Machu Picchu, the world-renowned Inca citadel, attracts millions of visitors each year. The ancient site, nestled high in the Peruvian Andes, offers breathtaking views and a rich historical experience. However, one of the most common questions travelers ask when planning their visit is: What is the closest airport to Machu Picchu?
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the closest airport to Machu Picchu, how to get to the site from the airport, and what you need to know about traveling to this wonder of the world. Whether you’re planning a short trip or an extensive adventure through Peru, understanding the logistics of getting to Machu Picchu is essential for a seamless and unforgettable journey.
Closest Airport to Machu Picchu: Understanding the Basics
Before we dive into the details, it’s important to know that Machu Picchu is not directly accessible by plane. There are no commercial airports near the site itself. Therefore, travelers must fly into an airport in a nearby city and then take other modes of transportation to reach Machu Picchu. So, the question remains: What is the closest airport to Machu Picchu?
The Closest Airport: Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (Cusco)
The closest major airport to Machu Picchu is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (airport code: CUZ), located in Cusco. Cusco is the historic capital of the Inca Empire and serves as the gateway to the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and other iconic sites like Ollantaytambo and Sacsayhuamán.
Cusco is situated at an elevation of 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level, so visitors should take some time to acclimatize to the altitude before heading to Machu Picchu. From Cusco, travelers can take a combination of train and bus to reach Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
Flight Duration to Cusco:
- From Lima: About 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- From Buenos Aires: About 5 hours.
- From Santiago: About 4 hours.
Cusco is the main hub for travelers heading to Machu Picchu, making Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport the closest airport to Machu Picchu for most visitors. After arriving in Cusco, the next step is to head to the train station and continue your journey to the sacred site.
Getting to Machu Picchu from Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)
Once you arrive at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (the closest airport to Machu Picchu), you’ll need to make your way to the Sacred Valley and then to Aguas Calientes before finally reaching Machu Picchu. Since this is the closest airport to Machu Picchu, it’s the most convenient starting point for your journey to the ancient site.
Here’s the step-by-step process for traveling from Cusco to Machu Picchu:
From Cusco to Ollantaytambo (Sacred Valley)
After landing at CUZ, the closest airport to Machu Picchu, you will need to travel to Ollantaytambo, a town in the Sacred Valley that is about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Cusco. Ollantaytambo is a key stop for travelers heading to Machu Picchu because it is home to a train station that offers direct trains to Aguas Calientes, the base town for Machu Picchu. This makes it a crucial point in your journey from the closest airport to Machu Picchu to the ancient wonder.
Transport Options from Cusco to Ollantaytambo:
- By Taxi: The most convenient way to travel to Ollantaytambo is by taxi, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
- By Bus: You can also take a bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, which takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. Bus services are more affordable but slower than taxis.
- By Private Car: For a more comfortable experience, you can book a private car service, which is slightly more expensive but provides a more direct and personalized journey.
From Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu)
After reaching Ollantaytambo, the next step is to board a train that will take you to Aguas Calientes, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu. The train ride is one of the highlights of the journey, as it passes through the stunning Sacred Valley and offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.
Train Options:
- PeruRail: One of the main train operators offering services from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. They provide several classes of service, including Expedition, Vistadome, and Hiram Bingham (luxury).
- Inca Rail: Another popular train operator providing service from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. They also offer a range of service options, including First Class and Economy Class.
The train journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, and once you arrive at Aguas Calientes, the final step is to take a bus or hike to Machu Picchu itself.
From Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
Once you arrive at Aguas Calientes, you can either take a bus (a 25-minute ride) or hike up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The hike can take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace, and is an option for those looking for a more physically challenging experience.
Bus to Machu Picchu:
- The bus service operates from 5:30 AM to 3:30 PM and runs every 10 to 15 minutes.
- The cost for a round-trip bus ticket is approximately $24 USD.
Alternative Airports to Reach Machu Picchu
While Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) is the closest airport to Machu Picchu, there are alternative airports you can fly into, depending on your itinerary or travel preferences.
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) vs. Jorge Chávez International Airport (Lima)
For international flights, the nearest major international hub is Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima, the capital of Peru. Lima is the primary point of entry for international travelers to Peru.
Once you arrive in Lima, you will need to take a domestic flight to Cusco (CUZ), the closest airport to Machu Picchu. The flight from Lima to Cusco takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. After arriving in Cusco, you can follow the steps above to continue your journey to Machu Picchu.
While Lima is farther from Machu Picchu compared to Cusco, it serves as the primary international gateway, especially for visitors arriving from outside South America.
Why Cusco is the Best Airport for Machu Picchu
There are several reasons why Cusco’s Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) is considered the best airport for travelers heading to Machu Picchu.
The Most Direct Access to Machu Picchu
Cusco is the closest city to Machu Picchu and the main base for visitors. The train ride from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and then on to Aguas Calientes is the most direct and efficient way to get to Machu Picchu.
Rich Cultural Significance
Cusco is not just a gateway to Machu Picchu but also a historical and cultural hub. Known as the former capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is home to other fascinating sites such as Sacsayhuamán, Qorikancha, and the Sacred Valley. As the closest airport to Machu Picchu, Cusco offers more than just access to the ancient site; it allows you to immerse yourself in the vibrant Inca heritage before heading to Machu Picchu. Exploring Cusco gives you a deeper appreciation of the region’s rich history, making your journey to Machu Picchu even more meaningful.
