How to Get to Machu Picchu: Tips and Travel Options

If you’re planning a trip to Peru, reaching the iconic Machu Picchu is likely at the top of your list. However, knowing how to get there can be a daunting task due to the various options available. In this guide, we’ll explore every transportation method to Machu Picchu, weighing the pros and cons of each, and recommending the best alternatives based on our experiences.

Navigating to such a remote location nestled in the Andean mountains can be challenging. Machu Picchu is situated at an altitude of 2,500 to 3,000 meters, in a rugged environment that was undiscovered until the early 20th century. The journey to this ancient Inca city requires careful planning and consideration of the available transportation options.

Importantly, there are no direct roads leading to Machu Picchu from nearby larger towns. The only access is through Aguas Calientes (often referred to as Machu Picchu Pueblo), where buses frequently depart for the archaeological site. The only way to reach Aguas Calientes is by train from either Ollantaytambo or Cusco. Alternatively, adventurous trekkers can hike via renowned routes like the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek, both of which take several days. In the following sections, we’ll detail how to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco and other locations, focusing on various transport methods.

How to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco

To begin your journey to Machu Picchu, you’ll need to travel from Cusco to Ollantaytambo. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the options available:

Step 1: Cusco to Ollantaytambo (Bus)

Minibus collectives depart from a stop at the intersection of Pavitos Street and Av. Grau in Cusco. The cost is around 10 soles per person, with departures occurring once the bus is full.

An alternative is to take a taxi, which typically costs about 15 soles per person. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, although the road can be quite bumpy.

In the dry season (from May to December), you can also take a train directly from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, although this service is suspended during the rainy months due to landslides.

Step 2: Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Train)

The train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes is considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world. Operated by two main companies—Perú Rail and Inca Rail—the trip takes around 1.5 hours and costs between $60 and $100 per person, depending on the service class. Early online bookings often offer discounts, making it worthwhile to plan ahead.

Step 3: Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Bus or On Foot)

A 9 km winding road connects Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Buses operated by Consettur make the journey in about 25 minutes, leaving every 10 minutes from the center of town. Prices are $12 for a one-way ticket and $24 for a round trip. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the bus station or on the same day, but remember to bring your passport.

For those looking for a challenge, hiking up is also an option. The trail is steep and involves a significant elevation gain of about 500 meters. Although it’s only a 3 km trek, many trekkers find the experience rewarding despite the physical exertion.

Alternative routes: The Hydroelectric Plant

If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly option to reach Machu Picchu, consider traveling to the Hydroelectric Plant. This requires a bit more effort, but it can save you money on train fares:

• Take a minibus from Cusco to the Hydroelectric Plant, which costs around 80 soles for a round trip and takes about 7 hours.
• From the Hydroelectric Plant, walk approximately 11 km along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes. This path is relatively flat and follows the scenic Vicanota River.

Be aware, however, that while this option is cheaper, it may not be the most convenient for everyone.

Treks to Machu Picchu: Inca Trail and beyond

For those in good physical condition, trekking is an incredible way to experience the beauty of the Andes while making your way to Machu Picchu. The Inca Trail is the most famous route, allowing hikers to walk in the footsteps of the Incas:

• Classic Inca Trail: This 45 km trail spans 4 days and 3 nights, starting at km 82 of the railway.
• Short Inca Trail: For those short on time, this 12 km trek takes 2 days and begins at km 104.
• Salkantay Trek: This alternative route offers breathtaking views and spans approximately 70 km over 5 days.
• Choquequirao Trek: A more rigorous trek leading to the lesser-known ruins of Choquequirao.

Reservations are necessary and should be made ahead of time, especially during the high season. Packages typically include transportation to the starting point, meals, accommodations, and guided tours of Machu Picchu.

Our recommended option

Initially, we planned to take the train from Cusco, but due to transportation strikes, we opted for the train from Ollantaytambo, which turned out to be a great decision. Ollantaytambo is a charming town with cobbled streets and impressive ruins, offering plenty of dining options, including pizza places that cater to tourists.

Here’s our ideal itinerary for visiting Machu Picchu:

• Day 1: Minibus or shared taxi from Cusco to Ollantaytambo early in the morning (1.5 hours, 15 soles). Spend the day exploring.
• Day 2: Train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes in the morning (1.5 hours, $60). Overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
• Day 3: Bus to Machu Picchu at your chosen time (25 minutes, $12). Explore the ruins and consider walking back down or taking the bus.
• Day 4: Train ride back to Cusco in the afternoon (4.5 hours, $60).

If you're pressed for time, you can return to Cusco on Day 3 after visiting Machu Picchu by having lunch in Aguas Calientes and taking an afternoon train.

Booking your train to Machu Picchu

We traveled with Perú Rail, which we found to be the most reputable option for this route. Here’s what you need to know about booking:

Routes

Perú Rail offers trains from both Cusco (San Pedro Station, 4.5 hours) and Ollantaytambo (1.5 hours). Several morning departures are available, as well as return trains in the afternoon.

• Book the train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes
• Book the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes

Types of trains

Perú Rail offers four types of trains:

• Expedition: The most basic option with comfortable seats and large windows for scenic views.
• Vistadome: A step up with larger windows and a bit more comfort.
• Vistadome Observatory: Similar to the Vistadome but includes a cultural show with traditional music and dance.
• Belmond Hiram Bingham: The most luxurious experience, reminiscent of the Orient Express.

For better views, sit on the left side of the train on the way to Aguas Calientes.

Bimodal service

For the longer route, there’s a bimodal service that splits the journey into two segments:

• Segment 1: Bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo.
• Segment 2: Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.

This option is available year-round and saves time compared to the entire train journey, although the bus ride is bumpy.

Pricing

Prices vary based on the train type and schedule, typically around $60-65 for the Expedition train and $80 for the Vistadome. Discounts of up to 50% are sometimes available, making it possible to travel for as little as $30.

How to reserve your train

The best approach is to book in advance to secure discounts. You can reserve tickets online through the Perú Rail website. The booking process is straightforward, allowing you to select your route and travel dates easily.

With the information provided, you should now feel equipped to tackle the journey to Machu Picchu confidently. Each option has its unique advantages, so consider what works best for your travel style and budget. If you still have questions, feel free to reach out!

For additional guidance, check out this helpful video on how to reach Machu Picchu:

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