If you are in Lima and are planning to visit the famous Machu Picchu, you may be wondering: how far away is it? The answer is not as simple as a you may think, since Machu Picchu is located in the mountains and there is no direct road from Lima. You will have to combine different modes of transportation, such as plane, train, and bus. But don’t worry: in this guide, I will explain everything in very simple terms so that you can plan your trip like a pro.
Best Way to Go from Lima to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is located about 1,165 kilometers (724 miles) from Lima in a straight line. However, it cannot be reached directly by car, as Machu Picchu is in the Andes mountain range. This means that the “actual” distance of the trip depends on the route taken.
There’s No Direct Road to Machu Picchu
Many people believe that they can travel by bus or car from Lima to Machu Picchu. However, this is not possible, as there are no roads leading directly to the citadel of Machu Picchu. The only way to reach Machu Picchu from Lima is to first travel to Cusco or Ollantaytambo and, from there, take a train.
Main Ways to Travel from Lima to Machu Picchu
Option 1 – Plane + Train (Fastest)
- Fly from Lima to Cusco: This takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Travel from Cusco to Ollantaytambo by bus or car: approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Travel by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes: approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Travel by bus to Machu Picchu: approximately 25 minutes.
Total travel time: between 5 and 6 hours (not including waiting times).
Option 2 – Bus + Train (Cheaper but Longer)
- From Cusco, go to Ollantaytambo: approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Take the train to Aguas Calientes: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Take the bus to Machu Picchu: approximately 25 minutes.
Total travel time: between 24 and 26 hours.
Option 3 – Adventure hiking
If you enjoy hiking, you can take a plane or bus to Cusco and then join the Inca Trail or other trekto Machu Picchu. This takes 2 to 4 days, but you will enjoy incredible views and ancient Inca ruins along the way.
The best way to get from Lima to Machu Picchu
The fastest and most comfortable way is to fly from Lima to Cusco and then take the train to Machu Picchu from Cusco.
The cheapest way is to take the bus to Cusco and then take the train to Machu Picchu.
The most adventurous way is to hike the Inca Trail after arriving in Cusco.
How Much Does It Cost to Get from Lima to Machu Picchu?
Flight from Lima to Cusco: $50–$120 (one way).
Bus from Lima to Cusco: $30–$60.
Car/van from Cusco to Ollantaytambo: between $5 and $40, depending on whether it is shared or private transportation.
Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes: between $50 and $150, depending on the class.
Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu: $12 (one way).
The best time to travel from Lima to Machu Picchu
Dry season (May-September): the best weather, but also the busiest.
Rainy season (November-March): fewer tourists, but muddy roads and possible delays.
Intermediate months (April, October): a good balance between weather and tourist numbers.
Tips to make your trip easier
- Acclimatize in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before visiting Machu Picchu to avoid altitude sickness.
- Book tickets in advance: flights, trains, and entrance tickets sell out quickly.
- Travel light: trains have luggage limits.
- Spend a night in Aguas Calientes to visit Machu Picchu first thing in the morning.
Conclusion: How to Get to Machu Picchu from Lima
Getting to Machu Picchu from Lima is not a quick or direct journey, this is part of what makes it so special. The journey will take you through the diverse landscapes of Peru, from the Pacific coast to the high Andes and the lush cloud forest.
The fastest way is to fly from Lima to Cusco, travel by bus to Ollantaytambo from Cusco, then take the train to Aguas Calientes and a 25 minute bus ride to Machu Picchu. This can be done in a single long day, but most travelers prefer to take two or more days to enjoy each stop.
If you have more time and want to enjoy the Peruvian landscape at a more leisurely pace, you can take a bus from Lima to Cusco before continuing on to Machu Picchu. For the more adventurous, the Short Inca Trail offers a unique hiking experience that culminates in a spectacular first view of the citadel at thr Sun Gate.
Regardless of the route you choose, it is essential to plan ahead: flights, trains, and tickets to Machu Picchu can sell out months in advance. The distance between Lima and Machu Picchu may seem long, but the memories you will create along the way will be as unforgettable as the destination itself.
