Traveling from Lima to Machu Picchu typically involves flying to Cusco, taking a train to Aguas Calientes, and then a short bus ride to the citadel. This journey can take between 10 and 15 hours and is the most common route for international travelers visiting Peru. In this guide, you’ll find all transportation options, routes, costs, and itineraries to plan your trip efficiently. This guide aims to provide you with all the information you need for a trip to the iconic Inca citadel.
Everything you need to know to get to Machu Picchu from Lima
- How Far Is Machu Picchu from Lima
- Best Ways to Get from Lima to Machu Picchu
- Step-by-Step Route from Lima to Machu Picchu
- Travel Time and Costs from Lima to Machu Picchu
- Lima to Cusco to Machu Picchu Itinerary Options
- Best Time to Travel from Lima to Machu Picchu
- Essential Travel Tips for Machu Picchu (From Lima)
- FAQs About Traveling from Lima to Machu Picchu
How Far is Machu Picchu from Lima
There is no direct route from Lima to Machu Picchu. Travelers must stop in Cusco (mandatory), then reach Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town), and finally Machu Picchu. This is because Cusco has the closest airport and main bus terminal to get to the Inca citadel. Likewise, the train station located in Aguas Calientes is the closest station to Machu Picchu.
Technically, the distance from Lima to Machu Picchu is 503 km in a straight line, but the land route has a distance of 1205 km. Many scheduled tour packages and trips have Lima as the starting point, and almost all international flights can land here. In addition, travelers take advantage of this time to experience the essence of this vibrant city.
Best Ways to Get from Lima to Machu Picchu
With so many tourist facilities available, many travelers can now choose from a variety of options to reach the archaeological site. Some options stand out for their speed, while others offer a touch of adventure, each ideal for a different type of tourist. Moreover, it’s also essential to consider the necessary steps along the route to the citadel. Below are some viable options for each stage before arriving at this wonder of the world:
| From Lima to Cusco | From Cusco to Aguas Calientes | From Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu |
| By bus | By train | CONSETTUR bus |
| By plane | By trekking | Climb up to Machu Picchu |
| By private | By bus and train |
Step-by-Step Route from Lima to Machu Picchu
From Lima to Cusco
Most international visitors arrive in Lima before continuing to Machu Picchu. Having said that, there are several ways to get to the famous wonder of the world from the City of Kings (Lima). Travelers can go by car, bus, or train and can arrive more or less quickly, depending on budget and travel preferences. Remember that the ascent is from Lima (0 meters above sea level) to Cusco (3,399 meters above sea level).
A travel tip is to enjoy at least a little stay in the Peruvian capital. There are many things to do in Lima, among them are beautiful beaches, award-winning gastronomy, and various sports of different kinds. It is recommended to take a day or two to enjoy the different museums, particular architecture, and recharge your energy.
1. By bus
The bus from Lima to Cusco is the cheapest option, and it takes approximately 22 to 27 hours. Tourists can acclimatize properly and explore the different scenarios of Peru. The trip duration is so long because it travels along the Andes, passing from the coast to the highlands.
Many travelers recommend the route that passes through Arequipa (the other journey passes through Ayacucho, and it is not recommended to take it due to the excessive altitude of some points). Despite this, the route is longer, but it is also generally considered a safer option. Depending on the company, the bus will have different amenities.
A. Direct route: Lima – Nazca – Cusco
This trip lasts 22 hours and goes through the coast up to Nazca, a city near Lima. From this point, the bus turns left, entering the Andean mountains and beginning its slow ascent to Abancay (2,377 m.a.s.l). Passing this city, the next destination will be Cusco (3,399 m.a.s.l). It is recommended to help the body acclimate to the altitude in a better way.
Usually, the buses depart from Lima central bus terminal around 02:00 or 03:00 pm, spending a night on board, and arriving in Cusco around 12:00 to 01:00 pm. However, the arrival time can change because of unforeseen events, but this is uncommon. Anyway, for a trip to Machu Picchu, visitors need to consider the previous trip time.
