Planning a trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco? Understanding the distance and travel options is crucial for a smooth journey. While the straight-line distance between Cusco and Machu Picchu isn't the whole story (it's approximately 74 kilometers or 46 miles), the actual travel distance and time are significantly longer due to the challenging terrain. This guide will break down the different ways to get there and address some frequently asked questions.
How Far is Machu Picchu from Cusco by Road?
There's no direct road connecting Cusco to Machu Picchu. The journey involves a combination of road travel and train or other means to reach the citadel. The road distance to the closest town, Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), is around 200 kilometers (124 miles). However, consider that this is a winding mountain road with significant elevation changes, making the travel time considerably longer than you might expect based solely on the distance.
How Long Does it Take to Get from Cusco to Machu Picchu?
The travel time from Cusco to Machu Picchu depends entirely on your chosen method of transportation:
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Bus and Train: This is the most common route. The bus journey to Ollantaytambo takes approximately 2–3 hours, followed by a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, which lasts another 1.5 – 2 hours. The total time is typically 3.5-5 hours. Remember that bus schedules often impact this.
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Train Only (from Poroy): There's a train that departs from Poroy, outside Cusco, directly to Aguas Calientes. This shaves off some travel time, reducing the overall journey to around 3–4 hours. However, this option requires getting to Poroy first.
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Hiking: The Inca Trail (requiring permits booked well in advance) or other alternative treks offer an adventurous but longer journey, taking anywhere from 2 to 7 days depending on the chosen trek.
What's the Best Way to Get from Cusco to Machu Picchu?
The "best" way depends on your priorities:
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For convenience and speed: The bus and train combination is generally the easiest and most efficient option for most travelers.
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For scenic beauty: The train journey offers breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains and Urubamba River valley.
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For adventure and cultural immersion: Trekking to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience, but requires good physical fitness and meticulous planning.
What is the Closest Airport to Machu Picchu?
The closest airport to Machu Picchu is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco. From there, you'll need to take a bus and train or other method to reach Machu Picchu.
Is there a direct bus from Cusco to Machu Picchu?
No, there's no direct bus from Cusco to Machu Picchu. The journey requires a bus to Ollantaytambo followed by a train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
How much does it cost to travel from Cusco to Machu Picchu?
The cost varies depending on your choice of transport:
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Bus and train: Budget options are available, but expect to pay more for higher levels of comfort and faster travel times. Consider the added cost of the bus to Ollantaytambo.
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Train only: Train fares vary considerably.
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Hiking: The cost of trekking will encompass permits, guide fees, and porter costs (optional, but highly recommended for heavier loads).
What are the different train options from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes?
Several train companies offer services, including PeruRail and IncaRail. They offer different classes and levels of service (tourist, expedition, first class), each with varying price points and amenities.
Planning your journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu involves careful consideration of your budget, time constraints, and desired level of adventure. With careful planning, you'll be well-prepared for a memorable experience at this incredible site.
