There are three ways of getting to Machu Picchu and two ways of leaving. It is possible to walk to the site, take the helicopter or take the train. It is not possible to do the Inca Trail in reverse, so either the train or the helicopter must be taken back.
The most common way of getting to Machu Picchu is by train, and the journey itself is spectacular, first crossing the Anta altiplano and then following the Urubamba River. This ride takes between three and four hours, depending on the train used. The return journey to Cusco, which is uphill, takes longer.
There are two train stations at Machu Picchu. The local train station, in the town, is only used by the social train. All tourist trains leave from the tourist station next to the Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. Tickets are normally bought in advance from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, although there is also a ticket office next to the local station in Machu Picchu. One-way tickets are normally half the price of a return ticket, except for the backpacker train, where a one-way ticket is $25. Train times and prices from Machu Picchu are as follows. For times of trains going to Machu Picchu, check the appropriate parts of the Cusco and Ollantaytambo sections.
| Service | Leave Machu Picchu | Arrive Ollantaytambo | Arrive Cusco | Return cost |
| Ferrostal | 8.00am | 9.20am | - | $55 |
| Ferrostal | 2.05pm | 3.20pm | - | $55 |
| Autovagón | 3.00pm | 4.20pm | 6.40pm | $70 |
| Inka | 3.20pm | 4.50pm | 7.15pm | $70 |
| Backpacker | 4.35pm | 6.10pm | 8.50pm | $30 |
| Ferrostal | 5.20pm | 6.35pm | - | $55 |
| Backpacker | 5.45pm | 7.25pm | - | $20 |
The helicopter is by the fastest way of getting to or from Machu Picchu, and there is a helipad down the railway line past the Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. Although expensive, costing $100 one-way and $170 return, the helicopter is the fastest way of travelling to Machu Picchu, taking only 25 minutes. Tickets can be bought at the HeliCusco offices in either Cusco or Machu Picchu. There are reports that the service has been suspended.
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