How to get from Lima to Machu Picchu
Let’s keep it real, there’s no place quite like Machu Picchu.
It’s often the hallmark of a trip to Peru, and still very much delivers despite the extra crowds that it receives.
Here we can get some impressive views from the mirador (including the alternative viewpoint of Huayna Picchu), learn about the ancient history here as well as enjoy the actual journey of getting here.
Lima to Machu Picchu
In this guide we’ll explore some of the most popular ways of getting from Lima to Machu Picchu. We’ll also take a look at where to stay as well as some other tips based on our time spent here.
Machu Picchu Quick Summary:
- 📍 Where is it: Southern Peru
- 🗺 Difficulty Getting There: Moderate/Easy
- ⏱ Time needed: 2+ days
- ☀️ Best Time to Visit: September/October, March/April
Where is Machu Picchu?
The ruins of Machu Picchu are located within the upper Amazon basin – a region of Peru that is nestled between the deep Amazon Jungle and the soaring Andean peaks.
Thankfully this means that the altitude isn’t as difficult to adjust to when compared to other places like Cusco. Situated up at an elevation of 2430m, it’s quite easy to walk around, and you’ll also find the weather more pleasant too.
The closest town to Machu Picchu is Aguascalientes, and it’s recommended to stay here for a night when heading from Lima. We’ll be taking a look at your different options of doing this later in this guide.
Is Machu Picchu worth visiting from Lima?
If you are really strapped for time, then heading here from Lima would be really ideal. Of course you would need to fly to Cusco to avoid the long bus ride, however there’s plenty of options to see Machu Picchu in a time-efficient manner.
Ideally what you can first do (and this comes from George’s experience living here) is to see a few smaller ruins and museums in Lima before heading to Machu Picchu.
This includes Museo Larco which is the most comprehensive Inca museum on the planet, as well as Huaca Pucllana which is an ancient site located within the trendy district of Miraflores.
By visiting these you’ll understand the Inca better, and why they lived the way they did. This means when you do finally arrive at Machu Picchu, you’ll appreciate everything much more and have a much more fulfilling experience.
How far is Machu Picchu from Lima?
The ancient ruins of Machu Picchu are situated roughly 510 km east of Lima.
Regardless if you fly or take the bus to get here, you’ll first need to head to Cusco from which the different transport methods then leave for Machu Picchu.
Usually because of the distance, we would recommend planning at least 2-3 days for this trip (and even more if wanting to see the very best highlights that Cusco and the Sacred Valley have to offer).
However it is actually possible to do everything in one day. Here you would fly early from Lima to Cusco, take a one day tour to Machu Picchu, and then fly back in the late evening.
Where to stay in Machu Picchu?
The best places to stay close to Machu Picchu are within the town of Aguascalientes, which is around 10 km away. This town also has many great things to see and do, which we have explored here.
If you want to keep costs low, then we recommend staying at the Nativus Hostel, which has some nice dorm rooms on offer. You’ll also have good WIFI and a free breakfast included in your stay.
Those who are after a slightly more comfortable stay (without spending too much) will want to head to the Amakonkay Hotel. Here you’ll be staying next to the main plaza which has many restaurants and bars nearby. You’ll also have your own sleek private room with breakfast included.
Are you after a deluxe stay near Machu Picchu? Then we highly recommend staying at Gringo Bill’s Boutique Hotel, which is at the top of town next to the forest. Here you’ll have an on-site pool to enjoy, as well as getting to stay in a spacious room within a beautifully-designed building.
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How to get from Lima to Machu Picchu
Although it looks daunting on a map, getting between these Peruvian destinations is not that hard. You’ll first want to head to Cusco from Lima, and then from here you’ll have 3 main ways of making the trip (at this time of writing).
The one you pick will depend on your budget, as well as how much time you have available.
Step One: Getting from Lima to Cusco
Regardless of which option below that you choose (unless you pay for a mega expensive all-inclusive tour from Lima), you’ll first need to get to Cusco.
The first option is the one-hour flight, which costs roughly $40 (not including baggage costs). It’s the most popular way of getting to Cusco for those short on time, and given it costs similar to the bus, is the overall best option in our opinion.
The second option is to take the 22 hour bus. I (George) have personally done this ride, and yes it’s pretty long to say the least – however it’s great for ultra-budget travelers given it costs just $20-25. Of course the main disadvantage is the fact that you’ll lose a day here.
Taking the bus is also ideal for those traveling through Peru, and can break up the trip between Lima and Cusco. We’d recommend starting in Lima, and then heading to Ica, Nazca, Arequipa and then onto Cusco.
Step Two (Option A): Hiking from Cusco to Machu Picchu Independently
This option is the best for travelers who want to keep costs as low as possible. You’ll first need to take a couple of colectivos from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, and then another to the hidroeléctrica track (about 4-5 hours in total).
From here you’ll then begin the walk along the train-track which takes a couple of hours (or you can buy the train ticket too for a memorable experience). At the end you can then either head up to Machu Picchu, or stay overnight in Aguascalientes before making your ascent.
If choosing this option, then it’s best to pre-book your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, stay overnight before in Aguascalientes and then head up on the first bus around 6:00am to enjoy the site with fewer tourists around.
Step Two (Option B): Organised Tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu
This is another really popular option, given these tours usually include a night lodging as well as all meals. They’ll also sort your Machu Picchu ticket for you, and the logistics of getting from Cusco to the start of the trailhead.
We highly recommend booking this Full Day Tour to Machu Picchu, which includes round-trip transportation. You’ll also get to ride the scenic panoramic train, allowing you to enjoy the views whilst saving time (and energy).
If you’re keen to see Machu Picchu in one day from Lima, then this is the option you will want to pick. You’d need to pre-plan a bit though, taking the earliest flight possible and then communicating with your agency to pick you up at the airport.
Step Two (Option C): The Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek
Lastly we have the most adventurous options out there. The Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek are some of the best experiences you can have in Peru, and are perfect for those who have more time available (each hike requires a minimum of 3 days realistically).
As well as more time, you’ll also need more budget and to plan these in advance. This is because they both have limited spaces on any given day, and also tend to sell out fast (you’ll want to try and book at least two months in advance if possible).
The Inca Trail offers a more cultural experience, where you’ll visit several ancient ruins along this path which was once used by the Inca. It’s the most comfortable of the two, and you’ll also get to see some amazing scenery. On this multi-day tour you’ll have all equipment, lodging and food included.
The Salkantay Trek tends to be the more demanding of the two, given you’ll be spending more time at altitudes of above 4000m. However the trade-off here is the stunning mountain scenery, where you’ll see all kinds of towering Andean peaks and glacial lakes.
You’ll want to make sure you’re in good shape before heading on this one. You can book your spot here, which includes everything you need. This trek also tends to be cheaper than the Inca Trail.
Getting from Lima to Machu Picchu
That is all for this guide on how to get from Lima to Machu Picchu.
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu easily makes most Latin American Bucket Lists. Here you will not only see incredible sceneries and learn about the Inca, you’ll also find the journey in getting here really memorable too.
In this guide we’ve explored how to get from Lima to Machu Picchu, as well as where to stay and what to do.
Still not convinced whether you should visit this legendary citadel? Be sure to read our comprehensive guide where we explore 7 of the best reasons to visit Machu Picchu.
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