How to get to Machu Picchu: updated transportation guide
Getting to Machu Picchu is possible through different transportation options, depending on the type of trip you want to take. There are train routes, hikes such as the Inca Trail, and budget alternatives like the Hydroelectric route.
What is the best way to get to Machu Picchu based on your travel style?
The best option will depend on your budget, time, and type of experience. The main ways are:
- Train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo
- Inca Trail (4 days)
- Trekking routes such as Salkantay
- Hydroelectric route (budget option)
Each option offers a different experience, whether more comfortable, more adventurous, or more economical.
Train to Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo or Cusco
Most travelers take the train from Ollantaytambo, which is reached from Cusco in approximately 2 hours by road.
The train journey from Ollantaytambo takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes and ends in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
Inca Trail and trekking routes to Machu Picchu
The classic Inca Trail is one of the most famous routes to reach Machu Picchu. It lasts 4 days and combines natural landscapes with archaeological sites such as Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca.
There are also other routes such as the Salkantay Trek, which offers a more demanding trekking experience with diverse landscapes.
Hydroelectric route: a budget option to reach Machu Picchu
This is a more affordable alternative. From Cusco, you travel by road to Santa Teresa or Hydroelectric (approximately 6 to 7 hours in total).
From Hydroelectric, you can walk to Aguas Calientes in about 2 hours, or take a short train ride of around 20 minutes.
Differences between PeruRail and Inca Rail
These are the two main train companies that operate routes to Machu Picchu. Both offer tourist services with different levels of comfort, from basic options to luxury experiences.
Train stations to Machu Picchu: San Pedro, Poroy, and Ollantaytambo
San Pedro: located in Cusco’s historic center (limited services)
Poroy: 30 minutes from Cusco (seasonal operation)
Ollantaytambo: main station with the highest train frequency
Types of trains to Machu Picchu: tourist and luxury options
In PeruRail:
- Expedition (tourist)
- Vistadome (panoramic)
- Hiram Bingham (luxury)
In Inca Rail:
- The Voyager (tourist)
- The 360° (panoramic)
- The Private (luxury)
How to get to Ollantaytambo station from Cusco
You can get there by tourist transport or shared vehicles in approximately 2 hours, crossing the Sacred Valley.
How to get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
There are two ways:
- Bus: 25 to 30 minutes
- Hiking: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
Transportation to Machu Picchu: prices, schedules, and ticket purchase
Prices vary depending on the type of transport. The bus costs approximately 24 USD round trip for foreign visitors. Tickets are purchased in person, and buses depart approximately every 30 minutes.
Hiking up to Machu Picchu: advantages and disadvantages
Advantages:
- Connection with nature
- More complete experience
Disadvantages:
- Greater physical effort
- Can cause fatigue before the visit
Comparison of routes to Machu Picchu: time and cost
The cost of traveling to Machu Picchu varies depending on the chosen route. It can range from budget options on your own to complete experiences with train and included services.
