Aguas Calientes: Bus Transfer to Machu Picchu Citadel

Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the iconic Machu Picchu, offers a convenient bus transfer service that whisks visitors up the mountain to the breathtaking ancient citadel. With fares starting at a reasonable $16.47, travelers can choose from one-way or round-trip journeys, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The buses depart every 10-15 minutes, minimizing wait times and providing a scenic 30-45 minute ride through the stunning Andean landscape. While tickets are non-refundable and valid for a single day, travelers can enhance their Machu Picchu adventure by booking in advance or opting for on-site purchases. The stage is set for an unforgettable journey to one of the world’s most captivating archaeological wonders.

Contents hide

1 Overview and Pricing

2 Experience and Highlights

3 Booking and Ticketing

4 Customer Reviews and Ratings

5 Important Information

6 Meeting Point Details

7 Boarding and Comfort Considerations

8 On-Site Ticket Purchase Option

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

Bus transfers from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu Citadel start at $16.47 per person for one-way or round-trip with frequent 30-45 minute scenic rides.
Buses operate every 10-15 minutes from 5:30 AM to 3:00 PM (Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu) and 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes).
Tickets are non-refundable and valid for one day only, with Machu Picchu entry tickets and tour guides requiring separate arrangements.
On-site ticket purchase for $12 is an alternative option, but may have limited availability and longer wait times.
Booking in advance is recommended to secure reserved seating and better trip coordination, despite some reported issues with the boarding process.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

What does the bus transfer from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu entail?

The bus transfer offers convenient transportation between the two locations. Prices start from $16.47 per person for a one-way or round-trip ticket.

The buses run frequently, departing every 10-15 minutes between 5:30 AM and 3:00 PM from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, and 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM in the opposite direction.

The 30-45 minute scenic ride provides a comfortable way to travel. Tickets are non-refundable and valid for only one day.

Travelers must arrange Machu Picchu entry tickets and tour guides separately.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Aguas Calientes.

Experience and Highlights

The bus transfer between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu offers a comfortable and scenic ride for travelers.

The journey takes 30 to 45 minutes each way, allowing passengers to enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush vegetation.

The experience is further enhanced by the flexible schedule, with buses departing every 10 to 15 minutes from 5:30 AM to 3:00 PM (Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu) and 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes).

This convenient service ensures that travelers can explore the Machu Picchu citadel at their own pace without feeling rushed.

Booking and Ticketing

Travelers can book their bus transfer tickets in advance through the local partner, who’ll send the tickets via email. This allows for more flexibility in planning the trip.

When booking, travelers must provide details such as dates of birth, gender, full names, nationality, and passport numbers for all group members. This information is required to confirm the booking.

Though travelers must arrange Machu Picchu entry tickets and tour guides separately, the bus transfer service simplifies the transportation aspect.

Some customers have noted potential issues with organization and long lines, so purchasing tickets on-site for $12 may be an alternative option to consider.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Visitors have left a respectable 4.4/5 overall rating for the bus transfer service based on 48 reviews.

The transportation aspect received a 4.4/5 score, while the value for money was rated 4/5.

Common feedback includes:

Efficient boarding, with buses departing every 10-15 minutes.
Potential issues with crowded waiting areas and discomfort in back seats.
Suggestions to purchase tickets on-site for $12, as some reported chaotic boarding processes.

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Important Information

What else should travelers be prepared for when booking the bus transfer to Machu Picchu?

Passengers should be aware that the meeting point for the bus transfer can vary depending on the booking option selected.

Plus, travelers should expect crowded waiting areas and potential discomfort in the back seats of the vans used for the transfer.

Some travelers have noted chaotic boarding processes, suggesting that purchasing tickets on-site for $12 may be preferable to avoid potential organization issues.

Here's some more things to do in Aguas Calientes

Meeting Point Details

The meeting point for the bus transfer to Machu Picchu can vary depending on the booking option selected.

For instance:

If you book a one-way transfer from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, the meeting point is typically at the bus station in Aguas Calientes.
For a round-trip transfer, the meeting point is usually at the bus station in Aguas Calientes for the departure and at the Machu Picchu site entrance for the return.
Travelers are advised to confirm the precise meeting location with the local partner upon booking, as this can occasionally change.

Boarding and Comfort Considerations

Travelers may encounter some boarding and comfort challenges when using the bus transfer to Machu Picchu. The waiting areas can get quite crowded, and boarding the buses may feel chaotic at times. Plus, the back seats of the vans may not provide the most comfortable ride. While the buses run frequently, some travelers have noted organization issues during the boarding process. To better understand the experience, consider the following table:

Aspect	Rating (1-5)	Feedback
Boarding Process	3	Chaotic, long lines
Seating Comfort	3	Cramped, especially in back
Wait Times	4	Buses depart every 10-15 minutes
Overall Organization	3	Room for improvement
Value for Money	4	Reasonable price for convenience

On-Site Ticket Purchase Option

Some travelers have noted the option to purchase bus tickets on-site at Machu Picchu for $12, rather than booking in advance. This can be a convenient choice for those who prefer flexibility or encounter any last-minute changes to their plans.

However, there are a few factors to consider:

Availability: On-site tickets are subject to limited stock and may sell out, especially during peak seasons.
Longer Waits: Purchasing on-site can mean standing in longer queues, potentially delaying your arrival at the Machu Picchu site.
Advance Planning: Booking in advance ensures you have a reserved seat and can better coordinate your overall Machu Picchu experience.

The on-site ticket purchase option provides an alternative, but travelers should weigh the advantages and disadvantages to determine the best approach for their needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Cancel or Reschedule My Bus Transfer Ticket?

You can’t cancel or reschedule the bus transfer ticket. It’s non-refundable and valid only for the date you’ve booked. If your plans change, you’ll need to purchase a new ticket.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?

There are no additional fees or taxes not included in the $16.47 per person price for the one-way or round-trip bus transfer. The ticket price is all-inclusive, with no hidden charges.

Do I Need to Print My Bus Transfer Ticket or Can I Use a Digital Version?

Travelers can use a digital version of their bus transfer ticket. They don’t need to print it out, as the bus operator can scan the ticket on a mobile device. This provides a convenient paperless option.

Is It Possible to Upgrade My Bus Transfer Ticket to a Premium Service?

It’s not possible to upgrade the basic bus transfer ticket to a premium service. The ticket options are limited to one-way or round-trip, and there’s no mention of any premium or upgraded service available.

Can I Purchase the Bus Transfer Ticket on the Day of My Visit?

You can purchase the bus transfer ticket on the day of your visit, but it’s recommended to book in advance to ensure availability. While on-site tickets cost $12, pre-booked tickets provide the convenience of guaranteed transportation.

Recap

The bus transfer service from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu offers a convenient and scenic journey for travelers, with fares starting at $16.47 per person for one-way or round-trip rides. Buses depart frequently, ensuring minimal wait times, and the 30-45 minute ride allows visitors to soak in the stunning mountain views. While tickets are non-refundable, travelers can enhance their experience by booking in advance or purchasing on-site.

You can check if your dates are available here: