How to get to Machu Picchu?

Written by: Andenes del Inca | June 20, 2025

The iconic Inca site of Machu Picchu is a dream come true for most travelers to Peru. The mystical fortress that rests precariously among the clouds. A bucket-list item for many people! It remains a common question, however, of how you actually get there! There are basically 3 main ways to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu. By train, on foot, or a roundabout combo of car and hike! Join us as we explore the ins and outs of getting to the iconic Inca site! Here is how you get to Machu Picchu in 2025 – 2026.

Fist How Do You Get to Cusco!

1.- The first step on your journey to Machu Picchu is getting to Cusco. The closest major city to Machu Picchu! Most people will arrive by air to Cusc (CUZ), which is close to the city center. (15 minutes). There are many taxis waiting to take you to the center that cost anywhere between s/20soles and S/. 50 soles – depending on your bargaining skills

2.- The Other way to get to Cusco is on a 22-hour long-distance bus from Lima. Choosing the right bus company is important. While very cheap fares may seem tempting, they often come with old, poorly maintained buses and overworked drivers.

In Peru, where fatal accidents, muggings, and assaults are unfortunately common, we strongly recommend opting for slightly more expensive yet still affordable bus companies. These companies offer higher-quality buses that meet international standards, with better safety and security measures in place. The following compnaies are Good: Cruz Del Sur, Oltursa, SuperCiva or Ormeño. These are the reputable bus companies for long distances.

Once you arrive to Cusco a taxi will take you to the center from the bus terminal. This should cost between S/.10 and S/.20 soles. Most people will spend a night or two in Cusco as they acclimatize and explore the once-Inca capital. Cusco is found at 3400 meters above sea level (11.155 ft). So acclimatization is a must!

Cusco´s Plaza De Armas

The next stage to fulfill your dream is figuring out how to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu. The Inca ruins are somewhat hard to reach as there are no roads leading to the Inca Citadel. It can also be confusing when you are trying to work out trip logistics.

This means that there are 3 ways to get to the iconic Inca site – by train ride, on foot, or by a convoluted car journey combined with a 3 hour hike!

The 3 Best Ways of How to Get to Machu Picchu; By Train, Bus or hiking

1.- Taking The Train from Cusco or Ollantayatmbo To Machu Picchu

Train stations in Cusco

Here is a list of the train stations that can be found in and surrounding Cusco.

Wanchaq Train station
San Pedro station
Poroy Train station
Ollantaytambo Train Station

Wanchaq Train Station

Historically, the Wanchaq Station provides services to destinations from Cusco to destinations in the South of Peru. Today, this train station is still used for certain luxury services, for example, to Lake Titicaca on The Voyager Train. It is generally open from January to April for the bimodal service to Machu Picchu (bus and train combo). This coincides with the rainy season in the Andes.

Trains from San Pedro to Machu Picchu

PeruRail is the only train service that departs from the San Pedro Train station. These trains will cover the longest distance and are only available in 2 schedules. Trains from this station run from April to late December. This coincides with the dry season in the Andes.

San Pedro Train Station is located in the center of Cusco near the market of the same name. It is a short walk from Plaza de Armas. After leaving Cusco along a series of switchbacks, to get out of the valley of Cusco. The train follows the tracks through the Sacred Valley, alongside the Urubamba River. It then continues to Aguas Calientes – The gateway to Machu Picchu.

Train	Departure Time	Arrival Time in Aguas Calientes
PeruRail Expedition 31	6:40 a.m.	10:52 a.m.
PeruRail Vistadome 31	6:40 a.m.	10:52 a.m.
PeruRail Expedition 203	7:30 a.m.	12:11 p.m.

Trains from Poroy to Machu Picchu

Poroy train station is just outside of Cusco. (About 30 minutes away, depending on the traffic!) It offers the second-longest train ride after that which departs from San Pedro or Wanchaq. The trains departing from San Pedro and Wanchaq stations will also stop at Poroy station. The advantage of taking the train from Poroy is that the journey avoids the switchbacks necessary to get out of the Cusco valley. This means the journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu is a little shorter. This direct train route is offered by both PeruRail and Inca Rail and takes about 4 hours one way. On your trip from Cusco, we recommend staying in Aguas Calientes overnight. Though the journey can be done in one long day.

