What’s the difference between visiting Machu Picchu in one day or staying in Aguas Calientes?

Visiting Machu Picchu can be done in a single day from Cusco or with an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes. The one-day option is cheaper but very tiring, with a trip of up to 16 hours. However, staying overnight allows for a more relaxing visit, better photos, and less stress. Logistics include a train and bus ride, and booking in advance is essential, especially during high season or if you want to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. It is also important to acclimatize to the altitude. The choice depends on your time, budget, physical condition, and the type of experience you are looking for. For a quieter visit with fewer crowds, staying overnight is ideal.

Choose between visiting Machu Picchu in one day or spending the night in Aguas Calientes

Visiting Machu Picchu is the dream of every traveler who comes to Peru, and there are two main ways to do it: you can opt for a day trip from Cusco or stay overnight in the charming town of Aguas Calientes. Each option has its own advantages, depending on the experience you’re looking for. Here, we explain in detail how each option works and which one best fits your itinerary.

Machu Picchu Full Day (from Cusco)

Ideal for: travelers with a tight itinerary or little time available.

The tour begins very early, between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m., with pickup from your hotel in Cusco to the train station (Ollantaytambo or Poroy). From there, embark on a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, enjoying the breathtaking Andean scenery with its mountains, rivers, and valleys. Upon arrival, a bus will take you to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where you can enjoy a guided tour of approximately 2 to 3 hours, exploring the temples, stairways, and viewpoints of this Wonder of the World. In the afternoon, you will return by bus to Aguas Calientes and then take the train back, arriving in Cusco at night, around 9:00–10:00 p.m.

Advantages

You don’t need to worry about paying for additional accommodation or meals.
It is perfect for those who have only a few days in Cusco.
Everything is organized in a single day: transportation, tickets, and guide.
It allows you to make the most of your time without logistical complications.

Disadvantages

It is a long and demanding day (16 to 18 hours in total).
There is little flexibility if there are delays or bad weather.
There is not enough time to explore Aguas Calientes.
You will not be able to enjoy the sunrise or sunset at the citadel.

Machu Picchu with overnight stay in Aguas Calientes (2 days / 1 night)

Ideal for: travelers looking for a more complete, relaxed experience with a better connection to the natural environment.

What does it consist of?

El primer día realizas un viaje tranquilo desde Cusco hacia Aguas Calientes, disfrutando del trayecto en tren por el Valle Sagrado. Cuando llegues podrás conocer el pueblo, el mercado artesanal, el río Vilcanota, así como relajarte un poco en las aguas termales. El segundo día subes pronto a Machu Picchu para vivir la magia del amanecer, cuando los primeros rayos del sol empiezan a iluminar las ruinas, la ruta guiada es más tranquila y te puedes tomar tu tiempo tanto para las fotos como para disfrutar del paisaje. Después de la ruta puedes almorzar y por la tarde regresar a Cusco.

Advantages
It allows you to rest better and avoid the fatigue of a quick trip.
Possibility of entering at the first turn, with fewer visitors and better lighting for photographs.
Additional time to explore Aguas Calientes and its surroundings.
If the weather is not favorable one day, you have time to adjust your visit.

Disadvantages

Requires more budget (hotel, meals and an extra night).
You need at least two days available in your itinerary.

Useful information

Altitude of Machu Picchu: 2,430 m. a.s.l.
Altitude of Cusco: 3,400 m. a.s.l.
Distance Cusco – Aguas Calientes: 110 km approx.
Train time: 3 h – 3 h 30 min (depending on the service).
Duration of the guided tour: 2 – 3 hours.