Getting to Machu Picchu on your own is quite easy, but it does require advance planning. Machu Picchu lay hidden from the world for such a long time because its location is fairly remote and inaccessible. Because of its remote location and multiple connections required, many tourists are often confused on how to get there, and often settle for the expensive package tour from Lima or Cuzco. Contrary to popular believes, you don’t need to hike through mountains to get to Machu Picchu, and most senior citizens with decent health can do the trip. Forget the Machu Picchu package tour; you can do it on your own cheaply by following the steps below. Step 1 – Get to Lima, Peru (This is easily done with many international flights Step 2 – Get from Lima to Cuzco By Bus – The cheapest way, takes 21 hrs, with prices US$30-$75 depending on company and services class. Tickets can be booked online at www.cruzdelsur.com.pe or www.tepsa.com.pe By Air – Recommended way, takes 1hr 20 mins, and prices as low as US$80-90 each way with advance booking. Flights can be booked online at www.latam.com, or www.avianca.com. Star Peru and Peruvian Air are among the cheapest, and their planes are really nice. Step 3 – Getting from Cuzco to Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes) – Aguas Calientes is a town at the base of Machu Picchu and where the train station and lodgings are. There are no road to Machu Picchu and train/hiking the Inca Trails are the only way to get there. We will only cover the train option below as hikes must be with a guided group tour (approx. US$450-650 for the 4-days hike option). Most tourists spend a couple of days in Cuzco, touring the city and the Sacred Valley before heading to
Getting to Machu Picchu on your own is quite easy, but it does require advance planning. Machu Picchu lay hidden from the world for such a long time because its location is fairly remote and inaccessible. Because of its remote location and multiple connections required, many tourists are often confused on how to get there,
