Ways to get to Machu Picchu: Budget
Machu Picchu is the most iconic tourist destination in Peru and one of the most visited in South America, with around 1.5 million travelers annually. To get there, first, you arrive in Peru, usually in Lima, where the international airport is located. Then you travel to Cusco, the starting point to the Inca citadel. From there, there are three main routes: the train journey via Ollantaytambo, the budget alternative through Hidroelectrica, and the 4-day Inca Trail. Each option has differences in time, comfort, and budget, which are key aspects to choose the most suitable one. Learn about the differences and the budget for each of these routes.
- The trip to Cusco, the capital of the Inca Empire
- The three routes to Machu Picchu from Cusco
- The budget for each route to Machu Picchu
- Budget for the entrance to Machu Picchu
- Questions and answers
Machu Picchu with clouds
The hiking routes to Machu Picchu
There are various multi-day hiking routes to Machu Picchu. The most famous and special is the Inca Trail, which, whether in its four-day or two-day version, allows access to the Inca city through the Intipunku (Sun Gate), just as the Incas did over five hundred years ago. There are also other popular and famous hiking routes such as the 5-day Salkantay trek, which visits famous tourist attractions like Humantay Lake or the Cocalmayo hot springs, before accessing Machu Picchu via the popular Hidroelectrica route. The 4-day Lares trek includes a visit to the Lares hot springs before reaching the Inca citadel by train via Ollantaytambo. Or the Inca Jungle, which includes activities like cycling, rafting, and zip-lining before accessing the Inca city through Hidroelectrica. All allow you to enjoy unforgettable days in Cusco, Peru.
The trip to Cusco, the capital of the Inca Empire
- The city of Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire, also known as Tahuantinsuyo (the empire of the four regions). It is located in the Andes Mountain Range of Peru, about 1,095 kilometers by land from the city of Lima, the capital of the country.
- To get to Peru, most visitors take a flight to the Jorge Chávez international airport in Lima. From there, the same day or on a different day, they take a flight of just 1 hour to the Velasco Astete airport in the city of Cusco, located about 3,399 meters above sea level.
- However, there are other alternative routes to get to the city of Cusco. One adventurous option is to take an interprovincial bus from Lima to Cusco (approximately 20 hours). The journey is tough as it passes through roads in the mountains of the Andes. However, the cost is lower compared to a flight. A bus ticket from Lima to Cusco costs approximately 120 Peruvian soles (36 dollars).
- Another option is to take an interprovincial bus from other tourist regions of Peru or Bolivia. For example, from the city of Arequipa (famous for the Colca Canyon), a bus trip of 513 kilometers or 9 hours is available. From the region of Puno (famous for Lake Titicaca), a bus trip of 386 kilometers or 7 hours is available. From the city of La Paz, the capital of Bolivia, you can travel to Cusco by bus. The route is 651 kilometers or approximately 12 hours of travel.
- However, most people choose to get to Cusco by flight from Lima. The cost of this trip varies depending on the airline and how far in advance the ticket is purchased. It usually costs between 100 to 200 US dollars per person.
- The city of Cusco is located more than 3,399 meters above sea level. It has a temperate and dry climate in winter but is humid and rainy in summer. Dry season from April to October and rainy season from November to March.
The three routes to Machu Picchu from Cusco
To travel to Machu Picchu, there are three main routes from the city of Cusco or the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Discover their main characteristics:
Classic train route via Ollantaytambo
The most popular route to Machu Picchu is the train journey, an option that combines speed, comfort, and safety. For this, it is necessary to buy a ticket from either of the two available companies, PeruRail or Inca Rail. The journey begins in Cusco, where a tourist bus takes you to the train station in Ollantaytambo, located 1 hour and 45 minutes from the city. From there, passengers board one of the trains with different service levels, which takes travelers to the final station in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu village), in a journey of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Upon arriving at Aguas Calientes, the final part of the journey consists of a brief 30-minute bus ride or, if preferred, a two-hour walk to the entrance of Machu Picchu. This combination of train and bus or walk is one of the most comfortable and effective ways to access the famous Inca citadel.
