Machu Picchu is the reason most people come to the valley, and it is easy to see in a day from Ollantaytambo or Urubamba. The usual plan is an early train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, a shuttle bus up the switchbacks to the gate, a walk through the ruins and a late-afternoon train back. The entry ticket is limited and timed, so it is the first thing to book, and your train and bus should be matched to your entry window. The ticket on this page covers entry to the archaeological centre only. Trains and the shuttle bus are separate purchases, and the voucher may need to be exchanged for a paper ticket, so read the booking page before you plan.
Entry now follows set circuits and hourly windows. Your ticket shows a time slot and a route, and you walk one way through the site. Arrive at the gate close to your slot, because late arrivals can be refused. Guides are widely recommended even if not always required, since the stonework and layout make much more sense with explanation. Large bags, food, tripods and drones are not allowed, and there is no re-entry, so go to the toilet before entering.
Trains run from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes in about an hour and a half, with a choice of operators and classes. Book the train after you have your entry ticket, aim to reach Aguas Calientes well before your slot and keep a buffer for the bus queue. The bus climbs for about half an hour, and the first buses leave early in the morning.
From November the rainy season begins and runs to March. Cloud often covers the citadel in the morning and clears as the day goes on, rain can be heavy, and paths are slippery. Pack a rain poncho, sun protection and layers, wear shoes with grip and allow extra time. Book as early as possible, since slots in high season fill quickly, and check the rules for your date because circuits, windows and bus operations have changed in recent years.
What to expect
The experience
An early train from Ollantaytambo, a shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes, then a timed walk along one of the set circuits through the ruins.
Best time
Take an early entry slot for fewer crowds, though clouds often lift later in the morning.
How long
A long full day, with two to three hours on the citadel itself.
Tips
Secure the entry first, match the train and bus to your slot, arrive early at the gate and carry a rain poncho.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Everyone who comes to the valley, and anyone who wants the citadel without an overnight in Aguas Calientes.
- Families
- Older children cope well with the day, but the early start and the stone steps can be tiring for little ones.
- Couples
- Stay a night in Ollantaytambo so the train is a short walk, then treat yourselves to a long dinner afterwards.
- Pair with
- A night in Ollantaytambo before and after, or Pisac and Moray on another day.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Does the ticket include the train or the bus?+
No, this ticket covers entry only. Trains and the shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes are separate purchases.
Do I need a guide at Machu Picchu?+
A guide is recommended, and rules can change, so check the current conditions for your date. A guide makes the site far easier to understand.
How early should I book?+
As early as possible, particularly in the dry months from about June to October. Entry is timed, so match your train and bus to your slot.
What is the rainy season like?+
From November to March expect cloud, showers and slippery stone, with the ruins often clearing later in the morning. Pack a poncho and shoes with grip.
Can I leave and re-enter?+
Generally no, so use the toilets outside the gate before you go in. Large bags, food, tripods and drones are not allowed.
