Methods to Travel to Machu Picchu

By Train

Taking the train is one of the most popular and scenic ways to reach Machu Picchu. The journey begins in the town of Ollantaytambo, located about 2 hours from Cusco. The train ride, operated by companies like PeruRail and Inca Rail, offers breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River as you travel towards Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

From Aguas Calientes, it’s a short bus ride to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The train is ideal for travelers who prefer a comfortable, hassle-free experience with stunning landscapes along the way.

By Bus

While there’s no direct bus to Machu Picchu itself, buses are commonly used to travel from Aguas Calientes to the entrance. Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes via train, you’ll find frequent shuttle buses that take you up the steep mountain to the ancient site. The bus ride takes about 25 minutes and offers an easy way to reach Machu Picchu without the physical exertion of hiking.

By Foot

For the more adventurous, hiking to Machu Picchu is a thrilling option. One of the most famous hikes is the Inca Trail, a 4-day trek that takes you through stunning mountain landscapes, ancient ruins, and lush cloud forests. The trail is challenging, but the reward of arriving at Machu Picchu at sunrise is priceless.

For those who prefer a shorter hike, the Inca Trail can be bypassed by hiking from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu. This hike takes about 1.5 hours and is a great way to experience the landscape up close.

By Helicopter

For those who want to splurge on a unique experience, helicopter tours to Machu Picchu are available. Helicopter rides are not only an exciting way to travel but also offer a bird’s-eye view of the Sacred Valley, allowing you to see the intricate layout of the land and the site from above. However, this is a much pricier option and not a typical way for most travelers to visit the site.

Best Times to Travel to Machu Picchu

Peak Season (June to August)

The peak season in Machu Picchu coincides with Peru’s dry season, when you can expect clear skies and pleasant temperatures. This period (particularly June and July) attracts the most visitors, which means larger crowds at the site and higher prices for accommodations and tours.

If you don’t mind the crowds and want to experience the site in its prime weather conditions, then the peak season is the right time to visit. However, be sure to book your tickets and accommodations well in advance as they fill up quickly.

Shoulder Season (April, May, September, October)

The shoulder season is arguably the best time to visit Machu Picchu. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, with fewer crowds and lower prices than in the peak season. April and May offer mild temperatures and fewer tourists, while September and October provide similar benefits, but with a chance of rain starting to increase toward the end of October.

Traveling in the shoulder season allows you to enjoy the magic of Machu Picchu without the overwhelming crowds and with more affordable accommodations.

Off-Peak Season (November to March)

The off-peak season runs from November to March and corresponds with the rainy season in Peru. While you’ll experience fewer tourists and lower costs, there’s a significant chance of rain, especially from January to March. Many hiking trails, including the Inca Trail, are also closed during this period for maintenance.

However, visiting in the off-peak season can offer a more tranquil experience. If you don’t mind the rain and want to avoid the crowds, the off-peak season can be a great time to explore Machu Picchu. Just remember to pack appropriately for wet conditions.