How to Get to Machu Picchu: The Ultimate Luxury Travel Guide

Understanding how to get to Machu Picchu is essential because there’s no direct road to the citadel. Every traveler combines flight + ground transfer + train (or trek) + bus.

For premium itineraries, the journey itself becomes part of the experience: smooth transfers, panoramic trains, early entries, and private guidance.

Most trips begin in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, then continue to Aguas Calientes before the final ascent to Machu Picchu.

Where is Machu Picchu Located?

Machu Picchu sits high in the Andes above Aguas Calientes (also called Machu Picchu Pueblo).

Typical routing:

• Lima → Cusco (flight ~1.5 h)
• Cusco/Sacred Valley → Aguas Calientes (train or trek)
• Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu (bus or hike)

There is no direct car access to the site.

How to Get to Machu Picchu from Cusco

Getting to Machu Picchu from Cusco is the most common route and offers the best balance of comfort and logistics.

Route overview

1. Cusco → Ollantaytambo (1.5 h by road)
2. Train to Aguas Calientes (1.5–2 h)
3. Shuttle bus to Machu Picchu (25 min)

Train options

• Expedition / Voyager (standard)
• Vistadome / 360° (panoramic, recommended)

Luxury optimization

• Private vehicle hotel → station
• Early train to maximize entry options
• Private guide at Machu Picchu

How to Get to Machu Picchu from the Sacred Valley

Starting in the Sacred Valley is often smarter and more comfortable than starting in Cusco.

Route overview

1. Hotel → Ollantaytambo (10–60 min)
2. Train to Aguas Calientes
3. Bus to Machu Picchu

Why this is a premium strategy

• Shorter transfers
• Lower altitude (better acclimatization)
• More relaxed itinerary

How to Get to Machu Picchu from Lima

If you start in Lima, add a flight to Cusco.

Route overview

1. Lima → Cusco (flight ~1.5 h)
2. Cusco → Sacred Valley or Ollantaytambo
3. Train to Aguas Calientes
4. Bus to Machu Picchu

Luxury tip

Go directly to the Sacred Valley on arrival (skip first night in Cusco) to acclimatize more comfortably.

Getting in a Luxury Train to Machu Picchu (Top Experience)

The top-tier option is the Belmond Hiram Bingham.

Includes

• Fine dining onboard
• Open bar
• Live music
• Elegant vintage carriages

This is a full-day curated experience, not just transport.

Alternative Routes (Trekking & Budget)

Trekking

• Inca Trail (permits required)
• Salkantay Trek / alternatives

Hidroelectrica

• Long drive + 2–3 h walk
• Cheapest, least comfortable

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Get to Machu Picchu

What is the easiest way to get to Machu Picchu?

By train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.

What is the fastest way to get to Machu Picchu?

Flight to Cusco + train from Ollantaytambo.

What is the most luxurious way to get to Machu Picchu?

The Belmond Hiram Bingham experience.

Can you drive directly to Machu Picchu?

No, there is no direct road access.

How long does it take from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

Around 3.5–4 hours depending on connections.