From Cusco, the nearest city to Machu Picchu, take a Gray Line train and bus tour to Machu Picchu. At dawn you'll board the Orient Express at the Cusco train station for the scenic ride up the Andes mountains to the Aguas Calientes station. You'll have two seat choices. For stunning views through panoramic windows, book a seat in the luxurious Vistadome carriage. If you are on a tight budget, forgo the frills and book in the Backpacker cars. The Backpacker cars are safe but older, with seats covered in a patchwork of native Peruvian fabrics. When you reach your destination at the Aquas Calientes station, you'll board a mini-bus for a guided tour of the ruins of Machu Picchu. You'll have free time to hike through the ruins while stopping to enjoy a buffet lunch. In the late afternoon you'll take the bus and train back to Cusco.
Gray Line Peru
Av. La Mar 163 Miraflores Pacific Building
Lima, Peru
+51-161-019-000
Learn an insider's viewpoint on Machu Picchu and Incan culture by booking with an Inca Point local tour. Inca Point will guide you through the various train and bus options to reach Machu Picchu. Once there, you'll walk with a guide through the squares, temples, and Royal Palace of this "Lost City." Your guide will also explain to you the significance of the "Intiwatana" or solar clock. Finish up your tour by climbing around the natural, rock-carved water fountains cascading down the Andes mountains.
Inca Point
Inversiones Cusco Explorers SAC
Jorge Ochoa St. 241
Cusco, Perú
+51-13-057-225-869
Owned and operated by Cusco natives, Eco Trek focuses on sustainable and responsible tourism. Porters and staff are paid respectable wages, including health insurance. The food and soap on your tour is made using local agricultural products by young mothers in Cusco in need of employment. Your one-day tour of Machu Picchu begins in Ollantayambo or Cusco. Once in Machu Picchu, your English-speaking guide will discuss the history of Machu Picchu and escort you through grounds. Snacks and lunch are included.
Eco Trek Peru
Urb Quispicanchi F-3
Cusco Peru
+51-84-984-119-022