Train	Departure Time	Arrival Time at Aguas Calientes
PeruRail Expedition 33	6:40 a.m.	9:54 a.m.
PeruRail Expedition 33	6:40 a.m.	9:54 a.m.
PeruRail Expedition 31	7:35 a.m.	10:52 a.m.
PeruRail Vistadome 203	7:35 a.m.	10:52 a.m.
PeruRail Expedition 203	8:25 a.m.	12:11 p.m.
PeruRail Vistadome 203	8:35 a.m.	12:11 p.m.
Belmond Hiram Bingham 11	9:05 a.m.	12:24 p.m.

Trains from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu

Another option for getting from Cusco to Ollantaytambo? Find your own means of transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo. Either taxi or public bus. Before taking the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Also called Machu Picchu Pueblo. There are two main advantages of this option. First, you can spend as much time as you want to explore Ollantaytambo and it’s definitely worth a stop. This cobbled-stoned town has several picturesque squares. It is also home to a fascinating and stunning archaeological site. As well as pre-Inca ruins that are definitely worth a visit. You can also do this option at the end of a Sacred Valley tour. One that leaves you in Ollantaytambo instead of returning to Cusco.

Peru Rail Trains from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes

To take the train from Ollantaytambo, you must first travel by car from Cusco. You should arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your train departure. The train takes around 1.5 hours to get to Aguas Calientes.

Train	Departure:	Arrival:
Expedition 71	5:05 a.m.	6:37 a.m.
Expedition 81	6:10 a.m.	7:40 a.m.
Vistadome 301	7:05 a.m.	8:27 a.m.
Expedition 83	7:45 a.m.	9:15 a.m.
Observatory 83	7:45 a.m.	9:15 a.m.
Vistadome 601	8:00 a.m.	9:25 a.m.
Expedition 33	8:29 a.m.	9:54 a.m.
Vistadome 33	8:29 a.m.	9:54 a.m.
Vistadome 501	8:53 a.m.	10:29 a.m.
Vistadome 31	9:15 a.m.	10:52 a.m.
Expedition 31	9:15 a.m.	10:52 a.m.
Vistadome 203	10:32 a.m.	12:11 p.m.
Expedition 203	10:32 a.m.	12:11 p.m.
Belmond Hiram Bingham 11	10:53 a.m.	12:24 p.m.
Expedition 91	11:52 a.m.	13:34 p.m.
Expedition 73	12:55 p.m.	14:25 p.m.
Vistadome 73	12:55 p.m.	14:25 p.m.
Vistadome Observatory 303	13:27 p.m.	14:50 p.m.
Vistadome 603	15:37 p.m.	17:02 p.m.
Expedition 75	19:04 p.m.	20:45 p.m.
Vistadome 75	19:04 p.m.	20:45 p.m.
Expedition 51	21:00 p.m.	22:45 p.m.

Inca Rail Trains from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes

Inca Rail also has services departing from Ollantaytambo station. Their services include a welcome greeting including dancing and traditional costumes. We suggest upgrading your train to the Premium Lounge service, for a more exclusive experience to Machu Picchu.

Train	Departure:	Arrival:
The Voyager 41	6:40 a.m.	8:01 a.m.
The Voyager 61	7:22 a.m.	8:48 a.m.
360° Train 61	7:22 a.m.	8:48 a.m.
The Voyager 43	11:15 a.m.	12:41 p.m.
Premium Lounge 43	11:15 a.m.	12:41 p.m.
The Voyager 65	12:36 p.m.	14:00 p.m.
The Voyager 45	16:36 p.m.	18:09 p.m.
The Voyager 67	19:27 p.m.	21:09 p.m.

Bimodal Train Service

The bimodal Train Service to Machu Picchu is a unique journey that lets you see Machu Picchu’s amazing archaeological site. You will travel from Cusco by bus to Ollantaytambo. Then you will continue by train to Aguas Calientes. So, a kind of half and half trip to the Inca citadel! The bimodal service is offered by both Peru Rail and Inca Rail. The main advantage of this ticket? It offers the option to spend a couple of hours exploring Ollantaytambo. Depending on the length of your layover. It can also be cheaper!

