Traveling to Machu Picchu is a meaningful decision, one that leads you to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Here are the three most popular and well-known ways to reach this iconic destination.
🚆 Route 1: The Classic Train Tour to Machu Picchu
The most traditional and fastest way to reach Machu Picchu is by train. Two railway companies operate this service, with departures from Cusco (Poroy Station) and Ollantaytambo Station, the latter being the most common starting point.
Train tickets start at approximately US$65 per leg.
The journey offers stunning views of the Sacred Valley and surrounding farmland. From Poroy, the train passes through towns like Cachimayo, Izcuchaca, Anta, and Huarocondo, then descends through the narrow Pomatales gorge to Pachar Station.
Crossing the Urubamba River, you’ll arrive at Ollantaytambo and continue through a valley dotted with visible archaeological sites. After about 1 hour and 40 minutes, you’ll reach Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes).
🚌 Route 2: The Budget Adventure to Machu Picchu
This more economical option is ideal for adventure lovers. It involves 8 hours of bus travel and 3 hours of hiking to reach Machu Picchu Pueblo. If you plan to climb Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu, staying an extra night is recommended.
The journey begins with a bus ride from Cusco toward Quillabamba, passing through Urubamba and Ollantaytambo before reaching Abra Málaga. From there, you descend to Santa María.
Continue on an unpaved road to Hidroeléctrica, where the hiking portion begins. The trail leads through lush terrain until you arrive at Machu Picchu Pueblo.
🥾 Route 3: Trekking Adventures to Machu Picchu
For those seeking more than a day tour, trekking routes like the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, Choquequirao Trek, and Inca Jungle offer immersive multi-day experiences. These routes range from moderate to challenging.
The classic Inca Trail begins at KM 88 of the railway line. Along the way, you’ll visit archaeological sites such as Q’oriwayrachina, the Inca-built Kusichaca Bridge, and ruins like Q’ente, Pulpituyoc, Kusichaca, and Patallaca. After several hours of hiking, you’ll reach Wayllabamba, a recommended campsite.
Continuing the trek, you’ll pass Runkuraqay, Yanacocha Lagoon, and Phuyupatamarca, camping at Wiñayhuayna.
On the third day, you’ll witness diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species like spectacled bears, pumas, Andean foxes, river otters, and wildcats.
Essential gear includes:
- Sleeping bag
- Backpack
- Knife
- Medication and antivenom
🌿 Inca Trail Recommendations
To protect Machu Picchu’s Historic Sanctuary, all trekkers must follow environmental guidelines. This includes avoiding littering, fires, extraction of plants or animals, and any activity that harms the ecosystem.
Tour operators and visitors alike are encouraged to uphold these standards to preserve the site’s natural and cultural integrity.
