How to Get From Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
Hello Traveler!
This is Jhoel, your adventure guide, and in this blog I will provide you with clear and updated information on how to get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, ensuring you are well prepared for your visit.
To get from Aguas Calientes, also known by the name of Machu Picchu Pueblo, to the entrance to Machu Picchu, there are two options: by bus or walking. Many visitors choose to start their trip early to enjoy the sunrise at Machu Picchu.
Aguas Calientes Town
The town of Aguas Calientes, because of its proximity to the Wonder of the World, is also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. To reach the entrance gate to the complex, you have the option of taking a bus or walking. Many visitors choose to leave early to witness the sunrise at Machu Picchu.
What is the town of Aguas Calientes?
The town of Aguas Calientes is a well-known settlement located at the foot of the mountain where the Incas built Machu Picchu. It is also referred to as Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Aguas Calientes belongs to the district of Machu Picchu in the province of Urubamba, Cusco, Peru.
As of 2026, it continues to serve as the primary gateway to the archaeological sanctuary. Its main attractions include:
Aguas Calientes hot springs
Mandor Waterfalls
Putucusi Mountain
The local handicrafts market
Scenic river walks and viewpoints
From this town, buses depart directly to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
What is the distance between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu?
The distance between Aguas Calientes and the entrance of Machu Picchu remains 9 kilometers by land via the Hiram Bingham road.
How to get to Aguas Calientes?
Currently, there are two alternatives to get to Aguas Calientes:
By train, departing from Ollantaytambo or from stations in Cusco (San Pedro or Poroy). This remains the most efficient and comfortable option in 2026.
By bus and then by train (or walking) through the Hydroelectric (Hidroeléctrica) route. From Hidroeléctrica, travelers may take:
A short train ride to Aguas Calientes, or
A 10 km walk along the railway tracks to reach Machu Picchu Pueblo.
This second route is often chosen by travelers seeking a more economical or adventurous journey.
How do I get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?
To reach Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes, there are two routes along the Hiram Bingham Trail:
By bus, with an approximate travel time of 25–30 minutes.
By hiking, with an average duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on physical condition and weather.
Both routes are fully operational and regulated in 2026.
Routes to get to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes
The easiest and most convenient way to reach the entrance of Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes is by bus, especially if:
You have an early entry schedule
You prefer to save energy for exploring the archaeological site
You are traveling with children, seniors, or anyone with reduced mobility
Bus
How long is the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?
In 2026, bus travel from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu typically takes 25–30 minutes, depending on road conditions and the flow of visitors.
Where to get a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?
The bus station remains located on Hermanos Ayar Avenue, only a few meters from the train station. All official Consettur buses depart from this point in continuous intervals throughout the day.
Walk
How far is the walk from the bus to Machu Picchu?
The distance between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu is 9 kilometers along the Hiram Bingham road.
However, the pedestrian trail uses stone staircases that ascend the mountain directly, making the walking route shorter but significantly more challenging.
How long does it take to walk up to Machu Picchu?
On average, visitors take 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours to hike up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The trail is steep, humid, and can be slippery—proper footwear and hydration are essential.
What is the cheapest way to get to Machu Picchu?
Walking continues to be the cheapest option in 2026. Many travelers choose this alternative to enjoy the natural surroundings, the sunrise, and the rewarding feeling of arriving at the citadel by their own effort.
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