Sacred Valley: How to get to Machu Picchu?

If you visit Cusco, it’s impossible not to explore these two places. Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the modern world, and the Sacred Valley of the Incas, with its stunning natural beauty and known for having the best hotels in Cusco. In this article, we will detail three popular routes to make your journey from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu so you can experience these two incredible sites.

Train Route from Ollantaytambo

The train route from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes is one of the most popular and comfortable options to reach Machu Picchu. Ollantaytambo is a small and picturesque town located in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. From there, you can board a train that will take you directly to the town of Aguas Calientes.

To start this route, head to the Ollantaytambo train station, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This train ride is considered one of the most impressive journeys in the world, not only for its short duration but for the incredible beauty of the landscapes it traverses. The train covers just over 30 kilometers, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

During the trip, you will have the chance to enjoy spectacular views of the Vilcanota River, which accompanies much of the route, as well as the majestic mountain range of Cusco. Additionally, you will be able to observe the picturesque Andean towns that inhabit the route, giving you a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of this region.

Once you arrive at the train station in Aguas Calientes, you will need to take one of the buses that travel a 10-kilometer route to the entrance of the Machu Picchu archaeological site. This last stretch takes about 30 minutes and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

It is important to mention that train tickets can be easily purchased through the Peru Rail or Inca Rail websites, the only two companies that operate this route. Additionally, there are very convenient payment options, such as using your American Express credit card, making it easier to purchase your tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

Hidroelectrica Route

For those looking for a more economical option to reach Machu Picchu from the Sacred Valley, the Hidroelectrica route is an excellent alternative. Although this trip is longer and requires some walking, it offers the opportunity to explore unique landscapes and be in direct contact with nature.

This route can start from any point in the Sacred Valley. From there, you will head to the town of Santa María, about a 2-hour journey. Once in Santa María, you will need to take a collective vehicle to the town of Santa Teresa or directly to the Hidroelectrica station. This last stretch takes around 2 hours.

Upon arriving at the Hidroelectrica station, you will have two options: continue the journey on foot or take a train. If you choose to walk, the trail will take you through a scenic route surrounded by vegetation. The walk to Aguas Calientes takes about 2 hours and is a very rewarding experience for trekking enthusiasts. If you’d rather avoid the walk, you can take a train that will take you to Aguas Calientes in just 20 minutes.

Although this option may seem more exhausting due to the duration of the journey, it is undoubtedly the most economical and offers a different perspective on the way to Machu Picchu. Once in Aguas Calientes, it is recommended to spend the night in one of the many available rooms and visit Machu Picchu the next day

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Inca Trail Route

Finally, the most legendary option to reach Machu Picchu from the Sacred Valley is the famous Inca Trail. This path is known for its historical richness and the stunning landscapes it crosses along the way. Although there are several versions of the Inca Trail, here we will detail the Short Inca Trail, a 2-day hike that offers a unique experience for more adventurous travelers.

The hike starts in Cusco or somewhere in the Sacred Valley. From there, you will head to the Ollantaytambo train station to board the train that will take you to kilometer 104, at the Chachabamba archaeological site, where the hike begins. From this point, a gradual ascent begins that will take you through the lush Andean jungle, offering a unique experience in contact with nature and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

The first stretch of the hike lasts about 4 hours, during which you will observe a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as discover Inca ruins along the trail. One of the most important sites you’ll encounter is Wiñaywayna, a major Inca archaeological complex that is still standing.

After a well-deserved rest and a box lunch at Wiñaywayna, the journey continues toward the most iconic point of the Inca Trail: Intipunku, also known as the Sun Gate. From this spot, you will have your first panoramic views of Machu Picchu in the distance, making it an unforgettable moment for any traveler. After an additional hour of hiking, you will finally reach the Machu Picchu citadel.

You may also be interested in: How to Get to the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Now that you know three ways to get to Machu Picchu from the Sacred Valley, you have no excuse to miss the two main historical and tourist sites in Cusco. We recommend choosing the best options to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay in the Sacred Valley while exploring these fascinating places.