Dreaming of Machu Picchu? Here’s how to plan an unforgettable trip.
Planning a trip to Machu Picchu may seem simple, but the reality is very different. Did you know that many travelers face problems because they don’t plan ahead? From purchasing tickets to choosing the best time to visit, every detail counts to making your experience unforgettable. In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know to avoid setbacks and experience Machu Picchu to the fullest.
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General planning
When is the best time to travel to Machu Picchu?
The best time to travel to Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, the weather is more favorable, with less rain and better visibility for enjoying the landscapes. Although there is a lower chance of rain, the trails remain accessible year-round.
It’s important to keep in mind that tourist numbers remain constant regardless of the season. Visitors are always busy during both the dry and rainy seasons, so it’s best to purchase tickets in advance. If you want to combine good weather with less traffic, May and September are recommended months.
How many days do I need to visit Machu Picchu?
Ideally, you should allow at least two days to visit Machu Picchu at your leisure. On the first day, we recommend traveling from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the closest town to the archaeological site. You can arrive by train or combine ground transportation with hiking, depending on your time and budget.
On the second day, you can get up early to climb the citadel of Machu Picchu. A guided tour lasts approximately two hours, and if you wish, you can explore more areas on your own or climb additional mountains (with an extra ticket).
Is it better to go on my own or with an agency?
The first step in planning your trip to Machu Picchu is deciding whether you will visit with a tour or on your own.
Keep in mind that traveling with a tour is safer and more convenient because tourists don’t need to buy a ticket. However, traveling with a tour can be more expensive than traveling on your own.
Also, keep in mind that traveling on your own requires a lot of organization: purchasing admission to Machu Picchu, train tickets, bus tickets, tour guide services, etc. Even so, traveling on your own can be cheaper than traveling with a tour.
Most people traveling as a family choose to take a tour to visit Machu Picchu. Those traveling in groups of friends, as a couple, or alone prefer to travel independently.
After deciding whether you’ll be traveling with a tour or on your own, you’ll need to choose a date for your visit to Machu Picchu and, accordingly, schedule flights, hotel reservations, visits to additional Cusco attractions, etc.
How to plan other destinations in Cusco?
During your visit to Machu Picchu, you’ll have the opportunity to explore other tourist destinations in Cusco. Some of the most famous sites to visit include Rainbow Mountain, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Humantay Lagoon, and the archaeological sites in the city of Cusco.
Most tours to these destinations can be purchased in Cusco itself or online through your preferred travel agency.
The only tour that should be purchased well in advance is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a 4-day trek to the Inca city. This tour must be purchased online 6 or 7 months in advance. Otherwise, there will be no availability.
Remember that you can also visit Cusco’s main tourist attractions on your own. To do so, you must purchase the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which includes admission to: Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Regional Historical Museum, the Museum of Popular Art, the Qoricancha Site Museum, the Qosqo Native Art Center, the Inca Pachacuteq Monument, Pikillaqta, Tipón, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Moray. The ticket costs 130 Peruvian soles (approximately US$37).
In any case, Cusco and Machu Picchu are one of Peru’s best tourist destinations. Whether you come with a tour or on your own, enjoy your trip!
Tickets to Machu Picchu
Where do I buy tickets to Machu Picchu?
- Online: You can purchase them from our website or from the official Ministry of Culture website. Both platforms allow you to view real-time availability and make your purchase securely.
- In person: You can also purchase tickets in Cusco, at the Cultural Office located at 225 Garcilaso Street. However, this option isn’t the most recommended, as it’s often necessary to purchase tickets three to four months in advance. This can be complicated if you aren’t in Cusco well in advance, especially for travelers coming from other regions or countries.
How far in advance should I buy tickets?
| Tickets to Machu Picchu | How far in advance is it recommended to book? | |
|---|---|---|
| Ticket type | Low Season | Peak season |
| Machu Picchu + Mountain – Route 1A | 2 months before | 3 to 4 months before |
| Classic Photo in Machu Picchu – Route 1B | 1 month before | 2 to 3 months before |
| Machu Picchu + Intipunku – Route 1C | Not available | 2 to 3 months in advance (high season only) |
| Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge – Route 1D | Not available | 2 to 3 months in advance (high season only) |
| Machu Picchu Classic Circuit – Route 2A | 2 to 3 months before | 4 to 5 months before |
| Classic Circuit of Machu Picchu (lower terrace) – Route 2B | 2 to 3 months before | 4 to 5 months before |
| Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu – Route 3A | 2 to 3 months before | 3 to 4 months before |
| Temples in the lower part of Machu Picchu – Route 3B | 1 month before | 2 to 3 months before |
| Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon – Route 3C | Not available | 2 to 3 months in advance (high season only) |
| Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu – 3D Route | Not available | 2 to 3 months in advance (high season only) |
What types of tickets are there?
