Aguas Calientes is the town that protects the archaeological sanctuary of Machu Picchu. It is an almost mandatory stop, offering a magical atmosphere filled with cultural activities and stunning natural landscapes. But the most important question is: how to get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu? Discover in our travel guide everything you need to know before embarking on one of the best travel experiences in the world.

• What is Aguas Calientes?
• How to get to Aguas Calientes?
  • Travel from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
  • Travel from Hydroelectric Station to Aguas Calientes
• How to reach Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail?
• How to get to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes?
  • Bus ride to Machu Picchu
  • Hiking to Machu Picchu
• How to buy Machu Picchu tickets step by step?
• Types of Machu Picchu tickets
• More information about Machu Picchu tickets
• Best hotels in Aguas Calientes
• Best time to visit Machu Picchu
• More travel information about Machu Picchu
• Frequently asked questions

Aguas Calientes Town

What is Aguas Calientes?

• Aguas Calientes is the town where the Machu Picchu archaeological sanctuary is located.
• It is situated at the foot of Machu Picchu Mountain, which gives its name to the Inca citadel.
• This picturesque destination is entirely dedicated to tourism.
• Traffic is completely pedestrian. There are no cars in its streets, except for the buses that travel to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
• Aguas Calientes has more hotels per square meter than any other destination in Peru.
• It offers high-quality tourist services such as hotels, restaurants, bars, cafés, and more.
• Aguas Calientes is also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo.
• Visitors can enjoy many activities, from exploring its rich biodiversity to relaxing in its famous hot springs.
• The town of Aguas Calientes is surrounded by lush green mountains, creating a magical setting that feels like a fairy tale.

How to Get to Aguas Calientes?

There are only two ways to reach Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town): the classic train journey from Ollantaytambo or the scenic hike from the Hydroelectric Station. Discover more about these routes to choose the one that best fits your travel itinerary.

Travel from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes

• The journey begins in Cusco, where you must take transportation to the town of Ollantaytambo, a trip of approximately 2 hours.
• Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, you will board a train that travels through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. Be sure to book your tickets in advance (Machu Picchu train ticket sales).
• The train journey takes लगभग 2 hours. Along the way, you will enjoy breathtaking landscapes that transition from Andean highlands to lush tropical scenery.
• This is the most comfortable and fastest option, as it takes just over 4 hours from Cusco to reach Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail and Inca Rail are the companies that operate train services on this route.
• The train service offers various options, from standard class to premium experiences with added comfort and services.

Travel from Hydroelectric Station to Aguas Calientes

• The Hydroelectric route is a more budget-friendly option to reach Machu Picchu town.
• The journey starts in Cusco, traveling by car to the town of Santa Teresa (approximately 5 hours).
• After arriving, you take a short trip to the Hydroelectric Station (around 30 minutes).
• This option also allows you to visit the Cocalmayo hot springs, located in Santa Teresa.
• From the Hydroelectric Station, the hike to Aguas Calientes begins and takes approximately 2 hours.
• The route features rich biodiversity, with diverse flora and fauna, and unforgettable landscapes along the railway path.
• The hike is easy, following a flat trail with no steep inclines. Before starting, you will find small shops where you can purchase essentials for the journey.

Routes to reach Aguas Calientes from Cusco

Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, depending on your chosen route, you can either head directly to the Machu Picchu archaeological site or explore the town and visit the Inca citadel the following day. This is often the best way to organize your trip, as the morning is usually the best time to visit Machu Picchu, offering better energy levels and a more relaxed experience.

How to Get to Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail?

• The Inca Trail is a trekking adventure that follows the original Inca pathways.
• This 4-day experience is considered one of the best hikes in the world.
• It offers an immersive journey through the geography surrounding Machu Picchu and exclusive archaeological sites.
• Only 500 permits are available for the Inca Trail, and they often sell out 4 to 5 months in advance.
• The trek covers approximately 39 kilometers (24 miles) on foot. Each night is spent camping under the stars and surrounded by mountains, enhancing the overall experience.
• Archaeological sites along the route include Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñay Wayna.
• On the final day, hikers enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), offering a panoramic view of the Inca citadel.
• This route does not pass through Aguas Calientes; it runs through the mountains, starting at Piscacucho (kilometer 82) and ending at Machu Picchu.

Inca Trail route to Machu Picchu

Short Inca Trail
There is also a shorter 2-day version of the Inca Trail, covering approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles). The journey begins at kilometer 104 of the railway to Aguas Calientes. This route includes visits to the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, ending with entry through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). This option can usually be booked 2 to 3 months in advance, making it a great alternative for those who still want to experience the Inca Trail.

How to Get to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes?

To reach Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town), there are two main options with different conditions. Choose the one that best fits your travel itinerary and discover their key features below:

Bus Ride to Machu Picchu

• The main way to get to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes is by bus.
• The bus station is located just a few steps from the town’s main square.
• Buses depart to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu every 20 minutes or once they are full.
• You can buy bus tickets on the same day or book them in advance (Buy Machu Picchu bus tickets).
• The buses are eco-friendly and are the only authorized vehicles to reach the Inca citadel.
• The bus ride takes approximately 25 minutes to reach the entrance of Machu Picchu, covering 9 kilometers along winding roads surrounded by lush vegetation.
• For the return trip, you can also use this transportation. The station and ticket office are located very close to the entrance of the archaeological site.

Hiking to Machu Picchu

• If you are in good physical condition or have extra time, you can choose to hike to Machu Picchu.
• This option is free and offers a more immersive travel experience.
• The hike follows a direct uphill route with multiple stone steps through areas of dense tropical vegetation.
• The trail is well marked, and the total duration is დაახლოებით 2 hours.
• It is not recommended to hike up if you plan to visit Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu afterward, as these require significant energy.
• The best option is to use this route for the descent, as it is much easier (approximately 1 hour).

