The Majestic Sacred Rock of Machu Picchu

Getting There

• Public Transportation

  From Cusco, take a bus to Ollantaytambo. The buses leave from the Terminal Terrestre in Cusco. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and costs approximately 10-15 soles. Once in Ollantaytambo, transfer to a train to Aguas Calientes. The train ride takes about 1.5 hours and the ticket costs around 60-100 soles depending on the service class. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you will need to take a shuttle bus to Machu Picchu. The shuttle bus departs every 15-20 minutes and costs about 24 dollars round trip.

• Walking

  Once you arrive at Machu Picchu, you will enter through the main gate. To reach Sacred Rock, follow the main pathway towards the upper terraces. The Sacred Rock is located near the Intihuatana stone, so look for signs pointing towards the Intihuatana. The walk takes about 15 minutes from the entrance. The area around Sacred Rock is often less crowded, providing a peaceful atmosphere to appreciate the significance of the site.

• Private Taxi

  If you prefer a more direct route, you can hire a private taxi from Cusco to Ollantaytambo. This option typically costs between 200-300 soles for the trip, which may be split among passengers if you are traveling in a group. The drive takes about 1.5 hours. Once in Ollantaytambo, board a train to Aguas Calientes as described above, and then take the shuttle bus to Machu Picchu.