Cusco to Machu Picchu: Road Trip Guide & Distance

46.4 miles 74.7 km · straight line
127.8 miles actual route 205.7 km · driving distance
4h 49min estimated drive time
PEN 74 - PEN 91 estimated fuel cost
~36min flight time · usually no direct flights
303° WNW bearing direction

How far is Cusco from Machu Picchu?

The distance from Cusco to Machu Picchu is 46.4 miles (74.7 km) as the crow flies. Machu Picchu is located WNW of Cusco. By car, the driving distance is approximately 127.8 miles, taking about 4h 49min. A direct flight would take roughly 36min. Both are located in Peru.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Since you'll be heading mostly West, pack a good pair of sunglasses if you plan to drive during the late afternoon to avoid the harsh sun glare. Given the short distance, driving or taking a train is often faster and more convenient than dealing with airport security and flight boarding times.

Coordinates come from public place data for Cusco and Machu Picchu. The driving distance uses an OSRM road-route result when route data is available. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Cusco to Machu Picchu

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 4h 49min PEN 74 - PEN 91 Flexible stops
Bus ~5h 47min $10–$19* Budget
Train ~4h 35min $15–$45* Comfort

Quick Facts

Cusco
13.53°S, 71.97°W
America/Lima
3400m elevation
Machu Picchu
13.16°S, 72.55°W
America/Lima
2430m elevation
Explore more routes from Machu Picchu

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 15 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 4 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 536.5 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM