From Cusco to Machu Picchu
I’m sure that if you’ve made it to Cusco, your main goal is to reach the incredible Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Cusco is a wonderful place, but Machu Picchu is the highlight for most travelers. So, how do you get there? What are the best options?
Getting to Machu Picchu from Cusco
You might be surprised to learn that there are four or even five different ways to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco. Let’s take a look:
Reaching Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is the most immersive way to experience both the journey and the destination. Along the way, you’ll understand why the Incas worshipped nature. You’ll pass through lush jungles, rivers, and towering stone hills with glaciers hanging above.
This famous trekking route is part of a vast network of ancient Inca roads. It’s estimated the full trail network once stretched over 30,000 km across South America.
Depending on the starting point, you can choose 1-day, 3-day, or 4-day treks. All options end at Machu Picchu.
Important note: Due to conservation efforts, the trail has a daily limit of 500 people, with groups of up to 16.
Visiting Machu Picchu via a Guided Tour
If you’re short on time or prefer convenience, a guided tour is a great option. Most tours leave Cusco by bus, making stops along the Sacred Valley, a region rich in Inca history and archaeological sites.
You’ll visit Ollantaytambo, an Inca fortress town, where you’ll board a scenic train to Aguas Calientes. The next morning, a short bus ride takes you straight to the Machu Picchu entrance.
Looking to save money? Consider the Machu Picchu by Car option. This includes a bus ride followed by a 3-hour hike along the train tracks—ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic walks and want to reduce costs.
A Mix of Trekking and Guided Tour
Want a bit of adventure but still some comfort? Here’s a good combo:
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Take the Sacred Valley tour, then stay overnight in Ollantaytambo.
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From there, instead of taking the train, walk the 28 km trail along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes. It takes 5 to 7 hours, depending on your pace.
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The next day, hike up to the citadel (about 2 hours) or take the short bus ride.
Public Transport and Trekking
This is the cheapest but least convenient way. It involves several transfers and some effort:
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Go to Santiago Bus Terminal in Cusco and take a bus to Santa María.
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Take a taxi or van to Santa Teresa (a narrow, dangerous road).
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Stay overnight, then take a taxi to Hidroeléctrica.
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Walk 11 km (about 3 hours) along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes.
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Walk or take the bus to Machu Picchu.
Trains from Cusco to Machu Picchu
The two main departure stations are:
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Poroy (Cusco): Trains take around 3 hours to reach Aguas Calientes.
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Ollantaytambo: This is the most popular option. Trains take about 2 hours.
Both Peru Rail and Inca Rail operate from these stations.
Tours to Visit Cusco, Machu Picchu, Puno and Titicaca Lake
We have some great programs to explore these amazing destinations in Peru. One of our favorites:
555 – Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Puno, Titicaca Lake, La Paz & Uyuni
Not what you’re looking for? No worries. We have many more options to discover Peru and South America.
Contact us anytime at info@ripioturismo.com
Thank you!
