Getting to Machu Picchu, Peru

Most visitors to Peru regard the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu a must-see sight, and there are myriad options to consider when it comes to getting there.

The nearest town to the ruins is Aguas Calientes, which serves as a staging post for trips to the ancient city of Machu Picchu. Most visitors will first have to pass through the larger city of Cuzco, in which a large number of travel agencies will offer different packages to the ruins.

Many people will have already heard of the famous Inca Trail, a five-day hike across mountainous terrain which ends in Machu Picchu. Those wishing to make the classic trek should be advised the cost of a trip is around $600 and up, and reservations must be made months in advance due to restrictions on visitor numbers.

If hiking for five days sounds a bit boring, other outfitters offer variations on a Jungle Trek which involves rafting, mountain biking, zip lining and hiking for around $250.

The Inca Ruins of Machu Picchu © Dan Breckwoldt | Dreamstime

For less mobile travelers, another option is a leisurely train ride from Cuzco to Aguas Calientes, which takes around three hours in stunning scenery. Prices vary depending on the level of comfort in your cabin, with the cheapest tickets costing around $75.

Those travelers on a shoestring budget can take local transport from Cuzco along the Sacred Valley to the village of Santa Maria. From here minicabs will shuttle you to Santa Teresa, where you can relax in the hot springs before grabbing a ride to the hydroelectric dam. The road ends here, so you’ll have to continue on foot, following the train tracks all the way to Aguas Calientes.

From Aguas Calientes, bus services will take you to the entrance of Machu Picchu, or you can walk the tough trail.