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For many travelers, visiting Machu Picchu is the ultimate highlight of their Peru adventure. But the magic doesn’t start when you step onto the ancient ruins—it begins long before you arrive. The journey itself is part of the experience, and the bus ride from Aguas Calientes offers a stunning sneak peek of what’s to come.
Planning it right is key to making the most of your trip. From the lush green mountains to the winding roads leading to the Inca citadel, every moment builds the excitement. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about this scenic route so you can relax, soak it all in, and enjoy the ride to one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Let’s get started!
Securing Your Bus to Machu Picchu Tickets
Here’s a heads-up for your Machu Picchu trip: after the scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the final stretch to the citadel is an adventurous bus ride up a winding mountain road. It’s an experience in itself, with jaw-dropping views to get you even more excited about what’s ahead.
To keep things stress-free, make sure to grab your bus tickets ahead of time from Consettur, the only authorized provider for this route. During peak season, those buses fill up fast, and you don’t want to miss your spot! Booking in advance means you can sit back, relax, and focus on soaking up the amazing journey to one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.
How to get your bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
Online Ticket Purchase
The convenience of the digital age has made securing your bus tickets a breeze. There is only one place to get the tickets. Visit Consettur’s official website and follow these simple steps:
- Navigate to the dedicated ticket purchase section.
- Select your desired travel dates and the number of passengers.
- Provide the necessary passenger information, including passport details.
- Complete the transaction, and your e-tickets will be delivered straight to your inbox.
In-Person Ticket Purchase
If you prefer a more traditional approach, you can purchase your bus tickets in person at one of Consettur’s offices in Aguas Calientes or Cusco. This is risky and you can expect sometimes long lines. Here are the locations and operating hours:
Aguas Calientes Office:
- Address: Av. Hermanos Ayar S/N, before the Puente Ruinas
- Open: Monday to Sunday, 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Cusco Offices:
- Av. El Sol 380 – Banco Interbank (Historic Center)
- Open: 8:00 AM to 12:45 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Av. Infancia 433 – Wanchaq District
- Open: 8:00 AM to 12:45 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Remember to carry your passport and have the necessary funds in US dollars or Peruvian soles to complete the transaction.
Bus Ticket Prices from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
The cost of your bus journey to Machu Picchu varies based on several factors, including nationality, age, and whether you opt for a one-way or round-trip ticket. To help you plan your budget, here’s a breakdown of the current prices:
Category One-Way Price (Approximate) Round-Trip Price (Approximate) Adult (Foreign) $12 $24 Child (Foreign, 5-11 years) $7 $12 Adult (Peruvian) $8 $15 Student (Peruvian, 12-17 years) $6 $10 Child (Peruvian, 5-11 years) $5 $8 Guide (Peruvian) S/6 S/12 Machu Picchu Residents S/4 S/8 Cusco Residents S/9.50 S/19 Guide Residents S/4 S/8 Please note that these prices are subject to change, and it’s advisable to confirm the latest rates before making your purchase.
Bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu
To avoid all this planning you can also do this and everything will be take care for you
Bus Schedules and Boarding
With your tickets secured, it’s time to prepare for the actual bus ride. Here’s what you need to know about the schedules and boarding process:
Bus Schedules
The buses operate daily, ensuring a seamless flow of visitors to Machu Picchu. The first bus departs from Aguas Calientes around 5:30 AM, while the last bus typically runs in the late afternoon, depending on the season and visitor demand.
To accommodate the influx of travelers, buses depart for Machu Picchu every 10 minutes, ensuring a consistent and efficient transportation system.
Boarding the Bus
Boarding the bus is a straightforward process, thanks to the well-organized system in place. Here’s what you need to know:
- Location: The bus stop is conveniently located in the heart of Aguas Calientes, adjacent to the train tracks and well-signposted for easy identification.
- Address: Av. Hermanos Ayar S/N, before the Puente Ruinas.
To ensure a smooth boarding process, it’s recommended to line up for the bus at least one hour before your scheduled entry time to Machu Picchu. This will give you ample time to find your designated line, which is typically marked with placards indicating the corresponding entry times.
Embracing the Journey: The Bus Ride Experience
As the bus leaves Aguas Calientes, get ready for some jaw-dropping views along the way! The 25- to 30-minute ride winds through lush green landscapes, giving you glimpses of the powerful Urubamba River and towering Andean peaks that surround Machu Picchu.
Though the road is winding with a few sharp turns, you’re in good hands with Consettur’s experienced drivers, who know the route well. They’ve also added safety measures like speedometers visible to passengers and strict speed limits, making for a smooth, comfortable ride up to the iconic Inca citadel.
Exploring Alternative Routes: Hiking to Machu Picchu
If you’re up for a more immersive adventure, hiking from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is a fantastic alternative to the bus. The hike up takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level, following a well-marked trail along the Urubamba River.
For the best experience, start your hike early in the morning, ideally between 5:00 and 6:00 am, so you can avoid the midday heat and catch the sunrise light as you approach the ruins. Many people find the descent easier, so hiking down from Machu Picchu is also a great option for enjoying the breathtaking views at your own pace. Just remember, hiking is the only alternative to the bus, as private vehicles and taxis aren’t allowed on the road to Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Circuit 2 + Bus to Entrance Combo
Enhancing Your Experience: Hiring a Tour Guide
To get the most out of your visit to Machu Picchu, consider hiring a local tour guide—they’re incredible at bringing the history and mysteries of the Inca civilization to life. Plus, they’ll make your experience smoother and way more interesting!
You can easily find guides outside the bus ticket office in Aguas Calientes or even while waiting in line to board. If you prefer, you can also arrange for a guide at the entrance to Machu Picchu itself. Their stories and insights add so much depth to your visit, making it well worth it!
Preparing for the trip: Tips and Recommendations
To ensure a truly memorable and hassle-free experience, consider the following tips and recommendations:
- Stay in Aguas Calientes: Spending a night or two in Aguas Calientes before your Machu Picchu visit can help you acclimate to the high altitude and avoid rushing to catch the bus on the day of your scheduled entry.
- Pack essentials: Bring your passport, bus ticket, and Machu Picchu entry ticket to avoid any delays or complications during the boarding process.
- Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing to accommodate the varying temperatures and weather conditions along the route.
- Stay hydrated: Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated throughout the journey, as the high altitude can cause dehydration and altitude sickness.
- Respect the environment: Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s crucial to respect the natural surroundings by following the designated paths and properly disposing of any waste.
- Plan ahead: If you’re visiting during peak seasons, book your bus tickets and accommodations well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
To address some common concerns and queries, here are a few frequently asked questions about the bus ride to Machu Picchu:
Can I buy return bus tickets at the gate of Machu Picchu?
Yes, it’s possible to purchase return bus tickets at the Machu Picchu entrance, but it’s advisable to book them in advance to avoid long queues and potential unavailability.
Can I walk down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes?
Absolutely! Many visitors choose to hike down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, savoring the scenic beauty at their own pace. However, it’s important to consider your physical fitness and the weather conditions before embarking on this downhill trek.
Are there taxis from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?
No, there are no taxi services available from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. The bus operated by Consettur is the sole authorized mode of transportation for this route, as private vehicles are not permitted on the road leading to the Inca citadel.
Embracing the bus ride to Machu Picchu
The bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is more than just a means of transportation; it’s a captivating prelude to one of the world’s most iconic archaeological wonders. By following the tips and recommendations outlined in this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on a seamless and unforgettable journey, savoring every moment of the scenic route and creating lasting memories that will forever be etched in your heart.
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