Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu

How to Visit Machu Picchu on the Cheap: The Ultimate Guide

A trip to Machu Picchu is something nearly every person dreams of in their lifetime. And why shouldn't it be? Perched high amongst the mist-soaked mountains of Peru, these centuries-old ruins are steeped in mystery. How were these perfect terraces built on such steep canyon walls? How were the massive boulders carved to such perfection? And what was the true purpose of the fascinating temples?

Though one could stumble down the Google rabbit hole for hours over such questions, nothing is as invigorating as exploring it in person. Whether you want to embark on a multi-day trek, or meander the sites on your own without a tour, there's many ways to see Machu Picchu on the cheap. Here's our whopper of a guide to doing it!

Editor's note: This guide was originally written by Jen Avery and has been updated in 2022 by Heather Jasper.

Machu Picchu Llama

How much does a Machu Picchu trip cost?

The quick answer to this is it dependsIf you want to hike your way to Machu Picchu, you must do it with a tour. However, it is also entirely possible (and quite easy) to visit Machu Picchu on your own, tour-free. This can either be done as a day trip from Cusco or by staying overnight in a neighboring town and taking a bus or walking up to the ruins. Here's our guide of rough estimates comparing all options. For a comprehensive breakdown and the how-to's of each, read on!

A note on prices

The Peruvian Nuevo Sol (PEN) is an unstable currency that can fluctuate greatly. Always check the current exchange rate to know exactly what the cost will be. That said, most tour companies charge in USD, because it is a more stable currency. Train tickets (both PeruRail and InkaRail) are charged in USD and the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is charged in USD. All other busses in Peru charge in PEN.

Machu Picchu tickets are charged in PEN. The adult price is s/155, the student price is s/77 and children under 18 are s/70. Students must have a photo school ID that is valid for the academic year of the visit. Currently, the USD equivalent of the prices are: adult $39, student $19 and child $17. Estimates below are based on the adult price with the exchange rate of 4 PEN per 1 USD.

Day Tour From Cusco Cost

Day Tour ($328 USD) including:

  • Local English or Spanish speaking guided tour of Machu Picchu
  • Roundtrip train tickets
  • Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to the citadel of Machu Picchu
  • Entrance fee
  • Hotel drop-off and pick-up

Meals: $15+ USD with own food
Other (snacks, money for paid toilets)
: $10 USD
TOTAL COST$353 USD (book here)

Day Tour from Cusco Cost

Day Tour ($163 USD) including:

  • Professional guide
  • Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
  • Entrance fee

Accommodation (dorm 1-nt, Aguas Calientes): $12 USD
Meals: $15+ USD with own food
Train cost: $100+ USD return to Cusco
Other (snacks, money for paid toilets): $10
TOTAL COST$300 USD (book here)

Costs Without Any Tour (Cusco to Aguas Calientes)

Accommodation (dorm 1-nt, Aguas Calientes): $12 USD
Meals: $15+ USD with own food

Shuttle van to Ollantaytambo: $3 USD
Train cost: $100+ USD return to Ollantaytambo
Entrance fee: $39 USD
Bus ticket to Machu Picchu: $24 USD return to Aguas Calientes
Other (snacks, money for paid toilets): $10
TOTAL COST: $203 USD

Note: There were new rules stating that visitors require a guide for entry in 2019. Since Machu Picchu reopened in November, 2020 with new Covid-19 regulations, this is now being enforced. A guide can be hired on arrival to Machu Picchu (they typically wait around the entrance), or you can pre-book a tour in advance. Just be sure to buy your entry tickets beforehand. (See Ticket Prices section to learn about the four ticket options and time slots).

Machu Picchu

When to visit Machu Picchu

When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu? In theory, any time of year can be great (or not-so-great). Peruvian weather is notoriously unpredictable. Blaring sunshine can happen in the rainy season, and torrential downpours in the dry. We've only ever visited in the rainy season, but had very different weather on both visits. In December we had brilliant, blazing sun and heat. In February had a cool, rainy day and the mountains were doused in thick mist. Put simply, no particular month ensures certain weather!

Some points on planning the timing of your visit:

  • Rainy season is October to April. This is the low period for tourists but downpour and mist are a risk at any time. Dry season is May to September which offers increased likelihood (but no guarantee) of sunshine, thus meaning much greater crowds.
  • The least busy time of day at the ruins is early morning (6AM-8AM) and late afternoon (2PM-4PM). When you buy your ticket you must choose an entrance time, so if you are particular about the time of day, book at least two months in advance.
  • Closures: The Inca Trail is closed all of February each year for maintenance.
  • Give time to acclimatize. When planning your visit, give your body at least a few days to adjust to the altitude – especially if hiking. Cusco is a great place to do this.

Where is Machu Picchu located?

Machu Picchu is about 50 miles (80km) northwest of Cusco, Peru. Whether you're arriving to Peru from overseas or are coming in from within South America, your first stop en route to Machu Picchu should be Cusco. This ancient city was once the capital of the Incan Empire and today is an eye-pleasing blend of old and new. Original Incan stones now lay fused with colonial-era bricks in cathedrals and historical buildings throughout the city. Here are some of the must-sees and do's in Cusco:

  • Wander the Plaza de Armas
  • Check out the Qorikancha – which was a gold-plated Inca temple and is also the site of the  Iglesia de Santo Domingo
  • Meander fruit stalls at the Mercado Central de San Pedro (be extra cautious of pickpockets here)
  • Drink lots of Pisco Sours, the national drink!
  • Explore Sacsayhuaman (walk or take a taxi up, you can hire a guide on-site)
  • Marvel over centuries-old masterpieces, including the “The Last Supper” painting in Cusco Cathedral which features a roast guinea pig
  • Stroll through the stunningly presented Museo de Arte PreColombio
  • Munch on free samples and learn how chocolate is made (or make some yourself!) at the ChocoMuseo.
  • Visit the Convento de Santa Catalina for elaborate paintings and a glimpse into colonial life.
Plaza de Armas Cusco Peru
Cusco

Where to stay in Cusco

There's accommodation for nearly every budget in Cusco. That being said, most budget options are quite basic, even when spending a bit more on a “hotel”. With most lodging you can expect to find a clean, basic room, hot water showers, free coca tea, and often a complimentary breakfast. An extra charge for heaters is not uncommon (these are often needed at night), so bring layers and/or anticipate that extra cost with your stay. HotelsCombined is what we use as it conducts a broad search. It's wise to check reviews (with a grain of salt) to comb out your options.

One place we can recommend is Mama Simona Hostel. The hostel was tidy, the duvets thick, the free Wifi great, and the breakfast excellent. You can also store your luggage for free. The staff were beyond willing to help with anything, from calling taxis and finding cheap laundry, to cancelling a flight over the phone for us in Spanish.

If you’re looking for a party hostel, you’re in luck because Cusco has several. The most popular are Wild Rover, Loki, Pariwana, Kokipelli, Selina Plaza de Armas and the more low-key La Bohème.

Where to fly into for Machu Picchu

You will need to fly into Cusco via the Alejandro Velasco Astete (CUZ) airport where all international flights come in. If you're working out a South America itinerary, note that Bolivia will be cheapest to fly in from, followed by Ecuador (Guayaquil or Quito, with a likely layover in Lima), and then Chile (Santiago).

Flights within South America aren't cheap, but Skyscanner will include budget airlines to show your cheapest options (choose “entire month” for the date to find the cheapest days to fly). We've also rounded up the continents budget airlines and air passes here. For general tips on snagging cheap flights anywhere every time, check our ultimate guide to cheap flights here.

Getting to Peru by bus or train

PeruRail has routes from Lake Titicaca, Bolivia to Puno, Peru, and vice versa. Buses are abundant throughout South America, with connections from virtually all over. There does exist an inter-country bus pass called Bolivia Hop, which provides bus travel between Peru and Bolivia. Otherwise, just Google search for bus companies respective to the country you're coming in from.

Visiting Machu Picchu With A Trek

Treks to Machu Picchu vary widely in cost and route. Most tours involve a 4-day trek with camping each night along the trail. The trek usually ends with a tour at Machu Picchu on arrival the last day. Here's a quick look at prices, but take note these are merely estimates based on tours leaving from Cusco and the surrounding area (i.e. not part of a bigger cross-Peru or South America tour). Costs will vary based on the trail and company chosen.

Cost breakdown

  • Tour cost: $650+ USD (for a classic 4 day/3 night tour from Cusco)
  • Accommodation, entry ticket & meals: Typically all included
  • Rental equipment: Sleeping bag $30+ USD, walking pole $8+ USD, inflatable mattress $25+ USD, individual tent $35+ USD (double occupancy tents are usually included)
  • Porter fees (5 kilos is usually included): $75+ USD
  • Tips*: ~$40 USD for a typical 4 day/3 night tour.
  • Other: $10+ USD, Money for paid bathrooms, souvenirs, snacks to bring.
  • TOTAL COST$871+ USD

*How much should you tip on a Machu Picchu tour? Recommendations vary by company and the tour duration (here's a detailed guide to tipping). As a rule of thumb, it's recommended to tip $19-$23 USD for the entire cooking staff and porters (this is shared amongst them), $6-$8 USD for the assistant guide, and $7-$10 USD for the main guide. If hesitant, you can ask your tour office/company when booking what is recommended.

