trek transport guide
Getting to the Inca Trail: Cusco, KM 82 & Trains
How to reach the Inca Trail — flights to Cusco, acclimatisation, operator transport to KM 82 and trains from Machu Picchu.
By Lee1 min read
Hiked by Lee
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Cusco is your staging city — your operator handles day-1 transport to KM 82 (Piscacucho). After Machu Picchu, most packages include train or bus back toward Cusco.
Also read: Complete Guide · Itinerary · Trek overview
International arrival
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Fly to Lima (LIM) | Main international hub |
| Domestic to Cusco (CUZ) | ~1 h 20 min |
| Acclimatise 2–3 days | Essential before KM 82 |
Trek start — KM 82
- Location: Piscacucho, Sacred Valley (~2–3 h from Cusco by road)
- Transport: Organised by your trekking company — bus with gear
- Checkpoint: Passport + permit verification
Trek end — Machu Picchu
| Leg | Typical mode |
|---|---|
| Sun Gate → Machu Picchu | On foot (day 4) |
| Site → Aguas Calientes | Bus (often included) |
| Aguas Calientes → Cusco | Train + bus transfer |
Train tickets are limited — reputable operators book these with your package.
Ollantaytambo connection
Many operators stage gear or briefings in Ollantaytambo en route to KM 82. Sacred Valley nights can help altitude adjustment before Cusco's 3,400 m.
Related planning
- Accommodation — where to stay before/after
- Cost guide — transport inclusions
- Rainbow Mountain getting there — Cusco arrival tips
Next guide
Inca Trail Accommodation: Camping & Cusco Stays
Where you sleep on the Inca Trail — tent camping on trail, Cusco acclimatisation hotels and Aguas Calientes post-trek stays.