Airports near Machu Picchu are those located in and around Cusco because visitors have to land at Cusco and use the train or road service to reach Machu Picchu. Read our guide for more facts and information…
When Machu Picchu was rediscovered in 1911, it was hardly accessible. Fortunately, a lot has changed over the years thanks to the advancements in the modes of transportation. However, even today it takes a considerable amount of time to reach this mystic city, which draws visitors from around the world. The city’s Incan history, immaculate landscape and energy vortex have made it an important pilgrimage destination and vacation spot. Many people around the world look forward to traverse its sacred precincts at least once in their lifetime.
Usual Route To Reach Machu Picchu
Visitors have to reach Cusco, an important city in Peru, as it is the only city that connects to Machu Picchu. International visitors who arrive at Lima, the capital of Peru, can reach Cusco by air or by road. From Cusco, they can take a three-hour train journey to AguasCalientes, a town located near the Incan city. From this city, visitors can take a twenty-minute bus journey to arrive at the stunning entrance of Machu Picchu.
Reaching Cusco by Air
As Machu Picchu is connected only through Cusco, visitors must arrive at Cusco before heading to the Incan city. Cusco is known to be the old capital of the Incan Empire. The Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco receives flights from Lima, Juliaca and Arequipa every day. Other airports in the proximity of the area are Ayacucho Yanamilla Airport, Arequipa Rodriguez Ballon Airport and Cobiia E Beltram Airport.
Flights between Lima and Cusco
International visitors usually land at Lima’s Jorge Chavez International Airport. Though Lima is the capital of Peru, there is no direct route from Lima to Machu Picchu. Hence, visitors have to reach Cusco, which is located at 700 miles from Lima. The four major flight operators between Lima and Cusco are Lanperu, Star Peru, TACA and Aero Condor. Air travel from Lima to Cusco takes approximately 50 minutes, compared to a bus journey that takes about 24 hours. The Aero Condor is a relatively cheaper option when compared to other flight operators.
At Cusco, visitors can take the train or bus to reach Machu Picchu. The only train operator is Perurail, which provides three services namely, Vistadome, Hiram Bingham and Backpacker. The scenic train journey covers about 70 miles to arrive at AguasCalientes. Machu Picchu is about two miles from this town and there are bus facilities, though the distance can also be covered on foot.
Declared as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu has been visited by millions of visitors in recent years. The sacred aspect of the city is said to evoke a sense of reverence and accomplishment.
