Machu Picchu Without Hiking: How to Visit by Train and Bus

The Standard Non-Hiking Route

If you are visiting Peru for the first time and want Machu Picchu without a multi-day hike, this is the simplest route:

This is the route used by the majority of Machu Picchu visitors. It is straightforward, well-organized, and does not require any hiking ability.

Step-by-Step: Train and Bus to Machu Picchu

1. 1.
   Get to Ollantaytambo

   Most trains to Aguas Calientes depart from Ollantaytambo, not Cusco (though some Cusco departures exist). Take a taxi or colectivo from Cusco to Ollantaytambo — about 1.5–2 hours.

2. 2.
   Board the train to Aguas Calientes

   Both PeruRail and Inca Rail operate trains from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (also called Machu Picchu Pueblo). The journey takes about 1.5–2 hours through the Urubamba Valley. Scenery is excellent.

3. 3.
   Arrive in Aguas Calientes

   Aguas Calientes is the small town at the base of Machu Picchu. Check in to your hotel if you are staying overnight, or head straight to the bus terminal if you are doing a day trip.

4. 4.
   Take the official bus to Machu Picchu

   The official Consettur buses depart from the bus terminal in Aguas Calientes (a 5-minute walk from the train station). Buses run frequently and the journey takes about 25 minutes up a winding road.

5. 5.
   Enter Machu Picchu

   Present your ticket and passport at the entrance. You will need a specific entry time slot — make sure you arrive for your slot. A guided tour is recommended for first-time visitors.

6. 6.
   Return to Aguas Calientes

   Take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. Then take the train back to Ollantaytambo or Cusco.

Booking the Train

Two train operators run services from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes: PeruRail and Inca Rail. Both are reliable. PeruRail has more departure times and is the larger operator. Inca Rail is a good alternative.

Booking the Bus

The official shuttle buses from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu are operated by Consettur. A round-trip ticket costs around $24 USD. You can buy tickets in advance online or at the bus terminal in Aguas Calientes.

Buying in advance is recommended, especially in peak season, to avoid queuing at the terminal. Buses run from about 5:30am to 5:30pm.

What to Expect at Machu Picchu

The citadel involves walking on uneven stone paths, stairs, and inclines. It is not flat. However, it is manageable for most visitors who are reasonably mobile. You do not need to be a hiker to enjoy Machu Picchu — just wear comfortable shoes with good grip.

Most visitors spend 2–4 hours at the citadel. A guided tour (2–3 hours) is highly recommended for first-time visitors — the ruins are much more meaningful with context.

Altitude Considerations

Common Mistakes