How to Get to Machu Picchu: Train, Bus, or Trekking Options Explained
If you’re planning your first trip to Machu Picchu, you’ve probably realized that figuring out how to actually get there can be a little confusing.
Between trains, buses, and multi-day treks, there are several routes to choose from, and each one offers a completely different experience.
When I first visited Cusco, I remember spending hours trying to piece together how everything connected. Do you start in Cusco or Ollantaytambo? How do you get to Aguas Calientes? What’s this “Hydroelectric” route people keep mentioning?
Don’t worry! I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I’ll break down all the main ways to reach Machu Picchu so you can decide which route is right for your travel style, budget, and timeline.
Understanding the Route to Machu Picchu
No matter how you get there, every traveler passes through Aguas Calientes (also called Machu Picchu Pueblo), the small town at the base of the ancient ruins. From there, you’ll either take a short bus ride or hike up to the entrance of Machu Picchu itself.
Here’s the general route most visitors follow:
- Start in Cusco – the main travel hub of southern Peru.
- Travel to Ollantaytambo – in the Sacred Valley (about 1.5–2 hours away).
- Take a train or hike from Ollantaytambo (or nearby) to Aguas Calientes.
- Ride a bus or hike from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance gate.
Let’s look at each route in detail so you can find the best fit for you.
🚆 Option 1: By Train (The Easiest and Most Popular Way)
Taking the train is by far the most common—and comfortable—way to reach Machu Picchu. It’s scenic, relaxing, and perfect if you’re short on time or prefer a smooth, stress-free trip.
Two main companies operate the train routes:
- PeruRail – the more traditional line, with several service levels (Expedition, Vistadome, and the luxury Hiram Bingham).
- Inca Rail – a newer operator offering modern trains and a variety of classes, including First Class and The Voyager.
Departure Points
- Cusco (San Pedro or Poroy Station): closer to the city but fewer departures.
- Ollantaytambo Station: more frequent departures and a shorter overall travel time to Aguas Calientes (about 1 hour 45 minutes).
Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you can:
- Take the shuttle bus (about 30 minutes) up to the Machu Picchu entrance, or
- Hike up the steep 1.5–2-hour trail if you’re feeling adventurous. You can ONLY do this if you have a Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
🧡 Travel tip: Book your train and entrance tickets well in advance—especially in peak season (May to September). You can find both PeruRail and Inca Rail online or through reputable tour operators.
🚌 Option 2: By Bus + Hike (The Budget-Friendly Route)
If you’re traveling on a tighter budget or want a bit more adventure, the Hydroelectric Route is a popular alternative to the train.
Here’s how it works:
- Take a long bus or shared van from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica, a small area near Machu Picchu (the drive takes around 6–7 hours).
- From Hidroeléctrica, follow the train tracks on foot for about 10 kilometers (6 miles)—a flat, scenic 2.5–3-hour walk to Aguas Calientes.
- Stay overnight in Aguas Calientes, then take the bus or hike up to Machu Picchu in the morning.
This route costs a fraction of the train price but is much longer and can be tiring. It’s best for experienced travelers who don’t mind long road trips and a bit of unpredictability.
🧡 Travel tip: Only take this option with a reputable company, especially during rainy season (December–March), as landslides can occasionally affect the road.
🥾 Option 3: Trekking to Machu Picchu (The Adventure of a Lifetime)
If you’ve ever dreamed of hiking to Machu Picchu like an explorer, you have several trekking routes to choose from. Each one offers stunning views, ancient ruins, and a true sense of accomplishment when you finally arrive. This is something I didn't do, but I plan to go back and do someday.
1. Inca Trail (Classic Route)
- Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
- Highlights: Ancient Incan ruins, cloud forests, and entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate at sunrise.
- Need to know: Permits are limited and sell out months in advance. Only licensed tour operators can guide this trek.
- Book your trek:
2. Salkantay Trek
- Duration: 4–5 days
- Highlights: Snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and jungle valleys.
- Need to know: No permit required; often considered the best alternative to the Inca Trail.
- Book Your Trek:
3. Lares Trek
- Duration: 3–4 days
- Highlights: Local Andean villages, mountain passes, and hot springs.
- Need to know: More cultural and less crowded than other routes.
- Book Your Trek:
4. Inca Jungle Trek
- Duration: 3–4 days
- Highlights: Combines biking, zip-lining, and hiking.
- Need to know: This is for travelers who love adventure and variety.
- Book your Jungle Trek:
🧡 Travel tip: All treks include guides, porters, meals, and camping or lodging. Make sure to spend a few days acclimating in Cusco before starting your hike!
Which Option Is Right for You?
| Traveler Type | Best Option | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| First-time visitor | Train | Easy, scenic, comfortable |
| Budget traveler | Bus + Hike | Cheap, flexible, adventurous |
| Outdoor enthusiast | Trek | Immersive, rewarding, unforgettable |
Think about your comfort level, schedule, and how much physical activity you want on your trip. There’s truly no wrong choice—every route to Machu Picchu is breathtaking in its own way.
Booking Tips for Machu Picchu
No matter how you travel, you’ll need to arrange these key items in advance:
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket – required for all visitors.
- Transportation – train tickets, bus transfers, or trek reservations.
- Guided tour (optional but recommended) – to learn the fascinating history behind the ruins.
You can buy tickets directly on the official Machu Picchu government website or through a trusted travel company.
Check out these options:
- From Cusco: Full-Day Group Tour of Machu Picchu
-
From Cusco: Machu Picchu Day Trip with Train + Entrance ticket
🧡 Bonus tip: Don’t forget your passport — you’ll need it to enter Machu Picchu and for train check-in!
There's No Wrong Way to Reach Machu Picchu
No matter which route you choose, arriving at Machu Picchu is one of those moments you’ll never forget. Whether you glide through the Andes on a scenic train, trek for days through mountain passes, or make the adventurous bus-and-hike journey, every path leads to the same awe-inspiring wonder.
Getting there might take a bit of planning, but that’s part of what makes reaching Machu Picchu so special.
If you’re ready to start planning your trip to Machu Picchu, check out these helpful guides next:
How to Prepare for Your First Visit to Machu Picchu from Cusco
Advantages of Visiting Machu Picchu in the Rainy Season
Essential Guide to Cusco: What to Know Before You Go
... or visit the Cusco hub or Aguas Calientes hub
