- GET YOUR LUGGAGE READY!
- RECOMMENDATIONS FOR YOUR ARRIVAL IN MACHU PICCHU
- THE BEST TOURS IN MACHU PICCHU
- OUR TRAIN TOURS TO MACHU PICCHU
- OUR ALL-INCLUSIVE TOUR PACKAGES
- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Travel Guide to Machu Picchu
Exploring Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience. In this guide, you will find everything you need to know to plan your trip: the best ways to get there, recommendations for your stay in Aguas Calientes, train options, and the available tours. Get ready for an unforgettable Inca adventure.
!Get your luggage ready!
Before embarking on this incredible experience of traveling by train to Machu Picchu, make sure you have everything ready. Follow these key points to enjoy an unforgettable journey and avoid any inconveniences during your adventure.
01. Documents
Don’t forget to bring the following documents:
- Documents
- ID card or Foreigner’s Card
- Passport
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Train ticket
- Bus ticket to Machu Picchu
02. What to bring
If you travel 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 you travel 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 higher solar 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 ascending to Machu Picchu
05. Location
01 Recommendations for your arrival in Cusco
Cusco welcomes you with its ancient traditions and modern comforts, inviting you to live a unique experience. It is important to keep in mind some essential tips for Cusco city, the starting point before visiting the Rainbow Mountain. Follow these recommendations for your visit to Cusco.
- Where to sleep?
- Cozy accommodations to rest and prepare for the hike.
- Learn more here ➔
- Where to eat?
- Enjoy Andean cuisine and local dishes.
- Learn more here ➔
- ¿Where to shop?
- Find unique local products and crafts.
- Learn more here ➔
02 All About Machu Picchu
Here you will find everything about Machu Picchu. Learn about the best time to visit, how to prepare physically for the altitude and hikes, where it is located, its altitude, the origin of its colors, how long the hike takes, and the wildlife along the way.
- General Information
- Discover how to get to Machu Picchu
- Learn more. ➔
- Best Time to Visit
- 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 make the most of your adventure
- Learn more. ➔
03 Our Machu Picchu Tour
Discover the wonder of Machu Picchu and explore other incredible destinations in Cusco with our exclusive tours for an experience you will remember forever.
Machu Picchu Tour See details ➔
Travel Guide to Machu Picchu
The price of the Machu Picchu entrance ticket varies depending on the type of ticket you choose and the visitor’s nationality:
- General Admission: $45 – $70 USD for adults
- Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Ticket: $60 – $80 USD
- Machu Picchu + Mountain Ticket: $60 – $80 USD
- Discounts available for students and citizens of the Andean Community (Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Colombia)
For updated prices and availability, visit the official ticket purchase website.
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from April to October. During these months, the weather is more stable, there is less rainfall, and the views are clearer. However, it is important to book in advance due to high demand.
There are different ways to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco:
- Train: The fastest and most comfortable option. Trains depart from Ollantaytambo or Poroy to Aguas Calientes.
- Inca Trail: A 4-day trek that requires prior booking.
- Hydroelectric Route: A budget-friendly alternative that combines bus and hiking.
Machu Picchu is located at 2,430 meters above sea level, making altitude sickness less likely compared to Cusco (3,400 m). To prevent it, it is recommended to acclimatize in Cusco, drink coca tea, and stay hydrated.
Since 2021, it is mandatory to enter with an authorized guide on your first visit. If you wish to explore freely, you can do so after completing the initial guided tour.
For a comfortable and safe experience at Machu Picchu, bring:
- Light and layered clothing
- Waterproof jacket
- Trekking shoes
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Water and snacks
- Passport and entrance ticket
Yes, it is possible to visit Machu Picchu with children and elderly people, but it is advisable to take the train option and consider that some parts of the site have steep stairs. Assistance can also be arranged to facilitate the visit.
There are no restrooms inside the Machu Picchu citadel. The only restrooms available are at the entrance, so it is recommended to use them before entering.
The Inca Trail trek is of moderate to high difficulty and lasts 4 days. The hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is demanding and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours on foot. Alternatively, a bus from Aguas Calientes takes approximately 30 minutes.
Yes, Machu Picchu is open all year round. However, during the rainy season (November to March), the visit can be more challenging due to slippery trails and reduced visibility. If visiting during these months, bringing waterproof clothing is recommended.