*All train services from San Pedro and Poroy train stations will become Bimodal Services during the rainy season. The Bimodal service is perfect for those travelers who prefer an all-inclusive service where the train company covers all the transportation logistics from Cusco to Aguas Calientes.

Peru Rail Bimodal Trains to Aguas Calientes

To take the Peru Rail Bimodal service, you need to arrive by taxi at the WANCHAQ train station. From the station, coordinated buses will depart for Ollantaytambo. After a 2-hour journey, you will arrive at the Train station of Ollantaytambo, where you will board the 1.5-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes.

Train	Bus departs at:	Train arrives at:
Expedition 81	3:20 a.m.	7:40 a.m.
Expedition 83	5:10 a.m.	9:15 a.m.
Vistadome Observatory 83	5:10 a.m.	9:15 a.m.
Expedition 33	5:40 a.m.	9:54 a.m.
Vistadome 33	5:40 a.m.	9:54 a.m.

Inca Rail Bimodal Trains to Aguas Calientes

Early in the morning, you will need to be at theInca Rail office on Av el Sol. Buses will depart from the office to Ollantaytambo train station on the 2 hour trip. On arrival in Ollantaytambo, you will then board the train to Aguas Calientes.

Train	Departure time	Arrival time to Aguas Calientes
Voyager Bimodal 41	4:20 a.m.	8:01 a.m.
Voyager Bimodal 61	4:50 a.m.	8:48 a.m.
Bimodal 360° Train 61	4:50 a.m.	8:48 a.m.
Voyager 43	8:30 a.m.	12:41 p.m.
Bimodal Premium Lounge 43	8:30 a.m.	12:41 p.m.
Voyager 65	9:55 a.m.	14:00 p.m.
Bimodal 360° Train 65	09:55 a.m.	14:00 p.m.
Voyager Bimodal 45	13:30 p.m.	18:09 p.m.
Voyager Bimodal 67	16:15 p.m.	21:09 p.m.

The Different Classes of Train To Machu Picchu

As already mentioned, there are 2 train companies that operate the route from Cusco to Machu Picchu – Peru Rail and Inca Rail. Both companies offer several different levels of service. From basic economy tickets to luxurious private cars offering meals and live music. This means round-trip tickets can vary in price. From about $125 per person to over $1,000 per person. The latter is for the highest-end ticket on The luxury Hiram Bingham service.

Local Train

PERU RAIL belongs to the Orient Express group. It offers several levels of services to arrive at Machu Picchu. Peru Rail offers 4 different services to Aguas Calientes, the town below the Inca archaeological site. Travelers and non-Peruvians can take three of these different trains. The 4th option, or the local train, is restricted to Peruvians and residents. This service is subsidized by Peru Rail. So staff from hotels, restaurants, porters, and local people can travel cheaply. From the towns of Aguas Calientes and Cusco

Peru Rail Trains on The Machu Picchu Route

Expedition Service

This is the essential tourist service and the least expensive way to visit Machu Picchu. It offers fewer viewing opportunities than the other services. Plus the schedules are often later at night. It is often used by those who are trekking in the region. The Expedition train is the most economical train for tourists.The train prices fluctuate throughout the year. They also depend on the time of day (or night!) you travel. Expect prices between $65 USD to $80 USD 1 way. A return trip is around $150 USD – $180 USD

Vistadome

The wagons of this train are equipped with panoramic windows. These offer impressive views of the Andean scenery along the way to the Inca city. The windows are surrounded by glass, even on the roof! Passengers will have the impression of being part of this beautiful Peruvian landscape. Hot drinks and refreshments are offered on board. There is also more leg space than on the Expedition train and is not much more expensive. This train departure is from Ollantaytambo, which is 1:30hrs from Cusco City. The Vistadome costs between $85 USD -$ 100 USD (one-way). Making a return journey around $200 USD

Hiram Bingham

This service is the most exclusive option to head to The Inca citadel by train. Several travel magazines consider this the most refined train trip in the world. This is a unique experience to get there in the lap of luxury. Taking you back in time to the days of The Orient Express. You will glide through The Sacred Valley in exquisite comfort. With a free bar, and gourmet dining. Incredible viewing platform, and a top-notch service to the Inca citadel. This superb service offers brunch and dinner on board. A private shuttle up to the Machu Picchu citadel. Your entrance to the iconic Inca site, including a guided tour. Then afternoon tea in the Machu Picchu Santuary Lodge The cost for The Hiram Bingham Train is around $500 USD (one-way) So around a $1000 USD round trip! But is the most luxurious way to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu!

