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Steps to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco
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4 steps to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco

To travel to Machu Picchu, the first thing you should choose is to do it on your own or take an organized tour. The latter includes the trip from Cusco to the entrance to the Inca city. However, how do you get to Machu Picchu if you’re traveling on your own? Learn how to get to the Wonder of the World in just 4 steps.

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Classic photo of a tourist in Machu Picchu
Classic photo of a tourist in Machu Picchu

Step 1: Purchase your entrance tickets to Machu Picchu

These are the types of tickets to enter Machu Picchu and their respective schedules:

  • Machu Picchu + Mountain Ticket (Route 1A)

    • Group 1: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 6:00 am / Entrance to the mountain route from 7:00 am to 8:00 am
    • Group 2: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 8:00 am / Entrance to the mountain route from 9:00 am to 10:00 am

  • Machu Picchu Upper Terrace or Classic Photo Ticket (Route 1B)

    • Group 1: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 1 from 6:00 am
    • Group 2: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 1 from 7:00 am
    • Group 3: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 1 from 8:00 am
    • Group 4: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 9:00 am
    • Group 5: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 10:00 am
    • Group 6: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 11:00 am
    • Group 7: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 12:00 pm
    • Group 8: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 1:00 pm
    • Group 9: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 2:00 pm
    • Group 10: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 3:00 pm

  • Machu Picchu + Inti Punku Ticket (Route 1C)

    • Group 1: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 8:00 am / Entrance to the Inti Punku route from 9:00 am to 10:00 am
    • Group 2: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 9:00 am / Entrance to the Inti Punku route from 10:00 am to 11:00 am
    • Group 3: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 10:00 am / Entrance to the Inti Punku route from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm
    • Group 4: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 11:00 am / Entrance to the Inti Punku route from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm

  • Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge Ticket (Route 1D)

    • Group 1: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 8:00 am / Entrance to the Inca Bridge Route from 9:00 am to 10:00 am
    • Group 2: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 9:00 am / Entrance to the Inca Bridge Route from 10:00 am to 11:00 am
    • Group 3: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 10:00 am / Entrance to the Inca Bridge Route from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm
    • Group 4: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 1 from 11:00 am / Entrance to the Inca Bridge Route from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm

  • Machu Picchu Classic Designed Ticket (Route 2A)

    • Group 1: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 6:00 am
    • Group 2: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 7:00 am
    • Group 3: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 8:00 am
    • Group 4: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 09:00 am
    • Group 5: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 10:00 am
    • Group 6: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 11:00 am
    • Group 7: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 12:00 pm
    • Group 8: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 1:00 pm
    • Group 9: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 2:00 pm
    • Group 10: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 3:00 pm

  • Machu Picchu Classic Lower Terrace Ticket (Route 2B)

    • Group 1: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 6:00 am
    • Group 2: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 7:00 am
    • Group 3: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 8:00 am
    • Group 4: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 09:00 am
    • Group 5: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 10:00 am
    • Group 6: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 11:00 am
    • Group 7: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 12:00 pm
    • Group 8: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 1:00 pm
    • Group 9: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 2:00 pm
    • Group 10: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 from 3:00 pm

  • Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Ticket (Route 3A)

    • Group 1: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 3 from 7:00 am / Entrance to the Huayna Picchu route from 8:00 am to 9:00 am
    • Group 2: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 3 from 9:00 am / Entrance to the Huayna Picchu route from 10:00 am to 11:00 am

  • Machu Picchu Royal Design or Lower Temples Ticket (Route 3B)

    • Group 1: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 3 from 6:00 am
    • Group 2: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 3 from 7:00 am
    • Group 3: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 3 from 8:00 am
    • Group 4: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 3 from 09:00 am
    • Group 5: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 3 from 10:00 am
    • Group 6: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 3 from 11:00 am
    • Group 7: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 3 from 12:00 pm
    • Group 8: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 3 from 1:00 pm
    • Group 9: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 3 from 2:00 pm
    • Group 10: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 3 from 3:00 pm

  • Machu Picchu + Great Cavern or Temple of the Moon Ticket (Route 3C)

    • Group 1: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 3 from 7:00 am / Entrance to the Great Cave route from 8:00 am to 9:00 am
    • Group 2: Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 3 from 8:00 am / Entrance to the Great Cave route from 9:00 am to 10:00 am

  • Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu Ticket (Route 3D)

    • Group 1: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 3 from 9:00 am / Entrance to the Huayna Picchu route from 10:00 am to 11:00 am
    • Group 2: Entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 3 from 11:00 am / Entrance to the Huayna Picchu route from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm

Step 2: Book your Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu train tickets

  • Purchasing train tickets is the second thing you need to do to get to Machu Picchu.
  • It’s recommended to purchase train tickets immediately after knowing the date and time of entry to Machu Picchu on your ticket. Remember that train tickets are also limited and can only be purchased online.
  • The train service follows the route: Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes. The trip takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Booking train tickets in advance allows you to choose the service you want. These are the types of train services:

  • Peru Rail trains

    • Expedition Train.
    • Vistadome Train.
    • Vistadome Observatory Train.
    • Hiram Bingham Train.

  • Inca Rail trains

    • Voyager Train.
    • 360º Train.
    • First Class Train.
    • The Private Train.
PeruRail train at Ollantaytambo station
PeruRail train at Ollantaytambo station

Step 3: Travel along the Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes route

  • Once in Cusco (with your Machu Picchu and train tickets already purchased), you’ll need to get to Ollantaytambo.
  • You can get to Ollantaytambo in two ways: on your own by taking public transportation or by hiring a transfer service from a travel agency.
  • If you’re traveling on your own, you can take one of the cars, buses, or minivans that depart from Pavitos Street in Cusco’s Historic Center.
  • The trip from Cusco to Ollantaytambo by public transport costs 10 soles and takes approximately 2 hours.
  • Once at the Ollantaytambo station, you’ll need to board your train to Machu Picchu. To do this, you’ll need to have your pre-booked train tickets.
  • The train route to Machu Picchu is considered one of the most amazing short routes in the world. It runs through the Sacred Valley of the Incas until arriving at the final station in Aguas Calientes.
Route to get to Aguas Calientes from the city of Cusco
Route to get to Aguas Calientes from the city of Cusco

Step 4: Travel from Aguas Calientes to the entrance gate to Machu Picchu

  • Once you arrive in the town of Aguas Calientes, you still have one more thing to do: you’ll need to buy bus tickets to Machu Picchu.
  • The ticket office is located just one block from the train station. Buses to the Wonder of the World depart from there.
  • In most cases, tourists will have to wait in line to board buses. During peak tourist season mornings (April through October), these lines can take up to 30 minutes.
  • Buses to Machu Picchu take about 30 minutes to ascend from Aguas Calientes to the entrance gate to the Inca City.
  • The first bus to Machu Picchu departs at 5:30 a.m. and has scheduled departures every 20 minutes until 3:00 p.m.
Route to reach the citadel of Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes
Route to reach the citadel of Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes

Once in Machu Picchu!

  • Once in Machu Picchu, we only need to present our previously purchased and printed entrance ticket.
  • We must enter Machu Picchu at the time indicated on the entrance ticket (example: from 8:00 in the morning).
  • From the moment of entry, each tourist can stay a maximum of 4 hours in the Inca City , although if you have a ticket to a hiking route, it can be up to 6 hours.
  • Touring with a tour guide is not mandatory. However, it will greatly enrich your experience by providing you with context for each of the buildings and temples we see in Machu Picchu.
  • After visiting Machu Picchu, tourists should return the same way they arrived: by bus and train to the city of Cusco.
Couple of tourists touring the panoramic circuit of Machu Picchu
Couple of tourists touring the panoramic circuit of Machu Picchu

Other ways to get to and visit Machu Picchu

In addition to traveling to Machu Picchu on your own (via the train route from Ollantaytambo), there are other ways to get there and visit the Inca City:

  • Travel with an organized tour – Tours to Machu Picchu include transportation from Cusco (by bus and train), as well as admission to the Inca city and a professional guide. The costs are higher than traveling on your own, but tourists avoid the hassle of organizing the trip.
  • Travel by Hydroelectric Route – This is the most economical way to reach Machu Picchu. However, it takes much longer than traveling by train from Ollantaytambo. The route departs from Cusco to the hydroelectric plant (a 5-hour bus ride). From there, take a train (30 minutes) or walk to the town of Aguas Calientes (2 hours).
  • Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – This is the hiking route taken by the Incas to reach Machu Picchu. It lasts 4 days, 3 nights, and covers approximately 39 kilometers. On the last day, you reach the Inca City through the “Sun Gate.” It is considered one of the best hiking trails in the world.
  • Salkantay Trek – This is an extreme hiking route that crosses high-altitude landscapes such as the Salkantay Pass (4,650 meters above sea level). It lasts 5 days, 4 nights, and covers approximately 65 kilometers. On the last day, you reach Machu Picchu by bus from the town of Aguas Calientes.