Booking a Machu Picchu tour

Choosing a company

While planning your trip, take the time to research tour companies offering hikes to Machu Picchu. It's important to choose your tour wisely, as this is a strenuous multi-day hike. The last thing you want is subpar equipment or useless guides. Here's some important notes to consider:

  • Don't skimp out! A slightly pricier tour is far more likely to ensure functional equipment (i.e. non-leaky tents and hole-filled sleeping bags!), experienced porters and decent, knowledgeable guides. You can save a bit of money renting your own hiking gear in town (Cusco or Aguas Calientes), but thoroughly inspect all equipment first.
  • Research companies & make an informed choice. We’ve done the Inca Trail twice with Intrepid Travel but they’ve had trouble since the pandemic and may not be running Inca Trail trips anymore. Some recommended by other travellers include Llama Path(who we've used for day tours), Apus Peru, Salkantay, Action Treks Peru, and  G Adventures. It's wise to check recent reviews on forums like Tripadvisor.
  • There has been a lot of press recently about how porters on the Inca Trail are treated. If you’re planning to hike the Inca Trail, research the company and don’t hesitate to ask how porters are paid and accommodated on the trail. All other treks use packhorses or mules, but feel free to ask about wages for cooks and assistants on those treks.
  • Book ahead. As much as 6 months in advance is recommended as there is a maximum number of tickets allotted for Inca Trail entry each day. Once you know your dates, book! (Other treks do not have the same limits and can be booked with less advance notice).

Machu Picchu

Choosing a trail

Many people don't realize that there are multiple hiking routes to Machu Picchu. The most common one is the Classic Inca Trail, which takes 4 to 5 days to complete. While it is the busiest (and typically most expensive), there do exist lesser-visited, cheaper alternatives.

Sometimes it's essential to do an alternate trek, as the Inca Trail slots fill up in high season (there is a maximum numbers of permits each day due to limited campground sites). Here's a quick rundown of the various trails to Machu Picchu (besides the classic one).

SHORT INCA TRAIL

  • Duration: 2 days, 10km (6.3 miles)
  • Scenery: Includes the last part of the Inca trail. See panoramic views of the Andes, Wiñay Wayna (Incan ruins along trail), cloud forest, sweeping valley landscapes
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Highest altitude: 8,792 ft (2,730m)
  • Cost: ~$721 USD (depending on group size)
  • Book on Viator
  • Book on GetYourGuide 

INCA QUARRY TREK

  • Duration & distance: 4 days, 15.5 miles (25km)
  • Scenery: Lush farmland, ancient Incan sites and stone-age petroglyphs, waterfalls, Cachicata (quarry used by Incas), chullpas (burial houses) with mummies still in place
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Highest altitude: 14,764ft (4,500m)
  • Cost: ~$835USD (depending on group size & tour)
  • Book on Viator

HUCHUY QOSQO TREK

  • Duration: 3 days, 11 miles (8km)
  • Scenery: Lesser visited Incan ruins, water channels and quarries crowded landscapes of snow-capped peaks, subtropical cloud forest, stone Incan paths, sweeping valley views
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Highest altitude: 14,107ft (4,300m)
  • Cost: ~$733+ USD (depending on group size and tour).
  • Book on Viator

LARES TREK

  • Duration & distance: 3-5 days (typically 4), 21 miles (34km)
  • Scenery: Mountain lakes, snow-capped peaks, wildlife such as Andean parrots, viscachas (a rabbit-like chinchilla), and Andean foxes, meet local people in traditional attire
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Highest altitude: 15,682ft (4780m)
  • Cost: ~$650+ USD (depending on group size and tour)
  • Book on Viator (min. 2 adults required)
  • Book on GetYourGuide

VILCABAMBA TREK

  • Duration: 5 days
  • Scenery: Some of the last places the Incas stayed, subtropical farms, snow-capped mountains, the White Rock which has elaborate carvings, Vitcos (summer residence of the Inca emperor)
  • Difficulty: Difficult
  • Highest altitude: 12,844ft (3915m)
  • Cost: ~$869+ USD (depending on group size and tour)
  • Book on Viator

SALKANTAY TREK

  • Duration & distance: 5-8 days (typically 5), 37.5 miles (60.5km)
  • Scenery: Snow-capped peaks, subtropical cloud forest, stone paths of the ancient Inca highway, sweeping valley views
  • Difficulty: Difficult
  • Highest altitude: 15,200ft (4650m)
  • Cost: ~$380+ USD (depending on group size and tour)
  • Book on GetYourGuide
  • Book on Viator

In addition to these, there are several other treks that visit Machu Picchu's sister city, Choquequirao (The Cradle of Gold). Towering over the Apurimac Valley, these impressive Incan ruins are set amongst epic, mountainous landscapes, similar to Machu Picchu. Treks to Choquequirao can be cheaper by as much as $200 USD, depending on tour size. Some of the longer tours (e.g. 8+ days) visit both Choquequirao and Machu Picchu so you can even see two incredible Incan ruins. There are also options to go to Choquequirao without a tour. The trail is clearly marked and villages along the way offer cabins and meals so you don’t have to carry a tent and food.

