Choosing the route to Machu Picchu often becomes a central part of the experience: it’s not just the destination, but the journey itself. There are alternatives ranging from short and accessible hikes to multi-day treks through natural landscapes and ancient Inca trails, each with different levels of difficulty. Therefore, before deciding, it is advisable to define what kind of experience you are looking for, whether a light route or a deeper immersion in the surroundings. Below are the main hiking routes to Machu Picchu to help you choose the option that best suits your expectations.

• Machu Picchu by train (1 day)
• Huayna Picchu Mountain Route (1 day)
• Machu Picchu Mountain Route (1 day)
• Classic Inca Trail (4 days / 3 nights)
• Short Inca Trail (2 days / 1 night)
• Inka Jungle Route (4 days / 3 nights)
• Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (5 days / 4 nights)
• Frequently Asked Questions

Archaeology of Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu by train (1 day)

• The most common way to reach Machu Picchu is via the train route departing from the town of Ollantaytambo.
• It is the most comfortable and fastest option, and it also passes through impressive landscapes of the Sacred Valley until reaching Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu town).
• The train can be boarded from several stations (Wanchaq, San Pedro, Ollantaytambo, and Poroy), although the most popular is Ollantaytambo due to its variety of schedules and its proximity to Machu Picchu.
• Another advantage of this route is that train tickets can be booked just weeks in advance. However, tickets to the Inca citadel must be purchased at least one month in advance (the most popular tickets such as Huayna Picchu Mountain and the Classic Circuit should be booked three months ahead).
• The train service offers different levels of experience, depending on the desired comfort. The average travel time from Ollantaytambo is 2 hours.
• Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes via train, you will only need to ascend by bus or on foot to the Historic Sanctuary to complete the journey.
• The full trip on this route can be completed in just one day. With the Machu Picchu full day tour, the journey starts in the city of Cusco early in the morning and then continues to Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes. The visit to the Inca citadel is scheduled for midday, with the return in the afternoon, arriving back in Cusco at night.
• Perfect option for those who want to reach Machu Picchu effortlessly while enjoying a fast and hassle-free trip.

Huayna Picchu Mountain Route (1 day)

• One of the best experiences you can have in Machu Picchu is hiking to the summit of Huayna Picchu mountain.
• Huayna Picchu mountain is the iconic peak featured in the classic photos of the Inca citadel and is the most visually striking point of the site.
• Considered one of the best short hikes in the world, walking its adrenaline-filled trails also means being surrounded by natural landscapes and Inca constructions unique to this route.
• From its summit (2,693 meters above sea level), you can fully appreciate the Historic Sanctuary, as well as the tropical biodiversity surrounding the area.
• To experience this adventure, you will need to purchase the “Huayna Picchu Mountain Route (3A)” ticket, which must be booked two months in advance (350 tickets available daily).
• There are only two available time slots to climb the mountain: the first at 7:00 a.m. and the second at 10:00 a.m.
• If you did not secure a ticket to Huayna Picchu mountain, you can still purchase one of the 50 tickets made available daily in Aguas Calientes.
• This experience can also be done in just one day, arriving via the train route from Ollantaytambo and purchasing the Huayna Picchu ticket for the 10:00 a.m. time slot.
• Ideal for those looking for a challenging hiking route within Machu Picchu with spectacular views.

View of Huayna Picchu

Machu Picchu Mountain Route (1 day)

• Machu Picchu Mountain, the highest peak in the Inca complex, is the reason why the Inca citadel bears this name.
• The hiking trail to reach its summit is the longest of all the routes within the Inca site.
• The route features wide and gentle paths, allowing for a მშვიდ and enjoyable experience with expansive views.
• From its summit (3,082 meters above sea level), you will enjoy the widest panoramic view of all Machu Picchu.
• This adventure also has its own ticket, “Machu Picchu Mountain Route (1A)”, which can be purchased one month in advance.
• Machu Picchu Mountain has two entry times: the first at 7:00 a.m. and the second at 9:00 a.m.
• If you did not secure a ticket for this route, you can purchase one of the 50 tickets made available daily in Aguas Calientes.
• This route can also be completed in just one day, arriving via the train route from Ollantaytambo and purchasing the ticket for the 9:00 a.m. time slot.
• It is an ideal alternative for the whole family, offering a broader perspective of this world wonder.

View from Machu Picchu Mountain

Classic Inca Trail (4 days / 3 nights)

• The most famous and memorable route to reach Machu Picchu is the Inca Trail, an immersive four-day, three-night adventure.
• The route follows original Inca trails, passing through areas of rich biodiversity and including archaeological sites exclusive to this experience.
• Nights are spent camping under the stars. On the fourth day of hiking, you reach the Inca citadel through the Inti Punku gate, revealing a very special view of the site.
• To access the Inca Trail, it is mandatory to book the tour with a travel agency (4 to 5 months in advance), as these trails cannot be explored independently.
• The Inca Trail is one of the best hikes in the world. Its more than 500-year-old paths cross stunning landscapes with diverse flora and fauna, along with remarkable Inca constructions (Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñayhuayna).
• The trek is approximately 42 kilometers long, making it a high-difficulty experience, although completing it can become an unforgettable journey.
• It is the ideal option for those seeking a complete, immersive, and challenging experience on the way to Machu Picchu.

