Traveling from Lima to Machu Picchu requires multiple steps, as there are no direct routes. First, you need to reach Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu. From there, you can continue the journey by train or a combination of bus and hiking. Here’s everything you need to know:
1: Getting from Lima to Cusco
You have two main options: flying or taking a bus.
Option 1: Flight (Fastest & Most Convenient)
- Duration: ~1 hour 20 minutes
- Airlines: LATAM, Sky Airline, JetSmart
- Cost: $50 – $200 USD (varies by season and how early you book)
- Details: Flights depart daily from Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima and arrive at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco.
👉 Recommended for travelers who want to save time and avoid long road journeys.
Option 2: Bus (Budget-Friendly, Scenic Route)
- Duration: 20–24 hours
- Companies: Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, Civa
- Cost: $50 – $70 USD (depending on the service level)
- Details: Buses depart from Lima’s bus terminals and arrive in Cusco after a long but scenic ride through the Andes.
👉 Best for travelers on a budget or those who want to experience Peru’s landscapes along the way.
2: Getting from Cusco to Machu Picchu
Once in Cusco, you have two main options to reach Machu Picchu:
Option 1: Train (Most Comfortable & Popular)
- Route: Cusco → Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours
- Train Companies: PeruRail, Inca Rail
- Cost: $270 – $500 USD (round-trip, depending on service class)
- Details:
- Cusco to Ollantaytambo: Take a private car, taxi, or bus (1.5–2 hours).
- Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes: Board the train (1.5–2 hours).
- Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu: Take a 30-minute bus or hike (1.5–2 hours).
👉 Recommended for most travelers, as it’s the easiest and most scenic route.
Option 2: Bus + Hike (Cheaper, Adventure Option)
- Route: Cusco → Hidroeléctrica → Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu
- Duration: 8 to 10 hours
- Cost: $80 – $150 USD (bus), plus entrance fees
- Details:
- Take a bus or van from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica (~6 hours).
- Hike along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes (~3 hours).
- Take a bus or hike up to Machu Picchu.
👉 Recommended for budget travelers or those who enjoy hiking.
Getting to Machu Picchu
Once in Aguas Calientes, you can either:
✔ Take a bus (30 minutes, ~$12 USD one way)
✔ Hike up (~1.5 to 2 hours, free)
🎟 Important: You must have your Machu Picchu entrance ticket booked in advance, as spots fill up quickly!
Summary: The Best Way to Get from Lima to Machu Picchu
| Route | Time | Cost | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight to Cusco + Train to Machu Picchu | ~1.20+6 hours | $250 | Most travelers (fastest & comfortable) |
| Bus to Cusco + Train to Machu Picchu | ~22+ 6 hours | $150 | Budget travelers |
| Flight to Cusco + Bus/Hike via Hidroeléctrica | ~1.20+ 9hours | $210 | Adventurers & budget travelers |
For the fastest and most comfortable journey, take a flight to Cusco and then a train to Machu Picchu. If you’re on a budget, the bus to Cusco and the alternative route via Hidroeléctrica is a cheaper but longer option.
Final Tips
1- Book flights and train tickets in advance, especially in peak season (May–September).
2- Acclimate to Cusco’s altitude (3,400m) before visiting Machu Picchu.
3- Choose your Machu Picchu ticket type carefully (General Entry, Huayna Picchu, or Machu Picchu Mountain).
4- Pack for varying weather conditions, as temperatures change throughout the day.
Now you’re ready to start your adventure from Lima to Machu Picchu!
