- PREPARE YOUR TRIP!
- TIPS FOR MACHU PICCHU
- EXPERIENCES IN MACHU PICCHU
- OUR TRAIN TOURS TO MACHU PICCHU
- OUR ALL-INCLUSIVE TOUR PACKAGES
- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Travel Guide to Machu Picchu
Discovering Machu Picchu is a unique experience. In this guide, you will find essential information to plan your visit: the best routes to get there, tips for staying in Aguas Calientes, train alternatives, and the best tours available. Get ready for a spectacular Inca adventure.
!Prepare your trip!
Before embarking on this amazing train journey to Machu Picchu, make sure everything is in order. Follow these key tips to make the most of your trip and avoid unexpected issues during your adventure.
01. Documents
Do not forget to bring the following documents:
- Documents
- Identity Card or Foreigner’s ID
- Passport
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Train ticket
- Bus ticket to Machu Picchu
02. What to bring
If traveling during the rainy season
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Waterproof trekking boots
- Poncho or waterproof jacket
- Hat or cap
- Gloves
- Scarf
- Warm sweater or jacket
- Waterproof backpack
If traveling during the dry season
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Sunglasses
- Trekking shoes
- Lightweight backpack
- Hat or cap
- Light jacket
03. The Weather
Rainy Season November – March
- Daytime temperature: 12°C – 18°C
- Nighttime temperature: 5°C – 10°C
- Frequent rain and fog
Dry Season April – October
- Daytime temperature: 15°C – 22°C
- Nighttime temperature: 3°C – 8°C
- Clear skies and stronger sun radiation
04. The Altitude
Cusco: 3,399 meters above sea level
Ollantaytambo: 2,792 meters above sea level
Machu Picchu: 2,430 meters above sea level
Recommendation: Acclimatize in Cusco before going to Machu Picchu
05. Location
01 Tips for your arrival at Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu welcomes you with its rich history and stunning landscapes, offering an unparalleled adventure. Before your visit, take note of some key tips for a hassle-free trip and to fully enjoy every moment. Follow these recommendations for an exceptional experience.
- Where to sleep?
- Accommodations in Aguas Calientes to rest before your visit.
- Learn more here ➔
- Where to eat?
- Enjoy Andean cuisine in Aguas Calientes before or after your visit.
- Learn more here ➔
- Where to shop?
- Find souvenirs and handicrafts in the markets of Aguas Calientes.
- Learn more here ➔
02 Experiences in Machu Picchu
Here you will discover everything about Machu Picchu: the best time to visit, how to prepare physically for the altitude and hikes, its exact location, altitude, the origin of its colors, the duration of the tour, and the wildlife you will encounter along the way.
- General information
- Discover how to get to Machu Picchu
- Learn more. ➔
- Best season to travel
- Enjoy Machu Picchu at its peak
- Learn more. ➔
- What you will see in Machu Picchu
- Immerse yourself in the history and beauty of Machu Picchu
- Learn more. ➔
- Recommendations
- Prepare to fully experience your adventure
- Learn more. ➔
03 Our Tour to Machu Picchu
Explore the majesty of Machu Picchu and discover other amazing destinations in Cusco with our exclusive tours, designed for an unforgettable experience.
Tour to Machu Picchu See details ➔
04 Our All-Inclusive Tour Packages
Discover Cusco with our personalized tour packages. Experience the essence of this historic city and its surroundings with options that include the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca, the mystical Sacred Valley of the Incas, and the iconic Machu Picchu citadel.
Key Questions About Machu Picchu: Everything You Need to Know
What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, between May and September. During these months, there is less rainfall and better conditions to explore the citadel. If you prefer to avoid crowds, April and October are ideal months, as the weather remains favorable and there are fewer tourists.
How to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco?
There are two main options to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco:
1. By train: From Ollantaytambo or Poroy, traveling to Aguas Calientes and then taking a bus up to the citadel.
2. By hiking: Through the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek, ideal for hiking and adventure enthusiasts.
How much does the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu cost?
The ticket price varies depending on the type of entrance:
– General admission: From 152 soles for foreign adults and 64 soles for students.
– Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu: From 200 soles.
– Machu Picchu + Mountain: From 200 soles.
It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
How long does the visit to Machu Picchu last?
The average visit to Machu Picchu lasts between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the chosen circuit. There are shorter routes that only include the citadel and longer tours that cover Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
What are the entry hours to Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is open every day from 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Entry is organized in shifts from **6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.** It is recommended to visit early in the morning or after midday to avoid peak tourist hours.
What clothing and equipment should I bring to Machu Picchu?
To visit Machu Picchu, it is recommended to bring:
– Lightweight and comfortable clothing (in layers, as the weather can change).
– Trekking shoes or comfortable walking shoes.
– Hat or cap and sunscreen.
– Poncho or raincoat in case of rain.
– Small backpack with water and snacks.
Can I hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, but spots are limited and require prior reservation:
– Huayna Picchu: A 1.5-hour hike with breathtaking views, limited to 200 people per shift.
– Machu Picchu Mountain: A 2 to 3-hour hike, less steep but offering an incredible panoramic view.
Both options require special tickets and tend to sell out months in advance.
Can I bring food or drinks into Machu Picchu?
Bringing large meals or plastic water bottles is not allowed, but you can carry snacks and water in reusable bottles. It is recommended to avoid littering and respect the site’s conservation rules.
Is it mandatory to hire a guide to visit Machu Picchu?
Yes, since 2019, it has been mandatory to enter with an authorized guide on the first visit. If you wish to explore on your own during a second entry on the same day, you can do so without a guide.