Short Inca Trail (2 days / 1 night)

• The Inca Trail adventure also has a shorter two-day version, perfect for travelers with limited time in their itinerary.
• The short Inca Trail covers only 11 kilometers, reaching Machu Picchu through the Inti Punku gate.
• On the first day of the experience, you arrive directly at the Inca citadel, where you will have only a panoramic tour.
• The night is spent in a hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu town), and the following day focuses on a more immersive and detailed visit to the archaeological site.
• The experience is much easier than its original version. The route also passes through historical constructions (Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna) and scenic trails full of biodiversity.
• Reservations must be made 2 to 3 months in advance. Remember that this adventure is also carried out with an authorized tour operator, ensuring visitor safety and preserving the Inca trails.
• It is an ideal option for those who want to experience the essence of the Inca Trail with less effort.

Inca Trail paths

Inka Jungle Route (4 days / 3 nights)

• One of the most exciting and adrenaline-filled ways to reach Machu Picchu is the Inka Jungle, which combines various adventure activities.
• This experience includes biking segments, hiking, ziplining, and rafting. Throughout the journey, you will pass through stunning tropical and Andean landscapes.
• During the Inka Jungle tour, nights are spent in hotels in different towns along the route (Santa María, Santa Teresa, and Aguas Calientes).
• On the third day, to reach Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu town), the alternative Hidroeléctrica route is used.
• The final day is dedicated to visiting the Machu Picchu Sanctuary. The return to the city of Cusco is in the evening by train.
• The Inka Jungle tour can be booked 1 to 2 months in advance. If you are traveling in a group, this is the best option to enjoy multiple adventures before visiting the wonder of the world.
• It is a very diverse alternative, perfect for exploring a wide variety of biodiverse landscapes before visiting the world wonder.

The alternative Hidroeléctrica route
The most economical way to reach Machu Picchu is via the alternative Hidroeléctrica route. This option involves an initial car journey to Santa María (5 hours) followed by a short hike (2 hours) to Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu town). The Hidroeléctrica route is also part of the Inka Jungle and Salkantay trek experiences; it is an easy route, full of nature and dreamlike landscapes.

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (5 days / 4 nights)

• A different kind of adventure to reach Machu Picchu is the Salkantay Trek, a scenic journey through Andean and tropical landscapes that showcase various facets of the Cusco region.
• The 5-day route follows trails along the slopes of one of Cusco’s highest snow-capped mountains, Salkantay, which rises to 6,271 meters above sea level.
• Other highlights of the trail include: Humantay Lake, the Salkantay Pass, the Cocalmayo hot springs, the Hidroeléctrica route, and cloud forest valleys.
• Nights during the Salkantay Trek are spent in campsites and lodges under the stars; only the final night is spent in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• The Salkantay trek can be booked 1 to 2 months in advance. It is an experience as intense as the Inca Trail, but easier to reserve with less advance notice.
• The Salkantay trek passes through more diverse areas, giving you a broader understanding of the Cusco region after the expedition.

Salkantay Pass

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) What is the fastest way to get to Machu Picchu?

  The most practical option is traveling by train from Ollantaytambo. It is comfortable, fast, and allows you to enjoy scenic views of the Sacred Valley effortlessly.

• 2) Can I visit Machu Picchu in just one day?

  Yes, the most practical option is to travel by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and then go up by bus or on foot. It is a convenient route designed for those who want to make the most of their day.

• 3) Should I buy my Machu Picchu tickets well in advance?

  Ideally, you should purchase them at least one month in advance, as availability is very limited. For Huayna Picchu Mountain or the Classic Circuit, it is recommended to book three months ahead.

• 4) How difficult is the hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain?

  It is a moderately challenging and very adrenaline-filled hike due to its steep sections, but completely safe. If you are looking for a short adventure with stunning views, this is the perfect option.

• 5) Is Machu Picchu Mountain suitable for families?

  Yes, its trails are wider and less steep than those of Huayna Picchu, making it a safe hike for travelers of all ages. The panoramic view from the summit is unforgettable.

• 6) Is it mandatory to hire an agency to do the Inca Trail?

  Yes, as this route requires strict permits to protect both visitors and the trail. By booking the Inca Trail with us, you ensure a safe and unforgettable experience.

• 7) How far in advance should I book the Classic Inca Trail?

  Ideally, you should secure your spot 4 to 5 months in advance, as it is one of the most in-demand routes. The Short Inca Trail typically has availability 2 to 3 months in advance.

• 8) Is the Short Inca Trail a good option if I have limited time?

  Definitely, it is a two-day hike that preserves the essence of the Inca Trail and allows you to enter Machu Picchu through the iconic Inti Punku gate. It is more accessible and perfect if you are looking for a more relaxed experience.

• 9) What does the Inka Jungle experience include?

  It includes downhill biking, hiking, ziplining, and rafting, along with spectacular landscapes. It is ideal if you are looking for varied adventure before visiting Machu Picchu.

• 10) What is the Salkantay trek experience like?

  It follows one of the most diverse and challenging routes before reaching Machu Picchu. The trail passes through Andean landscapes, snow-capped peaks, lagoons, and tropical areas. It is perfect if you are seeking an immersive connection with nature.

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu

By: Jhonn K.

“Unmissable“

“The feeling you experience when standing before that astonishing 15th-century city is difficult to describe in words. Perhaps if I had taken a photo with tears in my eyes, you would understand what I felt—and what you might feel at this wonder. Machu Picchu is magical, full of history and unresolved mysteries, not to mention the powerful energy that can be felt.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, April 15, 2026