Hello, Dear reader! If you’re dreaming about your journey to Machu Picchu and wondering whether the train ride or a classic trekking route is the best way to reach the legendary Inca citadel, you’re in the right place. As you plan your Peru trip, choosing the ideal route to Machu Picchu can completely shape your travel experience. And the good news? Whether you prefer comfort or adventure, there’s a perfect way for you, and we’re here to help you find it!
Train to Machu Picchu: Comfort, Speed & Scenic Luxury
If you're looking for the easiest and most comfortable way to get to Machu Picchu, the train is your best friend. It’s also the most popular choice among travelers who want a smooth, worry-free journey without sacrificing stunning Andean landscapes.
Why choose the train?
- Comfort & convenience: Ideal if you want to save time or avoid physical strain.
- Flexible schedules: Perfect if you’re planning a short Peru itinerary or want a day trip.
- Beautiful panoramic views: Giant windows let you enjoy valleys, mountains, and the Urubamba River.
- Premium options available: If you’re seeking a more exclusive experience, luxury trains like the Hiram Bingham offer fine dining, live music, and world-class service.
Who is the train perfect for?
- If you want a relaxed, scenic route to Machu Picchu
- If you’re traveling with kids, seniors, or people with mobility limitations
- If you want a luxury Machu Picchu experience
Trekking Routes: Adventure, Culture & Bucket-List Memories
If you’re craving adventure and want to experience the Andes like the Incas did, trekking will be your ultimate highlight. Each trail offers a different mix of nature, culture, and challenge — and all lead to the same magical reward: Machu Picchu.
Most popular trekking options
1. Inca Trail (Classic & Short)
The world-famous Inca Trail is a bucket-list journey.
You’ll follow original Inca stone paths, pass archaeological sites, and enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate — a moment most travelers never forget.
2. Salkantay Trek
A stunning combination of glaciers, high-mountain passes, and jungle trails. Perfect if you want a more challenging, less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail.
3. Lares Trek
A culturally rich route passing through remote Andean villages. Ideal if you want to connect with local communities and landscapes most travelers never see.
Why choose a trek?
- Deep cultural immersion
- Epic landscapes and diverse ecosystems
- A strong sense of achievement when you reach Machu Picchu
- Perfect if you want a multi-day adventure tour in Peru
- Who is trekking perfect for?
- Adventure lovers
- Travelers seeking authentic, active experiences
- Those who want to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature
Train vs. Trek: Which one is the Best Way for You?
The answer depends on your travel style, time, fitness level, and what kind of experience you want from your Machu Picchu trip.
Choose the train to Machu Picchu if you want:
✔ Comfort
✔ Flexibility
✔ A quick and easy journey
✔ A premium, luxurious Machu Picchu experience
Choose a trek to Machu Picchu if you want:
✔ Adventure
✔ Immersion
✔ A physically active experience
✔ A transformative journey
Either way, you can’t go wrong — reaching Machu Picchu is unforgettable no matter how you choose to get there.
FAQs: Popular questions travelers ask before booking
Is the train to Machu Picchu worth it?
Yes — if you want a fast, comfortable, and scenic option. Many travelers choose it because it’s simple and fits perfectly into a tight Peru itinerary.
Which trek to Machu Picchu is the easiest?
The Short Inca Trail (2 days) is the easiest and offers Inca ruins, cloud forest scenery, and entry through the Sun Gate.
How far in advance should I book the Inca Trail?
Permits sell out quickly, especially for May–August. Booking 4–6 months in advance is ideal.
Can I visit Machu Picchu without hiking?
Absolutely. Take the train to Aguas Calientes, then a bus up to the entrance — no trekking required.
Is Salkantay Trek harder than the Inca Trail?
Yes. Salkantay is higher and more physically demanding, perfect for seasoned hikers seeking a challenge.
What’s the cheapest way to get to Machu Picchu?
The most budget-friendly option is usually a multi-day trek, but prices vary depending on the season and group size.
Ready to Experience Machu Picchu Your Way?
Whether you prefer the comfort of a luxury train or the thrill of a multi-day trek, our team at Peruvian Sunrise can help you create a tailor-made Machu Picchu tour that fits your style, your pace, and your travel dreams.
Contact us today to plan your personalized Machu Picchu journey.
Your adventure in Peru starts with a single message, and we can’t wait to create it for you.
