How to get to Machu Picchu from Lima and Cusco

Machu Picchu is one of the 7 wonders of the world, this destination is very popular among tourists and is located in the region of Cusco.
To get to Machu Picchu we must pass through the middle of the Andean mountains of Cusco, surrounded by vegetation and incredible landscapes, whether you go by train, car or walking. You will have one of the best experiences of your life.
Machu Picchu is located in Peru, South America, in the region of Cusco. To get there you must take several types of services, such as plane, bus, train or walking.
HOW TO GET TO MACHU PICCHU FROM LIMA?
With a connection in Lima you can fly direct to Cusco. You can also vacation a few days in the capital and then continue the trip there are several airlines such as Latam, Vivaair, etc. is 1 hour and 15 minutes flight to the nearest airport to Machu Picchu which is located in the city of Cusco, we are talking about the airport of Alejandro Velasco Astete.
There is also the option of traveling by bus but it will be a 24 hour trip, if you want to be adventurous you can choose this option.
HOW TO GET TO MACHU PICCHU FROM CUSCO?
Once in Cusco, the best and most popular option is to travel by car to the train station where you bought your train ticket. We have 3, San Pedro, Poroy and Ollantaytambo.
Ticket costs vary depending on the station you take the train from, if you want to save money the best option is from Ollantaytambo station.
To get from Cusco to Machu Picchu we have to take a car or tourist transport to Ollantaytambo and from there take the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo. The cars can be taken from Pavitos, or simply tell the cab driver to drop us off to go to Ollantaytambo.
There are two train companies that operate the route: Peru Rail and Inca Rail. In terms of prices they are practically the same, there are not many differences between them. What really changes are the schedules and spaces.
The average price of the train is 60 dollars per trip, or 120 dollars round trip minimum, this is in economy classes, as there are higher classes that cost much more.
HOW TO GET TO MACHU PICCHU FROM OLLANTAYTAMBO?
Now, if you are already in Ollantaytambo, the easiest way is to take the train from here, there are different types of train services, both Perurail and Inca Rail, you can check the details of the services in each web of these 2 companies.
- The most economical train for tourists is the Peru Rail Expeditions Train.
- See our exclusive tour of: Machu Picchu by train 2 days.
- All the ways to get to Machu Picchu
HOW TO GET TO MACHU PICCHU BY CAR?
For this you must take a car from the city of Cusco to Hidroeléctrica, Santa Teresa. Many agencies offer tours called Machu Picchu by Car.
HOW TO GET TO MACHU PICCHU BY TRAIN?
This is the easiest option, although it has a higher cost, it is worth enjoying it.
HOW TO GET TO MACHU PICCHU BY TREKKING?
This option is for lovers of trekking, hiking, adventure and those who want to experience up close the Inca Trail or alternative trails.
This trek is dedicated to trekking lovers, as there are 2 to 4 days of trekking depending on your choice. There are at least 43 km of trekking full of beautiful landscapes, mountains, rivers and archaeological groups.
Conclusions
There are not many alternatives to get to Machu Picchu, they can be summarized in 3, and in each of the options you can get local agencies and operators with prices that vary according to their service.
- Comfortable and easy travel: by train (Perurail/Incarail). 4 hours
- Economic trip: mini bus and hike by Hidroeléctrica. 8 hours.
- Adventure Trip: Inca Trail, Salkantay, Inca Jungle. 4 days
We are specialists in trekking and adventure, if you want Inca Trail, Inca Jungle Trek, Salkantay Trek or more tours, do not hesitate to contact us.