Peru’s most famous monument can be easily visited in one day by train. The first morning trains depart from Ollantaytambo starting at 4:30 am and every 30 min, arriving at Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) 1 ½ hours later. Allowing you to visit the site in the morning and / or afternoon. We prefer the afternoon hours as visibility will generally be better and the light hues tend to be warmer. Furthermore, the angle of sunlight provides more interesting shadows for your photos.
The last train back to Ollantaytambo is at +/- 21:50, arriving in Ollantaytambo at 23:35 (schedules change).
Las Qolqas Eco Lodge offers transportation to and from the Ollantaytambo train station once an hour throughout the day. For those who wish to enter the Inca citadel on foot, we offer a one or two-day trekking tour. The train will drop you off at kilometer 104. From there you will proceed along the Inca Trail, passing the Wiñay Wayna ruins.
Depending on your fitness level, you will reach Inti Punku (Sun Gate/Puerta del Sol) in four to six hours. You then have a choice to visit Machu Picchu that afternoon, or to spend the night in Aguas Calientes and visit the Sanctuary the following morning. Whatever you choose, you are bound to to be amazed by one of the seven wonders of the world.
