How to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco?
There are two main ways to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco:
By Train:
- Train Companies:
- Peru Rail: https://www.perurail.com/
- Inca Rail: https://incarail.com/en
- Both companies offer various train options, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious, with scenic journeys through the Sacred Valley.
- The train takes around 3 hours
- Booking:
- You can book your train tickets directly on the companies’ websites or through travel agencies.
- Booking in advance, especially during peak season (June to August), is highly recommended.
- Departure Stations:
- Poroy Station: Located outside Cusco, this is the most common departure point for trains to Machu Picchu.
- Ollantaytambo Station: Situated in the Sacred Valley, this station offers access to the train journey after exploring the charming town of Ollantaytambo.
- Bus to Ollantaytambo: Take a bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, a scenic journey through the Urubamba Valley.
- Booking: Bus tickets can be purchased online or at bus terminals in Cusco.
- Destination Station:
- Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), the town at the foot of Machu Picchu.
- After arrival, take one of the buses to the entrance gate of Machu Picchu in 30 minutes.
2. By Hiking:
- The Inca Trail: The most famous trek to Machu Picchu, offering a challenging and rewarding experience through stunning landscapes and Inca ruins. Permits are required and must be booked well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Booking: The Inca Trail can be booked through authorized travel agencies.
- Alternative Treks: Several other treks, varying in difficulty and length, lead to Machu Picchu, including:
- Salkantay Trek: Offers stunning scenery with snow-capped mountains and glaciers.
- Lares Trek: Features traditional villages, hot springs, and diverse landscapes.
- Choquequirao Trek: Leads to the lesser-known “sister city” of Machu Picchu.
- Booking: These treks can be booked through authorized travel agencies.
Additional Tips:
- Altitude Sickness: Be aware of altitude sickness, which can affect travelers visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu, located at high altitudes (Cusco: 11,152 ft, Machu Picchu: 9,060 ft). Acclimatize properly in Cusco before attempting strenuous activities.
- Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets: Purchase your Machu Picchu entrance ticket in advance, as there is a daily limit on the number of visitors allowed. You can buy them online through the official website: https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco!
You can check other useful information of Lima here too!
There are two main ways to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco: By Train: 2. By Hiking: Additional Tips: I hope this information helps…