BUS TO MACHU PICCHU | Everything you need to Know in 2025

Machu Picchu, one of the most impressive wonders of the world, awaits exploration by thousands of travelers each year. If you’re planning your visit to the Inca citadel, Kantu Peru Tours provides all the information you need to make your experience get the bus to Machu Picchu. From ticket purchases to the benefits of traveling by bus, in this blog, we share everything you need to know to enjoy your adventure without worries.

Whether you choose to take the bus or hike, Kantu Peru Tours will guide you so that your visit to Machu Picchu is comfortable, safe, and filled with unforgettable moments. Join us on this journey to one of humanity’s most iconic destinations!

Machu-Picchu-Main-Plaza

Where to buy bus tickets to Machu Picchu?

Since you plan to visit Machu Picchu, it’s important to know that you can either walk up a steep 2-hour trail from Aguas Calientes, where the Machu Picchu Train drops you off, or you can opt for a 25-minute bus ride to the citadel which is the main topic of this blog. There are two ways to purchase your bus tickets. Here’s how you can do both:

1. Phisically: There are two phisical sales points. The first and most recommended is in Aguas Calientes, where the Machu Picchu Train drops you off. You can purchase tickets every day from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Hermanos Ayar S/N, nest to he second Bridge. Another option is in Cusco, at Av. Infancia 433, Wanchaq, Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

2. Online: Now you can buy your tickets of the bus to Machu Picchu through the official CONSETTUR website by filling out a form with your personal details and paying with a credit or debit card.

Aguas-Calientes-Town

Important information about the Bus to Machu Picchu

These buses are standardized, and in fact, CONSETTUR is the only bus line authorized for the Machu Picchu route. This line offers comfortable and efficient transportation, but there are important details to consider in order to maximize your visit.

1. Bus Frequency: There’s no a fixed schedule for buses as they depart every 10 minutes. You can take any bus as long as it fits within the entry time you selected (morning or afternoon shift).

2. Ticket Availability: Tickets don’t sell out, so you can purchase them in Aguas Calientes or Cusco. If you have tickets that include access to the mountains, it’s recommended to take the bus for added comfort.

3. Bus Features: The bus to Machu Picchu are eco-friendly, have air conditioning, and are the only ones authorized to travel the Hiram Bingham road, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey.

Bus-a-Machu-Picchu

Where to board the bus to Machu Picchu in Aguas Calientes?

There is only one bus stop in Aguas Calientes to board the bus to Machu Picchu, located on Hermanos Ayar Avenue, just a few meters from the train station. This is the starting point, and it’s where visitors should go to take the bus to the sanctuary.

Once you board the Bus to Machu Picchu, the buses will drop you directly at the entrance gate to the archaeological site. After your visit, you can take the bus back to Aguas Calientes from the same place, following the same proces. It’s important to note that buses also depart frequently on the return route, but during high season, long queues can form.

Bus-to-Machu-Picchu

Map of the Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Bus Route

The distance from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance gate is 9 kilometers. The buses ascend along the Hiram Bingham road, crossing the Vilcanota River, and the trip takes about 25 minutes. If you prefer to walk, the trek takes around 2 hours, ascending stairs along a more direct route.

The journey is marked by a steep incline, with many twists and turns, allowing you to observe mountains with abundant vegetation and the Vilcanota River. The bus to Machu Picchu departure and arrival point is located just a few steps from the train station, where your journey from Cusco ends. After a brief queue, tourists board the buses for the ascent. Once in Machu Picchu, the buses wait at the exit door for the descent, which also takes around 25 minutes.

Map-of-the-Bus-to-Aguas-Calientes

How long does the bus trip to Machu Picchu take?

The bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu takes about 25 minutes. The uphill journey follows a winding path that climbs the steep slopes of a mountain until reaching the top, where the majestic Inca Citadel is located.

The return journey follows the same route but is downhill and also takes 25 minutes. Some visitors prefer to take the bus uphill and walk down, allowing them to enjoy the landscape during a lighter walk. Keep in mind that walking can take around 2 hours each way, so it’s only recommended for those in good physical condition. However, walking uphill is not advised for those planning to hike the Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu mountains afterward

Huayna-Picchu-Mountain

What are the bus departure times to Machu Picchu?

Buses from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu depart approximately every 15 minutes. Once you have your ticket, you can board any bus during the available hours. You don’t need to worry about the exact time on your ticket, but it’s crucial to consider your entry time to the archaeological site.