| Circuit Type | Ticket type |
|---|---|
| Circuit 1 – Panoramic | Machu Picchu + Mountain – Route 1A |
| Classic Photo in Machu Picchu – Route 1B | |
| Machu Picchu + Intipunku – Route 1C | |
| Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge – Route 1D | |
| Circuit 2 – Classic Circuit | Machu Picchu Classic Circuit – Route 2A |
| Classic Circuit of Machu Picchu (lower terrace) – Route 2B | |
| Circuit 3 – Machu Picchu Royalty | Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu – Route 3A |
| Temples in the lower part of Machu Picchu – Route 3B | |
| Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon – Route 3C | |
| Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu – 3D Route |
What document do I need to buy tickets?
To purchase tickets to Machu Picchu, you must present a valid ID. Peruvians must use their DNI (National Identity Document), while foreigners must present their passport. This document must be current and exactly match the one you will show on the day of your visit.
For students, a discount is only available if they present an original, valid university ID card issued by a recognized university, with a clear photo and date.
Transport
How do I get from Lima to Cusco?
The fastest and most common way to get from Lima to Cusco is by plane. There are several daily flights that last approximately an hour and a half. This is the most recommended option to maximize your time and avoid the long road trip, which can take more than 20 hours by bus.
If you decide to travel by land, there are interprovincial buses that connect Lima with Cusco, which often make stops in cities like Nazca or Arequipa. It’s a long trip, but it can be a good option if you have time and want to explore more of Peru before arriving at Machu Picchu.
How do I get from Cusco to Machu Picchu?
To get to Machu Picchu from Cusco, the most popular option is to take a train with either Perú Rail or Inca Rail to Aguas Calientes, the closest town to the citadel. You can board the train at the Ollantaytambo station, which is about a two-hour drive from Cusco.
Once in Aguas Calientes, you must take a bus that will take you to the entrance of Machu Picchu in about 30 minutes. You can also hike up, but the route is steep and takes between 1 and 2 hours. The train and bus combination is the fastest and most comfortable option for most travelers.
What is better: train or walking?
It’s up to you here! If you’re short on time or prefer a more comfortable route, it’s best to take the train. Why? This service is fast, safe, and offers breathtaking views throughout the journey. There are different service classes, from budget options to luxury panoramic trains.
If you enjoy trekking and want a more immersive adventure, hiking is ideal. You can choose routes like the classic 4-day Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek. These treks offer unique landscapes and a strong historical and natural component before reaching Machu Picchu.
Where do I take the train to Machu Picchu?
Here’s a great tip! Most travelers usually take the train from Ollantaytambo station , as most departures confirmed by the railway companies depart from that point.
On the other hand, if you heard someone say they left Cusco by train, it’s true… but only in part. Why? Because PeruRail occasionally offers departures from the San Pedro or Poroy stations, although these are very infrequent.
When booking your train ticket, you’ll usually find the departure point indicated, along with additional information such as seat number, carriage, train type, and other details.
Which train companies go to Machu Picchu?
I see you’re very curious, and that’s great! Take note: there are only two rail companies that serve the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town): PeruRail and IncaRail. They both share the same route, but their services vary in terms of categories, extras, and comfort levels.
Traveler, this is one of the modes of transportation you shouldn’t miss on your trip, so I recommend booking your train several weeks in advance, as demand is very high. You’ll find fares for adults and children, as well as different train categories that determine the level of comfort.
What to bring
What clothes to wear for Machu Picchu?
You should wear comfortable, hiking-appropriate clothing, such as lightweight pants and a long-sleeved polo shirt. Don’t forget to also bring a waterproof or windproof jacket, as the weather can change unexpectedly throughout the day.
It’s also important to bring a hat or cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen. If you visit during the rainy season (November through March), don’t forget to bring a rain poncho. Avoid urban or uncomfortable clothing, as you’ll be walking quite a bit inside the archaeological site.
What footwear is recommended?
Take note! No matter which route you choose, you’ll always encounter cobblestone paths and stone stairs. Therefore, it’s extremely important to wear footwear with the right technology to provide grip and traction with every step. It should also be designed to protect your feet, such as trekking shoes.
