Machu Picchu is well connected with Cusco. You can get from Cusco to Machu Picchu by train and with an organized guided tour!
Machu Picchu is one of the world’s great wonders, loaded with history and natural beauty and unparalleled in its majesty. That alone makes it a must-see destination for any traveler to Peru!
Machu Picchu represents the intersection of history and nature. The old Incan city was built in an incredible location far above sea level. Still, it is surrounded by greenery, and it is possible to visit and admire the impressive Inca ruins!
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The citadel consists of palaces, temples, sanctuaries, plazas, monuments, squares, and funerary sites. This is where nature and culture unite to form a harmonious union that will leave visitors deeply moved.
In short, visiting this archeological site is a unique experience and is definitely worth it. Indeed, the most important thing is to set aside as much time as you can to visit it because once you arrive at the top of the mountain, you won’t want to leave until sunset!
Traveling between Cusco and Machu Picchu is easy, and you can choose between a train and an organized guided tour!
Check our guide for the best options to travel from Cusco to Machu Picchu.
Tip: Read here everything you need to know about how to get to Machu Picchu.
How far is Machu Picchu from Cusco?
The distance from Cusco to Machu Picchu is 46.6 miles or 75 kilometers.
Transportation Options from Cusco to Machu Picchu
The following table outlines all transportation options from Cusco to Machu Picchu:
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu | 3.5-5 hours | USD 71-USD 559 |
| Transport + Tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu | 12 hours 10 minutes | USD 936 |
Getting to Machu Picchu from Cusco
1. Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu
Journey Duration: 3.5-5 hours
Cusco and Machu Picchu should be at the top of your list of places to visit if, in any way, your trip to Peru is inspired by your desire to learn more about the fascinating Inca Empire!
The train that takes you deep into Incan history is an easy and primary way to travel the 64 kilometers from Cusco to Machu Picchu!
There are different train classes to choose from, often with itineraries tailored toward tourists so you can enjoy the best scenery and a smooth ride.
A tourist train is the best and most affordable way to travel from Cusco to Machu Picchu. All the standard amenities, including restrooms, fold-out tables, snacks, and drinks, are provided on this train.
The journey is affordable and comfortable and costs only USD 71.
However, the journey itself is just as important as the destination when thinking about travel from Cusco to Machu Picchu. So, for those who want an even better experience, there is the option of a VIP and Luxury Train!
The most expensive ways to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu are First Class and Luxury Train services, with costs as high as USD 559!
These trains offer a complete travel experience with live music, delectable food and drinks, observation lounges, and cozy seats!
Since most Cusco to Machu Picchu travelers are interested in the scenery, some services can undoubtedly offer this.
So, depending on your budget and traveling style, pick your train tickets and start the incredible journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu!
Cusco to Machu Picchu Tourist Train Schedule
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 03:21 AM | 07:41 AM | 4 hours 20 minutes | USD 71 |  |
| 05:10 AM | 09:30 AM | 4 hours 20 minutes | USD 71 | |
| 05:50 AM | 10:10 AM | 4 hours 20 minutes | USD 71 | |
Cusco to Machu Picchu VIP Train Schedule
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 05:10 AM | 09:15 AM | 4 hours 5 minutes | USD 85 | |
| 05:50 AM | 09:55 AM | 4 hours 5 minutes | USD 85 | |
Cusco to Machu Picchu Luxury Train Schedule
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09:00 AM | 12:30 PM | 3 hours 30 minutes | USD 539 | |
| 07:20 AM | 12:20 PM | 5 hours | USD 559 | |
2. Transport + Tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu
Journey Duration: 12 hours 10 minutes
Traveling between Cusco and Machu Picchu does not have to stop your sightseeing or enjoying the long journey! The Day Tour Train of Peru Rail offers incredible experiences that are not to be missed!
With this transport + activity option, you get a full-day excursion from Cusco to the Incan hilltop ruin of Machu Picchu Citadel that begins and ends on the Belmond Hiram Bingham train.
You will be greeted with a welcome drink and live music at the train station, followed by a gourmet lunch, dinner, and beverages aboard the luxury train before the short bus ride from Aguas Calientes to the Citadel.
After arriving, you will have plenty of time to explore the Citadel on your own after your private tour guide has explained its history.
After about three hours, you will take a bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you will board the train to return to Cusco. From there, you will walk to the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge for some delicious afternoon tea!
The trains that go from Cusco to Machu Picchu and offer these guided tours are fully loaded with amenities and offer an experience like no other!
Bookaway
On Bookaway, you can check all available transportation options from Cusco to Machu Picchu. It is a reliable and easy-to-use platform for comparing prices & schedules and making a booking online.
Best day tours in Machu Picchu, Peru
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading to. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
The following widget shows some of the best tours in Machu Picchu, Peru.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu cost?
The cheapest train ticket from Cusco to Machu Picchu is the Tourist Train, which costs USD 71, and the most expensive is the Luxury Train, which costs USD 559.
How long is the train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu?
The length of the train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu depends on the type of train you choose. The fastest train gets to Machu Picchu in 3 hours and 30 minutes, and the slowest one takes about 5 hours.
Which train from Cusco to Machu Picchu is better: Inca Rail or Peru Rail?
Compared to Inca Rail, Peru Rail provides more daily departures to Machu Picchu. Both, however, offer top-notch tourist services.
How much is the Machu Picchu entrance fee?
The regular Machu Picchu entrance fee costs about USD 45 for adults and USD 21 for children.
What is the easiest way to get to Machu Picchu?
The easiest way to get to Machu Picchu is by train from Cusco along the Urubamba Valley floor, followed by a bus to the ruins’ entrance.
