How To Get From Cusco To Machu Picchu: Your Complete Guide For 2026

Are you looking for the most convenient way of getting from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

A must-visit on any itinerary through Peru, this incredible Inca citadel is the star highlight of a trip around the Andes where we can explore mysterious temples, marvel at postcard perfect views, and also enjoy the warmer cloud forest climate. Given Machu Picchu’s deep and remote location, getting here requires thoughtful planning – however it’s much easier than you think when following expert advice.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about how to best travel from Cusco to Machu Picchu. This includes how far the ancient citadel is from Cusco, how much time is needed for a visit, as well as the most efficient and comfortable methods of making the trip here. Later we’ll also answer your most frequently asked questions in our FAQ section.

The Important Basics Of Getting From Cusco To Machu Picchu

First we’ll take a look at the most important things to know before choosing how you will make the trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu.

How Far Is The Distance Between Cusco And Machu Picchu?

The total overland distance between Cusco and Machu Picchu is 118km, which follows the classic bimodal method of getting between these destinations. This begins by heading from Cusco to Ollantaytambo by bus, followed by riding the trains through the Andes mountains to Aguas Calientes. Once in this small town, you’ll then need to take the bus up to reach Machu Picchu Ruins. When booking your private Machu Picchu tour with us, these transport legs are all included in your package for the most comfort and ease.

It’s important to know that there are actually multiple different routes of making the trip here. This includes the direct train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, as well as the route where you take the bus to the Hidroeléctrica and walk along the tracks. As such, the distances and time taken can vary between them and should be compared properly before making your choice.

Time Needed To Comfortably Visit Machu Picchu From Cusco

For travelers who want to visit Machu Picchu without rushing and properly enjoy the nearby town of Aguas Calientes, 2 Days is the best amount of time to choose. Here you can depart at a more comfortable time on your first day from Cusco, before visiting the ruins early on your second day before the larger crowds arrive. Alternatively, 1 Day is often ideal for those who are on a strict timeframe or don’t mind there being more tourists in the ruins – while 3+ Days is best for travelers who want to explore the surrounding cloud forest and really relax during their vacation within the Andes.

The 3 Best Ways Travellers Can Travel From Cusco To Machu Picchu

The Direct Trains

The most efficient and quickest way of getting from Cusco to Machu Picchu, the direct trains are primarily operated by PeruRail (one of the two train main operators of the region). This includes the luxurious Hiram Bingham train – which includes gourmet meals and the most comfortable seating, along with spacious viewing windows – and is our personal recommendation for luxury travelers who want the most seamless journey. There are also the options of the Expedition and Vistadome Trains, which are more inexpensive but are also convenient transport options. You can learn more about the exact trains and what’s included before making your choice.

Total Cost One-Way: $72-$127 (Standard), $585+ (Hiram Bingham)

Time Needed And Total Distance: 4.5 Hours (118km)

• Direct Train Cusco To Aguas Calientes = 4 Hours (110km)
• Bus Aguas Calientes To Machu Picchu = 30 Minutes (8km)

The Bimodal Transfer (Bus & Train)

Mostly run by IncaRail (the other major train operator of the region), the bimodal transfer includes a combination of a bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, followed by the train to Aguas Calientes. These trains, which include the The Voyager and First Class options, are also very comfortable and can range in the amount of luxurious experience provided depending on the option chosen. The bimodal method is the most reliable year-round, since many of the direct trains can often pause their operations during the wet season months (between December and March).

Total Cost One-Way: $72-$127 (Standard), $212+ (Premium Tiers)

Time Needed And Total Distance: 4-5 Hours (117km)

• Bus Cusco To Ollantaytambo = 2-2.5 Hours (66km)
• Train Ollantaytambo To Aguas Calientes = 1.5 Hours (43km)
• Bus Aguas Calientes To Machu Picchu = 30 Minutes (8km)

The Hidroeléctrica Track

Lastly we have the most inexpensive option of all, however also the longest too. Although we can take private transport from Cusco to Ollantaytambo like we would with the bimodal option, here we continue onto the hidroeléctrica track stop. We then must walk for a couple of hours along the path into Aguas Calientes, before taking the bus up to Machu Picchu early the next day after a night stay. While the previous options  can allow tourists to visit the ruins from Cusco and return in one day, here we must stay overnight in Aguas Calientes due to the longer travel times.

Total Cost One-Way: $25-$50+

Time Needed And Total Distance: Total: 9-10 Hours (228km)

• Bus Cusco To Ollantaytambo = 1.5-2 Hours (66km)
• Bus Ollantaytambo To Hidroeléctrica  Track = 4.5 Hours (144km)
• Walking Hidroeléctrica To Aguas Calientes = 2.5-3 Hours (10km)
• Bus Aguas Calientes To Machu Picchu = 30 Minutes (8km)

Frequently Asked Questions About How To Get From Cusco To Machu Picchu 

In this section we’ll now explore the most frequent questions we get about how to best get from Cusco to Machu Picchu, as well as anything else you need to know.

Can You Do Machu Picchu As A Day Trip From Cusco?

Yes it’s definitely possible to visit Machu Picchu as a day trip from Cusco, and many travellers prefer this option for convenience and planning reasons. The most practical way would be to depart on an early morning train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, followed by your privately guided tour of Machu Picchu ruins before returning to Cusco by train in the late afternoon or early evening.

How Long Is A Train Ride From Cusco To Machu Picchu?

The various trains that depart from Cusco to the town of Aguas Calientes (which sits right below Machu Picchu) take roughly 3.5-4.5 hours for a one-way ride – which includes the city train stations of Poroy and San Pedro. Overall, to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu Ruins by train it’s roughly 4-5 hours – which also includes the bus ride up from Aguas Calientes to the ancient archaeological site.

How Likely Is It To Get Altitude Sickness In Cusco Or Machu Picchu?

Located up at 3399m above sea-level, there is more chance of travellers getting light altitude sickness symptoms in Cusco city. However, given Machu Picchu is located at a more comfortable 2415m – almost 1000m lower in elevation – there’s much less risk here. For this reason we often take guests straight to Machu Picchu upon arrival into the region, in order to have a more comfortable acclimatization experience up within the Peruvian Andes.

Overview Of How To Get From Cusco To Machu Picchu

And that’s all for this guide on how to best get from Cusco to Machu Picchu Ruins.

Despite the remote location of Machu Picchu, guests can easily visit this incredible Inca archaeological site with ease when travelling from Cusco or the nearby Sacred Valley region. With frequent train departures and ultra-comfort options available like the luxurious Hiram Bingham Train, you can also choose to visit as a quick day trip – or alternatively spend several days in Aguas Calientes for more time in this warmer cloud forest region.

Here at Cusco Transport, we have spent decades tailoring the most comfortable and private journeys for our guests visiting Machu Picchu and the Cusco region. Get in touch with our team of experts now, where we can provide all transfers, expertly guided tours and the very best hotel stays during your time in Peru.