Planning a trip to the iconic Machu Picchu? One of the first questions on your mind is likely, “Where Do You Fly Into For Machu Picchu?” This comprehensive guide will break down your airport options to ensure your journey to this wonder of the world is as smooth as possible.
Understanding Your Airport Choices for Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu, nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, doesn’t have its own airport. The closest airport to Machu Picchu is in the city of Cusco, but Lima, Peru’s capital, also plays a significant role for international travelers. Let’s explore both options:
1. Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco
- Proximity: Cusco Airport is the closest airport to Machu Picchu. It’s approximately 45 miles (72 kilometers) from Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
- Domestic Hub: CUZ primarily operates domestic flights within Peru, with the majority of flights connecting through Lima.
- Altitude Adjustment: Cusco sits at a staggering altitude of 11,200 feet (3,400 meters) above sea level. Flying directly into Cusco allows you to begin acclimatizing to the altitude, which is crucial to prevent altitude sickness before your Machu Picchu trek.
- Shorter Travel Time to Machu Picchu: Flying into Cusco significantly reduces your overall travel time to Machu Picchu. From Cusco, you can take a train or a combination of bus and train to Aguas Calientes.
Alt text: Panoramic view of Machu Picchu Inca citadel nestled in the Andes Mountains.
Getting from Cusco Airport to Machu Picchu:
From Cusco Airport, you’ll typically need to travel to the Sacred Valley town of Ollantaytambo to catch a train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo can be arranged by taxi, private transfer, or local bus. The train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes is scenic and the most common way to reach Machu Picchu.
2. Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima
- International Gateway: Lima Airport is Peru’s main international airport. Most international flights will arrive and depart from Lima.
- Lower Altitude: Lima is a coastal city at a much lower altitude than Cusco, making it easier to adjust to the altitude gradually. However, you will still need to acclimatize to Cusco’s altitude before heading to Machu Picchu if you fly into Lima first.
- Connecting Flight to Cusco: If you fly into Lima, you’ll need to take a connecting domestic flight to Cusco to get closer to Machu Picchu.
- Potentially More Flight Options: As a major international hub, Lima usually offers a wider range of flight options and potentially more competitive prices for international flights.
Alt text: Aerial view of Lima coastline and urban cityscape in Peru.
Getting from Lima Airport to Machu Picchu:
From Lima Airport, you will need to take a domestic flight to Cusco. Once you arrive at Cusco Airport, you’ll follow the same onward journey to Machu Picchu as mentioned above (travel to Ollantaytambo and take the train).
Which Airport Should You Choose?
The “best” airport to fly into for Machu Picchu depends on your priorities:
- For minimizing travel time and starting altitude acclimatization immediately: Fly directly to Cusco (CUZ) if possible. This is generally recommended, especially if you are concerned about altitude sickness or have limited time.
- For potentially more international flight options and a more gradual altitude adjustment: Fly into Lima (LIM) first, then take a connecting flight to Cusco. This might be preferable if you want to spend some time exploring Lima or if you find better international flight deals to Lima.
Important Considerations:
- Altitude Sickness: Regardless of which airport you choose, factor in time to acclimatize to the altitude, especially in Cusco. Spend at least a day or two in Cusco before heading to Machu Picchu.
- Flight Booking: Book your flights, especially domestic flights within Peru, well in advance, particularly during peak tourist season.
- Transportation to Machu Picchu: Plan your transportation from Cusco (or Lima and then Cusco) to Machu Picchu in advance, including trains and buses.
By understanding your airport options – Cusco and Lima – you can make informed decisions to plan your unforgettable trip to Machu Picchu. Choose the airport that best aligns with your travel style and preferences, and get ready to explore the magic of this ancient Inca wonder!