The other railway company is called Inca Rail. This operates between the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Inca Rail is a not-so-famous train service. It has fewer departure times. Plus it only departs from Ollantaytambo in The Sacred Valley. If you’re staying in Cusco, you will generally take a taxi. You can also take the combi/colectivo (public van) from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, to catch the train. The other option is a tour package. Transport is included to Ollantaytambo if you are traveling on this service. This company is newer, beginning its service 10 years after PeruRail. Inca Rail offers various schedules and services. These range from standard tourist class to Luxury class. However, there is no subsidized service for locals with this company.

Servicio Turista (Voyager)

The wagons seat 48 passengers. It has plush seats, which have been specially created to ensure the comfort of passengers. The Tourist Class of Inca Rail differs slightly from Peru Rail’s Expedition train. Mainly because it has more legroom. Whereas PeruRail’s Expedition seating is more like airline seating. Inca Rail’s Tourist class has two seats opposite another set of two seats. Separated by a small table. There are generally no meals served on this service.

Servicio Ejecutivo

This is for those who appreciate good comfort and relaxation. This service offers padded seats. It also has slightly smaller panoramic windows than the PeruRail Vistadome service. The enthusiastic personnel will assure you of a beautiful journey. They will offer a selection of biscuits, dried fruit and nuts. all from the Cusco region. Delicious chocolates and a variety of hot and cold drinks are also included.

Servicio Primera Clase (First Class)

This unique service is made for the sophisticated traveler who appreciates comfort. On the arrival of your train, you will be welcomed with a delicious welcome drink. As well as a thin towel perfumed with natural essences to refresh yourself. During the Trip to Machu Picchu, gastronomic cuisine is served. accompanied by relaxing background music.

Servicio Presidencial

This exceptional service only has eight seats per wagon. It is a luxurious service to enjoy all the gastronomic enchantment of Peru. As well as impressive top-end services. It is a lot more economical than The Hiram Bingham. A few levels below the Peru Rail version. Yet still a wonderfully luxurious experience.

2.- Hiking To Machu Picchu; Inca Trail, Lares Trek or Salkantay Treking

a.- Inca Trail: The Most Iconic Trek to The Inca Citadel

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is by far the most popular choice, and for very good reason. You will hike along the original Inca road and visit plenty of ruins along the way. This is a must for any Inca aficionado or history buff. However, the government implements restrictions. Which limits the tourists allowed on the trail every day. This means the Inca Trail gets booked out way in advance. If you have your heart set on doing this hike. We recommend booking it up to six months in advance or you may miss out.

b.- The Salkantay Trek: A Remote and Rewarding Adventure

The Salkantay Trek is another great option to hike to Machu Picchu. It combines comfortable camping with breathtaking scenery. Which means you won’t be hauling your tent or cooking your own meals! This trek allows you to see a wide array of Peru’s climates and terrains. The trek also includes a hike to Humantay Lake. As well as a trek through the Salkantay Pass. You will pass through both mountain and jungle scenery. Then your final stop is of course a visit to the Inca City.

c.- The Lares Trek: Discover an Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience

The Lares Trek is probably the third best option. This is along an alternative Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It is presented in various versions, from a 3-day hike up to a 5-day hike. Instead of entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. All of these Lares treks end in the Sacred Valley Ollantaytambo. Where tourists jump on trains towards the Aguas Calientes town. the city below. It also passes through traditional Andean communities. Which makes it more connected to cultural aspects. As opposed to archaeological sites. Take the Lares Trek to get to know about real life in the Peruvian Andes. Where you will witness the more authentic way of life of the Quechua People living in this part of Cusco. Learn about their wisdom, religion as well as their philosophy.

