How to Get to Machu Picchu: The Complete Guide

If you’re planning your trip to Peru, this question has surely crossed your mind: How do you get to Machu Picchu, the fascinating Inca citadel?

This wonder of the world, hidden among the mountains and forests of the Andes, is a magical place that every history and nature lover should explore at least once in their life.

There are several ways to get there, depending on where you’re coming from or the type of experience you want. Don’t miss this article, where we tell you about the different routes to reach Machu Picchu from various places in Peru and around the world.

Where is Machu Picchu?
How to Get to Cusco
How to Get to Machu Picchu from Cusco
Getting to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes
- Getting to Machu Picchu on foot
- Bus up to Machu Picchu
Frequently Asked Questions about Machu Picchu
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Where is Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca citadel located in a strategic spot, high in the Peruvian Andes. It is a cultural treasure of Peru, notable for its architecture, natural surroundings, and historical importance.

At its height, the Incas expanded their territory across much of South America. Their empire, known as Tahuantinsuyo, encompassed areas of what are now Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Chile, Argentina, and Colombia.

Even so, the central seat of power remained in Peru, specifically in the city of Cusco, which served as the center of Inca government and internal organization. Cusco is the closest city to Machu Picchu, making it a key point in the journey to the fortress.

Tourist with colorful Andean poncho in Machu Picchu — Tourist in Machu Picchu

How to Get to Cusco

The fastest way to get to Cusco is by plane. The city has the “Alejandro Velasco Astete” airport, which connects with various cities in Peru. If you are visiting from far away, the best option is to first fly to Lima, as its airport is larger and international flights are more frequent.

Don’t worry! Below we explain everything so you can travel with peace of mind.

If you want all the information, you can read our full article on How to Get to Cusco.

Traveling from Abroad

When you think about how to travel to Peru from your home country, most likely it will be by plane. Lima, the capital of the country, has a large international airport that receives flights from all over the world. You will find different prices throughout the year, although it is most common for prices to be higher between May and October, as it is high season in Peru.

Search carefully! Some flights with layovers in Colombia, Chile, or Bolivia can land directly in Cusco.

If you prefer to travel through other South American countries during your trip, you can arrive in Peru by bus. If you choose this option, be prepared for long journeys lasting many hours or even days. Once in Lima, you can choose to take a flight to Cusco or travel by bus to the ancient Inca capital.

Traveling from Lima

Most visitors arriving in Peru make their first stop in Lima. Sometimes it’s just for a few hours, and other times they stay a few days to explore the charms of the capital. The city is located on the coast, so it is not possible to get directly from Lima to Machu Picchu. First, you need to travel to Cusco.

There are 2 main options to get from Lima to Cusco:

Plane
The easiest and fastest option by far is to travel by plane. The flight lasts just over an hour and is a very pleasant journey over the mountains. If you can, select a window seat to enjoy a spectacular view of the Andes as you approach Cusco.
Without a doubt, an exciting arrival! However, the ticket price can be moderately high. That’s why we recommend researching costs carefully and comparing different airlines before purchasing.

Traveler’s Tip: If you plan to travel between May and October (high season), book your flights in advance, as many people want to visit Cusco during those dates.

Bus
The other option that visitors go for is to travel by bus. This, however, takes a lot longer. Up to 24 hours! It is a lot more economical, though. There are different options ranging from affordable to luxury buses with food, tv, and wifi included.
Although the trip is long, you get some great views from your window as you head up into the mountains. Take plenty of snacks and water for the many hours.

Traveling from Arequipa

Arequipa is another city that many travelers visit before heading to Cusco. It is a beautiful city surrounded by volcanoes and canyons, offering plenty to tourists. From here, you have 3 options to get to Cusco.

Plane
You can also fly from Arequipa to Cusco, and it takes a little more than an hour. Just like from Lima, though, the costs are fairly high, so check different dates to see if any are cheaper. You’ll get the excellent view out the window again and enjoy seeing Cusco come into sight as you slower lower to the ground.

Train
The Belmond Andean Explorer train is an extremely comfortable train that travels along one of the highest railway routes in the world. It departs from Arequipa, taking you on a fantastic journey to Cusco with spectacular views along the way. The trip lasts 2 days, as it makes a stop in the city of Puno so you can visit Lake Titicaca. Although the price is high, it is truly worth it.

