# Travel >> Destinations >> South America

How to Go to Machu Picchu

Peru is a country saturated with history and culture. From the breathtaking Amazon rain forest to the remote, lost Incan city of Machu Picchu, Peru is a gem for travel enthusiasts and adventurers. One of Peru's greatest assets is the nearly-secluded ruins and archaeological site of Machu Picchu. The area is so remote that actually getting there can be challenging and requires advanced planning and preparation. When planning your visit, choose a mode of transportation that is comfortable for you, that is suitable to your fitness level and does not conflict with time constraints you may have.

Train timetable
Hiking boots

Instructions

Getting to Machu Picchu
- 1
  Book a train from Cusco to Machu Picchu Station. The journey takes four hours and provides views of Machu Picchu and various tourist destinations.
- 2
  Walk the Inca Trail. The Inca Trail is a 28-mile long intensive hiking trail that takes a minimum of three to four days. If you plan to hike to Machu Picchu, be sure to make reservations in advance.
- 3
  Visit as part of a guided tour. There are a number of guided tours to Machu Picchu throughout the tourist season. Booking is relatively simple and can be done in advance or on the day of the excursion.
- 4
  Fly over Machu Picchu in a helicopter. Private companies provide helicopter rides to Machu Picchu from Cusco Airport. A helicopter visit will give you a bird's eye view of the ruins and takes a fraction of the time other transportation methods take.