Claire Dean
Claire Dean

Claire Dean

Travel in South America is a joy to behold. The rich variety of destinations, experiences, landscapes and geography fascinated me so much, that I chose to relocate here, over 20 years ago! The best thing I ever did! Allow me to share my knowledge and passion for Central and South America with you and help you plan your holiday of a lifetime!

HOW TO GET FROM CUSCO TO MACHU PICCHU - 2025

HOW TO GET FROM CUSCO TO MACHU PICCHU - 2025

5MINREAD

Written by:Claire Dean

Last Update: 2025-03-24

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! So that your Peru vacation package.  is a breeze! Not headache-inducing! In the constantly changing world of Travel. Here is how you get from Cusco to Machu Picchu in 2025.

 

The Iconic Machu Picchu

The Iconic Machu Picchu

 

First Steps - Getting to Cusco!

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 at the Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport, 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/15soles  and S/. 50 soles - depending on your bargaining skills :) Valencia Travel includes this transfer on their treks and tours!

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. Opt for 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/.5 and S/.10 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!

 

The Plaza De Armas Cusco

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! There are several different ways to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu. Each one involves multiple modes of travel and stops along the way. Here are the main ways of how to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu.

 

A Machu Picchu vacation package to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is a dream for many travelers. While reaching Machu Picchu may seem like a complex adventure, starting your journey from Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, makes it both accessible and exciting.

Hiram Bingham Luxury Service

Taking The Train To Machu Picchu

 

The Train Stations To Machu Picchu

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.

These trains are recommended for those who enjoy train travel specifically. As well as the varied terrains of the Andean region. The journey to Aguas Calientes takes around five hours.

 

Train

Departure Time

Arrival Time in Aguas Calientes

PeruRail Expedition 31

  6:40 a.m.

9:54 a.m.

PeruRail Vistadome 31

  6:40 a.m.

9:54 a.m.

PeruRail Expedition 203

  7:30 a.m.

12:11 p.m.

PeruRail Vistadome 203

  7:30 a.m.

12:11 p.m.

 

Trains from Poroy to Machu Picchu

Poroy train station is just outside of Cusco. (About 40 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 Peru Rail 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.

 

On your Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco,  you take the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. This offers travelers an unforgettable passage through the heart of the Sacred Valley. Whether you choose the luxurious Hiram Bingham, the panoramic Vistadome, or the budget-friendly Expedition train, each option promises a unique and enriching experience.

Ollantaytambo

 

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.

 

Voyager train in Ollantaytambo

Voyager Train in Ollantaytambo

 

Bimodal Train Service to Aguas Calientes

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.

 

Reaching the legendary Machu Picchu from Cusco on your Peru vacation package has never been easier, thanks to the innovative bimodal train service. The journey begins with a bus ride from Cusco to the charming town of Ollantaytambo. From here,  travelers then board a train that winds its way through the picturesque Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu.

Bi-Modal Train to Machu Picchu

 

Peru Rail Bimodal Trains to Machu Picchu

To take the Perurail 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 The Inca 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.

 

 

Taking the train from Cusco to this ancient citadel of Machu Picchu is a popular and breathtakingly beautiful way to experience the Peruvian Andes. This Peru Machu Machu Picchu trip offers a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation. It also provides stunning vistas of verdant valleys, rushing rivers, and majestic mountains.

Inca Rail Service

 

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 - PeruRail and IncaRail.  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.

 

Train Service from Cusco to Machu Picchu

Peruvian Train Journey!

PERU RAIL

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.


 

PeruRail has a number of departure points to get to Machu Pichu. Trains depart from Poroy, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo for the journey through the Sacred Valley to the Machu Picchu station in Aguas Calientes. Aguas Calientes is the small town at the base of Machu Picchu that you will arrive at for your Machu Picchu tour packages.

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

 

The Vistadome Service from Cusco to Machu Picchu

The Vistadome Service

 

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 Sanctuary 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!

 

If you’re looking for the most comfortable and luxurious way to get to Machu Picchu, you Will probably want to know all about the Hiram Bingham train. This impressive train service is operated by a collaboration between Belmond and PeruRail. The elegance involved on this train ride is an unparalleled experience perfect for your Peru luxury tours.

Hiram Bingham

INCA RAIL

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.

 

Inca Rail is the only train company that offers charter service to get to Machu Picchu. This Private service offers an all-inclusive meal, drinks, and entertainment package. Passengers on Inca Rail also have more luggage allowance. Inca Rail permits 17 lbs (7kg). In contrast, PeruRail only allows 11 pounds (5 kg). Inca Trail is another excellent train option on your Machu Picchu vacation packages.

Machu Picchu Train

 

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.

 

Inca Rail Voyager

Voyager Train

 

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.

 

Ejecutivo Class Inca Rail

Ejecutivo Class

 

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 journey to Machu Picchu, gastronomic cuisine is served. accompanied by relaxing background music.

 

To cut a long story short,both PeruRail an Inca Rail are great train options for your Peru Machu Picchu trip. They both offer a quality service and comfortable travel for your train trip to Machu Picchu.

First Class Train - Inca Rail

 

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.

 

First Class Train By Inca Rail

Presidential Class

 

Hiking To Machu Picchu

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.

 

For those seeking a more adventurous route to Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled experience. Starting from Cusco, this iconic trail winds through the rugged Andes, traversing ancient paths once trodden by the Incas themselves.

Inca Trail

 

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.

 

For adventurers seeking an alternative route to Machu Picchu, the Salkantay Trek offers a thrilling experience. Starting from Cusco, the challenging Salkantay trail to Machu Picchu takes hikers through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes. The trek culminates at the iconic Machu Picchu.

Soraypampa, Salkantay Trek

 

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. The Lares trek hikes through stunning Andean scenery. 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.

 

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. The Lares Trek provides an enriching experience that culminates with a visit to the magnificent Machu Picchu.

Lares Trek

 

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.

 

For those seeking adventurous and budget-friendly Machu Picchu tours from Cusco, traveling by car to the Hydroelectric Station offers a unique and scenic alternative. The journey involves a drive to the town of Santa Teresa, followed by a short trip to the Hydroelectric Station, where the adventure continues on foot or by train to arrive at Machu Picchu.

The train tracks to Aguas Calientes

 

Our Hot Tips 

Book In Advance

To make sure there is an entrance ticket for the specific circuit you wish to walk around. Certain sections of the archaeological site can only be seen on a specific circuit. We recommend Circuit 2B for the most comprehensive visit to the Inca Citadel. This route will take in all the important temples as well as the incredible panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains! Find out more here about Machu Picchu circuits and which is the best circuit for you!

 

here, marked in blue is the map of circuit 2B which is called the Lower Terraces Route. This route is for those who want to take a picture of the citadel that looks like a postcard with fewer people in the background, on their Machu Picchu vacation packages.

Circuit 2 

 

Remember Your Passport

You will not be allowed to enter he archaeological site without a passport! Make a habit of taking your passport with you everywhere! You will need it for hotel check-in, the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu, and even for certain credit card purchases!

 

Machu Picchu Passport Stamp

Passport Stamp

 

Leave Your Luggage at The Hotel!

There is a weight restriction on how much you can take into the archaeological site. This is 5 kilos /11 pounds.  You will be asked to store anything heavier at the entrance (there is a charge). Selfie sticks or tripods are not allowed, only rubber-tipped walking sticks are allowed. Food or plastic bottles are not allowed. No musical instruments and no alcohol are allowed. So save the parties for when you are back in Cusco!

 

Big Ruck Sacks!

Leave The Big Packs at The Hotel!

 

Insect Repellent

Yes, you will have dropped in elevation from Cusco to Machu Picchu. Which means there are "biters" in the Inca city! Make sure you use insect repellent, especially if you are wearing shorts! (Long trousers are recommended even though it is generally war.

 

Sun Protection

It is generally sunny in Machu Picchu. Even when it isn't sunny you can still get burned! Use sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses to avoid getting burned!

 

Sun Hat at Machu Picchu!

Sun Hat Is Essential!

