GETTING TO MACHU PICCHU 2026
How to get to Machu Picchu — step by step.
Train, bus, hike or a combination? Understand the route from Cusco to Machu Picchu before you book tickets, transport or hotels.
THE ROUTE IN 4 PARTS
- Cusco → train station
- Train → Aguas Calientes
- Aguas Calientes → entrance
- Return to Cusco
START HERE
The main ways to reach Machu Picchu
Train via Ollantaytambo
Best for: most independent travelers
Travel from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, take the train to Aguas Calientes, then continue to the entrance.
See the complete route →Train from Cusco area
Best for: fewer transfers
Some services depart from or connect through stations closer to Cusco. Compare total journey time, not only train time.
Compare trains →Hike to Machu Picchu
Best for: trekking-focused trips
The Inca Trail and alternative treks require a completely different planning sequence from a standard train visit.
Explore hiking options →The journey most travelers make
Think of Machu Picchu transport as a chain. Each booking needs to connect with the next one.
Start in Cusco
Choose whether to travel directly or spend time in the Sacred Valley first.
Reach your station
Ollantaytambo is a common departure point. Allow enough transfer time.
Take the train
Arrive in Aguas Calientes, also known as Machupicchu Pueblo.
Go to the entrance
Use the shuttle bus or walk uphill, then enter at your ticketed time.
Return
Leave enough margin between your visit, bus, train and onward transfer.
TRANSPORT GUIDES
Plan each part of the route
Machu Picchu Trains
Stations, operators, schedules and what to compare before booking.
Compare trains →Aguas Calientes Bus
How the shuttle between town and the Machu Picchu entrance works.
Understand the bus →Lima to Machu Picchu
How to connect Peru’s capital with Cusco and Machu Picchu.
Plan from Lima →Do you need to stay in Aguas Calientes?
Not always. A same-day visit from Cusco is possible, but staying near Machu Picchu can reduce the pressure of coordinating an early entrance with trains and transfers.
Avoid this mistake
Do not book your entrance, train and hotel independently without checking whether the times actually work together.
Getting to Machu Picchu FAQs
Can you drive directly to Machu Picchu?
There is no conventional road that takes visitors directly to the archaeological entrance from Cusco. Most travelers combine ground transport, train and the final shuttle or walk.
What is the easiest way to get there?
For many visitors, the easiest option is a coordinated train journey to Aguas Calientes followed by the shuttle to the entrance.
How do I get from Cusco to Machu Picchu?
A common route is Cusco to Ollantaytambo by road, train to Aguas Calientes, then shuttle bus to Machu Picchu.
Should I book the train or entrance ticket first?
Availability for both matters. Before paying, compare entrance availability with workable train times so the bookings fit the same itinerary.