B. With a stopover: Lima – Nazca – Arequipa – Cusco
The route goes along the coast, passing Nazca, up to Arequipa, a city located further south of Lima. From this city, the bus will turn left heading to the Andes and finally arrive in Cusco. The duration takes 24 or more hours and allows you to visit other attractions on the route, such as the Huacachina oasis, Nazca Lines, etc. Departure schedules are the same as those of the buses of a direct route.
2. By plane
Unfortunately, the Inca site, due to its inhospitable location and to conserve the native fauna, doesn’t have an airport, airfield, or heliport. This is the fastest option for travelers who prioritize their time because it lasts for about an hour and twenty minutes. The Lima to Machu Picchu distance feels much shorter by air. Travelers arrive in about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
There are frequent daily flights from Lima, airlines like LATAM, Jet Smart, and Sky Airlines offer the service with high-quality standards. Similarly, as the trip is so fast, it is best to take some precautionary measures against altitude sickness. When arriving in Cusco, travelers can leave the imperial city and go directly to the Sacred Valley (2,871 m.a.s.l) since it is at a lower altitude than Cusco (3,399 m.a.s.l), which helps with acclimatization. Nevertheless, the biggest disadvantage is missing important landscapes throughout the trip, from the Peruvian coast to the mountain range.
3. By private car
The Lima to Machu Picchu distance seems shorter when going by car, but it is not too different from the bus option. The difference is taking maybe a few hours less, depending on the driving pace or, if required, the rest time. The internet coverage may be limited in some areas, so Google Maps or Waze may not work in some places. Therefore, it’s ideal to carry a physical map or a downloaded digital map.
From Cusco To Aguas Calientes
Once in the Imperial City, it is recommended to explore the many things to do in Cusco. Cusco offers a wide range of historical and cultural attractions that are worth visiting. Also, the nearby Sacred Valley offers other incredible towns and archaeological sites to enjoy. It is advisable to spend a few days and enjoy everything available in these two charming towns.
A. By train
One of the best experiences for travelers to the archaeological site is traveling by train. Besides being the oldest way to get to Machu Picchu, the train trip ensures beautiful landscapes from the Andes and the Peruvian jungle. The train to Machu Picchu, without a doubt, adds magic and novelty to the entire trip. Depending on the train service, tourists can enjoy different comforts and wonderful views.
Two main train companies in Cusco offer the route Cusco – Machu Picchu: Peru Rail and Inca Rail. Both have three kinds of tourist services in their railway carriages that depart from different stations. Travelers can choose between many prices and services, but all are comfortable. The main advantage is to save energy when touring the archaeological complex.
| Train stations | Location | Train travel time | Used by the train company | Final train station |
| Wanchaq | Cusco city | 04 hours approx | Peru Rail | Aguas Calientes town |
| San Pedro | Cusco City | 04 hours approx | Peru Rail | Aguas Calientes town |
| Poroy | Surroundings of Cusco city (11 km from Cusco) | 03 hours approx | Peru Rail | Aguas Calientes town |
| Ollantaytambo | Sacred Valley (61.5 km from Cusco) | 02 hours approx | Peru Rail & Inca Rail | Aguas Calientes town |
Please note that no transportation goes directly to Machu Picchu itself (except the trekking way). The final station of the trains, in all cases, is Aguas Calientes, a town located 8.5 km north of the same Inca citadel. Travelers can choose from three main train services, going from the cheapest to the most luxurious. In addition, the prices go from $130 up to $1000, per person, round trip.
B. By trekking
Hiking to Machu Picchu is the most exciting way to get to the renowned Inca ruins. The adventurous travelers spend a few days to a full week hiking in many Cusco to Machu Picchu routes. Regardless of the route, tourists can experience incredible views and an unforgettable experience. Among the most popular treks, visitors can find:
1. The Inca Trail
This trail is excellent for those who are looking for something more challenging. The Inca Trail is a challenging, popular hike with the promise of beautiful landscapes and unforgettable memories. Travelers can opt for the classic 3-day tour or the shorter variant of just two days; the first part of the route is by train.