 

Visit Over Two Days

You can do a visit in just one day. However, this is an exceptionally long day of traveling there and back from Cusco to Machu Picchu. It is a much better idea to take the train and stay overnight in Aguas Calientes. This way, you are fresh as a daisy for your photos! You will get so much more out of your visit if you a not exhausted!

 

Machu Picchu Tour Group

Machu Picchu Tour Group

 

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.

 

Do You Need a Guide for A Tour? 

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.

 

A Guide can make or break a Machu Picchu tour!

Tour Guide at Machu Picchu

 

How Long Does A Tour Take? 

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. 

 

Cloudy Machu Picchu

Warden at The Archaeological Site

 

How to Book a Tour? 

You can book a Machu Picchu Tour in a number of different ways when you visit Peru. Book it as part of a Peru tour package! Then let your Peru tour operator, such as Valencia Travel take care of the rest! They will reserve everything necessary for your tour.  

Book your tour online on the government website. Remember to have your passport details ready when booking online. You will also need to reserve your train tickets to get there. Don´t forget a hotel if you plan to overnight in Aguas Calientes! Then there is the bus up from Aguas Calientes to the entrance gate. 

 You can also buy tickets in Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) if you prefer. You should do this the day before you plan to enter the Inca archaeological site. Expect to queue for a good few hours though!

 

Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes

 

How Much Should I Tip The Tour Guide? 

 A Good tour guide can be the make or break on your tour.. An average tip ranges from 10-20% of the total cost of the tour. This always depends on the quality of the guide's service. For a group tour, a $5-10 USD per person is an adequate tip. For private tours, the amount to tip may be higher, to reflect the personalized service. The amount you tip should always reflect the level of service you received. Tipping is not obligatory but is a well-received gesture of appreciation in Peru. Tips can make a significant financial contribution to guides. They often work really long hours. In larger groups, individual tips will be smaller. However, when each person´s tip is added together, it can be a significant amount for the guide. Your guide is generally included if you have booked a tour from Cusco Ask your Tour Operator!

 

Rainy Machu Picchu

Rainy Machu Picchu

 

Can You Visit Without a Tour?

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.

 

Hiking to Machu Picchu

Hiking to Machu Picchu Along the Inca Trail

 

How To Get to Cusco Peru?

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.

 

Can You Do Machu Picchu as a Day Trip From Cusco?

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.

 

What is the Difference Between a Private and a Group Tour?

Private Tours Peru

There are many excellent reasons to choose private tours in Peru! Private Machu Picchu tours are generally the same as a group tour. However, on a private tour, you have a lot more flexibility according to your needs. On a private tour, you will have a guide just for you and your traveling party. They will take you to amazing places where large groups generally do not go.

Why Book  A Private Tour?

  • You can customize your Machu Picchu visit and travel on any day of the year! 

  • Flexibility.

  • To visit different / out-of-the-norm places.

  • Travel in a comfortable private car.

  • Your own private guide throughout the Machu Picchu tour.

  • Private tours are the best option for Peru family trips or honeymoon trips to Machu Picchu.

Group Tours to Machu Picchu

The main reason to book a group tour to Machu Picchu is to save money. This is because you share the cost of the logistics to run the tour with other travelers. You will also meet people from all over the world on a group Machu Picchu tour. 

Why to Book a Group Tour to Machu Picchu?

  • Save money

  • Meet People from all over the world

  • Share unique experiences with other travelers.

 

Group Tour to Machu Picchu

Group Tour on The Inca Trail

 

How long is the train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

 

Departure Location 

Train Station

Duration

Cusco

San Pedro Station

4 hrs, 30 min.

Cusco

Poroy Station

3 hrs, 30 min.

Sacred Valley 

Ollantaytambo Station

1 hr, 30 min.

 

 

How Do I Get From Cusco City To Machu Picchu?

 

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!

 

See a Full List of FAQs About Machu Picchu Here!

 

Ask us here for the best way to get to Machu Picchu for you and allow us to arrange your trip to the magical Inca citadel. We will take care of all the finer details! Such as trains, transfers, and hotels. So that you can concentrate on the exploration of this magnificent ancient Inca city!

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