Machu Picchu trek

Visiting Machu Picchu Without A Tour

Can you go to Machu Picchu without a tour? Indeed you can, but you will not be hiking the Inca Trail to get there. You can see Machu Picchu via a rushed day trip from Cusco, or stay in the town of Aguas Calientes and walk or bus up to the ruins.

We've visited Machu Picchu eight times collectively, and three of those times did so tour-free by staying in Aguas Calientes. So, why else visit Machu Picchu without hiking? Here's a few of the benefits:

  • Significantly cheaper
  • Ideal for those with limited time and/or unable to acclimatize to the altitude
  • Feasible for those not wanting to hike or who have mobility issues
  • Provides more control over timing of arrival
  • You can choose your own guide for the ruins

Now, in order to visit Machu Picchu on your own from Aguas Calientes, you'll need to buy tickets for entry to Machu Picchu, plus your PeruRail train tickets to get there.

Cost breakdown (Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes)

  • Accommodation: ~$12+ USD hostel dorm, $35+ USD private staying in Aguas Calientes (more on that below)
  • Meals: $15+ USD if packing own food, $8+ USD per meal in Aguas Calientes, $40+ USD at Machu Picchu restaurant (buffet – this is the only restaurant at Machu Picchu), or $10-$15 at the snack bar
  • Van from Cusco to Ollantaytambo: Shuttle vans and shared taxis leave from Puente Grau in Cusco and take about an hour and a half to Ollantaytambo. Vans cost about $3 and a seat in a shared taxi is usually $5.
  • Train cost: Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and return $100-$140 USD, depending on the time of day. These tickets are charged in USD.
  • Machu Picchu entry tickets fee: $39 USD (check the exchange rate for s/152 PEN)
  • Bus ticket to Machu Picchu: $24 USD round trip (there is an option to walk)
  • Other: Money for paid bathrooms (~25 cents), souvenirs, snacks to bring, museums, etc.
  • TOTAL COST~$193+ USD (based on 1-night dorm bed stay, bringing own food, with bus tickets)

Cost breakdown (Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes)

  • Accommodation: ~$12+ USD hostel dorm, $35+ USD private staying in Aguas Calientes (more on that below)
  • Meals: $15+ USD if packing own food, $8+ USD per meal in Aguas Calientes, $40+ USD at Machu Picchu restaurant (buffet – this is the only restaurant at Machu Picchu), or $10-$15 at the Machu Picchu snack bar
  • Van cost: There are many agencies in Cusco’s Plaza de Armas offering round trip vans from Cusco to Santa Teresa for $20 USD
  • Train cost: Hydroelectric Station near Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes and return $62 (You can also walk along the train tracks).
  • Machu Picchu entry tickets fee: $39 USD (check the exchange rate for s/152 PEN)
  • Bus ticket to Machu Picchu: $24 USD round trip (there is an option to walk for free)
  • Other: Money for paid bathrooms (~25 cents), souvenirs, snacks to bring, museums, etc.
  • TOTAL COST~$172+ USD (based on 1-night dorm bed stay, bringing own food, with train and bus tickets) or ~$86+ USD (without train or bus, if you want to walk from Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes and from Aguas Calientes up to Machu Picchu).

Walking to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes

Yes, you can do it, but plan for almost two hours going up and about an hour going back down. Most of the trail is stairs or a single-track dirt trail through the forest. It crisscrosses the road that the busses drive up and down, which is generally either dusty or muddy. It’s almost impossible to get lost and if you get tired of the trail you can walk along the road. For many people, it’s worth at least $12 for the bus ride up in the morning. Walking down in the afternoon is easier.

Walking to Aguas Calientes from Santa Teresa/Hydroelectric

This is a 9km hike along the train tracks, which means it’s flat. The train tracks follow the river and have a fair amount of birdwatching along the way. It takes about two to two and a half hours to walk to Aguas Calientes, with a couple short tunnels and a very scenic bridge along the way. Trains only run four times a day, so as long as you listen carefully, this is quite safe.

Taking the train from Hydroelectrica to Aguas Calientes

You cannot buy these train tickets online or in Cusco. They used to sell them at the hydroelectric station but now they must be bought in Aguas Calientes. If you arrive at Hydroelectrica without a ticket, the conductor will take your passport as collateral and give it back when you get to Aguas Calientes and pay for the ticket.

