Consettur runs the shuttle buses from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance. It’s a 25-minute ride up a switchback road built in 1948, and it’s the only vehicle service between the river and the ruins.
The buses are modern and air-conditioned, leaving every few minutes from 5:30am. The road climbs about 400 metres, passing cloud forest and the Vilcanota gorge below.
Buses run through the day until mid-afternoon, so you can time your climb for sunrise, mid-morning, or an afternoon slot. The 5:30am first departure is the one to aim for if you want to be at the Watchman’s Hut before the crowds.
Peruways bundles the Consettur ticket with your train, citadel entry, and a guide, so you don’t queue twice in Aguas Calientes. The shuttle queue in high season can be long; prebooking helps.
Book through Peruways — train, bus, ticket, guide — in one reservation.