Bus
Buses from Arequipa tend to be more popular than the planes. This is due to the lower cost as well as the fact that it can be done overnight, so you don’t miss any days of your vacation traveling. It takes around 11-12 hours and you get some lovely views when you awake in the morning.

You’ll find varying types of bus again from cheaper to more expensive that include all the extras you could want.

Traveling from Puno

Puno is a popular destination in southern Peru, known for Lake Titicaca and its floating islands. Its proximity to Bolivia makes it a common route for travelers entering the country from the south, heading to Cusco and other attractions like Machu Picchu.

There are two options for making this journey:

Train
The Belmond Andean Explorer train also passes through Puno, making it a fast and comfortable option to reach Cusco. This is a unique and luxurious experience. The trip takes about 10 hours, with incredible views of the Andean landscape and first-class service.

Bus
The most common and economical way to get from Puno to Cusco is by direct bus. The journey takes about 8 hours, with both daytime and nighttime departures, so you can choose according to your itinerary. Night buses are usually popular because they allow you to save a night of accommodation and make better use of your time.

A tourist couple walking in the city of Cusco. — City of Cusco

Three tourists in Cusco's main square smiling and taking a selfie with their friends. — Tourists in Cusco’s main square

How to Get to Machu Picchu from Cusco

Cusco is the closest city to Machu Picchu and the place from which most visitors depart. Although many believe that Cusco is very close to Machu Picchu, getting there takes a bit more time. There are 110 km (68.35 miles) between these two points.

There are several ways to reach the archaeological site, some faster than others, so let’s take a look so you can choose the one that suits you best.

Trekking to Machu Picchu

Embark on a great adventure! Reaching Machu Picchu by trekking over several days is a very popular and special way to reach the citadel. There is a wide variety of routes in Cusco, with different difficulties, terrains, and landscapes.

You can do it on your own or through a travel agency to make sure everything is organized and you don’t have to worry about anything. Options range from just 2 days to 8 days in length, meaning there is something suitable for every type of hiker. Some of the most popular treks include the Salkantay Trek and the Inca Trail, although there are other lesser-known trails that are just as impressive but much less crowded.

Here are the best treks to Machu Picchu:

Inca Trail: This is the most famous hiking route in Cusco and one of the most popular in the world. It is the only route that leads directly to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise. Other routes first pass through the town of Aguas Calientes. The journey takes you through stunning landscapes, cloud forests, and ancient Inca archaeological sites. Due to high demand and strict regulations, permits are limited and must be booked months in advance.

Salkantay Trek: A spectacular alternative with more availability and equally impressive landscapes. You will hike from snowy mountains to the edge of the jungle, witnessing an incredible transformation of the scenery. Marvel at the mesmerizing Humantay Lagoon and the imposing Apu Salkantay, one of the most sacred mountains in the Andes. If you travel with Salkantay Trekking, you will have the privilege of staying at our exclusive campsites along the route.

Inca Jungle: This is an adrenaline-filled adventure that takes you to Machu Picchu not only by hiking but also by biking, rafting, and zip-lining through the Andes and the Cusco Jungle. If that’s not enough, you’ll have the opportunity to relax in the best hot springs of Cocalmayo in Santa Teresa. This trek will provide you with incredible thrills and an intimate connection with nature.

Trek to Machu Picchu by Inca Trail — Inca Trail

Guide at Salkantay pass — Salkantay Trek

Inca Quarry: Walk through the quarries where the Incas extracted huge stones to build their monuments. You’ll start by visiting a tall waterfall and the Racaypata site perched at the top before continuing through the mountains and valleys near Ollantaytambo. The highlight will be reaching Inti Punku, a gateway high on a mountain that frames the imposing snow-capped Veronica Mountain before you.

Lares Trek: Passing through Andean communities and natural hot springs, this is a less crowded route offering an authentic experience. Ideal for those seeking cultural connection and stunning landscapes without the crowds. The highlight of this trail is that it offers the chance to observe genuine rural life in the Andes.

Ancascocha Trek: A challenging and remote hike that crosses spectacular mountains and hidden valleys. This trail will take you to beautiful lagoons and across high mountain passes with breathtaking scenery. It offers stunning views of the snow-capped peaks and a sense of uncommon exploration.

