Getting AroundCusco
Cusco to Machu Picchu in 2026: Train or Bus
Most Machu Picchu trains start at Ollantaytambo or Pachar, so from Cusco it is bus plus train. Some PeruRail trains leave from Cusco. Times and luggage limits.
Cusco
The base for Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, at about 3,400 metres. Plan the first day around the altitude.
For a first visit, stay near the Plaza de Armas. PeruRail says its San Pedro station is a 10 minute walk from the square, and Wanchaq is 15 minutes on foot. San Blas is four blocks uphill from it. Walking uphill with a bag is harder in the first days. Book the train and the Machu Picchu ticket before the hotel, since the ticket names the station.
Inca Rail says Cusco has no train station for Machu Picchu, so its trips start with a bus to Ollantaytambo. PeruRail sells a bus and train trip from Wanchaq that takes about 4 hours, and the first leaves at 03:20. From Ollantaytambo the train takes about 1 h 30. PeruRail allows one backpack up to 8 kg or one carry-on up to 12 kg. From Aguas Calientes, the Consettur bus takes 25 to 30 minutes to the gate.
On the first day, PromPerú says to rest, walk slowly and drink water. CDC says to skip alcohol and heavy exercise for at least 48 hours. CDC also says travelers to places like Cusco can sleep one or two nights lower first. The Sacred Valley is the usual choice, and PeruRail's taxi estimate is 1 h 20 to Urubamba. If symptoms get worse while you rest, CDC says to go to a lower elevation.
Getting Around