The visitor has to take a train from San Pedro, Poroy, or Ollantaytambo train station (very early) until 82 km heading to Aguas Calientes. From this point in the middle of the way to Machu Picchu, near Ollantaytambo, the trekking will begin. This experience passes through beautiful landscapes of the mountain range to 4,224 meters above sea level. The best time to go to Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail is during the dry season (from April to November); keep in mind that during February, the Trail is closed for maintenance reasons.
2. Salkantay Trek
The trek begins from Mollepata town (located 3 hours from Cusco) and crosses Salkantay, the mountain belonging to the Vilcabamba range. The main way to arrive at the starting point is by bus or van, and then the trek will start in the Soraypampa camp zone. Visitors will pass through the exceptional scenery of the Andes and the jungle, surrounding the snow-capped Salkantay mountain. Moreover, they will feel the change of weather from cold and dry to hot and humid.
3. Inca Jungle trek
This route is popular among adventurous travelers because it includes biking, trekking, rafting, and zip-lining before getting to Machu Picchu. The trek begins by taking a bus from Cusco to Abra Malaga (4,230 meters above sea level) and descending to the low jungle. Another highlight of the experience is observing the incredible endemic flora and fauna. After a great deal of adventure and excitement, the journey ends when travelers reach Aguas Calientes.
4. Lares Trek
The tour begins by taking a bus from Cusco to Lares Hot Spring (the bus trip lasts 2 hours). After taking a relaxing bath, the trek will begin, stepping on snow, surrounding snow hills, glacial lagoons, and charming towns, in 4 days. Finally, visitors will arrive at Ollantaytambo train station. From this point, they will have to take a train to Machu Picchu, performing the normal tour of the Inca citadel.
C. By bus plus train
The cheapest way to get to the archaeological site is by taking a bus. Nonetheless, to take this option, always check out the best time to visit Machu Picchu. We recommend choosing this way only during the dry season (from April to November). Why? Because the bus road is dry and is the easiest drive over it.
Usually, the vans or minibuses depart from Cusco city (Puputi or Pavitos stations) and go to Santa Maria town (a place located 181 km from Cusco). From this point, the bus passes over the Santa Maria bridge to the Santa Teresa town, located on the edge of the jungle, for 203 kilometers. The road up there is formed by dirt and dust. The bus ticket costs around $22 per person.
Later, visitors will have to transfer to another vehicle that will take them to the Hidroelectrica station (hydroelectric train station), located 10 kilometers from Santa Teresa. From this point, you have two options: the first one is to do a trek to Aguas Calientes, which lasts 03 hours. The second option is to take the local train heading to Aguas Calientes (the train trip lasts 20 minutes), which costs $4 per person, one way. To return, you can do it in the same way or take a direct train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Cusco.
From Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
A. CONSETTUR Bus
CONSETTUR buses belong to the Aguas Calientes municipality company, in which all inhabitants of the town are shareholders. The units are modern and well-cared, have air conditioning systems, padded seats, and large windows on both sides of buses.
These depart every 5 minutes from their own station located in the Aguas Calientes town and from its final station (located at the top of the mountain, just in front of the entrance to the Machu Picchu archaeological park). The buses operate from 05:30 am to 05:45 pm, every day, 365 days a year. Visitors can buy bus tickets at the same station or via the internet, and it costs $24 per person.
B. Hiking Up to Machu Picchu
Travelers can find a zig-zag footpath that begins at the Ruins bridge, located 1.7 km southwest of the Machu Picchu pueblo. From this point, tourists will begin the climb through the mountain for about 1 hour to the Machu Picchu entrance. Remember that it is not recommended to do so in the rainy season (from November to March), because the path will be full of mud.
