how to travel to machu picchu from lima

Machu Picchu From LimaSource: bing.com

Machu Picchu is a world-famous destination located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It is an Incan citadel that was built in the 15th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many travelers would love to visit Machu Picchu, but they may not know how to travel there from Lima, the capital city of Peru. Fortunately, there are several transportation options available.

Flights from Lima to Cusco

Flights From Lima To CuscoSource: bing.com

The first step to reaching Machu Picchu is to fly from Lima to Cusco. Cusco is the nearest city to Machu Picchu and is the gateway to the Machu Picchu region. There are several airlines that offer flights from Lima to Cusco such as LATAM Airlines, Avianca, and Peruvian Airlines. The flight time is around 1 hour and 20 minutes. It is recommended to book the flights in advance to get the best deals.

Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu

Train From Cusco To Machu PicchuSource: bing.com

After arriving in Cusco, travelers can take a train to Machu Picchu. The train is operated by Peru Rail and Inca Rail. There are several train options available such as Expedition, Vistadome, and Hiram Bingham. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, and the train ride offers stunning views of the Andes Mountains and the Urubamba River. It is recommended to book the train tickets in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.

Trekking to Machu Picchu

Trekking To Machu PicchuSource: bing.com

Travelers who love adventure and hiking can trek to Machu Picchu. There are several trekking routes available such as the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, and Lares Trek. The Inca Trail is the most famous trekking route that takes around 4 days to reach Machu Picchu. The trek offers stunning views of the Andes Mountains and the Incan ruins. It is recommended to book the trekking tour in advance and hire a licensed guide.

Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

Bus From Aguas Calientes To Machu PicchuSource: bing.com

After reaching Aguas Calientes, travelers can take a bus to Machu Picchu. Aguas Calientes is a small town located at the base of Machu Picchu. The bus ride takes around 30 minutes to reach Machu Picchu. The buses are operated by Consettur and run every 15 minutes from Aguas Calientes. It is recommended to book the bus tickets in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.

Conclusion

Traveling to Machu Picchu from Lima requires some planning and preparation. The journey involves taking a flight from Lima to Cusco, then a train to Aguas Calientes, and finally a bus to Machu Picchu. Alternatively, travelers can trek to Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail or other trekking routes. Regardless of the mode of transportation, visiting Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should not be missed.

Question Answer
What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu? The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which is from May to October. The weather is mild, and there is less rainfall during this time.
What is the altitude of Machu Picchu? The altitude of Machu Picchu is around 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level. It is recommended to acclimatize to the altitude before visiting Machu Picchu.
Do I need a guide to visit Machu Picchu? No, a guide is not required to visit Machu Picchu. However, hiring a guide can enhance the experience and provide valuable insights into the Incan history and culture.
Is Machu Picchu accessible for people with disabilities? Unfortunately, Machu Picchu is not accessible for people with disabilities. The site has steep stairs and uneven terrain, which makes it difficult for wheelchair users and people with mobility issues.
Can I stay overnight in Machu Picchu? No, overnight stays are not allowed in Machu Picchu. However, travelers can stay in Aguas Calientes, which is a small town located at the base of Machu Picchu.