Route from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

How to Buy Machu Picchu Tickets Step by Step?

• One of the most common ways to visit Machu Picchu is through an organized tour. Another option is purchasing tickets independently.
• To buy Machu Picchu tickets, first go to the official ticket sales website.
• Then select the type of ticket, date, and time slot that best suits your plans.
• Finally, complete the payment and save your entrance tickets.
• Tickets should be booked at least one month in advance. For the most popular tickets, it is recommended to book up to three months ahead.
• Check how to buy Machu Picchu tickets.

Types of Machu Picchu Tickets

There are ten types of tickets available to enter Machu Picchu. Each one includes access to one of the three circuits that organize the citadel, and some are only available during specific dates. Discover all the details about Machu Picchu tickets:

More Information About Machu Picchu Tickets

• Machu Picchu allows approximately 4,500 visitors per day, so tickets sell out quickly. During high season, up to 5,600 tickets are available daily.
• Out of the total tickets, 1,000 can be purchased in person in Aguas Calientes throughout the year (Buy your Machu Picchu ticket here).
• For the Inca Trail experience, only 500 permits are available per day. Tickets must be booked at least four months in advance.
• On the day of your visit, remember to bring your printed ticket along with the identification used during booking.
• University students, minors, and citizens of the Andean Community (Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia) are eligible for discounts. Children under 3 years old enter for free.

Best Hotels in Aguas Calientes

The town of Aguas Calientes offers a wide range of tourist infrastructure and high-quality services. Some of the best hotels include:

• 5-Star Hotels

  • Belmond Sanctuary Lodge
  • Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel
  • Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

• 4-Star Hotels

  • Casa del Sol Machu Picchu
  • Taypikala Hotel Machupicchu
  • Tierra Viva Machu Picchu

• 3-Star Hotels

  • Gringo Bill’s Boutique Hotel
  • Inti Punku Machu Picchu Hotel & Suites
  • Terrazas del Inca B&B

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

• Machu Picchu is open every day of the year, including holidays (Best time to visit Machu Picchu).
• Most travelers choose to visit during the dry season (April to October), as the weather offers sunny skies and clear conditions—ideal for hiking and exploring.
• The rainy season runs from November to March. During this time, there is a higher chance of rainfall, but the landscapes are greener and there are fewer tourists.
• While there is no bad time to visit Machu Picchu, the dry season offers sunnier days with lower chances of rain.
• Keep in mind that the dry season also coincides with peak tourist season, so tickets should be booked well in advance.

Machu Picchu during rainy season

More Travel Information About Machu Picchu

• Immediately after booking your Machu Picchu tickets, purchase your train tickets as well, as these are also limited.
• If you did not book a guided tour in advance, you will find many tour guides offering their services at the entrance of Machu Picchu.
• A typical visit to the Inca citadel lasts حوالي 2 hours and 30 minutes. If your ticket includes a hiking route, it may extend up to 6 hours.
• If you could not leave your luggage in Aguas Calientes, you can store it at facilities located outside the archaeological site.
• There are no restrooms inside Machu Picchu, so it is recommended to use them before entering. Restroom services are available outside the citadel.
• Besides visiting Machu Picchu, there are other activities in Aguas Calientes, such as visiting the hot springs, the artisan market, Mandor Gardens, the butterfly house, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) How can I get to Aguas Calientes from Cusco?

  You have two main options: take a train from Ollantaytambo, which is the fastest and most comfortable way, or travel by bus to the Hydroelectric Station and then walk დაახლოებით 2 hours to the town. It all depends on the type of experience you are looking for.

• 2) What is the difference between traveling by train or via the Hydroelectric route?

  The train is more expensive but also more comfortable and faster. The Hydroelectric route is cheaper and more adventurous, as it includes a scenic jungle hike. Both options offer unique experiences.

• 3) Can I hike to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes?

  Yes, the hike takes around 2 hours uphill via stone steps through the jungle. It is physically demanding, but if you take your time, you will enjoy incredible scenery. If you prefer a less exhausting option, it is recommended to walk down instead, as the return journey takes about half the time.

• 4) What is the bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu like?

  The eco-friendly buses provide a very comfortable and fast journey, taking only about 25 minutes. They are also the only authorized transportation for this route.

• 5) What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

  The most popular time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season (April to October), when you will find clear skies and lower chances of rain. However, this period also coincides with peak tourist season, so there are more visitors and tickets sell out faster.

• 6) How long does a visit inside Machu Picchu take?

  On average, a visit lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes. If your ticket includes an additional hike, such as Huayna Picchu, your visit can extend up to 6 hours.

• 7) How long is the train ride from Ollantaytambo?

  The journey takes approximately 2 hours, and along the way you will enjoy stunning views of the Sacred Valley. It is the fastest way to reach Machu Picchu.

• 8) What is the weather like in Machu Picchu?

  The climate in Machu Picchu is humid, typical of a cloud forest region. Mornings are often misty, giving the site a mystical and beautiful atmosphere.

• 9) How many types of Machu Picchu tickets are there?

  There are 10 types of Machu Picchu tickets, all organized into three main circuits to enhance the visitor experience while protecting the archaeological site.

• 10) What are Machu Picchu opening hours?

  Machu Picchu is open from 06:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. The last entry time is at 03:00 p.m.

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu

By: Fernanda C.

“A magical and unforgettable experience“

“Machu Picchu is a destination that exceeds all expectations. The majesty of its ruins and the surrounding natural environment create a unique atmosphere. Being there means feeling the history and energy of a sacred place.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, May 4, 2026