Travel Time and Costs from Lima to Machu Picchu
If the final choice is strictly tied to travel time and cost, visitors should evaluate all alternatives. Remember that some of them are demanding options at certain times of the year, so you should book in advance. Another important consideration is the Machu Picchu ticket prices, which will depend on the route you choose. Below is a detailed comparison of travel times and costs from Lima to Machu Picchu, helping you choose the best option based on your budget and schedule.
| Travel Costs from Lima to Machu Picchu | ||||
| Route Segment | Travel options | Economic (USD) | Regular (USD) | Luxury (USD) |
| From Lima to Cusco | By bus | $25 – $70 | $80 – $150 | $180 – $250 |
| By plane | $60 – $120 | $120 – $250 | $300 – $500 | |
| By private | $400 – $600 | $700 – $1,000 | $1,200+ | |
| From Cusco to Aguas Calientes | By train | $60 – $120 | $140 – $190 | $400 – $1,000 |
| By trekking | $150 – $300 | $300 – $600 | $700 – $1,500 | |
| By bus and train | $60 – $100 | $100 – $180 | $200 – $300 | |
| From Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu | CONSETTUR bus | $12 (one way) / $24 round trip | $12 (one way) / $24 round trip | $12 (one way) / $24 round trip |
| Climb up to Machu Picchu | Free | Free | Free | |
| Travel Time from Lima to Machu Picchu | ||
| Route Segment | Transport Option | Time |
| From Lima to Cusco | By bus | 17 – 24 hours |
| By plane | 1h 15m – 1h 30m | |
| By private (car/transfer) | 18 – 30 hours | |
| From Cusco to Aguas Calientes | By train | 3 – 4 hours |
| By trekking (Inca Trail, Salkantay, etc.) | 4 – 5 days | |
| By bus + train (Hydroelectric route) | 6 – 10 hours | |
| From Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu | CONSETTUR bus | 25 – 30 minutes |
| Climb up (hiking) | 1h 30m – 2 hours | |
Lima to Cusco to Machu Picchu Itinerary Options
Tour operators offer pre-designed itineraries tailored to travelers with unique interests. These options include details about Lima to Cusco to Machu Picchu routes, from transportation options to estimated travel times. This is undoubtedly one of the best options to consider for both novice and experienced travelers. Below are some general itinerary details for each type of tourist:
| Itinerary Type | Description | Trip Highlights | Route | Main Transport | Notes |
| Classic | The most popular and balanced itinerary covering key landmarks | Lima city, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu | Lima → Cusco → Sacred Valley → Machu Picchu | Flight + train + bus | Ideal for first-time visitors |
| Adventurous | Focused on trekking and outdoor challenges | Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek, mountain views, and Machu Picchu | Lima → Cusco → Trekking route → Machu Picchu | Flight + hiking + bus/train | Requires good physical condition |
| Nature Lover | Emphasizes landscapes, wildlife, and scenic views | Andes mountains, cloud forests, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu | Lima → Cusco → Sacred Valley → Machu Picchu | Flight + train + bus/hiking | Great for relaxation and nature photography |
| Cultural | Deep dive into history, traditions, and local life | Museums in Lima, Cusco heritage sites, local markets, and Machu Picchu | Lima → Cusco → Sacred Valley → Machu Picchu | Flight + train + bus/hiking | Perfect for history enthusiasts |
| Photography | Designed for capturing iconic and hidden photo spots | Sunrise at Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain (optional), scenic valleys | Lima → Cusco → Sacred Valley → Machu Picchu (+ optional sites) | Flight + train + bus/hiking | Early wake-ups for best light conditions |
| Family | Relaxed pace with kid-friendly activities | Easy tours, train to Machu Picchu, cultural experiences | Lima → Cusco → Sacred Valley → Machu Picchu | Flight + train + bus | Choose comfortable accommodations |
| Luxury | High-end experience with premium services | Luxury hotels, gourmet food, Hiram Bingham train, private tours | Lima → Cusco → Sacred Valley → Machu Picchu | Flight + luxury train + private transport | Best comfort and exclusive experiences |
Best Time to Travel from Lima to Machu Picchu
Another important decision is when to go, especially if visitors have limited time. Andean destinations have the unique characteristic of having two main seasons, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Many people usually base their final decision on the best time to visit Peru, which coincides with the better weather conditions. Here’s a general overview of each season:
Dry Season
From May to October, clear skies and warm days are the norm, ideal conditions for exploring Peru. These months coincide with the most popular tourist season due to summer vacations in other countries, so you’ll see more tourists than at other times of the year. Thus, it’s excellent to book in advance to avoid last-minute problems.