Budget alternative route via Hidroelectrica
The Hidroelectrica route is a popular choice for adventurers seeking a more memorable and budget-friendly experience to reach Machu Picchu. This route offers the chance to enjoy beautiful mountain and high jungle landscapes, covering 179 kilometers starting from Cusco. The journey is done by bus, passing through villages in the Sacred Valley, the Málaga pass, and the towns of Santa María and Santa Teresa, taking approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes.
Upon arriving in Santa Teresa, a short 30-minute bus ride takes you to Hidroelectrica, where a two-hour walk begins through 10 kilometers of trails surrounded by tropical biodiversity. This part of the journey is ideal for nature lovers, as it allows you to enjoy the local flora and fauna while heading toward the final destination.
The route ends in the village of Aguas Calientes, from where a 30-minute bus ride or a two-hour uphill walk is required to reach the entrance to Machu Picchu. This option is highly recommended if you spend a night in Aguas Calientes or Santa Teresa, as it allows you to travel more leisurely and enjoy the visit to the Inca citadel without rush or exhaustion.
Inca Trail route
The Inca Trail is undoubtedly the most special and memorable way to reach Machu Picchu. This 4-day, 3-night trek under the stars follows historic trails built by the Incas centuries ago. Along the 39 kilometers, trekkers have the opportunity to explore the diverse tropical biodiversity surrounding Machu Picchu, as well as visit other impressive Inca citadels like Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñay Wayna.
At the end of the trek, the fourth day offers a unique arrival to Machu Picchu via Inti Punku (Sun Gate), the same route used by the Incas, where an unparalleled panoramic view of the citadel is obtained. There is also a two-day alternative, covering 12 kilometers to Machu Picchu. In both cases, due to state protection of the route, it can only be done through an organized tour by a licensed travel agency, so it is recommended to make the reservation 4 to 5 months in advance.
Map of the three ways to reach Machu Picchu – Inca Trail, by car, and by train
The budget for each route to Machu Picchu
For better trip planning to Machu Picchu, discover the prices and characteristics of each of the three main travel routes:
| The trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco | Classic train route | Alternative route via Hidroelectrica | 4-day Inca Trail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recommended | For all people | For adventurous visitors looking to save some money | For adventurers who enjoy long hikes |
| Time to Machu Picchu | Approximately 4 hours of travel | Approximately 8 hours of travel | 4 days of hiking (39 kilometers) |
| Maximum altitude | Ollantaytambo (2,792 meters above sea level) | Abra Málaga (4,200 meters above sea level) | Abra Warmiwañusca (4,215 meters above sea level) |
| Minimum altitude | Aguas Calientes village (2,040 meters above sea level) | Aguas Calientes village (2,040 meters above sea level) | Aguas Calientes village (2,040 meters above sea level) |
| Return trip | By the same route as the outward journey (4-hour trip back to Cusco) | By the same route as the outward journey (9-hour trip back to Cusco) | With the classic train route (4-hour trip back to Cusco) |
| Entry to Machu Picchu | Not included, available at one of the ten Machu Picchu entrances | Not included, available at one of the ten Machu Picchu entrances | Entry to Machu Picchu via the classic circuit included |
| Travel cost | 130 dollars, train ticket price (round trip) | 30 dollars, bus travel price (round trip) | The Inca Trail tour costs approximately 840 dollars |
| More information | This route allows for a 1-day trip from Cusco, round trip | This route requires an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes | The Inca Trail can only be done through an authorized tour agency |
Entry Budget for Machu Picchu
Any route to Machu Picchu requires the purchase of an entry ticket, either in person or online (recommended). Here are the prices:
| Machu Picchu Entrance Only | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Tickets | Category | Foreigners | Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, or Bolivia |
| Machu Picchu Mountain Route (1A) | Adults | 200 Peruvian soles | 112 Peruvian soles |
