Your tour begins with an early morning pickup from your Cusco hotel in time for a 5:00am departure. Traveling in the comfort of a private vehicle, transfer to the train station in Ollantaytambo to board the train or Vistadome panoramic train (if upgrade selected) to Machu Picchu. Marvel at the scenery on the around 1.5 hour journey, as you wind through the Andes and gaze out over the wild landscapes of the Sacred Valley. On arrival in Aguas Calientes, the small town at the foot of Machu Picchu, your private guide will be waiting to meet you. Together, take the bus up to the mountaintop Machu Picchu, climbing to a dizzying height of 7,970 feet (2,430 meters). Take a moment to savor your first View of Machu Picchu as your guide offers some background information on the fabled Lost City of Incas. Then, enjoy around 2 hours to explore, taking in highlights such as the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, and the ceremonial baths. Your private tour can be customized to suit your preferences, so you can opt to hike up to the best viewpoints or spend longer exploring the less visited ruins. After your visit, return to Aguas Calientes to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch (included), before boarding the return train to Ollantaytambo. Finally, end your tour with a private transfer back to your Cusco hotel.