Rainy Season
The months of December through February also coincide with the low tourist season due to the higher probability of rain. The frequent downpours can make some trips difficult, even for those who fly from Lima. But promotions and deals on certain tourist services are common. This is an ideal option for those with flexible schedules who enjoy relaxed travel.
Essential Travel Tips for Machu Picchu (From Lima)
- Book in advance: Both Machu Picchu tickets and transportation services are in high demand during certain months. As mentioned, the dry season is peak tourist season, so it’s ideal to book your services several months in advance.
- Pack only the essentials: While you can purchase some items along the way, it’s best to bring only the essentials. To avoid forgetting anything, a checklist will help you expand your list, specifying everything from clothing to electronic devices.
- Acclimate properly: Even though altitude sickness varies from person to person, it’s best to take your Lima to Machu Picchu journey at a relaxed pace. The altitude difference between Lima and Machu Picchu is considerable, and so is the exploration itself. Resting, staying hydrated, and eating well will be beneficial.
- Hire a professional: Although guided tours to Machu Picchu are common, many tourists avoid having a professional guide during the trip from Lima to the city. Hiring a specialist will enrich your trip with interesting information while also providing you with greater peace of mind.
- Avoid day trips: Aside from acclimatization, a one-day trip to Machu Picchu is riskier. Flight or train delays could jeopardize your entire experience. So, most travelers recommend at least three days for a relaxed and flexible trip.
FAQs About Traveling from Lima to Machu Picchu
What is the best way to get from Lima to Machu Picchu?
The best way is to take a flight from Lima to Cusco, then travel by train to Aguas Calientes, and finally take a short bus ride up to Machu Picchu. This route is the fastest, most comfortable, and most popular among travelers.
How long does it take to travel from Lima to Machu Picchu?
The classic Lima to Machu Picchu route usually takes between 10 and 15 hours in total, depending on connections and waiting times. This includes a flight (about 1.5 hours), a train ride (3–4 hours), and a short bus trip (30 minutes).
Can you go from Lima to Machu Picchu in one day?
Yes, it is possible, but very rushed and not recommended for most travelers. It requires an early morning flight to Cusco, an immediate transfer to the train, and a tight schedule to visit Machu Picchu before returning the same day. The Lima to Machu Picchu itinerary will be much shorter with brief stops and less chance of acclimatizing.
How much does it cost to travel from Lima to Machu Picchu?
Costs vary widely depending on your travel style, but most travelers spend between $200 and $600 USD for transport only. Budget options can be cheaper, while luxury experiences can exceed $1,000 USD.
Do you need to go through Cusco to reach Machu Picchu?
Yes, Cusco is the main gateway to Machu Picchu. Almost all routes (by train, trekking, or road) start from Cusco or the nearby Sacred Valley. To many experts, Cusco is the entrance to Machu Picchu because it has the nearest airport to the citadel.
What is the easiest route from Lima to Machu Picchu?
The easiest route is to fly from Lima to Cusco, take a direct train to Aguas Calientes, and then a bus to Machu Picchu. This option requires the least physical effort and is the most straightforward to organize. Furthermore, this alternative is the fastest for tourists who have a short time.
“TIME IS THE LONGEST DISTANCE BETWEEN TWO PLACES”
The distance from Lima to Machu Picchu should not be an obstacle, but rather an excellent tourist opportunity. With all the available travel modalities, travelers will be able to enjoy a complete experience within the Andean country. Among all the available trips through the Andean country, visiting Machu Picchu is a milestone for anyone.
Peru has so much to offer; it can be hard to know where to start. With many years of experience in the tourism sector, Machu Travel Peru is happy to help with anything regarding your trip to Peru and any tours around it. Let us help you make your Peruvian travel experience unforgettable! Contact us today to plan your dream adventure!
