Machu Picchu to Urubamba tickets

About the ride from Machu Picchu to Urubamba

The trip into Urubamba is one of the most beautiful journeys in the world. Whatever you do, make sure you have access to a window seat. You’re going to want to press your face up against the glass and gaze in wonder as you approach the Sacred Valley.

By train, the distance from Machu Picchu to Urubamba is a mere 63 km (~39 miles). However, the trip takes three hours, and you’ll be thankful it does. The scenery is breathtaking! 

Cusco is the closest major city, located about an hour and a half southeast of Urubamba. Even though both cities are relatively isolated, they are well worth visiting, so don’t let that put you off! 

Train travel in Peru is very easy and getting around by car is a breeze. So, you’ll have no problem getting from Machu Picchu to Urubamba. 

You probably already know there is so much more to Peru than the stunning Incan Citadel of Machu Picchu. The small town of Urubamba is equally impressive and well worth a visit.

You may even be wondering, how do I get from Machu Picchu to Urubamba? 

Urubamba is the perfect place to base yourself to explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas. There are so many things to see while there, like the Moray depressions and the Wiñay Wayna terraces.

The Salt Pans of Maras are also a unique spot to check out. This Peruvian canyon is filled with geometric salt pools that have been harvested since the Incan empire! 

The town of Urubamba itself also has some interesting sights to see. You can wander around the Palacio Huayna Capac and delve into Incan architecture. It’s located right next door to a cemetery with hauntingly beautiful grounds.

Head to Plaza de Armas and Plaza Pintacha to get an insight into modern Peruvian life—they are ideal for people-watching. 

The main Catholic church is Iglesia de Torrechayoc, which honors the patron saint of Urubamba. There is an annual celebration of him which can be quite fun and lively if you time your trip right! 

Regardless of when you’re there, you’ll be able to take in the stunning scenery around the Sacred Valley.

 

How to get from Machu Picchu to Urubamba

Options for transport from Machu Picchu to Urubama are pretty limited. However, almost all travelers take the train because it’s the fastest and most convenient option.

The only other way to get to the Sacred Valley is to drive yourself. And while this may work out to be cheaper, you will definitely struggle to rent a car in Machu Picchu. So, don’t rely on renting one when you arrive. 

Here is some information to help you get from Machu Picchu to Urubamba.

 

By train

Taking the train is the best way to travel from Machu Picchu to Urubamba. You’ll ride with PeruRail and have two options, either the Panoramic Train or the Luxury Train.

The Panoramic Train has AC, toilets, and semi-reclining seats on board. You’ll also be given a snack and a couple of non-alcoholic drinks when you sit down to enjoy during the trip. 

Seats are set up in a pod-like fashion, with small groups of four seats sharing a table. Unfortunately, this means that some passengers will be riding backward during the journey. If this is a problem, check with the ticket agent when booking your seat.

The best part about this train is the panoramic windows. Both sides of the train are made up of large windows, so you can take in all the views. So, no matter where you sit, you’ll see the stunning landscapes as you leave the Incan Citadel and approach the Sacred Valley.

The Panoramic Train allows you to bring 6 kg of luggage with you. Make sure you don’t overpack! They will charge you if your bags are overweight. Tickets are already a hefty US$115, so you don’t want an additional charge.

If you are looking to splurge, consider booking the Luxury Train. Tickets cost nearly US$200 per person, but you’ll be treated to a ton of amenities during your journey.

Seats on the Luxury Trains are extra plush and comfortable. They’re also very spacious, so you can relax and enjoy the trip.

These train tickets include a gourmet lunch or dinner. Plus, a fully stocked bar with a wide selection of drinks is available for purchase. If food and drinks aren’t enough, you’ll also be treated to live music.

Just like the Panoramic Train, the best part about this ride is the view. No matter which car you’re in, you’ll be able to gawk at the scenery. The Luxury Train also has an Observatory Car designated for you to take in the sights along the way. 

You really can’t go wrong with either train. The trip takes about three hours and has one departure each afternoon. Because of these fantastic amenities and the ease of the journey, the train really is the best way to get from Machu Picchu to Urubamba.

 

By car

If you already happen to have a car, it’s possible to drive yourself. By car, it is 167 km (~104 miles) from Machu Picchu to Urubamba. You can cover this distance in just over three and a half hours.

Road conditions are decent in Peru, and foreigners can drive with their driver's licenses from their home countries. However, it’s not recommended that you drive at night.

The most important thing you need to know is that you should already have your car, as renting one in Machu Picchu will be nearly impossible. It’s best to look in major cities like Cusco, Lima, or Arequipa.

We recommended you save yourself the hassle and take the train. This way, you can enjoy the views as you approach the Sacred Valley and take in all the impressive sights along the way. 

And, of course, your Instagram will thank you too!