It’s ideal to arrive at the departure point at least 40 minutes before your entry time to Machu Picchu according to the new circiuts. During high season, buses can have long queues, so it’s recommended to arrive at least 1 hour in advance to avoid any issues.

Timetable:

• Ascent to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary: From 5:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• Descent to Aguas Calientes: From 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Consettur-bus-a-Machu-Picchu

How much do bus tickets to Machu Picchu cost?

The cost of the bus to Machu Picchu varies depending on the type of ticket, nationality and season. Note that visitors who choose round-trip service have a special fare, while those who take the bus one way (either up or down) will pay a different price.

You can also choose to walk to Machu Picchu, although this option requires extra physical effort. Below is an estimate of bus ticket prices to Machu Picchu.

Benefits of Taking the Bus to Machu Picchu

Traveling to Machu Picchu by bus is a comfortable, practical, and safe option that offers several benefits for tourists. Here are some of the advantages of choosing this transportation option:

1. Digital Tickets: The online purchase process makes it easier to buy your ticket. You can pay with Visa, MasterCard, and other methods, and once completed, the ticket will be sent directly to your email. You simply need to print it, and you’ll be ready to board the bus.

2. Comfortable and Safe Journey: The buses are spacious, with comfortable seats, and they operate within the allowed speed limits. All safety and protection measures are in place, ensuring a smooth journey to Machu Picchu.

3. Direct Access to the Entrance: The buses take you directly to the entrance gate of Machu Picchu, eliminating the need for long walks and allowing you to start your experience quickly and without complications. This is especially helpful if you’re planning a Machu Picchu Full Day Trip or routes like Intipunku or visiting Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu mountains.

Consettur-Buses-in-Machu-Picchu

Frequently Asked Questions about the Bus to Machu Picchu

1. Is there a direct bus from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

No, there’s no direct bus from Cusco to Machu Picchu. However, you can either take the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu or hike the Inca Trail.

2. What time does the first bus to Machu Picchu leave?

The first bus departs from Aguas Calientes at 5:30 a.m. In the early hours, buses leave every 5 minutes. The last bus leaves at 3:30 p.m.

3. How long does the bus ride to Machu Picchu take?

The bus ride takes about 25 minutes. The return journey takes the same amount of time.

4. Can I buy bus tickets in Aguas Calientes?

Yes, you can buy bus tickets on the same day in Aguas Calientes. There’s enough availability, so you don’t need to worry about running out of tickets. On the contrary, you have to book in advance your Machu Picchu entry ticket.

5. What company sells the bus tickets?

The company that operates buses on the Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes route is Consettur. Tickets can be purchased online on their website, at sales points in Cusco, or through authorized travel agencies like Kantu Peru Tours if you want to combine the ticket with other services like the train to Aguas Calientes.

Machu-Picchu-Panoramic-Photo

6. Can I buy return bus tickets at Machu Picchu?

Yes, you can purchase return bus tickets at the Machu Picchu entrance. There is ample availability, so you won’t miss the return bus.

7. Are there taxis from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?

No, Aguas Calientes is a small town and doesn’t have taxis or public transport, except for the buses to Machu Picchu. The buses are the only transport option to the Machu Picchu citadel.

8. Is it better to take the bus or walk to Machu Picchu?

You can either take the bus or walk to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes. Taking the bus is recommended if you plan to hike the Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu, or do the Intipunku hike. If you’re in good physical condition, walking is a great option for a more adventurous experience.

9. In which cases is it better to walk to Machu Picchu?

Walking is recommended if you’re in good physical condition, if you want a more adventurous experience but also if you are well aclimatazed to Cusco’s altitude. If you’re planning a guided tour of Machu Picchu or climbing the Huayna Picchu mountain, you may prefer the bus to save time and energy.

10. Do children under 5 years old travel for free?

Yes, children from 0 to 5 years old travel for free as long as they sit on their parent’s or guardian’s lap.

Machu-Picchu-and-the-Vilcanota-River

Visiting Machu Picchu is a unique experience, and traveling by bus from Aguas Calientes is one of the most comfortable and convenient options to reach the Inca Citadel. With the ease of purchasing bus tickets online or directly at the location, tourists can enjoy a safe and hassle-free journey in modern, well-equipped buses.

Moreover, the option to choose between the bus or walking allows each visitor to personalize their experience according to their preferences and physical condition. Be sure to plan ahead, especially during high season, to make the most of your visit to this wonderful destination. Don’t hesitate to take the bus and enjoy a comfortable and direct journey to Machu Picchu!