If you've chosen Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan city, as your next travel destination, be prepared to navigate mountainous terrain by train or on foot. Your route will depend on how much time and money you are willing to spend getting there. Additionally, consider the time of year and your physical fitness level.

Part 1

Step 1. There’s an option to take a train from Cusco.

Step 1

You can take a train from Cusco. The journey takes 4 hours and ends in the small town of Aguas Calientes, located at the foot of Machu Picchu. The remaining 4 miles can be covered by bus, which will take you to your destination in about 20-30 minutes. There are three types of trains offered by the railway company PeruRail for your comfort:

  • The Hiram Bingham – a luxury train with four cars accommodating 84 passengers, including two dining cars, a car equipped with a kitchen, and a separate lounge car. The ticket price includes breakfast and lunch in the dining car during the journey, bus fare, entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, and a guided tour.
  • The Vistadome – a more affordable train option. During the journey, you can enjoy views from windows located right on the domed roof. Passengers are provided with comfortable leather seats, a morning breakfast, and afternoon tea.
  • The Expedition – the most economical option of all listed. It also features roof windows and soft seating, similar to the previous option. Passengers are offered drinks and snacks during the trip.

Step 2. You can also catch a train from Ollantaytambo.

Step 2

You can also catch a train from Ollantaytambo. This option allows you to explore the ancient ruins located in this town and reach Machu Picchu in less than 3 hours. Additionally, the companies Vistadome and Expedition offer comfortable economy-class train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu at reasonable prices. Passengers enjoy soft seating and drinks available for purchase.

Step 3. To truly experience this country, train rides are not enough.

Step 3

To truly experience this country, train rides are not enough. Try conquering the Inca Trail! Four unforgettable days will give you invaluable experiences as you trek 28 miles through the Sacred Valley, venture into real jungles, and enjoy breathtaking views from about 10,000 feet! However, to handle daily six-hour treks over long distances, you need to be in decent physical shape. You'll spend half a day in Machu Picchu, after which a bus will take you to Aguas Calientes, where you will board a train back to Cusco. Most tours include meals, camping, porters, and a guide. To know what to pack for the hike, you can refer to the list of necessary items below.

Step 4. Alternatively, you can combine camping with train trips for just 2 days of hiking.

Step 4

Alternatively, you can combine camping with train trips, spending only 2 days hiking. Take a train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to the ancient Incan ruins in Cochabamba. The journey will take 6 hours, 4 of which will be spent climbing to Winay Wayna. A bus will then take you to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night in a hotel. The entire next day will be yours to explore Machu Picchu, after which you will board a train back to Cusco.