Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas, is one of the most iconic and breathtaking destinations in the world. While guided tours can easily run into hundreds of dollars per day, planning a DIY visit can be surprisingly affordable — and incredibly rewarding. Here's how to visit Machu Picchu without a tour, step-by-step.

Step 1: Book Your Flight to Peru

Most international travelers fly into Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. From Lima, you'll need to take a domestic flight to Cusco, the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Budget airlines like LATAM and Sky Airline offer regular flights.

Tip: Spend at least a day or two in Cusco to acclimate to the altitude (3,400 meters / 11,200 feet) before heading to Machu Picchu.

Step 2: Travel from Cusco to Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is the town where most travelers catch the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes). You can get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo by:

Private taxi or car (~$25–$35 USD per person or $100 total)
Shared van or colectivo (~$5–$10 USD per person)
Bus service through tour agencies or local terminals

The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and travels through scenic valleys and traditional Andean villages.

Step 3: Buy Your Train Tickets to Machu Picchu Pueblo

There are two train services:

PeruRail (https://www.perurail.com/)
Inca Rail (https://incarail.com/)

Book your round-trip ticket from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo in advance — especially during peak season (May–September). Trains range from basic tourist services to luxurious panoramic-view trains.

Estimated Cost:

Expedition (budget) class: ~$70–$90 round trip
Vistadome (mid-range): ~$100–$130 round trip
Luxury trains: $200+

Important: You must bring your passport when boarding the train and entering Machu Picchu.

Step 4: Purchase Your Machu Picchu Entry Ticket

Go to the official government website:
https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/

Choose from several ticket options:

General admission to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu (more strenuous hike)
Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain (highest viewpoint)
Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu (short hike, great photos)

Ticket Prices (approx.):

General entry: ~$50 USD (foreigner adult)
Discounted prices for students, children, and residents of South America

You’ll receive a PDF ticket to print or show on your phone. Your ticket will have a scheduled entry time, and visits are typically limited to 4 hours.

Step 5: Book Accommodation in Machu Picchu Pueblo

Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) has numerous hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to suit every budget. Backpackers can find hostels for ~$10–$20/night, while more comfortable options range from $50–$150.

Tip: Stay overnight so you can visit Machu Picchu early in the morning — the best time for avoiding crowds and catching sunrise views.

Step 6: Choose How to Reach Machu Picchu from the Pueblo

You have two options to get from Aguas Calientes to the ruins:

1. Bus Ride (most popular)

~$12 one-way, or $24 round-trip
Runs from 5:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., every 10–15 minutes
Takes about 25–30 minutes

2. Hike Up

Free
About 1.5 to 2 hours
Requires good fitness, as it’s steep and at high altitude
Bring water and start early to avoid heat

Step 7: Visit Machu Picchu

Once at the entrance gate, show your entry ticket + passport. If you opted for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you'll need to follow specific trails at set entry times.

What to Bring:

Passport (mandatory)
Entry ticket (printed or on phone)
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Water and snacks (but no food inside the site)
Light jacket or rain poncho
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
A fully charged camera or phone

Optional Add-Ons:

Inca Trail

If you’re looking for an adventure and want to hike to Machu Picchu the traditional way, you can book the Inca Trail trek. This requires permits and booking months in advance through a licensed tour operator.

Alternative Hikes

Salkantay Trek (5 days, stunning and challenging)
Lares Trek (off-the-beaten-path cultural trek)
Inca Jungle Trek (adventure route with biking and rafting)

Final Tips

Best time to visit: May to October (dry season)
Carry Peruvian Soles for small purchases and tips
Most locals speak Spanish, but many in the tourism industry speak English
ATMs are available in Cusco and Aguas Calientes
Be respectful: Machu Picchu is a sacred historical site

You don’t need to spend thousands to visit Machu Picchu. With just a bit of preparation, you can organize your own unforgettable journey to one of the world’s greatest wonders. Whether you take the train or brave the trail, Machu Picchu is sure to leave you in awe.

How to Visit Machu Picchu on Your Own: A Step-by-Step Guide