Two tourists standing at the Inti Punku (Sun Gate) — Inca Quarry

Lakes in the mountains on the Lares route — Lares Trek

Panoramic photo of two tourists in the Ancascocha lake. — Ancascocha-Trek

Train to Machu Picchu

If you decide to arrive more comfortably, you can take the train to Machu Picchu. This train ends its route in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. It is the fastest option and is often chosen by those with limited time or who prefer to avoid long hikes. It allows you to arrive energized and enthusiastic to explore every corner of the site. You can choose between more economical options and luxurious ones, depending on your budget and the type of experience you want to have.

Two companies operate routes to Machu Picchu: Inca Rail and Peru Rail. The trains depart from Cusco at the San Pedro and Poroy stations, although a very popular option is to take the train from Ollantaytambo, a small town in the Sacred Valley of the Incas that many tourists also want to visit. This little town has several train schedules, offering greater flexibility.

At Salkantay Trekking, we offer two train tours to Machu Picchu:

One-day tour: You will leave by car from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, where you will board the train to Aguas Calientes. Then, a bus will take you to Machu Picchu, where you will enjoy a guided tour of the citadel before returning to Cusco to rest. A perfect way to enjoy the Inca fortress at a relaxed pace.

Two-day tour: This itinerary is even more relaxed. You will leave directly from Cusco by train to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night. This allows you to stroll through the small town and rest for the big day. The next morning, you will take a bus up to Machu Picchu and explore the citadel with a guide.

Tourists on a train to Machu Picchu — Train to Machu Picchu

The 360° - Train Inca Rail — The 360° – Train Inca Rail

Bus to Machu Picchu

Another option that does not require hiking, but takes more time, is to travel to Machu Picchu by car. You can travel from Cusco to Machu Picchu by shared bus. The first thing you must do is get to Hidroeléctrica, a small town with a train station that is used as a starting point to get to Machu Picchu.

The trip begins with a 4-hour ride on shared transport from Cusco to the small town of Santa María. From there, an additional 30-minute trip is needed to Santa Teresa, followed by another 30 minutes to Hidroeléctrica. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can take a 30-minute train from Hidroeléctrica that takes you directly to Aguas Calientes. There are two daily departures, one in the morning and another in the afternoon.

Walk along the train tracks from Hidroeléctrica

From this point, many travelers decide to walk alongside the train tracks until they reach Aguas Calientes, since it is a very economical option. This is a very picturesque walk, as you will be surrounded by lush jungle and high mountains. It takes around 2 to 3 hours and is flat, so it is not very difficult. Make sure to bring water and maybe some snacks to keep your energy up until you get to Aguas Calientes to eat.

Although traveling by car from Cusco to Machu Picchu is a low-cost alternative, it also involves several hours of travel. Compare all the options well to choose the best one for you.

Check out our complete guide on the easy way to get to Machu Picchu, with more details if you prefer a hassle-free trip.

Tourists walking along the railroad tracks to Aguas Calientes village — Tourists walking to Aguas Calientes village

Getting to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes is the small town located at the foot of Machu Picchu. Once you arrive here, you’ll already be at the base of the great Inca city. There are two ways to go up to the site, and both require starting very early in the morning. We assure you the effort is worth it!

Getting to Machu Picchu on foot

If you want to do some hiking without facing great difficulties, you can walk from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu along a trail made up of ancient Inca steps. The ascent takes between an hour and a half and two hours, depending on your walking pace. To arrive early at the site and avoid the crowds, you must leave at dawn, since the main gates of the fortress open at 6 AM.

The route begins along the road that ascends to the fortress and crosses a bridge over the Urubamba River. From there, you’ll continue along a steep path of nearly 2,000 steps. Although the climb can be demanding and test your legs, don’t worry: there are places to rest along the way and there is no need to rush.

Hiking from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is a complete and unique experience. It will allow you to connect with nature, feel the energy of the mountains, and live the path as the ancient Incas did. The dedication and effort turn into excitement when, upon reaching the top, you see the first stones of the citadel appear through the mist. That moment is never forgotten.

Bus up to Machu Picchu

An easy way to get up to Machu Picchu without getting too tired is to take one of the buses that leave from the town of Aguas Calientes. The ticket costs 12 dollars for the uphill trip, which lasts about 25 minutes. The bus goes up a winding road to the entrance of Machu Picchu, so you won’t have to walk at all.

To secure your seat, we recommend buying your bus ticket in advance. The company in charge of the service is called Consettur. You can purchase your ticket at the Aguas Calientes offices or on their website. If you decide to buy it in person, it’s best to arrive as early as possible to be among the first in line. If you want, you can also take the bus back for another 12 dollars.

