Cusco Airport to Machu Picchu

Cusco Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) is located just a few kilometers southeast of Cusco’s historic center and serves as the primary gateway for travelers heading to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. As one of Peru’s busiest airports especially during peak tourism seasons—it offers frequent domestic connections from Lima and other major cities. From the airport, travelers typically transfer by road to Poroy, Ollantaytambo, or directly to the Sacred Valley, where they can continue their journey by train to Aguas Calientes, the base town of Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu, Peru’s iconic Inca citadel and one of the world’s most celebrated archaeological wonders, sits high in the Andes surrounded by dramatic cloud forest scenery. Renowned for its terraced slopes, meticulously crafted stone temples, and mystical atmosphere, it draws visitors from across the globe. Whether explored at sunrise or during the lush afternoon mist, Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable blend of ancient engineering, breathtaking landscapes, and spiritual significance.

Photo by NINA PASCAL on Unsplash

About the Airport

Official Name: Alejandro Velasco Astete Cusco International (CUZ) Airport

Location: Cusco, Peru

Airport Facilities: ATMs, Bank, Duty-free & shopping, Food, Shopping, Luggage, Other Services, Facilities for the disabled, Parking, Hotels, Nursery and Wi-Fi.

How to get from Cusco Airport to Machu Picchu? You can get from Cusco Airport to Machu Picchu by taking a taxi or Cusco Airport private transfer to Poroy or Ollantaytambo, then continuing by train to Aguas Calientes and finally taking the shuttle bus up to the citadel.

Bus from Cusco Airport to Machu Picchu

Route: No buses go directly to Ollantaytambo; instead, take one to Cusco's Plaza de Armas and then another. To go directly to Machu Picchu, transfer to a train.
Journey Time: Approximately 360 minutes
Key Point: Due to the number of stops and changes, taking public transport from Cusco Airport to Machu Picchu can be difficult and long.
Note: Buses to Ollantaytambo get crowded quickly and the cost of the ticket may seem a little higher than expected. There isn't much space for luggage on buses, so pack light.

Bus Fare from Cusco Airport to Machu Picchu

By public transport, adventurers can make this journey for a total of €75 (PEN 361).

Taxi from Cusco Airport to Machu Picchu

Journey Time: Approximately 240 minutes
Note: Taxis at Cusco airport must be paid for in PEN, the local currency. It's advisable to have cash on you at all times.
Important: Due to the long distance, not all Cusco taxi drivers may agree on this journey. Book your private transfer from Cusco Airport to Machu Picchu in advance with AirportTransfer.com and make sure your trip goes smoothly.

Taxi Fare from Cusco Airport to Machu Picchu

Cusco airport to Machu Picchu taxi fare is usually between €150 and €200 excluding bonuses.

Cusco Airport to Machu Picchu Premium Transfer Service

Private Transfers from Cusco Airport to Machu Picchu

Journey Time: The trip from Cusco Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) to Machu Picchu typically takes 4.5 to 6 hours, depending on whether you travel via Poroy or Ollantaytambo for the train to Aguas Calientes, and on train schedules throughout the day.

Key Point: By booking your transfer in advance from Cusco Airport to the Machu Picchu route, you avoid the stress of finding transportation on arrival, negotiating taxi prices, or navigating multiple connections. With AirportTransfer.com, you can arrange a private, door-to-door service to your chosen train station at a fixed rate, giving your journey a smooth, safe, and comfortable beginning.

Benefits of Booking Ahead with AT: When you reserve your transfer with AirportTransfer.com, you benefit from professional, licensed, English-speaking drivers, transparent pricing, and flexible cancellation options. You can choose from a range of vehicle types suitable for solo travelers, couples, families, or groups. Plus, you can add extras such as child seats, additional luggage space, or premium vehicles for an upgraded travel experience.

You can simply use the AirportTransfer.com app, available on both AirportTransfer Google Play Store and the AirportTransfer App Store. With free cancellation up to 48 hours in advance, your Cusco transfer reservation remains flexible and fully refundable, giving you peace of mind for your travel schedule.

Cusco Airport Bus Rental with a Private Driver for Group Transfers

Group Bus Transfers at Cusco Airport

For larger groups, we have exclusive bus transfers available at Cusco airport. Our specially designed buses guarantee a stress-free and seamless journey to Machu Picchu. You can forget about the inconvenience of public transport and long lines as our comfortable buses are waiting to make your transfer a seamless experience. Cusco Airport bus rental service are available on AirportTransfer.com.

Our service includes:

• Professional, experienced drivers who know the local roads
• Flexible pick-up and drop-off points to match your group’s itinerary
• Generous luggage space and comfortable seating
• Clear, fixed rates with no hidden costs

Our fleet accommodates:

• Minibuses for 8–16 passengers
• Mid-size coaches for 17–35 people
• Full-size buses for up to 50–55+ travelers

For specific group travel inquiries and reservations to Contact Us for Cusco Airport.

Machu Picchu Hotel Transfers

Start your journey to Machu Picchu in comfort with a hotel transfer from Cusco Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport straight to your accommodation in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, or Ollantaytambo via AirportTransfer.com. You can choose from a range of vehicles sedans, premium SUVs, and spacious vans depending on the number of travelers and the amount of luggage you’re carrying for your Machu Picchu hotel transfers.

Our local drivers are punctual and knowledgeable, ensuring a safe, scenic, and relaxing ride directly to your hotel. With this service, your Machu Picchu hotel transfer to your accommodation becomes completely hassle-free from the moment you land in Cusco.

Here are some popular and well-loved hotels used by travelers on their way to Machu Picchu: JW Marriott El Convento Cusco, Palacio del Inka, Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel, Tambo del Inka (Urubamba), Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel, Casa Andina Premium Cusco, Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, El MaPi by Inkaterra, Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel.

The best Cusco Airport transfer reviews are at AirportTransfer.com!