Acclimatization
Cusco is located at a higher altitude than Machu Picchu, sitting at 3,399 meters (11,152 feet). Spending a day or two in Cusco before heading to Machu Picchu gives you the opportunity to acclimatize to the altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
What to Expect at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)
Since Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) is the closest airport to Machu Picchu, it is important to understand what to expect upon arrival. This small but busy airport serves as the gateway for most travelers heading to Machu Picchu.
Airport Facilities and Services
Cusco’s Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) is equipped with all the essential facilities for a comfortable start to your journey:
- Currency Exchange: Available for those who need to exchange foreign currency for Peruvian soles.
- Restaurants and Cafes: You can enjoy traditional Peruvian food and snacks before heading to your next destination.
- Transportation Services: Taxi services, shuttle buses, and car rentals are available to get you from the airport to your hotel or to the train station for your onward journey to Machu Picchu.
- Luggage Storage: Luggage storage services are available if you need to store your bags while you explore Cusco.
Acclimatization at the Airport
Cusco sits at an altitude of 3,399 meters (11,152 feet), which can lead to altitude sickness if you’re not prepared. Arriving at CUZ, travelers often feel the effects of the high altitude, such as shortness of breath or dizziness.
To combat this, it’s highly recommended to spend at least 24-48 hours in Cusco to acclimatize before heading to Machu Picchu. The closest airport to Machu Picchu can be an excellent place to take things easy, hydrate, and rest, which will make the transition to the altitude easier. You can enjoy a leisurely day in Cusco before embarking on the journey to the ancient Incan city.
Transportation Options from Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) to Machu Picchu
As the closest airport to Machu Picchu, CUZ serves as the starting point for most travelers visiting this world-famous site. Let’s dive into the best transportation options from Cusco to Machu Picchu:
Taking a Taxi or Shuttle from CUZ to Ollantaytambo
One of the quickest ways to reach Ollantaytambo from Cusco is by taxi or shuttle. The drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Ollantaytambo is a town located in the Sacred Valley, and it is the main station for the train journey to Aguas Calientes, the base town of Machu Picchu.
You can arrange a taxi or shuttle directly at the airport, or pre-book these services in advance. These options are often the most convenient and allow for a smooth, hassle-free transition to the next step of your journey to Machu Picchu.
Bus from Cusco to Sacred Valley (For Budget Travelers)
For budget-conscious travelers, buses provide a more affordable option to travel from Cusco to Ollantaytambo. Bus services are available from Cusco’s central terminal to Ollantaytambo, and the journey typically takes about 2-2.5 hours. Buses are generally comfortable, but they are slower compared to taxis or private transfers.
Once you arrive at Ollantaytambo, you can catch the train to Aguas Calientes.
Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
After reaching Ollantaytambo, the next step is to board a train to Aguas Calientes, the closest town to Machu Picchu. The train ride is scenic and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Train services, like PeruRail and Inca Rail, operate throughout the day, offering different classes of service to suit your budget and travel style.
From Aguas Calientes, you can take a bus or hike to reach Machu Picchu.
What to Know About Flights to the Closest Airport to Machu Picchu
Understanding the logistics of flying to the closest airport to Machu Picchu is essential for your travel planning. Here’s everything you need to know:
Flights from Lima to Cusco (CUZ)
The most common flight route to CUZ, the closest airport to Machu Picchu, is from Lima. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, making it an easy and quick option for travelers.
There are several daily flights from Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ). Airlines such as LATAM, Avianca, and Sky Airline operate on this route, offering various service classes. It’s advisable to book your flight in advance, especially during peak seasons, as these flights can fill up quickly.
Flights from International Locations
If you’re traveling from abroad, you’ll first need to fly into Lima (LIM) before connecting to a domestic flight to Cusco (CUZ). Flights from major international hubs like Miami, Madrid, Bogotá, and Santiago to Lima are frequent and well-connected. After arriving in Lima, you can then take the short flight to Cusco, which serves as the closest airport to Machu Picchu.
Acclimatization Considerations When Flying to CUZ
Since Cusco sits at a high altitude, it’s important to allow your body time to adjust. After arriving at CUZ, it’s recommended to take it easy for the first few hours to prevent symptoms of altitude sickness. This gives you time to rest and acclimatize before continuing to Machu Picchu.
Travel Tips for Visiting the Closest Airport to Machu Picchu
As you plan your visit to the closest airport to Machu Picchu, here are some essential travel tips:
Plan Your Arrival in Cusco Early
Since Cusco is at high altitude, it’s important to plan your arrival with enough time to acclimatize. Arriving a day or two before heading to Machu Picchu gives you a chance to rest and adjust to the elevation.
Book Tickets for Machu Picchu and Train in Advance
To make the most of your trip to Machu Picchu, be sure to book your Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train tickets in advance. Tickets to Machu Picchu can sell out, especially during peak tourist seasons, and the train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes can also fill up quickly.
Don’t Rush: Take Time to Enjoy Cusco
Before heading to Machu Picchu, take time to explore Cusco and its Incan ruins, such as Sacsayhuamán and the Sacred Valley. These sites offer a fascinating look into the rich history and culture of the Incas, and spending time in Cusco will help you acclimatize to the altitude.
The Closest Airport to Machu Picchu
The closest airport to Machu Picchu is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco. While there are no airports directly at Machu Picchu, CUZ provides the most convenient access to this ancient wonder. After flying into Cusco, you can easily reach Machu Picchu by train and bus or hiking, making it the perfect starting point for your adventure.
Now that you know everything about the closest airport to Machu Picchu, you’re ready to plan your trip and embark on an unforgettable journey to one of the world’s most iconic destinations. Whether you’re traveling for history, culture, or adventure, Machu Picchu promises an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
