Scenic Routes to Aguas Calientes from Cusco: Your Journey to Machu Picchu Begins

Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, serves as a captivating gateway to the breathtaking lost city of Machu Picchu. But the journey itself is half the adventure. Reaching Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, offers a variety of scenic routes, each with its own unique charm and challenges. This guide explores the most popular options, helping you choose the route that best suits your travel style and preferences.

What's the Best Way to Get to Aguas Calientes from Cusco?

This is a question many travelers ask, and the answer depends on your priorities. Do you prioritize speed, stunning views, or a more adventurous experience? Let's explore the main options:

1. Train Journey: The Classic and Comfortable Choice

The train journey from Cusco to Aguas Calientes is undoubtedly the most comfortable and popular option. Several train companies offer scenic routes along the Urubamba River Valley, offering breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains and lush landscapes.

• PeruRail: Offers various train services, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious VIP experiences. These trains often include onboard entertainment and refreshments.
• Belmond Hiram Bingham: This is the ultimate luxury experience, offering a truly opulent journey with gourmet meals and impeccable service.

Pros: Comfortable, scenic, convenient. Cons: More expensive than other options.

2. Bus Journey via the Sacred Valley: The Budget-Friendly Adventure

A bus journey from Cusco to Aguas Calientes via the Sacred Valley offers a more budget-friendly alternative, allowing you to explore some of Peru's most captivating archaeological sites along the way. This option is usually a combination of bus travel and a train journey. You'll first take a bus through the Sacred Valley, visiting towns like Ollantaytambo before catching a train to Aguas Calientes.

Pros: Affordable, opportunity to explore the Sacred Valley. Cons: Longer travel time, can be less comfortable than the train.

3. Hiking the Inca Trail (Multi-Day Trek): The Ultimate Challenge

For the adventurous traveler, hiking the Inca Trail is an unforgettable experience. This iconic trek takes you through stunning mountain passes, ancient Inca ruins, and cloud forests, culminating in a triumphant arrival at Machu Picchu. However, this trek requires permits booked well in advance (often months or even a year ahead), and good physical fitness is essential.

Pros: Unparalleled scenic beauty, a truly immersive experience. Cons: Requires significant physical fitness, permits are required and must be booked far in advance, a multi-day commitment.

4. Salkantay Trek (Multi-Day Trek): An Alternative Adventure

The Salkantay Trek presents another challenging but rewarding alternative to the Inca Trail. This trek takes you through diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, lush cloud forests, and vibrant valleys, offering equally spectacular views. Similar to the Inca Trail, permits are required.

Pros: Stunning and diverse landscapes, less crowded than the Inca Trail (generally). Cons: Requires significant physical fitness, permits are required and must be booked far in advance, a multi-day commitment.

How Long Does it Take to Get to Aguas Calientes from Cusco?

The travel time varies significantly depending on the chosen route:

• Train: 4-5 hours (depending on the train service).
• Bus and Train: 6-8 hours (depending on the number of Sacred Valley stops).
• Inca Trail/Salkantay Trek: 4-5 days (excluding travel to/from the trailheads).

What Are the Best Views Along the Way?

The train journey along the Urubamba River Valley offers consistently stunning panoramic views. The Sacred Valley route also boasts incredible views of ancient Inca sites and terraced landscapes. The Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek provide arguably the most breathtaking views, showcasing the dramatic beauty of the Andes Mountains and diverse ecosystems.

What is the Cheapest Way to Get to Aguas Calientes from Cusco?

The cheapest option is generally the bus journey via the Sacred Valley combined with a more budget-friendly train service. However, this option involves a longer travel time and might not be as comfortable.

By carefully considering your priorities—budget, time, and preferred level of adventure—you can choose the perfect scenic route to Aguas Calientes, ensuring your journey to Machu Picchu is as unforgettable as the destination itself. Remember to book your train tickets or trek permits well in advance, especially during peak season.