How to Get to Machu Picchu from Cusco, Lima and Arequipa

We went to Machu Picchu twice, once by train and then again, by trek.

Given the various routes and travel options available to get to this Wonder of the World in Peru, the decision to choose can feel overwhelming.

So let us break down for you how to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco, Lima or Arequipa, exploring different ways to reach, each offering its own unique experiences, highlights and challenges.

The aim is to help you decide on the method that best suits your budget, time availability and preferences.

🌟 IMPORTANT: Bring your passport (original, not copy) to visit Machu Picchu.

➡️ Read our Machu Picchu Visit Guide

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How to Get to Machu Picchu from Cusco

While there are plenty of things to do in Cusco, this city is going to be your launchpad for visiting Machu Picchu.

To get from Cusco to Machu Picchu, you need to break the journey in two parts:

1. Cusco → Aguas Calientes
2. Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu

For each leg of the journey, you can choose from multiple ways of travel. Of course, each has its own charms and challenges. In the next sections, let’s explore all the options and what you can expect from each.

How to Get from Cusco to Aguas Calientes

The town of Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is the gateway to Machu Picchu.

It is going to be your final stop before ascending to the ancient citadel. That is why, traveling from Cusco to Aguas Calientes is a key leg of your journey to Machu Picchu.

From a variety of transport options available to suit different preferences and budgets to get from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, pick your approach to Machu Picchu so that the journey becomes as memorable as the destination.

By Train via Ollantaytambo

The most popular option to get from Cusco to Aguas Calientes is to take the train, offering breathtaking views of the Peruvian landscape.

This route is perfect for those who seek comfort and wish to save time.

We took the Vistadome train to Aguas Calientes on our first visit to Machu Picchu, and enjoyed the views, service and onboard entertainment.

** IMPORTANT: Occasionally, Peru Rail passengers may be required to do an additional step for ticket validation. Even if you do not receive any such email, we suggest you to check what you need to do for Peru Rail ticket validation.

Trains can depart from either Poroy or the San Pedro Station in Cusco and usually stop at Ollantaytambo.

However, both train companies offer passengers a “Bimodal Service”, which includes a road transfer in a comfortable vehicle from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, for embarking or disembarking the train at Ollantaytambo station.

The train option is the most time efficient as you can plan to visit Machu Picchu even on a day trip from Cusco.

To make Machu Picchu happen as a day trip, you need to buy your Cusco-Aguas Calientes roundtrip train tickets for the same date and time your trip really well, moving every minute paying attention to the clock.

However, if you have can spare two days, we recommend you to spend at least one night in Aguas Calientes, so that you can get an early start for visiting the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu the next morning.

By Road to Hidroelectrica + Walk

For a more adventurous and budget-friendly option, you can travel by road to Hidroelectrica and then hike to Aguas Calientes, walking major part of the route along the railway track!

This journey involves a long bus or taxi ride from Cusco to Hidroelectrica. You can book your Cusco-Hydroelectrica transfer from any tour office in Cusco or get it arranged through your hostel or hotel concierge desk, or book online here.

From Hidroelectrica, it is a 2-3 hour walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes.

Tip: It is ideal to have a good fitness level and stamina so that you enjoy the walk.

Note that, if you go for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (more on this in the next section), your trek route will cover this 11 KM walk along the train tracks from Hydroelectrica to Aguas Calientes.

During our 5 Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, after hiking at high altitudes with steep ascents and descents, we enjoyed this part of the long walk on an almost entirely flat track between Hydroelectrica and Aguas Calientes.

Also, we liked that his route offers a unique opportunity to explore rural Peru and immerse yourself in its natural beauty.

By Trekking

For the most adventurous route, consider signing up for a multi-day trek to Machu Picchu, an unforgettable way to reach the ancient city.

We did the 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu for our second visit to Machu Picchu, and it was spectacular!

Swipe the photos in this post below for glimpses from each day of our trek.

Not just Salkantay, there are more trek options from Cusco.

These are some of the popular treks to get to Machu Picchu, the duration options, and some of the highlights of the trails:

The multi-day treks to Machu Picchu demand significant physical resilience but reward you with a deep sense of accomplishment and awe.

How to Get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you are only one step away from visiting the UNESCO world heritage site.

Now, to get to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes, you can choose from either of these two ways:

By Bus

Once in Aguas Calientes, bus is the simplest way to get to Machu Picchu.

Buses depart regularly and take about 25-30 minutes to wind up the steep, narrow roads to the entrance of the citadel.

This option is ideal if you want to maximize your time exploring Machu Picchu itself.

On our first visit to Machu Picchu, we availed the bus for both onward and return journey.

However, on our second visit, we took the bus only for Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu travel, and for the return journey, we chose to walk down.

If you are sure you want to take the bus both ways, then buy the roundtrip tickets at once.

Setting Expectations Right

When it comes to this bus service between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, one thing that most visitors complain about is how chaotic it is.

Let us share our most recent experience.

Our Machu Picchu tickets were for 8:00 am entrance. So to get the bus for that, we had to stand in the queue by 6:30 am. At that time, hundreds of people had already made multiple queues on that narrow street, for different entry slots.

