguas Calientes and enjoy the town’s atmosphere. For the return trip, we chose the Expedition train, simpler but still comfortable.
The journey ended at Poroy station, about 30 minutes from Cusco. We arrived at the hotel around 9:00 pm, with enough time for a light dinner and rest before the next day’s adventure: the famous Rainbow Mountain.
Costs
Here are the amounts we paid in 2023:
Vistadome Observatory Train (one-way): US$ 110
Round-trip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu: US$ 24
Entrance to Machu Picchu: 152 Soles (~US$ 40)
Expedition Train (return): US$ 60
Our Final Opinion
Visiting Machu Picchu was truly an unforgettable experience. From leaving Cusco to boarding the panoramic train, every step of the journey brought unique moments that made the trip even more special. Standing in front of the ancient Inca city, surrounded by impressive mountains and an indescribable energy, felt like a dream come true.
Without a doubt, this is a must-do trip every traveler should include when planning a journey to Peru. Beyond the beauty of Machu Picchu, the route to Aguas Calientes, the flavors of local cuisine, and the welcoming atmosphere make the experience complete. For those who love history, nature, and adventure, visiting Machu Picchu is more than just a destination – it’s a lifetime memory.
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