The ultimate guide to the Machu Picchu tour
I made it to the ancient city against all odds, and here's what I can say
Firstly, a tour through operators is a great shortcut. Find a tour on a trusted platform (scams are everywhere online), pay, fly to Cusco, relax
But if you still want to save money, this is my guide for you:
Route: Plane to Cusco → Transfer to Ollantaytambo → Train to Aguas Calientes → Bus to Machu Picchu → Entry with your ticket → Return in reverse
The route is always the same. There's only one option: you can spend a night in Aguas Calientes, or you can speedrun all in one day
The one real bottleneck is the entrance ticket. Book nothing else until you have it
1. Entrance Ticket
https://tuboleto.cultura.pe is the ONLY official site, run by Peru's Ministry of Culture. All others are resellers, prices are usually 20-40% higher useful only to rescue a trip when the official site is sold out, otherwise a way to lose money
Book 3–4 months ahead
There are three Circuits; I recommend Circuit 2 for a first visit
Your passport details must match the ticket exactly — and bring the passport for entry
2. Train: Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes
Two operators, PeruRail and Inca Rail — no major difference, so just pick a convenient time
Book 2–3 months ahead, as good times sell out
Easiest is the bimodal bus/van: a bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, where you board the train
Now that all dates are set, book your flights to Cusco
3. Bus: Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu
Not included in your entrance ticket. Buy online in advance (better option), or just grab the next available bus on site
4. Transfer to Ollantaytambo
Cheapest: the Colectivo (minibus) from Av. Grau in Cusco (at the intersection with Pavitos)
Most comfortable: a private taxi (arrange it with your airport driver or via an app)
Simplest: the operators' Bimodal Service, which picks you up right in Cusco
Follow the booking deadlines and sequence strictly, and you'll be happy