Cost of Machu Picchu tickets and train fares

Cost of Machu Picchu Tickets and Train Fares

Planning your trip to Machu Picchu means understanding the two main costs: the entrance ticket to the Inca citadel and the train fare that takes you through the stunning Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.

Below you’ll find a complete breakdown of 2025 prices, including updated ticket categories, train options, and insider tips to help you save money while enjoying this once-in-a-lifetime journey.

Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket Prices

The Peruvian Ministry of Culture regulates all ticket sales for Machu Picchu. Prices depend on nationality, age, and the specific route you choose.

Standard Ticket – “Circuit 1, 2, 3” (Main Citadel):

• Foreign adult: ~S/152 (≈ US$ 45)

• Student (with valid ISIC card): ~S/77 (≈ US$ 23)

• Children (ages 3–17): ~S/70 (≈ US$ 21)

• Peruvian citizens and residents: from S/64 (≈ US$ 18)

This ticket gives you access to the main archaeological area of Machu Picchu, including terraces, temples, and the Intihuatana viewpoint.

Optional Add-Ons:
If you want to add a hiking experience, you can choose from:

• Machu Picchu Mountain ticket: ~S/200 (≈ US$ 56)

• Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket: ~S/200 (≈ US$ 56)

• Huchuy Picchu ticket: ~S/152 (≈ US$ 45)

These combined tickets include entry to both the citadel and the trail of your choice.

Important: Tickets sell out weeks in advance, especially for Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, since daily capacity is limited.

Train Fares to Machu Picchu

Since Machu Picchu has no direct road access, travelers must reach Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) by train. Two companies operate the route: PeruRail and Inca Rail. Prices vary depending on service class, season, and departure station.

PeruRail Prices (Round-Trip)

• Expedition Train: from US$ 140 – 180 (standard comfort, panoramic windows)

• Vistadome Train: from US$ 180 – 220 (panoramic windows, snacks, live music)

• Hiram Bingham Luxury Train: from US$ 950+ (luxury dining, bar, guided service)

Most PeruRail trains depart from Ollantaytambo station (1h 45 min before reaching Aguas Calientes), though some services also depart from Cusco (San Pedro or Poroy stations).

Tip: The Vistadome offers the best balance between comfort and price, with large windows that allow you to enjoy the Sacred Valley landscape.

Inca Rail Prices (Round-Trip)

• The Voyager: from US$ 130 – 160 (comfortable seats, light snacks)

• The 360° Train: from US$ 170 – 220 (panoramic glass windows, observation car)

• First Class: from US$ 350 – 450 (gourmet meals, welcome drinks, onboard host)

• The Private: from US$ 850+ (exclusive charter train for couples or groups)

Inca Rail trains also depart from Ollantaytambo, and some services connect directly from Cusco via a bimodal system (bus + train).

Both companies offer one-way tickets, but round-trip packages are generally more economical. Prices can increase during high season (June–August and December).

Additional Transportation Costs

• Bus Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu: US$ 12 (one way) or US$ 24 (round trip)

• Entrance to Machu Picchu bathrooms (near the gate): S/ 2 (≈ US$ 0.50)

• Official guide (recommended): US$ 25 – 40 per group

Adding it all up, the average cost for visiting Machu Picchu (train + ticket + bus + guide) ranges between US$ 220 and US$ 300 per person, depending on the train class and route selected.