Machu Picchu Tours from Cusco
Travel by train, hike the Inca Trail or take the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu Train Tours
- Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley 2-day tour: the most popular train tour. Take advantage of the bus ride to Ollantaytambo visiting the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
- 2 day excursion to Machu Picchu by train: similar to the previous tour but with direct transfer to Ollantaytambo without stops along the way.
- Machu Picchu full day tour: Early in the morning to discover the Inca citadel and return to Cuzco the same day.
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
- Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: the most popular option. Classic route of 4 days with excellent value for money.
- Salkantay Trek 5 Days: extended version of the classic route with excellent value for money.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu: the original 4 days trek in small group. The iconic Inca Trail!
- Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: short Inca Trail with only one day of trekking.
Alternative tours to visit Machu Picchu
- Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu: 4 days route that combines trekking with adventure sports.
- Lares Trek to Machu Picchu: alternative 4 days trekking route between small Andean communities.
Discover the Best Ways to Visit Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is one of Peru’s most remarkable destinations and a must-see for travelers interested in Andean history, culture and landscapes. Surrounded by mountains and lush vegetation, the ancient Inca city offers a different experience depending on the route, trip length and level of adventure you choose.
At Howlanders, you will find a selection of Machu Picchu tours from Cusco designed for different types of travelers. You can take the train to Aguas Calientes, combine your visit with a Sacred Valley tour or spend the night near Machu Picchu before exploring the archaeological site with a guide.
Travelers looking for a more active experience can hike the Inca Trail, take the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu or choose an alternative route through mountains, valleys and Andean communities. Options range from Machu Picchu day tours to multi-day trekking adventures.
Here you can compare itineraries, included services, Machu Picchu admission, train tickets and difficulty levels. Choose the tour that best fits your schedule, interests and travel style, and get ready to discover one of Peru’s most extraordinary places.
What is the best way to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco?
The most comfortable option is to travel by road to Ollantaytambo and continue by train to Aguas Calientes. From there, a bus takes you to the Machu Picchu entrance. More active travelers can arrive by hiking the Inca Trail, taking the Salkantay Trek or following another alternative route.
How many days are recommended for visiting Machu Picchu?
You can visit Machu Picchu from Cusco on a day trip, although it involves a long travel day. A two-day tour is more relaxed and allows you to spend the night in Aguas Calientes. Trekking routes usually take between two and five days, depending on the itinerary.
Is a Machu Picchu day trip better than staying overnight in Aguas Calientes?
It depends on how much time you have. A Machu Picchu day trip is practical for shorter itineraries, but it includes several hours of transportation. Staying overnight in Aguas Calientes breaks up the journey and allows you to visit Machu Picchu at a more relaxed pace the following day.
What is included in Machu Picchu tours from Cusco?
Services vary by tour. They may include transportation from Cusco, train tickets to Aguas Calientes, the bus to Machu Picchu, a guide, accommodation and admission to the archaeological site. Check each itinerary carefully, as some tours can be booked with or without admission and meals are not always included.
What is the best Machu Picchu route or circuit?
For a first visit, Circuit 2 is usually the most complete choice because it combines the classic panoramic view with a route through part of the ancient city. Route 2-A is generally the preferred option, while 2-B offers a similar experience. Circuit 1 focuses more on viewpoints and hikes, while Circuit 3 covers mainly the lower part of the site and does not include the classic panoramic photo spot.
Is Machu Picchu difficult to visit, and how much walking is involved?
A standard visit is not a technical hike, but it includes stone steps, uneven ground and elevation changes. The main routes through the archaeological site cover approximately 0.8 to 1.7 miles (1.3 to 2.7 km). Routes that include Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are much more demanding and require good physical fitness.
Is it better to reach Machu Picchu by train, the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek?
The train is the fastest and most comfortable option. The Inca Trail stands out for its history and follows an original Inca route into Machu Picchu, while the Salkantay Trek offers dramatic high-mountain scenery and a more physically demanding experience. The best choice depends on your available time and fitness level.
What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu can be visited year-round. April through October usually brings less rain and better hiking conditions, but it is also the busiest period. November through March is wetter, although the landscape is greener and there are generally fewer visitors.