Navigating through dozens of tours and deciding which way to Machu Picchu to choose can be overwhelming for travelers. There are multiple routes, hundreds of travel companies, a few train companies, and different levels of difficulty. Therefore, at Conde Travel, we want to help you choose the best alternative for you, which is why we have prepared this guide with all the train and trekking routes to Machu Picchu.
Classic train route to Machu Picchu
This is the easiest route for visiting Machu Picchu and the most commonly used option for reaching Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town). Although it is an easy route, it requires advance planning and knowing about the different types of trains.
- In Cusco, there are two train companies, PeruRail and Inca Rail, with PeruRail being the oldest.
- Both offer similar train services to Machu Picchu under different names.
- Prices for trains with the same level of comfort and services are similar.
PeruRail services
PeruRail train to Machu Picchu.
| Service | Ideal for | Main features |
|---|---|---|
| Expedition | Practical travelers looking for the most affordable fares. |
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| Vistadome / Vistadome Observatory | Travelers looking for more comfort and an additional experience during their journey. |
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| Hiram Bingham (A Belmond Train) | Travelers looking for the complete train experience. |
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If you want to travel on the Hiram Bingham train, book in advance. Due to its exclusive service, it operates less frequently than the Expedition, and availability is limited.
Inca Rail services
Inca Rail train to Machu Picchu.
| Service | Ideal for | Main features |
|---|---|---|
| The Voyager | Travelers with a tighter budget. |
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| The 360° | Travelers who want to enjoy panoramic views throughout the journey. |
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| The First Class | Travelers looking to combine a gourmet experience with culture. |
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Are you undecided about which train to choose? Write to our travel advisors and choose the perfect train for your trip.
The Most Famous Trekking Routes to Machu Picchu
If you are a traveler looking to reach Machu Picchu in an unconventional way, challenge your limits, and walk through breathtaking landscapes, here we tell you about the most popular trekking routes to Machu Picchu.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Without a doubt, the Inca Trail is the most famous and culturally significant trekking route in Peru. It is also considered one of the most beautiful trekking routes in South America.
- The cultural and historical importance of the Inca Trail lies in the fact that it forms part of the Qhapaq Ñan network of trails, built by the Inca Empire.
- This route was used to connect territories that today belong to 6 countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
- According to researchers such as Lumbreras (2004), this network also incorporated pre-existing roads from older cultures, such as the Wari. In addition, all Qhapaq Ñan routes reached Cusco at some point.
As a route with a deep historical background, it also has conditions that every traveler and company operating this route must adapt to.
- Access is limited to 500 permits per day (200 for tourists and 300 for tourism staff).
- Only people can enter this route, so pack animals and all types of vehicles are prohibited. As a result, the work of porters becomes even more important, as they carry not only travelers’ luggage but also cooking supplies and other necessities.
- The route remains closed in February, so it is essential to book well in advance.
Most popular Inca Trail routes:
- Short Inca Trail (2 days): it is the favorite choice for travelers who do not have much time but want to complete a historic route. It includes an exclusive visit to the Wiñaywayna archaeological site.
- Classic Inca Trail (4 days): the classic route, ideal for those who want to reach steep locations and immerse themselves fully in Inca culture. The route takes you to Wiñaywayna, Warmiwañusca, Llactapata, and more, culminating at the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku). An epic entrance to Machu Picchu!
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
Hiking the Salkantay Trek.
Definitely one of the most challenging and spectacular routes in the country. The Salkantay Trek takes you alongside lagoons such as Humantay and Inkachiriasqa, at the foot of the imposing Salkantay Mountain, considered a sacred Apu in the Inca worldview. Chroniclers such as Garcilaso de la Vega (1609) documented that nearby areas such as Taramoqo, Chilcapata, and Qotomarca had been inhabited since pre-Inca times. In addition, on this route, you can experience the transition from the highlands to the jungle and cross the famous cloud forest.
Most popular:
- Salkantay Trek 5 days: it includes Humantay Lake and nights camping under a starry sky, with a transition from the snow-capped mountain to the cloud forest. If you want to leave the classic route behind, at Conde Travel we have an exclusive trekking route where you will also visit the Incachiriasqa and Qoyllor lagoons.
Lares Trek to Machu Picchu
Exploring the Lares Trek.
The district of Lares (Calca) stands out for its diverse flora, including orchids, and its medicinal hot springs, perfect for starting the hike with positive energy. This is the only route where you begin the epic journey by relaxing in hot springs. Along the way, you will also visit Andean villages where local residents share their textile traditions.
Most popular Lares Trek:
- Lares Trek 4 days: As you hike through the mountains, you can spot llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, guanacos, and sheep. It is the best alternative if you are looking for less-traveled trails and local culture.
Inca Jungle Trek
Hiking the Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu.
This is the ultimate route for true adrenaline lovers. It begins at Abra Málaga with a mountain biking descent to Santa María, where you continue with rafting and one of the largest zip lines in Peru. You can also discover Peruvian cacao up close, right from its source. At Conde Travel, we are pioneers of this route and one of the oldest companies operating it, which is why we offer you several alternatives.
Most popular Inca Jungle routes:
- Inca Jungle Standard: mountain biking, rafting, ziplining, and hiking to Machu Picchu.
- Inca Jungle Trek 4 days: adds a relaxing experience in the Cocalmayo Hot Springs.
Still not sure which trek to Machu Picchu to choose? Contact our travel advisors and choose your ideal way to Machu Picchu.
