In this post, you will discover how to ge to Machu Picchu from Lima. This guide helps you reach the iconic site from Lima with step-by-step instructions. Let’s get on an adventure to the ancient city of the Incas!
Machu Picchu, the mystical city of the Incas, is a bucket-list destination for many travelers. Nestled in the Andean mountains of Peru, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into the fascinating history of the Incan civilization.
Getting there, however, can be a bit of a challenge, particularly if you’re starting from Peru’s capital, Lima. Let’s dive in!
To get to Machu Picchu from Lima, follow these simple steps
Once you’re in Cusco, head to the train station. There are a few options to consider:
In summary, to get to Machu Picchu from Lima, you’ll reach Cusco, then take a train to Aguas Calientes, and from there, a bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
Ensure to plan ahead, get your tickets in advance, and enjoy your adventure to this remarkable wonder of the world! Let us get into the nitty gritty of reaching Machu Picchu from Lima.
We at Hello Peru Tours offer different tour packages to help you reach Machu Picchu from Lima.
Our tours include everything from transportation to train tickets and and from entrance fees to the Inca Citadel. We also provide knowledgeable guides who will accompany you throughout your journey and give you insight into the rich history of this magnificent site.
And most importantly, you will travel stress-free. You don’t need to worry about anything. So why not take the easy route, sit back, relax and let us handle all the logistics for you? Contact us right now.
Read on if you still want to do it on your own.
And the first step is to reach Cusco first.
When traveling from Lima to Cusco, the most convenient option is to take a flight. There are several airlines that offer direct flights from Lima to Cusco, including:
The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. It is recommended to book your flight in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, as the demand for flights to Cusco can be high.
Once you arrive in Cusco, you can then take a bus or a train to reach Machu Picchu.
There are many bus options available for traveling from Lima to Cusco. One popular option is to take a direct bus from Lima to Cusco, which typically takes around 20 hours. That is why, we do not recommend this option for a quick journey to Machu Picchu.
However, if you have time and want to enjoy scenic views of the Andes mountains, traveling by bus can be a great choice.
Also, these buses are comfortable and equipped with amenities such as reclining seats, onboard restrooms, and entertainment systems.
Another option is to take a bus from Lima to Arequipa and then transfer to a bus to Cusco. This route allows travelers to break up the journey and explore the beautiful city of Arequipa along the way.
The total travel time for this option is usually longer, but it offers the opportunity to see more of Peru. Book bus tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.
There are currently no direct train options from Lima to Cusco. However, there are several train services that can take you from Lima to Cusco with a transfer in Ollantaytambo.
The most popular train service is the PeruRail Expedition, which offers a comfortable and scenic journey through the Andes. Another option is the Inca Rail, which provides a more luxurious experience with gourmet meals and panoramic windows.
Both train services depart from Lima and arrive in Ollantaytambo, where you can then take a bus or taxi to Cusco. The train journey from Lima to Ollantaytambo takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the service chosen.
Driving from Lima to Cusco as a tourist is possible. But the roads can be challenging, and the drive can be long and tiring. And so, we don’t recommend this option for travelers, especially if you are not familiar with driving in Peru.
But if you still want to go for it, these are the tips and things you need to know:
If you are not comfortable driving in Peru, you can also hire a driver with a car. This can be a good option if you want to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Now you are in Cusco, and there are mainly two options to consider for getting to Machu Picchu from here; by hiking or train.
The most popular and convenient way to get to Machu Picchu is by train. There are two train companies that operate trains from Cusco to Machu Picchu: PeruRail and IncaRail. Both companies offer a variety of ticket options, from budget-friendly to luxury.
The train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu takes about 3.5 hours and is very scenic. The train travels through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, passing by picturesque villages, snow-capped mountains, and the Urubamba River.
The other way to get to Machu Picchu is by hiking. There are many different hiking trails that lead to Machu Picchu, but the most popular is the Inca Trail.
The Inca Trail is a 4-day, 26-mile hike that takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Peru, including cloud forests, mountain passes, and ancient Inca ruins.
Other popular hiking trails to Machu Picchu include:
These treks to Machu Picchu are all shorter and less strenuous than the Inca Trail, but they still offer stunning scenery. More on this later!
There is also a third option for getting to Machu Picchu, which is to take a bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and then transfer to a train to Aguas Calientes. This is a cheaper option than taking the train all the way from Cusco, but it is also more time-consuming.
The best route for you to get to Machu Picchu depends on your budget, your fitness level, and your interests. Taking the train is better for enjoying the most convenient and scenic journey. And hiking or trekking all the way to Machu Picchu can be challenging and rewarding experience.
If you are still unsure which route is best for you, we recommend talking to our travel agent at Hello Peru Tours. We can help you choose the right route for your needs and budget.
Machu Picchu is unmatched if you love exploring the wonders of the world. This ancient Incan city in Peru’s Andes Mountains is a must-visit. Thrilling treks lead to this iconic archaeological site. So let us share 3 top treks to Machu Picchu, each offering a unique experience.
The Inca Trail is perhaps the most famous and iconic trek to Machu Picchu. This ancient trail was once used by the Incas to reach the city, and it’s now a well-preserved route that allows modern adventurers to follow in their footsteps.
Here, you’ll walk through stunning landscapes, including lush forests, archaeological sites, and cloud forests. What sets the Inca Trail apart is the awe-inspiring moment when you reach the Sun Gate, known as “Intipunku” in Quechua.
From this vantage point, you’ll witness the first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu, with the morning sun casting its golden rays upon the ancient city. It’s a sight you’ll remember for a lifetime.
For those looking for a more challenging and less crowded route, the Salkantay Trek is an excellent choice. This trek takes you through diverse terrains, including high-altitude mountain passes and tropical rainforests.
The highlight of the Salkantay Trek is the stunning Humantay Lake, a turquoise jewel nestled at the base of a glacier. As you make your way towards Machu Picchu, you’ll pass through remote villages and interact with local communities, gaining insight into their way of life.
The Lares Trek is perfect for those who want a more culturally immersive experience. This trek will take you through the breathtaking Lares Valley, where you’ll encounter indigenous Quechua-speaking communities.
You’ll have the opportunity to learn about their traditions, visit local markets, and even soak in natural hot springs, a perfect way to relax after a day of trekking.
The Lares Trek also offers stunning scenery, including serene lakes and snow-capped mountains. It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate a slower pace and a deeper connection with the local culture.
Now that you are familiar with the different ways to get to Machu Picchu from Lima, here are some frequently asked questions that can help you plan your trip.
The distance from Lima to Machu Picchu is 503 km in a straight line. However, the land route is approximately 1205 km, as it winds through the Andes Mountains.
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and mild, with little rain.
One day is enough to see the main attractions of Machu Picchu, but two or three days is ideal if you want to hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, or if you want to take your time exploring the ruins.
There are two main ways to get to Machu Picchu from Lima: by train or by hiking. The train ride is the most popular and convenient option, while hiking is more challenging but rewarding.
There are a variety of accommodation options available in Aguas Calientes, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Choose an option that fits your budget and needs.
Yes, buying your Machu Picchu entrance ticket in advance is important, especially if you are visiting during the peak season. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Machu Picchu ticket office in Cusco.
Bring a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, water, and comfortable shoes. Bring a camera, snacks, and a rain jacket.