Machu Picchu: Entrance tickets

In order to visit Machu Picchu, you need an entrance ticket and your passport. You cannot buy entrance tickets at Machu Picchu itself, so you must purchase your ticket beforehand (see our detailed guide here).

Keep in mind that there are a limited number of tickets available per day. Tickets are sold by time slot, with the earliest entrance possible at 6:00am and the latest at 2:00pm. In the high season (May to September) tickets can sell out, so booking in advance is advised. The time slots between 8am and noon sell out the fastest. If you buy the 6:00am ticket, you can enter any time between 6:00 and 7:00. Note that Machu Picchu tickets are sold in Peruvian Nuevo Soles (PEN), which is a volatile currency. Train and bus tickets are sold in dollars. Here's this year's prices, followed by how to book them.

Ticket prices for 2022

MACHU PICCHU ENTRANCE TO MAIN GROUNDS

Adult (18+ years): s/152 PEN (currently ~$39 USD)
Students* (up to 25 years): s/77 PEN (currently ~$19 USD)
Child (<18 years)*: s/70 PEN (currently ~$17 USD)

This provides entry to Machu Picchu – that is, the main ruins, terraces, and temples, that you see in photos. It does not provide entry to the extra hikes up the adjacent mountain peaks, which are Machu Picchu Mountain, Huayna Picchu or the new route up Huchuy Picchu.

Four new routes have been designed through Machu Picchu to help with crowd control and social distancing during the pandemic. When you buy your tickets for Machu Picchu you have to choose one of the four options below.

  • Llaqta de Machu Picchu (llaqta is town in Quechua)
  • Circuito 4 + Wayna Picchu
  • Circuito 3 + Montaña Machu Picchu
  • Circuito 4 + Montaña Huchuy Picchu

If you are only visiting Llaqta Machu Picchu, you can choose if you want to do Circuit 1 or 2. This is a choice you make after you enter Machu Picchu, at the point where the two trails diverge. Print out the map of the route you want to do and take it with you. Click on the circuits here to see the map of what you can visit on each particular route: Circuit 1, Circuit 2, Circuit 3, Circuit 4.

MACHU PICCHU + MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN

Adult (18+ years): s/200 PEN (~$50 USD)
Student* (up to 25 years): s/125 PEN (~ $31 USD)
Child (<18 years)*: s/118 PEN (~ $29 USD)

This provides entry to climb the taller mountain, Montaña Machu Picchu, which is 10,111ft/3,082m. This mountain is generally less busy and has the best views but has no ruins. You must choose between 2 time slots to start the hike, either 7-8AM or 9-10AM. There is a daily limit of 400 people, with 200 tickets sold per time slot.

MACHU PICCHU+ HUAYNA PICCHU & TEMPLE OF THE MOON

Adult (18+ years): s/200 PEN (~$50 USD)
Student* (up to 25 years): s/125 PEN (~ $31 USD)
Child (<18 years)*: s/118 PEN (~ $29 USD)

This provides entry to the smaller, busier mountain peak, Huayna Picchu (8,923ft/2,720m). Here you'll have sweeping views and entry to the Temple of the Moon and ruins at the top. You must choose between 4 time slots to start the climb, 6-7AM, 8-9AM, 10-11AM or 12-1PM. There is a daily limit of 200 people, with only 50 tickets sold per time slot.

MACHU PICCHU+ HUCHUY PICCHU

Adult (18+ years): s/200 PEN (~$50 USD)
Student* (up to 25 years): s/125 PEN (~ $31 USD)
Child (<18 years)*: s/118 PEN (~ $29 USD)

This provides entry to a new route, which opened in 2021. This is a hill adjacent to Huayna Picchu. You must choose between 9 time slots to start the climb, 6-7AM, 7-8AM, 8-9AM, 9-10AM, 10-11AM, 11AM-12PM, 12-1PM, 1-2PM or 2-3PM. There is a daily limit of 200 people.

*Note: Children require a passport in-person for proof of age, including on arrival at Machu Picchu. As per the Ministry website, foreign undergraduate students must have a valid photo student ID card issued by the university that is valid for the academic year of the date of visit.

So, which option to choose? 

If you're happy just exploring the main ruins of Machu Picchu, then a plain entry will suit you fine. You can still get beautiful photos of Machu Picchu without climbing any mountains. You can get the classic Machu Picchu shot from a vantage point just west of the House of the Guardians (#16 on the map here, the view is the first photo below). This has both Huchuy Picchu (the shorter hill on the left) and Huayna Picchu mountain (the taller one on the right) in the background.

