Traveling to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is a dream for many, and the bus journey from Aguas Calientes is an integral part of the experience. This eco-friendly, air-conditioned mode of transport offers a scenic, 25-minute zig-zag ride, providing travelers with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. With pre-booking recommended to skip long lines and ensure a hassle-free boarding experience, the bus to Machu Picchu’s entrance is a convenient and comfortable way to start your exploration of this ancient wonder. But the journey itself is just the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.
Good To Know
- Pre-booking the bus to Machu Picchu is recommended to avoid long ticket lines and ensure a guaranteed seat.
- The bus departs from Aguas Calientes, offering a scenic zigzag route to the Inca citadel.
- Electronic tickets are provided for boarding convenience, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the service.
- The air-conditioned, eco-friendly buses operate daily from 5:30 AM to 6:00 PM, providing a comfortable journey.
- Strict cancellation policies are in place, so it’s crucial to review the terms and conditions before booking.
Overview and Booking Details
Pre-booking your bus to Machu Picchu is recommended to avoid long ticket lines.
The bus departs from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) and follows a scenic zig-zag route to the entrance. Simply print your ticket and show it to the driver. Guaranteed seating is provided, and infants must sit on laps.
Electronic tickets will be emailed to you for boarding. The bus is air-conditioned and eco-friendly, and you may board any returning bus from Machu Picchu during operating hours.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the service.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Transportation Amenities
The buses used for the Machu Picchu journey are air-conditioned and eco-friendly, ensuring a comfortable and sustainable experience.
Travelers can board any returning bus from Machu Picchu during operating hours, which run from 5:30 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Plus, the service includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the entire transportation process seamless.
The key transportation amenities include:
- Air-conditioned and eco-friendly buses
- Guaranteed seating, with no standing allowed and infants sitting on laps
- Flexible boarding options from Machu Picchu during operational hours
With these convenient features, the bus service provides a stress-free and enjoyable way to reach the iconic Machu Picchu site.
Scheduling and Operating Hours
The buses to Machu Picchu operate daily, running from 5:30 AM to 6:00 PM. This service is available from January 28, 2024, to January 27, 2026, providing travelers with ample time to explore the renowned Inca citadel.
Day | Operating Hours |
---|---|
Monday – Sunday | 5:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
To ensure a smooth experience, it’s recommended to pre-book your bus ticket to avoid long lines. The zig-zag route from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) to the entrance offers breathtaking views along the way. With guaranteed seating and eco-friendly buses, the Machu Picchu bus service provides a convenient and memorable journey to this iconic destination.
Meeting Point and Accessibility
To reach the bus boarding point in Aguas Calientes, travelers should head to Avenida Hermanos Ayar S/N.
The meeting point is located at Machupicchu Bus Boarding, which is the designated area for the bus service to Machu Picchu.
This activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.
The bus has a maximum capacity of 99 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey to the ancient ruins.
The key details are:
- Meeting point: Aguas Calientes 08681, Peru, at Machupicchu Bus Boarding, Avenida Hermanos Ayar S/N.
- Not wheelchair accessible.
- Service animals allowed.
Reviews and Cancellation Policy
According to the information provided, the bus service to Machu Picchu has received 7 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor, with an overall rating of 4.0.
The reviews suggest that some customers have faced difficulties in cancelling their bookings, even due to health issues.
The company’s response emphasizes the finality of sales, indicating a non-refundable policy.
Travelers should be aware of this strict cancellation policy before making their booking.
It’s important to carefully review the terms and conditions to ensure the bus service meets their needs and expectations.
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Advantages of Pre-booking
One of the main advantages of pre-booking your bus to Machu Picchu is that it allows you to skip the long ticket lines and secure your seat in advance. This can save you valuable time and ensure a smoother start to your Machu Picchu experience.
Plus, pre-booking offers several other benefits:
- Guaranteed seating – You’ll have a reserved seat, so you won’t have to worry about standing or holding an infant on your lap.
- Hassle-free boarding – Your electronic ticket will be emailed to you, making the boarding process quick and easy.
- Peace of mind – With your transportation taken care of, you can focus on enjoying the scenic zig-zag route to the iconic Inca ruins.
Scenic Route to Machu Picchu
From Aguas Calientes, the bus ascends the winding, zigzag route to Machu Picchu, offering travelers a breathtaking journey.
The air-conditioned, eco-friendly bus navigates the steep, scenic switchbacks, providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The journey takes approximately 25 minutes, allowing passengers to enjoy the stunning landscape before reaching the entrance.
The buses operate regularly throughout the day, and travelers can board any returning bus during operating hours.
With guaranteed seating and no standing allowed, the bus service ensures a comfortable and convenient way to access the iconic Inca citadel.
Hassle-free Boarding Experience
Booking your bus to Machu Picchu in advance ensures a hassle-free boarding experience. With your electronic ticket, you can simply print and show it to the driver, eliminating the need to wait in long lines.
The service offers:
- Guaranteed seating, as standing isn’t allowed, and infants must sit on laps.
- Air-conditioned, eco-friendly buses that provide a scenic zig-zag route to the entrance.
- The ability to board any returning bus from Machu Picchu during operating hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
This convenient and efficient transportation option allows you to focus on your Machu Picchu adventure without the stress of navigating the logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Purchase Bus Tickets On-Site at Machu Picchu?
No, you can’t purchase bus tickets on-site at Machu Picchu. The provided information indicates that you need to pre-book your bus tickets to avoid long lines. Tickets must be printed or shown electronically for boarding.
Do I Need to Buy Bus Tickets Separately From Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets?
Yes, bus tickets to Machu Picchu must be purchased separately from the entrance tickets. Visitors can’t buy bus tickets on-site and should pre-book them to avoid long lines at the bus departure point.
Are There Discounted Rates for Children or Seniors?
The bus tickets to Machu Picchu don’t offer any discounted rates for children or seniors. All passengers, regardless of age, pay the same price for the bus ride up to the entrance.
Can I Change the Date or Time of My Bus Booking?
Unfortunately, the bus booking is non-refundable and date/time changes are not permitted as per the tour’s terms and conditions. Travelers are advised to carefully review the schedule and plan their visit accordingly.
What if My Flight or Train to Aguas Calientes Is Delayed?
If your flight or train to Aguas Calientes is delayed, you’ll need to contact the bus company as soon as possible. They may be able to accommodate the delay, but there’s no guarantee. Missed buses cannot be refunded or rebooked.
The Sum Up
The bus to Machu Picchu’s entrance offers a comfortable, scenic journey from Aguas Calientes. With air-conditioned, eco-friendly buses and guaranteed seating, travelers can relax and enjoy the stunning mountain views. Pre-booking is highly recommended to avoid long ticket lines and ensure a hassle-free boarding experience, making it an ideal choice for those visiting the iconic Inca citadel.
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