There is a train to Machu Picchu, and there is the trail. Four days of stone steps, cloud forest and passes above four thousand metres, ending at the Sun Gate at dawn.
Getting there
Permits sell out months ahead and are only sold through licensed operators. Spend two days in Cusco first to adjust to the altitude.
Where to stay
Campsites are set up by the porters. Bring a good sleeping bag: nights at altitude are cold.
What I would do differently
I would train on stairs for a month before. The trail is more steps than path.
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Prices in this guide are what I paid. They move every season, so use them as a rough guide.