If you'd like a challenging climb with some incredible bird's eye views, then consider visiting one of the mountains. In our opinion, if you're going to do this, you might as well go for Huaynu Picchu, as it actually has ruins along the way, and costs just slightly more. See the second photo below for that view. Take note the earlier time slot (7-8AM) will be less hot, but this is also a less busy time to explore the main ruins. Machu Picchu Mountain still offers good views (see our third photo below), is overall less busy, but has no ruins.

Finally, when purchasing tickets, you'll also notice there is an option to buy entry to the Machu Picchu Museum (a.k.a. Museo de Sitio Manuel Chávez Ballon) located near Aguas Calientes. The museum is very small but has some great artefacts and descriptions. If you have the time, it's worth visiting prior to your trip to the ruins.

Where & how to buy entrance tickets

Entrance tickets can be bought in person in either Aguas Calientes or Cusco. You will need your passport for purchase. You can also buy tickets in any major Peruvian city with a Banco de Nacíon by reserving first online (check our how-to guide to reserving online tickets here), then picking them up in person (note: this requires some basic Spanish). If you are not conversational in Spanish, it's recommended to buy online or in-person at Aguas Calientes or Cusco which are more straightforward.

Buying tickets online

You can purchase tickets from the Ministerio de Cultura website or a third party website. For simplified step-by-step instructions on how to buy Machu Picchu tickets online, check our how-to guide here. This is the best option as Covid-19 regulations have severely limited all offices in Peru.

Buying in-person: Cusco

In Cusco, tickets can be bought at the Ministerio de Cultura which is open Mon-Sat, 7AM-8PM. The address is Casa Garcilaso on Calle Garcilaso, which is just before the Plaza Regocijo, near the Museo de Chocolate (see photo below – look for the unit with the glass doors). Bring your passport and a credit card or cash to pick up.

Buying in-person: Aguas Calientes

In Aguas Calientes, tickets can be bought at the Machu Picchu Cultural Centre (Direccion Regional de Cultura Aguas Calientes Office). The address is Av. Pachacutec (just off the main square), and hours are Mon-Sun, 5AM-10PM. Bring your passport and cash to purchase (note: the latest information says only cash is accepted here). The ATMs in Aguas Calientes charge higher fees, so try to withdraw extra cash beforehand if able.

Buying tickets through a third-party seller

You can purchase Machu Picchu entry tickets from a third-party seller, but these will be marked up. While purchasing tickets yourself is the cheapest approach, a hassle-free (albeit pricier) alternative is to buy from a reseller such as GetYourGuide. This provides instant confirmation and tickets and is much more user friendly if you are encountering troubles on the government site. You can also consider an affordable guided tour from Aguas Calientes, which includes your bus and entrance ticket.

How to hire a tour guide at Machu Picchu

The abundant, crumbled ruins of Machu Picchu make much more sense with a knowledgeable guide. What many people don't know is that a pre-booked tour is not required to acquire a guide, and you can hire one on arrival. Guides will be eagerly waiting at the entrance, and are usually wearing a beige vest and a lanyard with their name and information.

Facts to consider when hiring a guide at Machu Picchu:

  • Cost: this is entirely negotiable and will vary depending on your group size. You can expect to pay roughly 140+ soles ($40 USD) for a 2.5-hour guide for 1-2 people. It's advantageous to find other travellers and form a group, as rates are generally better when you have more people.
  • Language: Some guides speak better English than others. Have a bit of conversation with the guide before committing to assess their level of English. Ask basic questions such as how long they've been guiding, where they're from, what the tour will cover, etc. Feel free to ask them how many years they’ve worked at Machu Picchu and if they studies archeology in university. Professional, licensed guides study for three years in university.
  • Duration: Most tours are 2+ hours but confirm before committing.

PeruRail train tickets to Machu Picchu

What's the difference between the various PeruRail trains? Truthfully, not much until you fork out the hundreds of dollars on the extravagant Hiram Bingham. Pictured above is the Expedition train (the cheapest), which has windows lining the ceiling and walls, and is clean and comfortable. Having tried both, we feel it's a good value and there isn't a huge difference between it and the Vistadome.

Whichever ticket you buy, be sure to arrive 30 minutes before departure and have your passport ready. The 2022 PeruRail train schedule can be found here. Here's a quick run-through of the various trains and ticket prices. Note that prices vary depending on the time of day.

Machu Picchu train

Train types & prices

EXPEDITION

  • Layout: Has windows along roof and walls, tables, and mostly seats of 4 in a cluster (pictured above)
  • Food: This service has been discontinued during the pandemic.
  • Price: $100 USD return
  • Pros: Cheapest option, still has great window views
  • Cons: Smaller windows. This train only runs from Ollantaytambo. You can take a shuttle van or shared taxi to Ollantaytambo for about $3-$5 USD.