Tourists in the citadel of Machu Picchu — Machu Picchu

Now that you know how to get to Machu Picchu, it’s time to prepare for one of the most memorable experiences of your life. This is not just any destination; it is a connection with history, nature, and yourself.

Machu Picchu awaits you with open arms!

Frequently Asked Questions about Machu Picchu

Do you have questions about your trip to Machu Picchu? Here we answer some of the most frequently asked questions travelers have when visiting Cusco and planning their adventure to the Inca citadel.

What is the best way to get to Machu Picchu?

It depends on your interests:

If you want a relaxing experience, the best way to get to Machu Picchu is by train. Traveling by rail ensures a comfortable and peaceful journey, allowing you to arrive at the citadel full of energy to explore it from start to finish.

If you prefer to enjoy the beautiful Andes landscapes and learn about Inca history before reaching their greatest creation, then the best option is to get to Machu Picchu by trekking.

What is the cheapest way to get to Machu Picchu?

The cheapest way to reach Machu Picchu is to take a shared bus to Hidroeléctrica, walk to Aguas Calientes, and then hike up to the fortress. This way, you save money on transportation, although it is a longer and more tiring option. The total cost of shared transportation (colectivos) is approximately 15 USD – 20 USD (one way).

How much does the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu cost?

You can choose between economical trains and more luxurious options, depending on your budget and the type of experience you want to have on your trip to Machu Picchu.

The most economical tickets cost around 60 USD per trip, while the more exclusive ones, such as luxury trains, can cost up to 500 USD, including gourmet services, live music, and personalized attention.

To learn more, check out our blog Train to Machu Picchu: Complete Guide

Where can I take the train to go to Machu Picchu?

You can take the train to Machu Picchu from several stations:

Ollantaytambo: A little town in the Sacred Valley. Offers the most frequent train departures.
San Pedro: Located in downtown Cusco. Has direct trains but with limited schedules. Also offers a bus + train service via Ollantaytambo.
Poroy: A station 20 minutes by car from Cusco. Offers luxury train services.
Wanchaq: Located within Cusco city. Offers a bus ride to Ollantaytambo, then train to Machu Picchu.

How many days do you need to visit Machu Picchu?

You can visit Machu Picchu in just one day, although for a stress-free and relaxed experience, it’s best to dedicate 2 days to the visit.

If you’re traveling by train, it’s possible to visit Machu Picchu in one day. The journey from Cusco (or from Ollantaytambo) is relatively quick, allowing you to reach the citadel, explore it, and return the same day.
If you’re traveling by car, you’ll need at least 2 days. The road trip is longer and usually includes a walk from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes. That’s why most travelers spend a night in the town before visiting Machu Picchu the next day.

How much does an all-inclusive trip to Machu Picchu cost?

With Salkantay Trekking, the full-day tour to Machu Picchu costs $350 USD per person. It includes:

Entrance to Machu Picchu
Transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
Round-trip train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
Round-trip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
Expert tour guide

There are different itineraries, and prices vary depending on what’s included. Visit the Salkantay Trekking website for more detailed information.

What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this period, you can expect stable weather with clear skies and better visibility, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the site.

To learn more, check out our full blog on The Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu in 2025.

Where is the best place to stay to visit Machu Picchu?

Cusco is the largest city near Machu Picchu and offers a wide variety of accommodations, restaurants, and activities for all preferences. It’s the ideal starting point to acclimate and explore Inca history and culture before visiting the famous citadel.

If you prefer a more relaxed experience with less rush, you can choose to spend a night in Aguas Calientes, the small town located at the base of Machu Picchu. It’s very tourist-friendly and has a good selection of hotels, restaurants, and traveler services.

How much does the entrance to Machu Picchu cost?

There are several circuits within Machu Picchu that allow visitors to explore different parts of the citadel. The entrance price varies depending on the type of ticket and the visitor’s nationality.

For example, the general ticket for Circuit 2: Classic Machu Picchu costs $40 USD for foreigners and $17 USD for national tourists, with reduced rates available for students, children, and citizens of Peru or the Andean Community (CAN).

If you travel with an authorized agency like Salkantay Trekking, you won’t have to worry about anything. Check out our article on Machu Picchu Tickets for more information!