Cusco to Machu Picchu on your own: A step-by-step guide
Many travelers dream of visiting Machu Picchu but are unsure whether to go with a tour or organize the trip on their own. Planning it independently may seem complicated at first. In this guide, you’ll learn how to travel from Cusco to Machu Picchu step by step, how much it really costs, and what you need to book to do it without a tour agency.
🏔️ What Does Traveling from Cusco to Machu Picchu on Your Own Mean?
Visiting Machu Picchu on your own means organizing the entire trip without booking a tour package.
This involves booking separately:
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Train to Aguas Calientes
- Bus to the citadel
- Hotel (if you decide to stay overnight)
The advantage is that you can save money and have more flexibility in your itinerary.
🗺️ How to Get from Cusco to Machu Picchu Step by Step
1️⃣ Travel from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
Most trains to Machu Picchu depart from Ollantaytambo.
Transport options include:
- Shared van or minivan
- Private taxi
Approximate travel time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Average price: $10 – $25
2️⃣ Take the Train to Aguas Calientes
From Ollantaytambo you must take the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
Main train companies:
- 🚆 PeruRail
- 🚆 Inca Rail
- Travel time: 1 hour 40 minutes – 2 hours
- Average price: $70 – $160 per trip
3️⃣ Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you need to take the bus up to the entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel.
Travel time:
- 25 minutes
Approximate price:
- $12 one way
- $24 round trip
You can also hike up to Machu Picchu, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
4️⃣ Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket
You must purchase your Machu Picchu entrance ticket in advance, as visitor numbers are limited.
Approximate price for foreign visitors:
- 🎟️ $45 – $80
There are also different visiting circuits inside the archaeological site.
💵 Cost of the Trip to Machu Picchu
If you travel on your own, these are the main expenses
| Service | Approximate Price |
|---|---|
| Transportation Cusco – Ollantaytambo | $15 – $25 |
| Round-trip train | $140 – $300 |
| Machu Picchu bus | $24 |
| Machu Picchu entrance | $45 – $80 |
| Optional guide | $20 – $35 |
📋 Requirements to Visit Machu Picchu
To enter Machu Picchu you need:
- A valid passport
- A pre-purchased entrance ticket
- To arrive within your assigned entry time
- To follow the official circuit route
Recommendation:
- Buy tickets 1 to 2 months in advance during high season.
🎒 Expert Tips for Travelers
1️⃣ Book everything in advance
Train tickets and Machu Picchu entrances sell out quickly.
Reserve 2–4 weeks ahead of time.
2️⃣ Leave Cusco early
If you plan to visit Machu Picchu in one day, take transportation between:
4:00 AM – 6:00 AM
3️⃣ Prepare for altitude sickness
Cusco is located at 3,399 meters (11,152 ft) above sea level.
Tips:
- Rest on your first day
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid alcohol
- Drink coca tea
4️⃣ Bring the right equipment
Recommended items:
- Trekking shoes
- Waterproof jacket
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Water bottle
☀️ Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu
- April to October: dry season (best weather)
- November to March: rainy season
The ideal months to visit are:
- May, June, September, and October
Traveling from Cusco to Machu Picchu on your own is completely possible and can be more affordable than booking a tour. You just need to organize your transportation, train, bus, and entrance tickets in advance. If you want more freedom and lower costs, this is an excellent way to visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
