Cusco to Machu Picchu

By the Viamo editorial team · Editor Terje Moy · Last updated July 2026 · 5 min read

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There is no road to Machu Picchu. The ancient citadel sits on a ridge above the Urubamba River, accessible only by train (or by foot on one of several trekking routes), followed by a bus from the valley town of Aguas Calientes. Getting there is genuinely part of the experience — and planning it well ahead is essential, as both train tickets and Machu Picchu entry permits sell out months in advance.

The key logistics: Cusco to Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes

Trains to Machu Picchu do not run directly from Cusco city centre. Most services depart from Ollantaytambo, a village in the Sacred Valley about 72 km from Cusco (roughly 1.5–2 hours by road). A smaller number of services operate from Poroy, a station on the outskirts of Cusco itself — useful if you want to skip the Sacred Valley transfer, though the train journey from Poroy is longer.

From Ollantaytambo or Poroy, trains run to Aguas Calientes (also called Machu Picchu Pueblo), the town at the base of the citadel. From Aguas Calientes, a steep shuttle bus (operated by Consettur) climbs 8 km of zigzagging road to the Machu Picchu site entrance in about 20–30 minutes. A small number of very fit visitors walk the road on foot instead.

PeruRail

PeruRail is the main rail operator on the route, running several classes of service from Ollantaytambo (and some from Poroy) to Aguas Calientes. The journey from Ollantaytambo takes roughly 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours and descends into the cloud forest along the Urubamba River valley — increasingly dramatic as you approach the destination.

PeruRail's Expedition class is the most affordable option and seats are basic but comfortable. The Vistadome class features panoramic windows and is worth considering for the scenery. At the luxury end, the Belmond Hiram Bingham train is a full dining-and-bar experience run in partnership with Belmond, operating in conjunction with their hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Reservations are required and should be booked well in advance — weeks or months ahead during peak season (June–August and around Inti Raymi in late June). Book directly through PeruRail's website or through a reputable agency.

Inca Rail

Inca Rail is the competing private operator, also running from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes in roughly 1 hour 45 minutes. Inca Rail offers similar service classes to PeruRail — from standard to premium panoramic — and at times their fares are more competitive, particularly for last-minute availability. It is worth checking both operators when you book.

Inca Rail also runs a 360° panoramic service with glass-domed carriages on selected departures. Book as early as possible regardless of which operator you choose.

The Inca Trail and other trekking routes

The Classic Inca Trail is one of the world's most famous treks: 4 days and 3 nights on an ancient Incan path through cloud forest and mountain passes, culminating in arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate at dawn. Only around 500 people (trekkers plus guides and porters) are permitted on the trail per day. Permits sell out many months in advance — for peak season (July–August), expect to book six months to a year ahead through a licensed operator.

If the Classic Trail is full or too demanding, several alternatives offer their own rewards:

• Salkantay Trek (5 days): a harder but stunning high-altitude route via the 4,600 m Salkantay Pass, not permit-restricted in the same way.
• Lares Trek (3–4 days): through Andean villages and hot springs, connecting with the train at Ollantaytambo.
• Inca Jungle Trail (4 days): combines cycling, rafting and walking — lower altitude than Salkantay.

All trekking routes finish by boarding the train at Aguas Calientes (or walking up the road) before or after entering the site. None of the alternative treks are self-guided in practice — licensed guides and reputable agencies are strongly recommended for safety and logistics.

Altitude and acclimatisation

Cusco sits at about 3,400 m above sea level, and many visitors feel the altitude on arrival — headaches, fatigue and breathlessness are common. Aguas Calientes is lower (about 2,040 m), and the Machu Picchu site itself sits at roughly 2,430 m. Most doctors recommend spending at least two nights in Cusco before undertaking strenuous activity. Drink plenty of water, go easy on alcohol on your first day, and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe.

Getting to Ollantaytambo from Cusco

Shared minibuses (colectivos) and private transfers run from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and take roughly 1.5–2 hours, passing through the Sacred Valley towns of Pisac and Urubamba. Many visitors break the journey with a half-day in the Sacred Valley itself, visiting Pisac market or the Ollantaytambo fortress before boarding the train. This is a sensible structure for a multi-day visit rather than a rushed day trip.

For context on getting around the broader region by road, see our guide to coaches in South America.

Frequently asked questions

Can you drive to Machu Picchu?

No. There is no road to Machu Picchu itself. The nearest road access is the town of Aguas Calientes, which is only reachable by train or by trekking routes. From Aguas Calientes, a shuttle bus climbs to the site entrance.

How far in advance should I book trains to Machu Picchu?

During peak season (June–August), book train tickets at least two to three months in advance. Machu Picchu entry permits sell out even earlier — some months sell out six months ahead. Book permits first, then match your train around them.

What is the difference between PeruRail and Inca Rail?

Both are legitimate operators running a similar journey between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes. PeruRail has more frequent departures and a wider class range; Inca Rail competes on price and comfort, especially in the premium panoramic carriages. Check both when booking.

Is the Inca Trail the only trek to Machu Picchu?

No. The Salkantay, Lares and Inca Jungle Trail routes all reach the area without the strict permit limits of the Classic Inca Trail. All involve finishing via train from Aguas Calientes.