How to Get to Machu Picchu – Machu Picchu Full Day Tour
If you are planning your Machu Picchu Full Day Tour, one of the first questions is: how to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco? Here we explain everything you need to know to organize your trip safely, comfortably, and efficiently.
Getting to Cusco: the starting point to Machu Picchu
Before starting your Machu Picchu Full Day Tour, you need to arrive in the city of Cusco, the main gateway to the Inca citadel.
How to reach Cusco by plane (recommended)
The fastest and most comfortable way is by plane from Lima to the Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco.
- Recommended airlines: LATAM, Sky Airline, Star Perú
- Flight duration: approx. 1 hour 15 minutes
- All international travelers must go through immigration in Lima, even if the connecting flight to Cusco is on the same day
How to reach Cusco by bus
You can also travel by bus from Lima (approx. 22 hours). This option is more suitable if you are coming from:
- Puno: approx. 10–12 hours
- Arequipa: approx. 10–12 hours
This is a more economical option but less practical if you want to do a Machu Picchu Full Day Tour in a limited time.
From Cusco to Machu Picchu: Full Day Tour Route
Once in Cusco, the journey to Machu Picchu is done in three stages:
Train to Aguas Calientes
From Cusco or the Sacred Valley, take the train to Aguas Calientes (also called Machu Picchu Town).
- Train companies: PeruRail, Inca Rail
- Duration: 1h 30min to 3h 30min depending on departure station
This route offers spectacular views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River.
Bus ride up to the citadel
From Aguas Calientes, take an eco-friendly bus for 25 minutes to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
During the Machu Picchu Full Day Tour, enjoy a guided tour of approximately 2–3 hours, exploring the main sectors of the Inca citadel.
Altitude in Cusco and recommendations
Cusco is located at 3,300 meters (10,827 ft) above sea level, so some travelers may experience altitude sickness, also called “soroche”.
Common symptoms:
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty sleeping
It is recommended to spend at least 1–2 days in Cusco before doing demanding hikes. Coca tea is a traditional infusion that helps alleviate mild symptoms.
Luggage for the Machu Picchu Full Day Tour
If traveling by plane, check your airline’s baggage policy. Some fares allow only carry-on luggage (8 kg).
For the tour, it is recommended to bring:
- Small backpack
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Non-slip shoes
- Sunscreen and water
In Cusco, you can leave extra luggage at your hotel or arrange a secure deposit with Andino Tours Peru.
Weather in Cusco and Machu Picchu
Cusco’s climate is divided into:
- 🌞 Dry season: April to October
- 🌧 Rainy season: November to March
Weather in the Andes can change quickly, so always bring rain protection even in the dry season.
Safety, first aid, and travel insurance
- Staff trained in first aid
- Basic first aid kit and oxygen available on excursions
- We recommend purchasing travel insurance for peace of mind
Responsible tourism and environmental commitment
- Use of biodegradable products and responsible waste management
- Reforestation: for each traveler, we donate 10 trees to local communities
Conclusion: the best way to get to Machu Picchu
The most efficient way to do the Machu Picchu Full Day Tour is:
- Fly to Cusco.
- Take the train to Aguas Calientes.
- Take the bus up to Machu Picchu.
Planning your transportation correctly ensures you enjoy this world wonder to the fullest in a single day.
