There are many ways to reach Machu Picchu, but taking the train didn’t seem worth the cost, so I chose the most budget-friendly option—and honestly, it turned out great.
A few things to note upfront:
– This route is best suited for those with time on their hands. If possible, book your tickets in advance; otherwise, scrambling for them on the first day can be stressful.
– A bit of hiking experience helps. While the trail is manageable, there’s some elevation involved.
Since I’d just come from Bolivia, I didn’t experience altitude sickness this time around.
– Don’t ask why I didn’t take the train—adults can do what they want. Make your own choices; no one’s stopping you.
I booked through a travel agency the day before for 60 soles round-trip.
**Day 1: Cusco to Aguas Calientes (Hot Springs Town)**
– We were supposed to meet at 6:10 AM in Plaza de Armas, but the bus didn’t leave until around 6:30.
– We arrived at about 1 PM. There are dining options near the drop-off point, and prices are reasonable—a burger combo for 60 soles.
– From there, it’s roughly a 10-kilometer walk to Aguas Calientes.
The path is well-marked, following the railway tracks and a river. The scenery along the way is lovely.
⚠️ **Important Tip:** Start by walking alongside the railway. After passing the power plant station, look for a sign pointing uphill. Once you climb up, you’ll reconnect with the railway and continue from there.
– After passing the first tunnel, you’ll reach a road where you can descend directly. Soon after, you’ll arrive at a park—a perfect spot to relax.
If you have your tickets in hand, this day is quite easygoing. It’s simply a leisurely 10-kilometer stroll on flat terrain to the town, which sits by the river. The evening atmosphere in Aguas Calientes is lively and comfortable.
**Day 2: Up to and Down from Machu Picchu**
**Ascending Machu Picchu:**
– My entry ticket was for 7 AM, so I began my hike at 6 AM from the town. Signs indicate it’s a 3-kilometer journey, but it’s actually flat ground all the way to the checkpoint at the base of the mountain. They’ll check your passport and ticket here—you can only enter within the hour of your reservation.
– After crossing a bridge, the real climbing begins. Without breakfast, it took me about 40 minutes to ascend. The last third of the climb was particularly tiring.
– Resting and refueling, I entered the site at 7:30 AM.
⚠️ **Note:** This section can be physically demanding. For an easier option, you can take a shuttle bus for $12.
**Descending Machu Picchu:**
– I exited the site at 11:40 AM.
– The descent back down consists of staircases, reaching the footbridge at around 12:10 PM.
**Heading to the Bus Station:**
– ⚠️⚠️ **Key Tip:** Don’t go into town. Directly after crossing the bridge, follow the small path to the left that leads to the railway. Walking along the tracks will save you a lot of extra distance. Even if you opt for the shuttle bus, you can disembark here to avoid retracing your steps into town later.
– I reached the station by 1:40 PM. Someone will ask if you’re heading back to Cusco and check for your name on the passenger list.
– You can grab lunch at the hydroelectric station before boarding the bus.
There are plenty of opportunities to rest and refuel along the way. Overall, the trek isn’t too strenuous except for the ascent, where the shuttle bus is a convenient alternative for $12. The descent and walk back to the bus station are relatively effortless.
