There are various ways to get to Machu Picchu: you can hike for 4 days, 2 days, 1 day or none. Below is a step-by-step guide Kevin and Lala took under (Booking Machu Picchu -Partial Guide) to get to Machu Picchu that had no hiking (we aren't outdoorsy lol).

Some folks attending the wedding are booking a trip under Booking Machu Picchu Tour - Guided Entirely. Anyone is able join for stress free fully guided tour with accomodations and transport included.

Many people spend the night in Aguas Calientes (the town of Machu Picchu). Since the whole journey is pretty exhausting we recommend staying the night after you go to Machu Picchu. However you can certainly go to Machu Picchu and come back to Cusco on the same day. If you do so we recommend you go as early as possible to ensure you have a great view of the mountain.

Some folks attending the wedding will be booking Ultimate Luxury Machu Picchu 3 Days 2 Night tour, booking is available starting October 2024.

It Includes:

INCLUDE HOTEL

LANGUAGES: Spanish and English

TYPE OF SERVICE: Group

TRAIN INCLUDED

INCLUDE TICKET

LUNCH INCLUDED

PICK-UP SERVICE

CLEANING AND SAFETY

FREE CANCELLATION

Click here to book this tour. There are also many other tours available depending on your travel time and sight choice.

This guide is using the Inca Rail All Inclusive round trip service, which includes hotel pick up/drop off, bus transportation to Ollantaytambo, train tickets to/from, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, and a guide for Machu Picchu (which is now required). We highly recommend purchasing this through Inca Rail.

1. From Cusco to Ollantaytambo

Your adventure begins in Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

To reach Ollantaytambo, the town where most trains to Machu Picchu depart, you have two main options

Inca Rail’s Bimodal Service: This ensures your transfer from Cusco in a comfortable exclusive vehicle for our passengers.

Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi to Ollantaytambo from Cusco.

The journey takes approximately 90 minutes

2. Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes

Upon arriving in Ollantaytambo, head to the train station.

Inca Rail operates from Cusco to Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo).

You’ll board the train at Ollantaytambo and enjoy the scenic ride to Aguas Calientes.

Aguas Calientes is the gateway town to Machu Picchu, nestled amidst lush mountains and rivers.

The train ride takes approximately 2 hours.

3. Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

From Aguas Calientes, you have a few options to reach the ancient citadel

Bus: Take a bus from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The ride takes about 30 minutes and offers stunning views.

Hike: If you’re feeling adventurous, hike up the well-marked trail to Machu Picchu. The hike takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and rewards you with breathtaking vistas.

Both Peru Rail and Inca Rail offer various services, so choose the one that suits your budget and preferences.

Remember to book your train tickets in advance, especially during the high season (May to August). Both Peru Rail and Inca Rail offer various services, so choose the one that suits your budget and preferences. Enjoy your unforgettable journey to this iconic wonder!

There are five different circuits to choose from when buying the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu. An entrance ticket is included in Inca Rail All Inclusive Package (you can only choose from Circuit 1 or 2). We highly recommend choosing Circuit 1, as this ensures you have the iconic view of the mountain and the postcard picture.

Circuit 1: The Main Circuit (Llaqta De Machupicchu):

This is the general entry ticket that grants access to the main archaeological site.

You’ll have the freedom to explore key areas, including the Sacred Plaza, Temple of the Sun, Sacred Rock, Temple of the Three Windows, Temple of the Condor, and Intihuatana.

Additionally, you can take a short walk to the revered Inti Punku (Sun Gate) and the Inca Bridge.

Circuit 2: Huayna Picchu:

If you’re up for an adventure, consider this circuit.

Huayna Picchu is the iconic mountain that towers above Machu Picchu.

The hike is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views of the citadel and surrounding landscape.

Circuit 3: Machu Picchu Mountain:

For panoramic vistas, choose this circuit.

Machu Picchu Mountain provides a higher vantage point than Huayna Picchu.

The trek is longer but less steep, making it suitable for those seeking stunning vistas without extreme difficulty.

Circuit 4: Huchuy Picchu Mountain:

Less frequented but equally captivating, this circuit leads to Huchuy Picchu Mountain.

The trail offers unique perspectives of Machu Picchu and its terraces.

Circuit 5: Inca Trail Permits:

If you’re planning to hike the famous Inca Trail, this circuit is essential.

It includes the necessary permits for the multi-day trek to Machu Picchu

Tickets cannot be purchased at the entrance to Machu Picchu. You must buy them from an authorized ticket dealer (included in Inca Rail All Inclusive Package) or directly from the Ministry of Culture.

Machu Picchu has uneven terrain and involves a lot of walking, so make sure you bring appropriate shoes. We recommend hiking boots. Also make sure to bring sunscreen, bug spray, a hat, and a light jacket because it can get cold in the morning. Don't forget to bring a lot of water too.

This is a 5 star hotel in Aguas Calientes and a 4 minute walk from the train station.

This is a 4 star hotel and a 4 minute walk from the train station.