Machu Picchu – the world famous ‘Lost City of the Inca’s – was rediscovered by archaeologist Hiram Bingham in 1911 after 500 years of lying hidden and untouched in the cloud forest.  These ruins are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and enigmatic ancient sites in the world.  This small but extraordinary city perched atop a mountain at 2,430m is invisible from below and completely self-contained - it is surrounded by agricultural terraces sufficient to feed the population, and watered by natural springs.  Most interestingly, it is clear that Machu Picchu was no ordinary Incan city – its layout and architecture suggests that it was utilized as a secret and exclusive ceremonial settlement rather than a population centre.

There are three different train services that run to Machu Picchu: the Back Packer Train, the Vistadome Train and the Hiram Bingham Train, each priced differently for the budget of different travelers.

The Backpacker Train
This is the cheapest service but still a comfortable mode of travel to Machu Picchu.

The Vistadome Train
A faster and more comfortable way of getting to Machu Picchu, each carriage has enlarged side, front and overhead windows allowing panoramic views of the mountain terrain on all sides.

The Hiram Bingham Train
A luxury voyage; for those who want to make the most out of their excursion to Machu Picchu.  Breakfast, snacks, cocktails and a lovely dinner with live music is served onboard this exquisite train.  Enjoy an afternoon tea at the famous Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, located at the entrance of the Ruins.  A professional guide will be with you during the whole trip, including the train journey.

Itinerary

You will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco and transferred to catch the train from either Poroy or Ollantaytambo station in the morning.  On arrival in Aguas Calientes you will meet your guide at the station and go directly by public bus up to Machu Picchu ruins.  Once there you’ll have a tour of approximately 2 hours, followed by free time.  Your return train will be booked for the late afternoon or evening and you will be picked up from either Ollantaytambo or Poroy station and transferred to your hotel. There are many different train services running between Aguas Calientes, Ollantaytambo and Poroy each day.  For this reason no fixed itinerary exists for this excursions - times of train departure and return depend solely on availability though of course we will try our best to meet your requests.

Practical Information

Leaving: Daily Transport: Train and Bus Length: 1 day Price 2012:

Bring With You  Photo or Film Camera;  Water;  Sweater or jacket;  Comfortable Shoes;  Insect Repellent;  Sun Block, Hat or Cap;  Snacks (pretty expensive in Machu Picchu).

Included	Not Included
Train tickets;  Bus tickets;  Entrance to Machu Picchu (1x);  Bilingual guide.	Lunch

• You can combine a visit to Machu Picchu with a visit to the Sacred Valley: in that case you do not take the train in Cusco but in Ollantaytambo, in the Valley. Another option is to stay for the night in Aguas Calientes and visit the ruins of Machu Picchu (again) on the Second Day. For more information on hotel options in Aguas Calientes, or to book a hotel, please contact us. You can also visit the famous Hot Water Springs in Aguas Calientes.