3.- By Car Then Hike: A Budget Friendly Option to Reach Machu Picchu

This is definitely the cheapest option to visit the iconic Inca archaeological site, but it’s also the least fun! Getting to Machu Picchu by bus requires two days. The village of Hydro-electrica is a six-hour drive from Cusco. It is the last town accessible by road before reaching the Inca city. You then have to walk along the train tracks for 2 hours to reach Aguas Calientes. From Cusco, it’s easy to book a bus or car to this stop. However, this trip does not include a night of accommodation in Aguas Calientes. It also doesn’t include any meals. Nor does it include the shuttle bus up to the archaeological site. The entrance into the archaeological site is also not included. Nor is the climb up one of the mountains inside the Inca city. Namely, Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These are things to keep in mind if you choose this option.

FAQs About Traveling From Cusco To Machu Picchu

Remember that over the years we have learned all about the Do´s and Don´t about Traveling from Cusco to Machu Picchu. While everyone has their preferred way of reaching the iconic citadel there are certainly some questions we are asked about very often! Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about traveling from Cusco to Machu Picchu

The Inca city is generally why people travel to Peru. This iconic Inca site receives thousands of visitors every day. They visit Peru to see the Inca heritage and history firsthand. Trekking to Machu Picchu? or visiting on the train? To enter the Inca citadel, you have to have an official guide. An authorized guide will provide more cultural and historical context to a Machu Picchu tour. A guide will take you to the most important temples and viewpoints for taking the best photos. They will also answer any questions you may have. They also provide additional theories and information. Things you probably wouldn’t find out alone. You can hire a guide at the entrance or through a reputable Peru tour operator in advance. By booking in advance, you secure a guide who speaks your native language. You can also check reviews prior to your vacation package.

For most people who visit Peru, one day at Machu Picchu is enough. This is what the majority of people prefer. A 2-3 hour guided tour is enough to see all the important archaeological sections of the Inca citadel. This includes the terraces, temples, and best viewpoints. Most visitors are amazed by the stunning scenery. This can be seen surrounding this remote archaeological site. The location and construction of the Inca site have puzzled archaeologists and visitors for decades! Some visitors are left wanting more. There is a magical energy, the sheer size, and many incredible sights to see on a tour to the Inca citadel. This often makes people decide to stay for an extra day to explore the Inca citadel to the fullest.

To visit without a tour may be more simple than you think when you travel to Peru! In general, you only need to book 3 tickets. The entrance ticket, the return train ticket, and the return shuttle bus ticket. You can travel by bus or minibus from Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station. Take the train from Ollantaytambo station to the town of Aguas Calientes. From Aguas Calientes take the bus to the entrance. Enter the archaeological site in the morning, choosing your preferred circuit. This has to be decided in advance when you purchase your ticket. Finally, you return to Cusco in the same way you arrived. This can be done all on the same day if you arrive early enough. Alternatively, you can choose to spend the night in Aguas Calientes on your tour to the Inca City.

Most people will arrive in Cusco by air from Lima International Airport. Please remember that the Cusco airport is for domestic travel only. (with the exception being a daily flight to La Paz in Bolivia). If you come directly from overseas via Lima, you should collect your bags in Lima. You will then re-check them for your flight to Cusco. Four airline carriers fly between Lima and Cusco. That includes LATAM Airlines, Star Peru, and SKY Airlines. They all offer similar schedules and in-flight service. We usually recommend LATAM airlines. They have the most daily departures. They also tend to be the most helpful! Especially when unexpected flight cancellations or delays occur.

Yes, you can visit Machu Picchu in one day. However, please bear in mind this involves a very early morning and a late evening! This is mainly due to the travel times involved. It also involves a lot of coordination with train tickets and entrance tickets. However, if you are short on time and cannot even contemplate missing out on a visit to The Inca citadel, it can be done! We do recommend a 2 day tour, spending the evening in Aguas Calientes. So you can make the most out of this iconic site.

There are basically three ways to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu: By train, by hiking, or a combination of a car to Santa Teresa/Hydroelectric, then a 3 hour hike along the train tracks into Aguas Calientes. Then take the Consettur shuttle bus up to the archaeological site!