If you have booked or are planning a trip to Machu Picchu, these are two of the most popular ways to get there. These 2 options both have advantages, and this page should help you to decide which one is better for you.
By train: The journey by train is about 1 hour and 45 minutes. The train goes to Aguas Calientes, a town next to Machu Picchu. Once the passenger arrives in the town they will have to go to the bus station which is close to where the train arrives. There will then be a 15 minute bus trip to Machu Picchu. The train follows the path of the Vilcanota River, and the views are at once stunning and soothing. There are service classes available for all tastes and budgets. One of the captivating things about this route is that passengers can watch the Andean scenery of fields and mountains gradually giving way to the exuberant rainforest where the Inca Citadel is found, perched atop a mountain.
On foot: This can be done in stretches of 4, 3, or 2 days on the Inca Trail. The route is genuinely spectacular, but should only be considered by those in good physical condition. In addition, the trail can be dangerous during the rainy season between January and March. A maximum of 500 tickets per day are available for the Inca Trail. Since it is common for there to be no more available tickets for some days, it is always a good idea to look in advance. See our Inca Trail Availability Chart.
The first way is of course faster and easier, and it does not require the passenger to be in good physical condition. The second way takes longer and requires that the passenger be in relatively good physical condition. Many people choose the Inca Trail since it is a unique experience and they can see other ruins along the way. Both options offer great views, and the traveller should decide which way to go based on their own preference.
