There is no direct road from Cusco to Machu Picchu. You can take a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, which is next to Machu Picchu. The Inca Trail is a popular way to get there, if you like walking. Some advantages of each way are:
Inca Trail: The Inca Trail can be done in 4 or 2 days, and there is a trail by bike too. This is a good option for those who are in good health, and want to get to Machu Picchu the way that the Incas did. The Inca Trail passes by other Inca sites along the way, and you will have beautiful views of the Andes Mountains. Only a certain number of people can enter the trail per day, and tickets are often sold out several months in advance. See our Inca Trail Availability Chart. The Inca Trail requires walking several hours a day in a high altitude, and takes longer than using the train. The Inca Trail can be tiring for some people.
By train: It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to get to Machu Picchu by train. The train goes to Aguas Calientes, a town next to Machu Picchu. Once the passenger arrives in the town they will have to go to the bus station which is close to where the train arrives. There will then be a 15 minute bus trip to Machu Picchu.
While on the train, you will be able to see the Vilcanota River, and the views are stunning and soothing. There are service classes available for all tastes and budgets.
One of the captivating things about this route is that passengers can watch the Andean scenery of fields and mountains gradually giving way to the exuberant rainforest where the Inca Citadel is found, perched atop a mountain. This way is faster, but does not let you see all that you would on the Inca Trail.
Whichever way you decide to go, we will gladly help you make reservations. We can help you with getting train tickets, Inca Trail tickets, hotels in Cusco, flights, and other types of reservations. Contact us for more information.