Travel To Machu Picchu By Bus, Train and Trekk

Thousands of tourists travel to Machu Picchu every year and experience one of the true wonders of the world. There are several options to get from Cuzco to Machu Picchu, it all depends on what you want, how much time you have and, of course, how much money you can afford!

Don't get confused!

Here are the main ways to travel from Cuzco to Machu Picchu, in order from the most touristy to the most adventurous. Bear in mind that the process is rather confusing, and it is critical that you plan ahead, otherwise you will be disappointed and frustrated.

Many places can have similar but different names, which makes for potential problems as well. Even the name Machu Picchu is very often mis-spelled as Matchu Pitchu, Macchu Pichu, and even Manchu Picchu! Cuzco is also Cusco and Qusqu. Ollantaytambo is also known as Ollanta, and Agua Calientes is referred to as Sacred Valley!

Check out a map of the area

Three ways to reach the top

1. Take a train from Poroy (Cuzco)

2. Take a train from Ollantaytambo (Ollanta)

3. Trek to the top

There are no trains running directly from Cuzco to Machu Picchu, so any trip involves a few connections. Remember, there is no train station near the lost city, the nearest station is in Aguas Calientes. You can take a bus from there to the ruins for around $7 US.

Train from Poroy (Cuzco)

This by far the simplest method. Perurail offers two round trip departures a day to Agua Calientes. One departure is on Vistadome, which is reasonably priced and sells out months in advance. It is essential that you order your tickets well ahead of time, which can be done on Perurail's website. Vistadome is a pleasant and very popular method to travel, and tickets sell out quickly.

The other service from Poroy is on the luxurious Hiram Bingham line. This offers exquisite dining, fine wines and the best in service for those who wish to travel in style and luxury. The price includes entrance tickets, a guided tour, and tea at the fine Sanctuary Lodge.

Train from Ollantaytambo

This involves taking a bus or taxi from Cuzco to Urubamba, then another bus to Ollantaytambo. Once there, you catch the train to Agua Calientes, then on to the top! These routes are all very common, and can be managed more easily than might appear. You just need to plan ahead and make sure you get your tickets ahead of time.

Trekking to the top

Trekking is certainly the best way to experience the Andes and the mystery of Machu Picchu. This is not for everyone, for sure, as the ascent is long and strenuous. In the past, the only option was to backpack and sleep in tents, but now there are lodges and accommodations to make life easier.

Trekking is such an interesting and varied option that it deserves it's own web page, which you can find by clicking here.