Aguas Calientes is the settlement located at the base of Machu Picchu and serves as the standard point of arrival for visits to the Inca City. The straight-line distance from Cusco measures approximately 74 kilometres (46 miles). Actual routes follow the Urubamba River valley through the Sacred Valley. Travel durations range from 2 hours (by certain train services from Ollantaytambo) to 4 hours or more, depending on the method selected and any intermediate stops.
Our local guides, who maintain extensive experience on all routes leading to Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, deliver detailed explanations of the geographical and historical features encountered during organised transfers. The agency arranges all private transportation exclusively with its own vehicles.
Train Services
Train travel constitutes the most direct and commonly used option between Cusco and Aguas Calientes. Three operators maintain regular services.
Belmond Hiram Bingham Train
This service operates with carriages equipped for elevated comfort, including panoramic windows, on-board dining, and entertainment. The package includes a private bus transfer from Aguas Calientes station to the Machu Picchu entrance. Reservations are required well in advance.
Peru Rail
The principal operator on the route. Departures occur from Poroy station (near Cusco) or Ollantaytambo station (in the Sacred Valley). Available classes include:
- Expedition: Standard seating with large windows and refreshments available for purchase.
- Vistadome: Panoramic windows and glass roof sections. Travel time from Poroy is 3.5 to 4 hours. From Ollantaytambo the journey takes approximately 2 hours.
Inca Rail
Services depart from Ollantaytambo or Poroy stations. Classes include:
- Voyager: Standard seating with snacks and beverages available.
- 360° Machu Picchu Train: Panoramic windows and skylights with complimentary refreshments.
- First Class: Additional legroom, gourmet meals, and selected beverages.
All train tickets must be purchased in advance. During the period May to September availability is limited and sell-outs occur several weeks ahead. Return tickets should also be reserved at the time of outbound booking.
Main Train Stations in the Region
- Poroy station (near Cusco): Most frequent departure point for services from the Cusco area. Access from central Cusco requires approximately one hour by local taxi or similar transport.
- Ollantaytambo station (Sacred Valley): Journey time to Aguas Calientes is approximately 2 hours.
- Hydroeléctrica station: 45-minute train ride to Aguas Calientes. Tickets for this segment must be arranged in person in Cusco or Aguas Calientes in advance; online purchase is not available.
Bus and Train Combinations
A bus service connects Cusco to the Hydroeléctrica station. From Hydroeléctrica, continuation is by the short train ride mentioned above or by walking along the rail line to Aguas Calientes (approximately 3 hours on foot). The rail-line walk forms part of the final stage of certain multi-day treks.
A further sequence involves bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo followed by train to Aguas Calientes.
Multi-Day Trek Routes Ending in Aguas Calientes
Several established trails reach Machu Picchu and conclude with arrival in Aguas Calientes.
- Inca Trail: Approximately 42 kilometres over 4 days. Requires a limited daily permit.
- Salkantay Trek: Approximately 74 kilometres over 5 days. Crosses the Salkantay Pass at 4 650 metres above sea level.
- Choquequirao Trek: Extended route that includes the Choquequirao archaeological site before continuation toward Machu Picchu.
- Lares Trek: 4 to 5 days through Quechua communities.
- Inca Jungle Tour: Combines sections of hiking with cycling, rafting, and zip-lining.
For all organised trek programmes, our local guides, who possess extensive experience on each route, conduct the journeys and provide detailed explanations of the terrain, Inca-period engineering, and environmental conditions.
Private Transportation
Private vehicles can be arranged from Cusco directly to Ollantaytambo or to the Hydroeléctrica station. From those points, continuation occurs by train or other selected means. The agency utilises its own fleet for all private transfers included in its services.
Organised Tour Packages
Tour programmes include all segments of transportation from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, together with any required permits, meals where applicable, and guidance. The agency supplies private transportation exclusively with its own vehicles. Our local guides, who maintain extensive experience on the routes to Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, accompany participants and deliver detailed commentary throughout the journey.
The options above represent the established methods for reaching Aguas Calientes from Cusco. Selection depends on available time, physical preparation, and scheduling requirements. Advance reservation is necessary for all train services and trek permits.