VISTADOME

  • Layout: More modern cars with larger windows lining roof and walls
  • Food: This service has been discontinued during the pandemic.
  • Price: $164 USD return
  • Pros: Slightly more spacious and has larger windows. Includes train or bus connection from Cusco.
  • Cons: Costs more money.

HIRAM BINGHAM

  • Layout: Spacious, lavish set-up, big windows, and live onboard entertainment
  • Food: Gourmet meals, snacks, pisco sours and non-alcoholic beverages like coffee, tea, and soda. Includes afternoon tea at Sanctuary Lodge Hotel
  • Price: $450 USD return
  • Pros: Includes Machu Picchu entry, return bus, 2.5 hour tour of site, Belmond Hiram Bingham travel bag and transportation from Cusco.
  • Cons: Most expensive option

***An IMPORTANT note on train service between Cusco and Machu Picchu***

From 1 January to 30 April every year, the Expedition and Vistadome train service between Cusco (Poroy) and Machu Picchu is temporarily stopped due to the rainy season. Instead one must find your own transportation to Ollantaytambo, if you are buying the Expedition Train. The Vistadome Train tickets include a bus from Cusco.

Where to buy train tickets

Booking online

You can buy your train tickets on the PeruRail website which is quite straightforward. Alternatively, you can buy rail tickets via GetYourGuide or Viator. You'll need to print your ticket and bring it with you for boarding. In 2021 there was a health affidavit also required by PeruRail. Be sure to read any Covid-19 details or requirements on the website.

You can also buy train tickets at any of the Peru Rail ticket offices in Peru. Take note that in order to reserve seats together, you must book in one transaction. Locations are as follows:

Lima

Lima – Centro Comercial Larcomar (Shopping Mall)
Address
: Malecón de la Reserva 610, Plaza Centro, Miraflores.
Hours: Mon – Sun 11AM-10PM

Lima – Jorge Jávez International Airport
Address
: National Flights, 2nd Floor, between Gates 13 and 14
Hours: Mon – Sun 4AM-10PM

Cusco

Cusco – Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport
Address
: Av. Velasco Astete s/n, Distrito de Wanchaq
Hours: Mon – Sun 7AM-7PM

Cusco – Plaza de Armas
Address
: Portal de Carnes 214, Plaza de Armas
Hours: 7AM-10PM

Cusco – Plaza Regocijo
Address
: Plazoleta Regocijo 202, Urb. Centro Histórico
Hours: 7AM-10PM

What to do with your luggage

You needn't bring all of your luggage on the train – in fact PeruRail has luggage restrictions of carry-on luggage only. They define carry on as “a bag or backpack with a maximum weight limit of 5.0 kg/11 lb and measuring no more than 157 cm (height + length + width)”. Those riding the Andean Explorer have no luggage restrictions.

So, what to do with your luggage? It is common that accommodation in Cusco or neighbouring cities can store your luggage in lockers whilst you visit the ruins or go on a multi-day trek. Check reviews of your accommodation on this first for positive experiences of guests safely leaving their items stored. Take note that Peru Rail customers can store luggage for free at the Ollantaytambo or Machu Picchu station (really only useful once you've arrived there). Be sure to only pack what you need – lots of layers (pack for all weather!), hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent and good shoes.

Getting to Machu Picchu From Aguas Calientes

Though far from charming, this tourist trap-laden town is as close as one can sleep to Machu Picchu without hiking any trails. Aguas Calientes is the final stop of the PeruRail line, so it is easily accessible via train from Cusco and Ollantaytambo.

To minimize rushing and to max your time at Machu Picchu, it's recommended to stay at least 1 night in Aguas Calientes (or another town – see additional suggestions below). It's advisable to book accommodation ahead in high season as hotels are quite marked up here compared to Cusco (HotelsCombined does a broad search).

To get here, first take the PeruRail train from Cusco or Santa Teresa. On arrival, wander the town and visit the Museo de Sitio Manuel Chavez Ballon to get a history of Machu Picchu before your visit. Purchase return bus tickets to Machu Picchu during day or evening to avoid lines the next morning. The next day, either board an early bus or walk up to the ruins (instructions for both of these options below).

Where to buy bus tickets for Machu Picchu

Anyone in town can point it out for you, but just over the bridge from the train station into town is a small booth with plants painted on the outside. You'll see a small sign on it that reads, “Venta Oficial de Ticket de Bus”.

