How to Get to Machu Picchu? Routes and Entry to Machu Picchu 2025

From anywhere in the world, regardless of your chosen mode of transportation, you must first reach the city of Cusco, which has a major airport and a moderately organized bus terminal. If you choose to drive, the main roads are in excellent condition; you will only need a map to guide you properly.

Due to its complex geographical location, getting to Machu Picchu from Cusco is restricted to train travel or hiking, which adds to the adventure. Below, we detail the available options:

By Train:

Currently, there are three train companies, but PERURAIL remains the dominant operator due to its infrastructure and long-standing presence. Despite using older equipment and navigating rugged terrain, the 111 km journey from Poroy to Machu Picchu takes approximately four hours, offering breathtaking Andean landscapes along the way. ANDEAN RAILWAYS and INCA RAIL operate from Ollantaytambo, which also serves as a base for all companies during emergencies. The available routes and services include:

Poroy – Machu Picchu Town.
Ollantaytambo - Machu Picchu Town.
Hydroelectric – Machu Picchu Town.

The only direct way to reach Machu Picchu is via the Inca Trail.

Other ways to reach the archaeological site of Machu Picchu include:

Walking from Machu Picchu Town.
CONCETUR bus from Machu Picchu Town.

Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (4 Days)

The Inca Trail was the route used by the Incas to reach Machu Picchu. As the name suggests, it is a hiking route starting at Kilometer 82 near Ollantaytambo. The trek lasts approximately three days and must be arranged through an authorized travel agency. We highly recommend the Inca Trail as it offers an unforgettable experience.

Approximate Travel Time: inca-trail-machu-picchu 1.5 hours from Cusco to Ollantaytambo (Km 82), followed by a 3-day trek leading to the summit of Machu Picchu.

Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days)

This shorter Inca Trail route starts at Kilometer 104 near Ollantaytambo and leads directly to the world wonder, Machu Picchu. The trail enters through "Inti Punku" or the "Sun Gate," offering an incredible view of the archaeological site. Although shorter, it is an excellent alternative if you cannot secure a permit for the Classic Inca Trail.

Approximate Travel Time: Day 1 – 6 hours, Day 2 – Machu Picchu citadel visit.

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

One of the best alternatives to the Classic Inca Trail, this 4-day trek offers a variety of landscapes, including breathtaking views of Salkantay Mountain, Humantay Lake, Andean villages, and diverse natural scenery such as forests, mountains, rivers, and valleys.

The Salkantay Trek is ranked among the 25 best treks in the world by National Geographic Adventure Travel.

Approximate Travel Time: 4-hour drive from Cusco to Mollepata (Soraypampa), followed by a 3-day trek to Playa Rosalina.

Santa Maria – Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Machu Picchu.

By Car

This route is popular among adventurous travelers with extra time. It involves a more complex journey by car to Santa Teresa – Santa Maria.

The Inca Jungle tour includes various activities along this route:

Mountain biking from Alfamayuc to Santa Maria (approx. 3 hours).
Hiking from Santa Maria – Quellomayo – Santa Teresa (approx. 8 hours).
Rafting in Santa Maria.
Santa Teresa (Zip Line and Cocalmayo hot springs).
Hiking along the railway from Hydroelectric (approx. 3 hours) to Machu Picchu Town (Aguas Calientes).
Visit to the Machu Picchu citadel.