Few routes in the world compare to Cusco to Machu Picchu. The combination of Inca-era history, Andean scenery and functioning rail infrastructure makes it one of the planet’s most reliable adventure trips. Here’s how to plan it.
1. Start in Cusco: the Inca capital
Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire and the first stop on any Machu Picchu trip. Walk the Plaza de Armas, see Sacsayhuamán on the ridge above town, visit Qorikancha (the sun temple the Spanish built over). The city rewards two days.
Cusco sits at 3,399 metres (11,152 feet) — high enough that most travellers feel it on day one. Spend the first 48 hours slow, drinking water. Day trips into the Sacred Valley at 2,800 metres help the acclimatisation.
2. Pick your route
Three ways to Machu Picchu, each with its own payoff:
The classic Inca Trail
4 days, 500 trekkers per day permit cap, 2-3 months lead time. Camping, mountain passes, lesser Inca sites en route, finish at the Sun Gate at dawn.
Train through the Sacred Valley
Most travellers’ choice. PeruRail or Inca Rail from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, down the Urubamba gorge to Aguas Calientes. 1h40-3h20 depending on departure point. Comfortable, scenic, no camping.
Alternative treks
Salkantay (5 days, Humantay Lake, no permit cap) or the Lares route (3 days, less-walked, Quechua villages). Both end at Machu Picchu via the same final train leg.
3. Plan the visit itself
Entry is time-slotted and limited — around 4,500 tickets a day across six circuits. In dry season (May-September), book 2-3 months ahead.
For a better visit:
Enter at 06:00 for sunrise, or 14:00 for the quieter afternoon.
Add Huayna Picchu (steep, 200 permits/day) or Machu Picchu Mountain (longer, 400/day) if you want a hike.
Hire a licensed guide — the Pachacuti-era context is dense and worth hearing on-site.
4. When to go
Dry season (May-September) is clearer skies and busier trails. Wet season (November-March) is greener and quieter, though February closes the Inca Trail for maintenance. April and October are the shoulder sweet spots.
Pack layers. Andean weather shifts fast at any season.
5. Book with people who know the chain
Permits, trains, entry slots, bus tickets, guides — chaining five vendors together is the main reason trips go wrong. Local specialists do it for a living.
Ready to plan the Cusco-to-Machu-Picchu trip? Visit https://peruways.com to book trains, permits, hotels and guided tours in one chain.
The Andes do the rest.
