Getting around Machu Picchu is by your own two feet. Getting to Machu Picchu is another walking expedition, or you can opt to take the train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Once you get to Aguas Calientes, you have the option of taking a shuttle bus from the train station to the ruins, or you can take a short (but strenuous) hike up the hill to the ruins.

If you choose to hike the Inca Trail, prepare yourself by purchasing a guidebook to the trail, such as "The Inca Trail: Cusco & Machu Picchu" by Richard Danbury (Trailblazer Publications, 2005). Such a guide will provide you with great information about the Inca Trail, shortcut and scenic trekking options, as well as side-trips that you can make from the Inca Trail as well. You need a permit and a licensed travel agency to do the trek.