| University Students | 125 Peruvian soles | 80 Peruvian soles | |
| Under 18 Years | 118 Peruvian soles | 80 Peruvian soles | |
| Classic Upper Terrace Photo Route (1B) | Adults | 152 Peruvian soles | 64 Peruvian soles |
| University Students | 77 Peruvian soles | 32 Peruvian soles | |
| Under 18 Years | 70 Peruvian soles | 32 Peruvian soles | |
| Inti Punku Gate Route (1C) | Adults | 152 Peruvian soles | 64 Peruvian soles |
| University Students | 77 Peruvian soles | 32 Peruvian soles | |
| Under 18 Years | 70 Peruvian soles | 32 Peruvian soles | |
| Inca Bridge Route (1D) | Adults | 152 Peruvian soles | 64 Peruvian soles |
| University Students | 77 Peruvian soles | 32 Peruvian soles | |
| Under 18 Years | 70 Peruvian soles | 32 Peruvian soles | |
| Classic Route Designed (2A) | Adults | 152 Peruvian soles | 64 Peruvian soles |
| University Students | 77 Peruvian soles | 32 Peruvian soles | |
| Under 18 Years | 70 Peruvian soles | 32 Peruvian soles | |
| Classic Lower Terrace Route (2B) | Adults | 152 Peruvian soles | 64 Peruvian soles |
| University Students | 77 Peruvian soles | 32 Peruvian soles | |
| Under 18 Years | 70 Peruvian soles | 32 Peruvian soles | |
| Huayna Picchu Mountain Route (3A) | Adults | 200 Peruvian soles | 112 Peruvian soles |
| University Students | 125 Peruvian soles | 80 Peruvian soles | |
| Under 18 Years | 118 Peruvian soles | 80 Peruvian soles | |
| Royal Designed Lower Temples Route (3B) | Adults | 152 Peruvian soles | 64 Peruvian soles |
| University Students | 77 Peruvian soles | 32 Peruvian soles | |
| Under 18 Years | 70 Peruvian soles | 32 Peruvian soles | |
| Moon Temple or Great Cave Route (3C) | Adults | 200 Peruvian soles | 112 Peruvian soles |
| University Students | 125 Peruvian soles | 80 Peruvian soles | |
| Under 18 Years | 118 Peruvian soles | 80 Peruvian soles | |
| Huchuy Picchu Mountain Route (3D) | Adults | 200 Peruvian soles | 112 Peruvian soles |
| University Students | 125 Peruvian soles | 80 Peruvian soles | |
| Under 18 Years | 118 Peruvian soles | 80 Peruvian soles | |
Frequently Asked Questions
1) How much does the trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu cost?
The cost of the trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu varies depending on the three main ways to reach it: by train, via Hidroelectrica route, or the Inca Trail. There are also optional hiking routes.
2) How much is the train ticket to Machu Picchu?
The train ticket ranges from $60 to $500 for foreign visitors, depending on the type of train service selected.
3) How much does the trip via Hidroelectrica cost?
The bus ticket from Cusco to Hidroelectrica costs approximately $15. Afterward, you must walk to Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu village.
4) How much does the 4-day Inca Trail cost?
The 4-day Inca Trail tour costs around $840, depending on the chosen travel agency.
5) How much does the 2-day Inca Trail tour cost?
The 2-day Inca Trail tour costs around $685, depending on the chosen travel agency.
6) How much does the 5-day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu cost?
The 5-day Salkantay trek tour costs around $500 with Ticketmachupicchu. You can also do this route independently to save some money.
7) How much does the 4-day Inca Jungle tour cost?
The 4-day Inca Jungle tour to Machu Picchu costs around $490. Remember to book in advance.
8) How much does the Lares trek to Machu Picchu cost?
The 4-day Lares trek tour costs approximately $700 with Ticketmachupicchu. However, you can also do this route independently to save some money.
9) Can I walk to Machu Picchu?
Yes, the final section from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is 10 kilometers, and anyone can walk it freely. However, the route is uphill, and it takes about 2 hours on stone steps. The bus ticket to complete this route costs $12 for foreign adults.
10) How much does the trip to Machu Picchu cost for a Peruvian?
Peruvians enjoy some benefits for the trip to Machu Picchu, such as the local train ticket, which costs just 12 soles (non-touristic service). The entry ticket for Peruvian adults to Machu Picchu costs 64 soles.
Advice from people who have been there
By: Guido B.“Amazing route“
“I love hiking, and Machu Picchu offers the chance to explore beautiful mountains. Honestly, I would come back a thousand times without hesitation. A big hug to my brothers from Peru. Everyone should come.“
By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, February 23, 2026