How Much It Cost to go to Machu Picchu?
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Whether you’re going with a trusted travel agency or piecing your adventure together independently, the total cost can vary widely depending on the route you take, the services you choose, and your personal preferences. Let’s break it all down.
Should You Book with a Tour Agency or Travel on Your Own?
That depends entirely on what kind of experience you’re after.
Booking with a travel agency takes the stress out of planning. Your tickets, transportation, guide, and even accommodations can be bundled together, offering peace of mind—especially if you’re short on time or unfamiliar with Peru.
Traveling on your own? You’ll likely spend a bit less but take on more of the logistics: buying your own train and bus tickets, securing your entrance to Machu Picchu, and possibly finding a guide once you arrive. Independent travel gives you more flexibility, but you’ll need to plan ahead.
Where Does the Money Go? Breakdown of Costs to Reach Machu Picchu
Transportation: Getting to Machu Picchu from Cusco
There’s no direct road connecting Cusco to Machu Picchu, so every route includes multiple legs. Here’s what to expect:
Minivan from Cusco to Ollantaytambo: Around 12 soles (~$3 USD). Vans leave regularly from Calle Pavitos in Cusco and take about 1 hour 45 minutes.
Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes: This is the most common and scenic route. Train prices vary:
| Train Service | Price (USD) | Price (Soles) |
|---|---|---|
| Local Train (Peruvians only) | $6 | S/. 20 |
| PeruRail Expedition | $140 | S/. 459 |
| PeruRail Vistadome | $190 | S/. 623 |
| Hiram Bingham Luxury | $950 | S/. 3115 |
| Inca Rail Economy | $140 | S/. 459 |
| Inca Rail First Class | $398 | S/. 1305 |
Most trains leave from Ollantaytambo, though the luxury Hiram Bingham departs from Cusco itself.
Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu: The 30-minute ride costs $24 round trip for foreign adults. You can also hike up, which takes about two hours—great for those who want to save money and enjoy a bit of adventure.
What About Flights?
To reach Cusco, you’ll need to fly into Lima first, then take a domestic flight. Prices vary by airline and season. Here are average round-trip prices (Lima – Cusco – Lima):
| Airline | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Star Perú | $93 |
| LATAM | $90 |
| Avianca | $121 |
| JetSMART Perú | $150 |
| Sky Airline | $152 |
Entrance Ticket Prices to Machu Picchu
You’ll need to book your entrance ticket in advance, especially during high season. Here are official rates in soles and approximate USD values:
Standard Entrance (Llacta Machu Picchu):
| Visitor Type | Foreign Price | National Price (Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | S/. 152 (~$47) | S/. 64 (~$20) |
| Student | S/. 77 (~$24) | S/. 32 (~$10) |
| Child | S/. 70 (~$22) | S/. 32 (~$10) |
Combo tickets (Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, etc.) go up to S/. 200 (~$60) for foreign visitors.
Discounted rates are available for students and kids under 18. University students must present an up-to-date student card and may need to book through a certified agency.
Total Budget Estimate for an Independent Trip
Here’s a realistic estimate for a foreign traveler planning their own trip:
| Service | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Lima–Cusco Round-Trip Flight | $125 |
| Cusco to Ollantaytambo (Minivan) | $3 |
| Train (Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes RT) | $140 |
| Bus (Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu RT) | $24 |
| Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket | $47 |
| Total | $339 |
This budget does not include food, hotels, or a tour guide—just the essentials.
What if you take the Santa Teresa route?
For budget travelers, the Santa Teresa route offers a cheaper and more adventurous option.
Cusco to Santa Teresa (Bus): ~$30
Santa Teresa to Hidroeléctrica (Van): $1.50–$3
Hike from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes: Free (2-3 hours on foot)
Accommodation in Aguas Calientes: ~$25
Bus to Machu Picchu (Optional): $24 RT or walk for free
Entrance Ticket: $47
- Total estimated cost: ~$202 USD
What About the Inca Trail?
The legendary 4-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu is a bucket-list experience—and it comes with a higher price tag. Expect to pay around $800 USD per person. That typically includes:
Professional guide and porters
Entrance to Machu Picchu
Camping equipment
Meals along the trail
Return train ticket to Cusco
It’s a fully immersive way to experience the Andes, with a deep connection to Inca history. Permits are limited and sell out months in advance.
Bus Tickets to Machu Picchu: Prices and Info
Buses leave every 10 minutes from Aguas Calientes and take you to the main entrance of Machu Picchu. Here’s what they cost round-trip:
| Passenger Type | Price (USD) | Price (Soles) |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign Adult | $24 | S/. 78 |
| Peruvian Adult | $15 | S/. 49 |
| Foreign Child (5–11) | $12 | S/. 39 |
| Peruvian Child (5–11) | $8 | S/. 26 |
You can buy your tickets online or at offices in Cusco or Aguas Calientes.
Are you ready to live one of the most incredible experiences on the planet?
Machu Picchu is not only a wonder of the world, it is a journey that transforms your soul.
Machu Picchu Tickets, makes your dream of seeing the sacred city of the Incas come true with tours carefully designed for all styles of travelers. Whether you’re looking for an epic hike along the Inca Trail, a scenic train tour or a private getaway, we have the perfect trip for you.
Normally booked 60 days in advance.