Yes, even if you have the confirmed bus tickets, you still need to stand in a queue to board the bus. So, we stood there on the street on that cold and damp morning, whiling away time for more than 1.5 hours.

We were among the first few people in our queue. But our bus, the first bus for 8:00 am entry slot, departed at 8:10 am!

Naturally, we did not reach Machu Picchu entrance gate by 8:00 am. It was already 8:40 am by the time we arrived.

Despite the late arrival, everything went fine then onwards. Seems like everyone working in the system is aware of these disconnects in the timings.

By Walk

Alternatively, you can opt to hike up to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes.

The path involves a steep ascent along hundreds of stairs that cut across the winding bus highway at different intersection points. See the map photo below for reference.

This series of stairs start couple of KMs out of the town center of Aguas Calientes. During this first phase of the walk (or while returning), you can also visit the Machu Picchu site museum and a butterfly garden.

This route allows you to fully appreciate the lush surroundings and the anticipation builds with each step upward.

Of course, it is a more physically demanding option compared to the bus but is highly rewarding for those who prefer an active start to their exploration of the ruins.

Tip: If you want to explore this path but are not sure of taking up this challenge first thing in the morning, do what we did: Bus for going up to Machu Picchu and walk for coming back down to Aguas Calientes.

How to Get to Machu Picchu from Lima

Your journey to Machu Picchu from Lima starts with traveling to Cusco.

From Lima to Cusco

The most efficient way is to take a direct flight, of about 1.5 hours duration.

Numerous airlines operate this route, providing frequent daily flights.

For reliability, book on LATAM.

However, if you are flexible with timings and can find much cheaper prices, then you can consider flying other smaller carriers like JetSmart and SKY Airlines.

Compare Lima to Cusco flights here →

Alternatively, you can opt for a bus ride, which takes a bit more than 20 hours.

The ride offers a more immersive experience of Peru’s diverse landscapes.

While the bus option is more time-consuming, it can be significantly cheaper if you are looking for flights last minute.

Check bus options on Bookaway →

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Tip: Check in advance and compare bus vs. flight prices. Which one would you pick between 20+ hours bus ride for 50 USD and 1.5 hours flight for 70 USD?

Having said that, if you aren’t already acquainted, long distance buses in South America are not that bad. In fact, we find them quite comfortable.

From Cusco to Machu Picchu

Once in Cusco, you can follow any of the methods outlined under “From Cusco to Aguas Calientes” to complete your journey.

How to Get to Machu Picchu from Arequipa

Same as from Lima, for to get to Machu Picchu from Arequipa, you need to travel to Cusco first.

From Arequipa to Cusco

Cusco is a short 1-hour flight or a long 10-hour bus ride away from Arequipa.

If you book the flight, same as for Lima to Cusco, we recommend you to book on LATAM Airlines. Other budget options are JetSmart and SKY Airlines.

Find Arequipa to Cusco flights here →

We traveled by bus from Arequipa to Cusco, and found the ride comfortable for our overnight journey. It was a Cruz del Sur bus, with enough legroom, entertainment screens, USB charging points and privacy screens.

Check bus options on Bookaway →

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From Cusco to Machu Picchu

For the next legs of your journey from Arequipa to Machu Picchu, see section “From Cusco to Aguas Calientes”.

FAQs: How to Get to Machu Picchu

How long does it take to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco?

4-5 hours by train, or 2-5 days by trek routes such as Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek, or 7-8 hours by bus to Hidroelectrica, followed by 2-3 hours walk.

Can you visit Machu Picchu as a day trip from Cusco?

Yes, with an early train departure and late return, it is possible to visit Machu Picchu as a day trip from Cusco.

Can I travel directly from Lima or Arequipa to Machu Picchu?

No. Whether you are coming from Lima or Arequipa, you will need to get to Cusco first by flight or bus, then travel to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) to reach the site.

Is it worth stopping in Arequipa before visiting Machu Picchu?

Yes! Arequipa is known as the “White City” and offers stunning architecture, the beautiful Santa Catalina Monastery, and access to Colca Canyon. It is also at a lower altitude than Cusco, making it a good place to acclimatize before heading to higher elevations.

What is the cheapest way to get to Machu Picchu?

Bus or shuttle to Hidroelectrica, followed by a 3-hour walk to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu pueblo), then hike from town up to Machu Picchu and back.

Do I need to book Machu Picchu transportation in advance?

Train tickets and trek permits should be booked in advance, especially in peak season, from May to October.

Final Thoughts + Plan Your Machu Picchu Visit

Whether you take a train to Machu Picchu Pueblo, or travel by road to Hidroelectrica and then walk, or embark on a multi-day trek, each option presents a unique way to reach Machu Picchu. The final decision depends on your budget, time constraints and adventure level.

Plan Your Machu Picchu Visit:

• Machu Picchu Visit Guide

• Huayna Picchu Hike
• Visiting Inti Punku: Sun Gate at Machu Picchu

• 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: Our Experience
• Salkantay Trek Packing List

• Things to Do in Cusco
• Cusco Itinerary

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