The Crown Jewel of the Andes
Prepare yourself for the pinnacle of Andean exploration. The journey to the "Lost City of the Incas" is just as mesmerizing as the destination itself. This private expedition seamlessly blends the spectacular landscapes of the Sacred Valley with the profound historical weight of the world's most famous archaeological sanctuary.
Your seamless, VIP experience begins with a private transfer to the train station, where you will embark on a scenic railway journey alongside the roaring Urubamba River. Upon reaching the citadel, your private historian guide will unlock the secrets of Machu Picchu's sacred temples and terraced architecture. With options to upgrade to panoramic Vistadome trains and exclusive dining, this is the ultimate way to witness a Wonder of the World in absolute comfort.
Expedition Highlights
Premium Train Journey
Travel in style through the cloud forest. Choose between the comfortable Voyager/Expedition or upgrade to the panoramic Vistadome for immersive views.
The Lost City Revealed
Uncover the mysteries of the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Condor, and the genius of Incan aqueducts with your private expert guide.
Independent Exploration
Enjoy dedicated free time to hike to the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) or seek out the secret Inca Bridge built for the emperor's army.
Aguas Calientes Leisure
Relax in the vibrant town below the ruins. Soak in the thermal hot springs or indulge in high-end Peruvian cuisine before your train ride back.
Detailed Itinerary
The Path to the Clouds
Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
1. The Sacred Valley Drive & Train Departure
Your journey begins in the morning when your private guide and driver collect you from your Cusco hotel. We will drive through the stunning Sacred Valley to the Ollantaytambo train station. Here, you will board your selected premium train (The Voyager or Vistadome) for a mesmerizing 1.5-hour journey tracing the Urubamba River deep into the cloud forest.
2. Ascent to the Citadel
Upon arriving in the town of Aguas Calientes, your guide will escort you to the exclusive shuttle buses. A short, winding 30-minute drive up the dramatic mountainside will drop you at the entrance of the sanctuary. The moment you step through the gates, the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu unfolds before your eyes.
3. Private Guided Exploration
During your comprehensive 2 to 2.5-hour guided tour, you will learn the profound history and spiritual significance of this sacred site. Your historian guide will bring the ruins to life as you visit the precise stonework of the Temple of the Sun, the enigmatic Temple of the Condor, the Intihuatana (sun dial), and the brilliant agricultural terraces.
4. Independent Discovery
After the guided tour, you will have time to explore the magic of Machu Picchu at your own pace. You may choose to walk the gentle trail leading to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for an awe-inspiring panoramic view, or venture to the Inca Bridge, a secret cliffside entrance once used by the Incan army.
5. Leisure in Aguas Calientes & Return
In the afternoon, you will descend back to Aguas Calientes. You have the rest of the day to spend as you wish—perhaps soaking in the local hot springs, strolling through the artisan markets, or enjoying a spectacular dinner at an exclusive restaurant (if you selected the Lunch upgrade). Finally, you will board your return train, where our driver will be waiting to transfer you seamlessly back to your Cusco hotel.
Inclusions & Prices
What's Included
- Private hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco.
- Round-trip Train Tickets (Voyager or Vistadome based on choice).
- Round-trip Consettur bus tickets up to the citadel.
- Official Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket (Circuit subject to availability).
- Private, professional English-speaking historian guide.
- Gourmet Lunch at an exclusive restaurant in Aguas Calientes (Only if $589 package is selected).
Not Included
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets (can be added upon request).
- Meals (unless the $589 Lunch package is selected).
- Entrance fee to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.
- Gratuities for your guide (optional).
Essential Recommendations
- Passport: You MUST bring your original passport. It is required to board the train and enter the citadel.
- Luggage: Trains have a strict baggage allowance (one small backpack per person).
- Weather: The cloud forest is humid and prone to sudden rain. Bring a light rain jacket and insect repellent.