Train Tracks to Machu Picchu
Bite-sized trip
Days 1-2 – Cusco – Ollantaytambo
Today you’ll be collected from Cusco for a 2-hour journey into the Sacred Valley. You’ll stop in Ollantaytambo, a peaceful village on the railway line to Machu Picchu. You can visit the ancient fortress perched on the hills above the village (especially nice at sunrise), and there are lots of other interesting sites around the area. The town has a lovely relaxed atmosphere and some great places to eat and drink, and you’ll have plenty of free time to take it all in.
Here, you’ll stay two nights near the centre of the village. The first night you will stay in a glass pyramid with a stunning view of the starry sky. Unwind in the peaceful surroundings of green hills and the sounds of nature. Relax by the river with snow-capped mountains in the distance, and in the evening, warm up by the campfire. We’ll arrange a barbecue dinner for you at your pyramid, complete with a refreshing cocktail. You’ll have your own eco-toilet nearby, and there’s a shared shower on-site. The next night you will stay in a cosy and comfortable posada. With a lush green garden and a few hammocks to chill in it makes a great base to refresh, recharge and reflect.
Day 3 – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
This morning, you’ll take the train from Ollanta to Aguas Cailentes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Packed with travellers coming and going, there’s a lively, excited atmosphere to the town, which is famous for its natural hot springs. Here you’ll stay in simple hotel in the centre of town. Sip on a Pisco Sour, hike into the surrounding hills and try some traditional Andean cuisine.
Day 4 – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Today, you’ll be up before the sun to get to Machu Picchu for dawn. Arriving early, you can beat the tourist crowds, take a perch at the viewpoint and wait for the magic to happen. As the sun heats the valley, the wisps of mist wrapped around Machu Picchu will lift, revealing the Lost City of the Incas in its full glory. It’s a moment that you’re unlikely to forget.
Undiscovered until 1911, it’s a vast and spellbinding place which is difficult to compare. You’ll explore the ruins as part of a group, along with an official guide, in keeping with Peruvian Law introduced to protect the site. If you have the time and the stamina, you can climb one of the surrounding peaks before leaving the complex. Afterwards, you’ll take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll wait to board your train for Cusco.
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
Upgrade to our In Style accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we have an alternative option available for your accommodation. Our In Style version is something a bit more special or unique but still with lots of local flavour! If you would like to upgrade your accommodation for this bite-sized trip select our In Style option below.
