How to get to Machu Picchu?

Are you planning a trip to Machu Picchu, but not sure how to get there? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll explore the different ways to get to Machu Picchu, including how to get to Cusco, how to get to Aguas Calientes, and how to hike the Inca Trail. So, let’s get started!

EXPLORE THE DIFFERENT WAYS TO GET TO MACHU PICCHU

Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. There are several ways to get to this Inca site, depending on your travel style and budget. Here are the different ways to get there:

1. Take a train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and then take a bus or hike to Machu Picchu
2. Hike the Inca Trail or one of the alternative treks.
3. Take a bus from Cusco to Hidroelectrica and then hike to Aguas Calientes.

MACHU PICCHU LOCATION

Machu Picchu is located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, about 80 kilometers northwest of Cusco. The site sits at an elevation of 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) and is surrounded by towering peaks and lush green valleys.

GETTING TO CUSCO

To get to Machu Picchu, you’ll first need to get to Cusco, which is the closest major city to the site. There are several ways to get to Cusco, depending on where you’re coming from. Here are the most popular ways to get to Cusco:

From Lima to Cusco

If you’re flying into Peru, you’ll likely arrive in Lima, which is the capital city. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Cusco, which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

From Arequipa to Cusco

Another option is to take a bus from Arequipa to Cusco, which takes about 10 hours. This is a great option if you want to see more of Peru and enjoy the scenic route.

From Puno & Lake Titicaca to Cusco

If you’re coming from Puno and Lake Titicaca, you can take a bus to Cusco, which takes about 6 hours. This is a great option if you want to see more of the Peruvian countryside.

From Puerto Maldonado to Cusco

If you’re coming from the Amazon rainforest, you can take a flight from Puerto Maldonado to Cusco, which takes about 1 hour.

CUSCO TO AGUAS CALIENTES

Once you arrive in Cusco, you’ll need to get to Aguas Calientes, which is the gateway town to Machu Picchu. Here are the different options for getting from Cusco to Aguas Calientes:

Train vs Trekking

You can take a train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. There are several train companies that operate in the region, including PeruRail and IncaRail. The train journey takes about 3.5 hours from Cusco or 1.5 hours from Ollantaytambo. Alternatively, you can hike from Cusco to Aguas Calientes on the Inca Trail or one of the alternative treks.

Train to Machu Picchu

Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you’ll need to take a bus or hike up to Machu Picchu. There are frequent shuttle buses that run from Aguas Calientes to the Inca site, which take about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can hike up to the Inca site, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Check out article about Train to Machu Picchu.

MACHU PICCHU TREKKING PACKAGES

If you’re interested in hiking to Machu Picchu, there are several trekking packages available that include guided tours, meals, and accommodations. Here are the different options for trekking packages:

Inca Trail vs Alternative Treks

The Inca Trail is the most popular trek to Machu Picchu, but there are also several alternative treks available that offer a more unique experience. The Inca Trail requires a permit and must be booked in advance, while the alternative treks do not require a permit.

Alternative Treks

Here are some of the most popular alternative treks to inca site:

Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek is a 5-day trek that takes you through high mountain passes and stunning landscapes, including views of the snow-capped Salkantay mountain.

Luxury Salkantay Lodge-to-Lodge Trek

For a more luxurious experience, you can take the Salkantay Lodge-to-Lodge Trek, which includes comfortable accommodations and gourmet meals along the way.

Lares Trek

The Lares Trek is a 4-day trek that takes you through traditional Andean villages and offers a glimpse into the local culture and way of life.

Choquequirao Trek

The Choquequirao Trek is a 9-day trek that takes you through remote Andean landscapes and ancient Inca ruins, including the lesser-known site of Choquequirao.

AGUAS CALIENTES TO MACHU PICCHU

Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you’ll need to get to Machu Picchu, which is located about 6 kilometers away. Here are the different options for getting from Aguas Calientes to the citadel:

Taking the Shuttle Bus

The easiest way to get to Machu Picchu is to take a shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes, which takes about 20 minutes. The buses run frequently and tickets can be purchased in Aguas Calientes.

Hiking

For a more adventurous option, you can hike up to the Inca citadel from Aguas Calientes. The hike takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

HIKING THE INCA TRAIL

The Inca Trail is the most popular trek to Machu Picchu and offers a unique and challenging hiking experience. Here’s what you need to know about hiking the Inca Trail:

Inca Trail Itineraries

There are several different itineraries available for hiking the Inca Trail, ranging from 2 to 5 days. The classic 4-day Inca Trail is the most popular option and includes hiking through stunning mountain scenery and visiting several Inca ruins along the inca trail.

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