How to Get to Machu Picchu from Cusco in 2026
No road reaches Aguas Calientes. Most travelers go by road to Ollantaytambo, take the train to Aguas Calientes, and ride a bus up to the citadel.
The routes compared
| Route | Time to Aguas Calientes | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Combined bus and train ticket | about 4 h | Leaving Cusco without arranging a transfer. |
| Car or colectivo + train | 3 – 3 h 30 | Comparing more departures from Ollantaytambo. |
| Hidroeléctrica | most of a day | Spending less, if you have time and are fit. |
| Inca Trail | several days | A multi-day trek with a licensed operator. |
Step 1: Cusco to Ollantaytambo
The drive takes 1 h 30 to 2 h. You can go by car, by colectivo, or with a combined bus and train ticket. Depending on the season, some trains leave from Poroy, near Cusco.
Step 2: train to Aguas Calientes
From Ollantaytambo, it's 1 h 30 along the Urubamba River. PeruRail and Inca Rail both run this route. Bring only a backpack of about 8 kg per person.
Step 3: up to the citadel
The bus takes 25 to 30 minutes. Walking is free, but it's about 3.4 km uphill and takes 1 h 30 to 2 h.
What about the cheap Hidroeléctrica route?
You travel by road to Hidroeléctrica, then walk about 10 km along the tracks. It's cheaper, but it takes longer and depends on the weather. Check road conditions before you leave.
Your luggage
The train allows little luggage. If you have large bags, leave them at your hotel or at Luggage Storage Cusco, our luggage storage service in Cusco.
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