Most visitors to Peru regard the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu a must-see sight, and there are myriad options to consider when it comes to getting there.
The nearest town to the ruins is Aguas Calientes, which serves as a staging post for trips to the ancient city of Machu Picchu. Most visitors will first have to pass through the larger city of Cuzco, in which a large number of travel agencies will offer different packages to the ruins.
Many people will have already heard of the famous Inca Trail, a five-day hike across mountainous terrain which ends in Machu Picchu. Those wishing to make the classic trek should be advised the cost of a trip is around $600 and up, and reservations must be made months in advance due to restrictions on visitor numbers.
If hiking for five days sounds a bit boring, other outfitters offer variations on a Jungle Trek which involves rafting, mountain biking, zip lining and hiking for around $250.
The Inca Ruins of Machu Picchu © Dan Breckwoldt | Dreamstime
For less mobile travelers, another option is a leisurely train ride from Cuzco to Aguas Calientes, which takes around three hours in stunning scenery. Prices vary depending on the level of comfort in your cabin, with the cheapest tickets costing around $75.
Those travelers on a shoestring budget can take local transport from Cuzco along the Sacred Valley to the village of Santa Maria. From here minicabs will shuttle you to Santa Teresa, where you can relax in the hot springs before grabbing a ride to the hydroelectric dam. The road ends here, so you’ll have to continue on foot, following the train tracks all the way to Aguas Calientes.
From Aguas Calientes, bus services will take you to the entrance of Machu Picchu, or you can walk the tough trail.
Read This Next
What to Expect if You’ve Never Been to a Buc-ee’s
Tips / Destination
Oct 23, 2024#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations
Jan 16, 2025Get Into Blue Mind Theory at These 9 Resorts
Blue Mind Theory is the travel trend suggesting proximity to water results in a happier and healthier individual. A study from National Library of Medicine found travelers who participate in water-based activities tend to experience an overall positive impact on their quality of life. Book a stay at one of these properties and test the theory out yourself.
Sponsored Content
Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History
Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.
Destinations / North America
Jan 16, 2025Visit These 6 Southern Cities with African American Heritage Trails
The history of the South is integral with African American heritage and culture, as well as Blacks’ fight for freedom over many centuries. From Georgia to Mississippi to North Carolina, these six cities and towns created in-depth trails delving into stories of resilience, triumph and innovation.
Airlines
Jan 15, 2025New Changes Coming to British Airways’ First Class
If you’re flying with British Airways soon (but not too soon), you’ll notice some differences in the airline’s first-class product. A new experience will revolve around the introduction of a brand-new first-class seat that’s part of the airline’s retrofit plans for its Airbus A380 aircraft.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Hotel
Jan 15, 2025Exclusive Hotel Packages, V.I.P. Access for Miami Music Week
Miami Music Week draws thousands of fans to South Florida this March, and some hotels go above and beyond for an unforgettable week. This year’s festival runs March 19–24, and Eden Roc Miami Beach recently announced its role as official hotel partner of Miami Music Week and home to the Electronic Dance Music Awards.
ShareThis