The best Machu Picchu views split between the train down and the bus up. The train from Ollantaytambo follows the Urubamba through a deepening gorge for about 1h30 — sit on the left on the way down, right coming back. The Consettur bus from Aguas Calientes climbs 400 metres on 13 switchbacks in 25 minutes, with cloud forest on both sides.
Inside the citadel, the Guardian’s House viewpoint on Circuits 1 and 2 is the classic postcard framing — citadel from above with Huayna Picchu behind. Early morning (before 9am) and late afternoon (after 3pm) give you the best light and the quietest viewpoint. The Sun Gate at 2,720 m, above the main site, is a 1-hour walk each way from the citadel and gives you the whole bowl laid out.
Peruways books train, Consettur bus and timed Machu Picchu entry together, with the circuit and the time slot matched. Visit Peruways to put the chain in order.
