How to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco?

Getting to Machu Picchu from Cusco is an exciting adventure that can be done following different routes and means of transportation. In this article, we present the main options to reach the iconic Inca sanctuary from the city of Cusco:

Train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo

The most popular and comfortable option to reach Machu Picchu is to take a train from Cusco or from the Ollantaytambo train station. There are two railway companies that operate on this route: PeruRail and Inca Rail. Both offer different types of services and schedules, from budget options to luxurious ones. The train journey takes approximately 4 hours from Cusco and 1 hour and 30 minutes from Ollantaytambo. Upon arriving at the Aguas Calientes train station, you will need to take a bus that will take you to the entrance of Machu Picchu in about 25-30 minutes.

Inca Trail

For adventure and hiking lovers, the Inca Trail is an exciting option to reach Machu Picchu. This 4-day and 3-night hike follows an ancient Inca path that crosses beautiful landscapes, archaeological sites, and high mountain passes. Keep in mind that the Inca Trail requires a prior reservation and a special permit, as the number of visitors is limited. In addition, it can only be done with an authorized travel agency and a professional guide.

Salkantay Trek

Another trekking alternative is the Salkantay trek, which usually lasts 5 days and 4 nights. This route crosses stunning landscapes, such as the snow-capped Salkantay, and offers a wilder and less crowded experience than the Inca Trail. Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay trek does not require a special permit, but it is recommended to do it with an authorized travel agency and a professional guide.

Route through Santa Maria and Santa Teresa

For those looking for a more economical and alternative option, it is possible to reach Machu Picchu by combining vehicle transportation and hiking through the towns of Santa Maria and Santa Teresa. First, you will need to take a vehicle transportation from Cusco to Santa Maria (approximately 5-6 hours), then continue to Santa Teresa by vehicle or hiking. From Santa Teresa, you can walk to the hydroelectric plant (approximately 2-3 hours) and from there continue walking along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes (approximately 2-3 more hours). This option can be done in 2 or 3 days, depending on the available time and hiking pace.

Taking into account these different options to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco, you can choose the one that best suits your preferences and travel style. Whichever route you choose, a unique and magical experience awaits you in the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Wonderful stay

The hotel is beautiful, elegant, and decorated very tastefully. The atmosphere very nice. Very comfortable, spacious room with terrace, jacuzzi, and river view !!Spectacular! The shower a delight. All the staff is very friendly and helpful. Congratulations on having such dedicated and cordial staff. The dinners were delicious, very thoughtful, and original dishes. Our stay at the hotel was memorable.

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1/5

Excellent

We stayed one night there and really the service has been exceptional. I have nothing but good words for the establishment. We stayed in a suite which was excellent! It had a jacuzzi. Breakfast very good. The staff is always attentive. And the restaurant is a luxury. We took the 4-step menu and it has been spectacular. I would definitely go back and recommend it.

Lola L

2/5

Beautiful hotel and wonderful breakfast!

We enjoyed our stay here while visiting Machu Picchu. The hotel was very clean, the staff very friendly and polite, and the breakfast was amazing! Seriously, the breakfast was really a beautiful spread of so many options. It is in a nice location and easy to explore from there.

Overall a really nice and would recommend it!

Martin

3/5

Unforgettable

I went to Machupicchu with family and stayed at the Casa Del Sol hotel again. The hotel is just beautiful. There have been renovations since I was last there, the dining room is beautiful and crisp! An absolute delight to dine in. But the best part of the hotel is the people. The staff really goes above and beyond to make sure we have every need attended to! The staff welcomed us back like old friends, and even helped us celebrate my mother's birthday with a bottle of wine! We stayed for 2 nights, but we could have stayed longer just to enjoy the rooms and the spa.

Chrissy

4/5

Beautiful Hotel in Aguascalientes

I loved staying at the hotel so much! As soon as we got off our bus we were greeted by very friendly staff and walked less than 100 meters to the hotel. Their food is amazing and staying in this hotel is so relaxing, especially after a day spent in Machu Picchu. Every single one of the staff is so friendly and makes sure you are as comfortable and happy as you can be. I especially loved how the hotel was just next to the river and the beautiful rooms they provided. I hope I can go back someday!

Mikenzie T

5/5