To get from the town of Aguas Calientes to the entrance gate of Machu Picchu, you must travel along a steep road known as Hiram Bingham. The fastest and most common way to do this is by using the eco-friendly buses from the Consettur company.
| Rates | National (Peru) | Foreigner |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 8 dollars (one way) 15 dollars (round trip) |
12 dollars (one way) 24 dollars (round trip) |
| Students | 6 dollars (one way) 10 dollars (round trip) |
12 dollars (one way) 24 dollars (round trip) |
| Children | 5 dollars (one way) 8 dollars (round trip) |
7 dollars (one way) 12 dollars (round trip) |
Tickets can be purchased in person in Cusco (Av. Infancia 433) or directly in the town of Aguas Calientes, at the official ticket office located a few meters from the train station, near the main bridge. It is also possible to purchase online through the official Consettur website to avoid lines.
The buses do not have a fixed numbered departure time, but instead leave as they fill up, approximately every 15 minutes. The first bus up departs at 05:30 AM and the last one at 15:30 PM. For the return, the last bus goes down from the citadel at 18:00 PM.
Unlike Machu Picchu entrances or trains, bus tickets do not sell out, as there is a large fleet of vehicles. However, buying the ticket a day before or online will allow you to save time and go directly to the boarding line on the day of your visit.
Key fact: The bus ride takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes. If you prefer to save this expense, there is the option to go up on foot via a path of stairs, which takes between 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the traveler's physical condition.
