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Visiting Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan citadel situated in the Andes mountains of Peru, is on the bucket list of many travelers. However, getting to this World Heritage Site may seem daunting, especially if you are starting your journey from Lima, Peru’s capital city. In this article, we will guide you through the various transportation options available to travel from Lima to Machu Picchu.
Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which lasts from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and dry, and there is a lower chance of experiencing heavy rainfall, which can disrupt your travel plans. The peak season for visiting Machu Picchu is from June to August, so it is recommended that you book your tickets and accommodations in advance.
Transportation Options from Lima to Machu Picchu
There are several transportation options available to travel from Lima to Machu Picchu. The most popular options are:
1. Flight
The fastest way to get from Lima to Machu Picchu is by taking a flight from Lima to Cusco, the nearest airport to Machu Picchu. Many airlines operate flights between Lima and Cusco, including LATAM, Avianca, and Peruvian Airlines. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, and once you arrive in Cusco, you can take a train or a bus to Aguas Calientes, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu.
2. Train
If you prefer a more scenic route, you can take a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. The train journey takes approximately 4 hours and offers stunning views of the Andes mountains and the surrounding landscape. There are two train companies that operate between Cusco and Aguas Calientes, PeruRail and Inca Rail. Both companies offer various classes of service, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury.
3. Bus
If you are on a budget, you can take a bus from Cusco to Hidroelectrica, which is the closest point to Machu Picchu that can be reached by road. From Hidroelectrica, you can either take a train or hike to Aguas Calientes. The bus journey takes approximately 7 hours and can be quite bumpy, but it is a more affordable option compared to a flight or a train.
How to Get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you have two options to get to Machu Picchu:
1. Hike
If you are feeling adventurous, you can hike to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes. There are two hiking trails available, the Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trail. The Inca Trail is the most popular trail and requires a permit, which should be booked in advance. The Salkantay Trail is a less crowded alternative and offers stunning views of the Andes mountains.
2. Bus
If you prefer a more comfortable option, you can take a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. The bus journey takes approximately 30 minutes and offers a scenic ride up the mountain. The bus departs every 10-15 minutes, and the tickets can be purchased on-site or in advance.
Conclusion
Traveling from Lima to Machu Picchu may seem like a challenging task, but with various transportation options available, it can be an easy and enjoyable journey. Whether you decide to take a flight, a train, or a bus, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the Andes mountains and the majestic Machu Picchu. Remember to book your tickets and accommodations in advance, especially during the peak season, to ensure a hassle-free trip.
| Frequently Asked Questions |
|---|
| What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu? |
| The best time to visit Machu Picchu is from May to October, during the dry season. |
| What is the fastest way to get from Lima to Machu Picchu? |
| The fastest way to get from Lima to Machu Picchu is by taking a flight from Lima to Cusco. |
| How long does it take to get from Cusco to Aguas Calientes by train? |
| The train journey from Cusco to Aguas Calientes takes approximately 4 hours. |
| Do I need a permit to hike to Machu Picchu? |
| Yes, if you choose to hike the Inca Trail, you will need a permit, which should be booked in advance. |
| How long does it take to hike to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes? |
| The hiking time from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu depends on the trail you choose. The Inca Trail takes 4 days, while the Salkantay Trail takes 5 days. |