What you should avoid is wearing urban or formal shoes. Why? Because they don’t have the necessary features for this type of terrain. You could slip, suffer friction injuries, or even end up with broken shoes. And you don’t want to be walking around in damaged footwear, do you?!
Can food or drinks be brought into the citadel?
Traveler, something you should keep in mind is that bringing food into the Machu Picchu citadel is prohibited. We know that sometimes we need a boost of energy to continue our journey, so you may want to consider bringing small pocket-sized snacks, which are not prohibited.
As for drinks, alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited, as is entering the country while intoxicated. So, as you know, avoid bringing these types of drinks with you.
Do I need to carry cash?
Good question! Take note: yes, it’s very important to carry cash. Why? In the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town), you’ll find items that might interest you, but not all of them accept card payments or digital wallets.
And what about ATMs? Yes, there are, but they can only be used by customers of Banco de la Nación or BCP, which isn’t useful for many foreign travelers. So, be sure to bring cash in the national currency (soles). You don’t want to have a bad time!
Accommodation
Is it better to stay in Aguas Calientes or Cusco?
Take note! Virtually 100% of tourists arrive in Cusco first, which is why most prefer to stay there. Furthermore, Cusco’s historic center is considered the ideal starting point for tours to destinations such as Humantay Lagoon, Rainbow Mountain, and the Sacred Valley, among others.
Staying more than two days in the town of Aguas Calientes won’t be very beneficial to your trip. Although it has all the necessary services, if you plan to continue exploring other places, you should keep in mind that no travel agency will pick you up from there, nor will you find direct transportation to other tourist destinations. Therefore, it’s best to stay in the city of Cusco. If you visit Machu Picchu in two days, you can spend only one night in Aguas Calientes.
Is it necessary to book in advance?
Traveler, if you plan to stay in 2- to 5-star hotels, it’s very important to book in advance , as demand is quite high. Ideally, you should book at least 1 to 2 months in advance, or if you’ve booked through a travel agency, you can let them handle it.
Now, if for some reason you didn’t make a reservation and you’re already in the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), when you head to the main square, you’ll find many people offering affordable accommodations. Keep in mind that these are usually hostels or small inns, with the basics for a night’s stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is located in the department of Cusco, Urubamba province, Machu Picchu district. It lies approximately 2,430 meters above sea level, between the Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu mountains, surrounded by highland rainforest and the Urubamba River.
What documents do I need to enter Machu Picchu?
Traveler, it’s very important to always carry your identification documents with you. If you’re a foreigner, you’ll also need a valid passport. Make sure all your documents are up-to-date. Click here for more information!
How many people can enter per day?
Daily entry to Machu Picchu is limited to approximately 4,500 people, divided into shifts and circuits. This number may vary depending on the season and the Peruvian Ministry of Culture’s regulations to protect the site.
Can I climb Huayna Picchu without a guide?
Of course. You should know that if you book a tour, the guides usually only accompany you to the entrance gate of this mountain. If you’d like a guide to accompany you during the climb, you must inform them in advance to arrange this.
Are there bathrooms in Machu Picchu?
You won’t find restrooms inside the Machu Picchu citadel or in the mountains. Don’t worry! You can use them near the citadel’s entrance checkpoint. We recommend drinking water in moderation before entering.
Can you visit Machu Picchu in one day?
Of course. In fact, most travelers usually book tours or go on their own for a single day, leaving very early in the morning and returning at night.
Is it mandatory to hire a guide?
It’s not mandatory, but it’s highly recommended. Why? Because Machu Picchu is full of stories and details in every street and building that you won’t want to miss. Plus, a guide will make your visit much more interesting and entertaining.
What happens if it rains on the day of my visit?
Travelers, please note that entry dates and times are strict, so you must enter even if it’s raining. If you visit Machu Picchu during the rainy season, we recommend booking your entry for the afternoon, when there’s usually less fog.
Are there age restrictions to enter Machu Picchu?
There are no age restrictions for entry. However, it’s important to ensure the well-being of the group, especially on physically demanding routes such as Huayna Picchu, Montaña, and Huchuy Picchu. Therefore, most agencies recommend these hikes only for those over 12 years of age.
Is it safe to travel to Machu Picchu?
Yes, it’s a very safe destination. You can walk around with your camera or cell phone in hand and take photos at your leisure. Plus, the tourist trails are well-marked and in good condition.