Machu Picchu is one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World. This mysterious Inca city attracts millions of visitors each year and is a dream destination for travelers to South America. Nestled in the Andes Mountains above the Urubamba River valley and surrounded by cloud forest, this jewel of Inca culture sits at about 2,430 meters (7,970 ft) above sea level.
Hidden from the Spanish conquistadors for centuries, the citadel remained largely unknown to the outside world until the early 20th century. Today, thousands of travelers explore these fascinating ruins, whose exact purpose is still discussed by historians. The most widely accepted theory is that Machu Picchu served as a royal estate and ceremonial center for the Inca elite.
What is certain is that Machu Picchu (Quechua for “Old Peak”) is unique in the world and ranks at the top of most South America travel bucket lists. Due to its popularity, daily visitor numbers are regulated by the Peruvian authorities through timed-entry circuits to help protect the site for future generations.
This guide explains the best and most affordable ways to get to Machu Picchu, how to prepare for your visit, what to bring, and key travel tips for 2026.
What Is So Special About Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is the most impressive Inca archaeological site in South America. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and remains one of the most visited cultural attractions in the world.
The city was built in the Cordillera de Vilcabamba using precisely cut stone, without iron tools or the wheel. Many of the original structures are still intact, showcasing the Incas’ remarkable engineering and architectural skills. Its terraces, temples, and ceremonial spaces blend perfectly with the surrounding mountain landscape.
Machu Picchu is located about 80 km (50 miles) from Cusco. The nearest town is Aguas Calientes (also called Machu Picchu Pueblo), which can be reached by train or by trekking routes. Cusco sits at 3,400 meters, so many visitors feel better at Machu Picchu’s lower altitude.
Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu
Weather in the Andes can change quickly due to the varied geography of mountains, valleys, and cloud forest zones.
Dry season: April to October
Rainy season: November to March (heavier rains from January to February)
The best overall months to visit are April, May, September, and October. These shoulder-season months usually offer good weather with fewer crowds than the peak months of June, July, and August.
If you plan to travel in peak season, book entrance tickets, trains, and hotels well in advance, as availability is limited under the new circuit system.
How to Get to Machu Picchu
Cusco is the main gateway to Machu Picchu. You can fly from Lima to Cusco, with flights often starting around US$180–250 depending on the season and airline. Long-distance buses from other Peruvian cities are also available.
From Cusco, there are several ways to reach Machu Picchu:
Machu Piccchu Tours with Operators
Many travelers choose organized tours to Machu Picchu. A basic 2-day / 1-night tour with transportation, hotel in Aguas Calientes, and entrance ticket often starts around US$350–450+, depending on the train class and services included. This is more realistic than very low advertised prices and gives you limited but well-organized visiting time.
Longer programs and trekking routes such as the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek offer deeper experiences and require advance booking.
Traveling to Machu Picchu by Train
You can travel by train to Aguas Calientes with PeruRail or Inca Rail.
PeruRail classes include:
- Expedition (tourist class)
- Vistadome (panoramic windows and onboard service)
- Hiram Bingham (luxury train experience)
Inca Rail classes include:
- Voyager (tourist class)
- The 360 (panoramic windows and observation car)
- First Class (premium service)
Train prices usually range from US$85 to US$180 one way, depending on class and schedule, and can be higher in peak season.
Trains depart mainly from:
- Ollantaytambo (most common)
- Poroy (limited seasonal service closer to Cusco)
Can I Visit Machu Picchu on My Own?
Yes, it is possible to visit Machu Picchu independently.
There are two main ways to travel to Machu Picchu, and the most comfortable option is by train.
Private Transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo Train Station
Peru Xcapes can provide a private transfer from Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
A Peru Xcapes driver will pick you up from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco and take you directly to the train station in Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, the driver will drop you off at the station, where you can board your train according to your own booking schedule.
Private Transfer from Cusco to Hidroelectrica
Another option is a private van transfer from Cusco to Hidroelectrica. Peru Xcapes can provide a van with comfortable seating, since this is a long travel day to Machu Picchu. The price is provided by our sales department and is usually quoted as a one-way service. The drive takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes.
Along the route, you will enjoy beautiful landscapes, including views of the subtropical areas of the Cusco region. There are also opportunities to stop at scenic points for photos.
Upon arrival at Hidroelectrica, you will walk about 8 km along a mostly flat path beside the railway line to Aguas Calientes. The walk takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours and is popular with budget travelers.
Visiting Machu Picchu on Your Own
Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you can choose your hotel and stay overnight before visiting Machu Picchu the next day.
Before planning your trip independently, it is very important to secure your Machu Picchu entrance ticket in advance. You can purchase tickets through the official Ministry of Culture website or through authorized ticket platforms such as BoletoPeru.pe and other authorized Machu Picchu ticket sellers. Booking early is strongly recommended because daily availability is limited and the official system can sometimes experience high demand or technical issues.
Bus or Hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
After you have your entrance ticket, the next step is deciding how to reach the citadel entrance from Aguas Calientes:
- Shuttle bus (Consettur): about US$12 one way / US$24 round trip
- Hike up: about 1.5–2 hours uphill via stairs and trail
Bus tickets can be purchased in Aguas Calientes when you arrive, and advance booking is not always required, though it can be helpful in high season.
A good option is to take the bus up and hike down after your visit.
Try to arrive early at the bus line (around 5:00–5:30 a.m.) if you want one of the first departures. The lines may look long, but buses run frequently and move quickly.
Machu Picchu Tour Guide
If you would like a guided visit inside Machu Picchu, it is best to hire a tour guide in advance. Reserving early helps ensure you get an experienced, professional guide and your preferred language service. visit Machu Picchu tour guide.
Important Extra Information for 2026
- Entrance tickets are limited and tied to official circuits and time slots.
- You must follow the assigned circuit once inside.
- Tickets for Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and Machu Picchu Mountain often sell out weeks or months ahead.
- Always book through official or authorized agencies.
- Bring your original passport, as it is required for entry