Getting to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town)
For those looking for all the essential travel information in one place, we have compiled the ultimate guide on how to arrive at Machu Picchu. Whether you are seeking adventure on foot, luxury on the rails, or a budget-friendly route, there is an option tailored for every type of traveler departing from Cusco.
Option 1: Reaching Machu Picchu on Foot (Trekking Routes)
The Classic Inca Trail (4-Day and 2-Day Options)
Many travelers dream of completing the classic 4-day Inca Trail Hike. For those short on time, an abbreviated 2-day version is also available—less physically demanding, yet still hitting the main highlights of the trail.
Both options boast a series of magnificent Inca ruins, high-mountain passes, and stunning Andean landscapes. They end on a high note at Intipunku (The Sun Gate), where hikers enjoy their first panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel as morning light hits the ruins.
Popular Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu
If Inca Trail permits are sold out for your travel dates, excellent alternative routes offer equal natural beauty, historical depth, and fewer crowds:
- The Salkantay Trek (5 to 8 Days): Famed for its diverse topography, this trail cuts across the scenic Mollepata Valley, ascends past the snow-capped peak of Mount Salkantay, and connects with an original Inca trail leading to the Llactapata ruins. From there, you will glimpse your first views of Machu Picchu before heading down to the railway station for the final stretch. Learn more about our Salkantay Trek Tours.
- The Lares Trek (3 to 5 Days): Off the beaten path, many locals consider this the route with the most authentic cultural experience and stunning landscapes. Starting in the town of Lares, you will traverse traditional Andean villages where locals weave and farm as they have for generations. After taking in views of Mount Veronica and pristine glacial lakes, the trek finishes in Ollantaytambo, where you board a 90-minute train to Aguas Calientes. Check out available Lares Trekking Routes.
Option 2: Travel to Machu Picchu by Train
Taking the train is the most comfortable and popular way to reach Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Trains depart primarily from two stations:
- Poroy Station: Located about 20 minutes outside of Cusco.
- Ollantaytambo Station: Located in the Sacred Valley, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Cusco by road.
You can choose between two main rail companies: PeruRail and Inca Rail. Both offer services ranging from panoramic budget trains to ultra-luxury options.
Option 3: The Cheapest Route (Buses + Hiking)
For backpackers and budget travelers, getting to Machu Picchu via public transportation and walking offers significant savings compared to train tickets. However, it requires time and flexibility.
1. The Track Walk via Km 83
Take a public minivan (combi) from Cusco to Ollantaytambo (approx. US $5), and then another local bus to Km 83 along the railway tracks. From there, you can hike along the train tracks for about 10 hours directly to Aguas Calientes.
2. The Santa María & Hidroeléctrica Route
This is the most popular budget route among backpackers:
- Cusco to Santa María: Take a bus from Cusco’s Terminal Terrestre toward Quillabamba, but get off at Santa María in the high jungle (approx. 5 hours, ~US $10).
- Santa María to Santa Teresa: Take a local bus or shared taxi to Santa Teresa (1 hour 45 minutes, ~US $3.50). In Santa Teresa, you can relax at the famous Cocalmayo Hot Springs.
- Santa Teresa to Hidroeléctrica: Ride a taxi to the Hidroeléctrica train station (1 hour 30 minutes, ~US $1.50).
- Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes: Walk along the train tracks through jungle passages, bridges, and tunnels. This 6-mile (10 km) flat hike takes 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, you can purchase a local train ticket for this final 20-minute segment (approx. US $30–$35 for foreign tourists).
Comparison: Best Ways to Reach Machu Picchu
| Route / Method | Duration | Difficulty / Effort | Estimated Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Inca Trail | 4 Days / 3 Nights | Moderate to Demanding | High ($$$$) | History buffs, classic adventurers |
| Salkantay Trek | 5 Days / 4 Nights | Demanding | Moderate ($$$) | Nature lovers, mountain landscape seekers |
| Lares Trek | 3–4 Days | Moderate | Moderate ($$$) | Cultural enthusiasts, off-the-beaten-path travelers |
| Train (PeruRail / Inca Rail) | 3.5 to 4 Hours (one way) | Easy | Moderate to Luxury ($$ - $$$$) | Families, short-stay visitors, comfort seekers |
| Hidroeléctrica Bus + Walk | 1 to 2 Days | Moderate (Long journey) | Low ($) | Backpackers, budget-conscious travelers |
From Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu Citadel
Once you reach Aguas Calientes, you are at the doorstep of the sanctuary. Depending on your itinerary (whether staying overnight or arriving on a day trip), you have two choices to get up to the citadel entrance:
- Consettur Bus: A 25-minute shuttle bus ride winding up the mountain side. Tickets cost approximately US $12 one-way or US $24 round-trip.
- Hiking Up: A steep, stone-stairway hike taking roughly 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your fitness level.
Looking for a seamless journey? Explore our Full-Day Machu Picchu Guided Tours, which cover all transportation, permits, entrance tickets, and expert local guides.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the fastest way to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco?
The fastest route is taking a bimodal service (bus + train) or driving to Ollantaytambo station and taking a direct train to Aguas Calientes, followed by the Consettur bus up to the citadel. Total travel time is around 3.5 to 4 hours each way.
Do I need to book Machu Picchu train and hike tickets in advance?
Yes. Inca Trail permits sell out 4 to 6 months in advance. Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train seats also have daily capacity limits and should be secured as early as possible.