Questions and answers about the trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu

  • 1) How long does the trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu take?

    There are three ways to reach Machu Picchu: the Inca Trail (4 days), the alternative route via Hidroeléctrica (8 hours), and the train (4 hours). The latter is the fastest, safest, and most popular route for travelers.

  • 2) Can I take the train directly from the city of Cusco?

    Yes, there are approximately three train services per day in Cusco. The trip to the Aguas Calientes terminal takes approximately four hours. However, due to the infrequent departures, tourists prefer to catch their train at Ollantaytambo station.

  • 3) Can I walk from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu?

    While it is possible to hike this stretch, not many tourists choose to do so due to its difficulty and distance (more than a day’s hike). The best option for an adventurous and affordable trip is to choose the route through Hidroeléctrica.

  • 4) What is the local train? Can I take it?

    The local train is a non-tourist service available only to Peruvians, especially residents of the towns near Machu Picchu. The cost of the trip is only 12 soles each way.

  • 5) Can I walk from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?

    Yes, this route is only 8 kilometers on foot. However, since the route is uphill and climbs hundreds of stone stairs, it’s best to take the bus. Traveling by bus takes 30 minutes. Walking up takes two hours or more.

  • 6) What is the cheapest way to get to Machu Picchu?

    The cheapest route is definitely the one that passes through the Cusco jungle by the hydroelectric plant. On average, this route to Machu Picchu can cost between $20 and $30.

  • 7) Where can I buy train tickets?

    Train tickets can be purchased online through the Peru Rail and Inca Rail websites. They can also be purchased at train stations or authorized ticket offices in Cusco.

  • 8) Where should I take public buses from Cusco to Ollantaytambo?

    Buses depart from Pavitos Street, located in the historic center of Cusco. You can get there by taxi or on foot. The trip to Ollantaytambo costs 10 soles and takes almost two hours.

  • 9) How much does the trip to Machu Picchu by Hydroelectric cost?

    This route is economical as it costs between 10 and 20 dollars per person.

  • 10) How to make the trip to Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail?

    The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is protected by the Peruvian State. Therefore, only tourists who book a tour through a travel agency may travel on these trails. Travel agencies manage permits for tourists.

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu

Joel M.By: Joel M.

“One hundred percent recommended“

“Machu Picchu is a magical place that you must visit at least once in your life. The nature, landscapes and constructions are unique and unforgettable. If you can, book the Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu ticket. It is the best thing you can do while you are in Machu Picchu.“

 

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, August 19, 2025

 


Everything you need to visit Machu Picchu is here!

Your ticket to Machu Picchu

This ticket is the only ticket that allows entering the Wonder of the World. Reserve your income easily and securely. Remember that there are discounts for university students, minors and citizens of Peru, Colombia, Ecuador and Bolivia.

Your transport to the train station

Do not you know how to approach the train station? Book the transfer to the station and forget the subject. The services leave and return punctually from the city of Cusco. Choose between shared or private options.

Your Train Ticket to Machu Picchu

The train trip is the safest, fastest and most convenient way to get to Machu Picchu. Choose between the two Expedition and Vistadome services. Pay with a discount for children and avoid the hassle of queuing in Cusco to purchase this ticket.

Your Bus Ticket to Machu Picchu

The last section to reach Machu Picchu is on a bus trip from Aguas Calientes. Choose the trip to climb, return or both. Avoid long queues the day of your visit. Take advantage of discounts for children and travel safely.

Your Official Tourist Guide

The visit to Machu Picchu with a tour guide is the best way to know the Wonder of the World. Choose between the shared or private option and in the language of your choice: English, Spanish, Portuguese or French. Here are the best guides of Peru.

Tour to Machu Picchu All Included

Forget the tickets, preparations and entrust your trip to Machu Picchu to the experts. The tours offer pick up, transfer, train ticket, bus, tour guide and entrance to Machu Picchu. There is also option to enter Huayna Picchu and lunch buffet.