The 2022 prices are $24 USD return for adults, and $12 USD return for children. Buses depart every 10 minutes starting at 5:30AM (though lines form before this for the first bus up, we recommend getting there as early as possible). The bus takes you right to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

Other overnight options for Machu Picchu

In addition to Aguas Calientes, you can stay in Ollantaytambo or Urumbumba and head to Machu Picchu the following morning by rail. These towns are both located on the PeruRail train line, closer than Cusco, but further out than Aguas Calientes.

Aguas Calientes is 1 hour 50 minutes from Ollantaytambo, and 2 hours 35 minutes from Urubumba. Note that the train from Urubamba is only for guests at Tambo del Inka, a Marriott-owned Luxury Resort.

Ollantaytambo or Urubumba?

These towns offer fairly contrasting vibes. A small town in the countryside, Urubumba caters a bit more to the upscale crowd, with higher-end hotels, fancy restaurants, and an interesting expat hippy population. Ollantaytambo is busier and has some spectacular Incan ruins (even if you don't stay here, the ruins are still worth a day trip). Ollantaytambo is also the starting point of the Classic Inca Trail, and consequently there is more choice for dining and accommodation here. This is starting to change as Urubamba becomes known as a place for people searching for Andean spas and spiritual retreats.

Ollantaytambo

Machu Picchu as a day trip from Cusco

Yep, this is possible. But is it ideal? To be frank, not really. But if a get-in and get-out itinerary is what you need, it can be done – here's how.

Basically, you have two options. The first is booking a day tour which ensures everything is covered – your transport, guide, entrance tickets, etc. Always check inclusions as this can vary between tours.

Viator (owned by TripAdvisor) has a popular and highly-rated (over 500 reviews) day tour from Cusco. It includes round-trip hotel transport, the trip to Machu Picchu across both train and bus, as well as your entrance fee. Confirmation is immediate, and you can display your Viator voucher either by print, or on your phone. Considering you don't have to worry about obtaining bus tickets, train tickets, or entrance tickets, this is a pretty attractive option.

Alternatively, you can book all of this yourself and take the first train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. The earliest train typically arrives around 10AM. Next, take the bus up to Machu Picchu and explore the ruins. Allocate enough time to take the bus down (which often has line-ups) and return to the train station 30 minutes before departure. Typically the last trains back to Cusco (or Ollantaytambo) leave around 9:50PM, check your ticket to be sure. This gives you a few hours at the site, albeit during the busiest time slot. You might save some money this way, but it requires a lot more planning and organization (especially since you only have a day), so we recommend saving yourself the pain and getting a day tour instead.

Packing for Machu Picchu

The key theme in packing for Machu Picchu is layers. The weather here is quite variant, with fog, rain, and blistering heat all being possible in a single day. Our guides on packing light guide for men and women may be of use, but here are the must-have basics:

  • Shoes: Waterproof or water resistant shoes with a sturdy gripped bottom are ideal. To be space-wise we wear running shoes for all of our hikes, but boots are fine too.
  • Pants: Wear something breathable. There are often tiny biting flies that swarm around exposed ankles, so long pants are recommended over shorts.
  • Top: Fast-drying and light is ideal since this is your base – a tank or tee is fine, plus a long-sleeved light shirt for layering.
  • Vest: This is an easy way to pack warmth without taking much space.
  • Sweater: Something that can be layered so it's functional at different temperatures (simply add more layers if you're cold as opposed to bringing one giant coat which is useless if it warms up!).
  • Jacket: Waterproof is recommended (or water resistant at least), something light that can be layered.
  • Scarf & hat: Bring both to help block the sun and/or keep you warm if needed. Don't forget sunscreen and insect repellent!

Final thrifty tips

  • BYO food & water. Most people don't think of food as a major expense here since Peru is inexpensive. In reality, it pays to to pack food from the grocery store/markets in Cusco as Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu are hugely inflated. Orion is the biggest grocery store in Cusco and is well-stocked. Remember that tap water is not potable. Bring a small filter or iodine tablets so you don’t have to buy water.
  • Packable meal ideas: Grab foods that keep well at room temp. Tuna, peanut butter, wraps, avocado, apples, nuts, and granola bars.
  • Book ahead for bargain rates. This is especially true for accommodation. Services like HotelsCombined conduct a comprehensive search, and often have free cancellation so you can “hold” a good rate in advance without firm commitment.
  • Consider the Santa Teresa route. If you have time, plan a day in Santa Teresa before or after Machu Picchu. It’s a cheap town with hot springs and coffee plantations to tour.

Too often Machu Picchu is mistaken as pricier than it has to be. While there are many expenditures involved in a visit here, it can be done for much less, especially if you DIY explore it. Hopefully this guide has helped you learn how to see Machu Picchu on the cheap, because truly it is an absolute wonder of the world!

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