Machu Picchu sits at 2,430 m, and the last stretch of the journey — from Aguas Calientes up to the gate — is only reachable by foot (an hour-and-a-half climb) or by Consettur bus. Most travellers take the bus: 30 minutes, 13 switchbacks, almost 400 vertical metres gained.
The ride itself is part of the day. You climb through cloud forest, cross the Vilcanota twice and get glimpses of the Urubamba Valley opening below. At the top, you’re a few steps from the Guardian’s House viewpoint and the start of all five visitor circuits.
Peruways sells the Consettur ticket online, which matters most in June–August when the ticket window queue in Aguas Calientes runs 45 minutes. Buying ahead lines up with the first bus at 5:30 a.m. and the first entry wave at 6.
Secure your Machu Picchu bus tickets with Peruways. Visit Peruways to book alongside your train and entrance ticket in one checkout.
