Machu Picchu is more than just a place to visit; it's a life-changing experience that blends mystery, nature, and the essence of Inca culture. This UNESCO World Heritage site requires careful planning to fully unleash its magic, whether you're an experienced traveler, an adventure seeker, or organizing an unforgettable family vacation.
Created by the professionals at Andean Travel Experience, this guide offers practical travel advice that will enhance your trip with rich cultural experiences, hassle-free travel, and lifelong memories. We've considered everything, from how to get there and when to go, to insider tips for avoiding the crowds, so you can concentrate on the wonder.
1. When Is the Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu?
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from May to September. These months offer clearer skies and more stable weather, ideal for trekking and panoramic photos.
- June to August is high season expect more tourists but ideal hiking weather.
- Shoulder seasons (April and October) are great for fewer crowds and lush scenery.
- Rainy season (November to March) can bring dramatic misty landscapes, but also trail closures and less predictable conditions.
📌 Expert advice: Entry times in the early morning and late afternoon are typically less crowded and provide stunning lighting for pictures.
2. Choosing the Right Ticket and Entry Time
Machu Picchu offers a variety of entry tickets that can sell out weeks in advance, particularly for the few hiking permits available.
Ticket Options:
- Machu Picchu Only – explore the citadel at your own pace.
- Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu – a steep and thrilling climb with bird’s-eye views.
- Machu Picchu + Mountain (Montaña) – higher, longer hike, but less crowded.
- Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu – shorter, less intense alternative for families.
📌 Select your ticket according to your level of fitness, the amount of time you have available, and whether you want to experience the exhilaration of panoramic trekking.
Read our full Blog Machu Picchu Tickets: A Quick Guide for Travelers
3. How to Get to Machu Picchu: Trains, Treks, and Transfers
Half the adventure is getting to Machu Picchu. You can opt for an immersive trek through the Andes or an opulent journey, depending on your preferred style of travel.
By Train:
- Hiram Bingham (Luxury) – opulent, vintage-style train with gourmet dining.
- Vistadome (Comfort) – panoramic windows for unforgettable Andean views.
- Expedition (Budget-friendly) – efficient and scenic.
By Trek:
- Classic Inca Trail (4 Days) – historic route through ancient ruins.
- Salkantay Trek – dramatic mountain landscapes and fewer crowds.
- Short Inca Trail (2 Days) – ideal for time-conscious travelers.
📌 From permits to transfers, Andean Travel Experience handles all the details to ensure a seamless trip that suits your needs.
4. Where to Stay: Luxury and Boutique Hotels Near Machu Picchu
Accommodations in Aguas Calientes, also called Machu Picchu Pueblo, vary.
Recommended Stays:
- Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel – luxury meets ecological sustainability.
- Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel – high-end Peruvian cuisine and spa.
- El MaPi by Inkaterra – chic, modern, and centrally located.
📌 Alternatively, stay in the Sacred Valley for a more immersive experience in local culture and nature before heading to Machu Picchu.
5. Top Packing Tips for Machu Picchu
Packing light yet smart is key.
Essentials:
- Lightweight waterproof jacket
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Passport (mandatory for entry)
📌 Machu Picchu is as photogenic as it is spiritual, so don't forget your camera or smartphone.
6. Machu Picchu Altitude Tips and Health Advice
While Machu Picchu sits at 2,430m (7,970 ft), many travelers arrive from Cusco (3,400m), where altitude sickness is more likely.
How to Prepare:
- Acclimatize in the Sacred Valley or Cusco for 1–2 days.
- Stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals and alcohol on arrival.
- Coca tea and altitude pills can help, but consult your doctor first.
7. Guided Tours vs. Exploring Solo: What’s Best for You?
Why book a guided tour?
By describing hidden symbolism, Incan engineering, and astronomical alignments that you would miss on your own, a guide makes the ruins come to life.
Andean Travel Experience offers:
- Private luxury tours with expert local guides
- Custom itineraries for solo travelers, couples, and families
- Multilingual options and immersive cultural insights
8. Extend Your Adventure: Add-ons and Nearby Experiences
Don't stop at Machu Picchu. Extend your itinerary with:
- Sacred Valley cultural tours (Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Maras)
- Cusco city tour with colonial charm and Incan history
- Rainbow Mountain hike for striking natural beauty
- Amazon jungle lodge for a dramatic change of scenery
📌 Pro tip: Plan extensions in advance to align logistics, weather, and availability.
9. Final Travel Tips for an Unforgettable Visit
- Book Machu Picchu entry and train tickets at least 60–90 days in advance
- Arrive early at the gates (30 mins before your time slot)
- Respect the rules Machu Picchu is sacred and protected
- Let yourself be present. Disconnect. Breathe it in.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Machu Picchu
1. Do I need to book Machu Picchu tickets in advance?
Yes, advance booking is highly recommended, especially during the high season (May to September). Tickets to Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are limited and often sell out weeks in advance.
2. What is the best way to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco?
The most popular way is to take a train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, followed by a shuttle bus up to Machu Picchu. Luxury trains like the Hiram Bingham offer a premium experience. Trekkers can opt for the Inca Trail or alternative treks.
3. What are the entry times for Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu operates in hourly time slots from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM. You must enter during your assigned window and can stay up to 4 hours depending on the ticket type.
4. Is altitude sickness a concern at Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu itself is at a moderate altitude (2,430m), but Cusco (3,400m) is much higher. It’s wise to acclimate in the Sacred Valley for a day or two before visiting.
5. Can I visit Machu Picchu with children or elderly travelers?
Absolutely. Machu Picchu is suitable for families and older travelers. Just be mindful of uneven terrain, bring walking sticks (if needed), and choose a less strenuous circuit or entry ticket.
6. What should I wear to Machu Picchu?
Wear light, breathable clothing, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes. Weather can change quickly. Don’t forget sun protection and a hat!
7. Are guided tours required to visit Machu Picchu?
No, but a licensed guide is highly recommended for first-time visitors. Guided tours offer historical context, cultural insights, and help navigate the different routes efficiently.
8. What’s the difference between Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain?
- Huayna Picchu is steeper, shorter, and more popular.
- Machu Picchu Mountain is a longer, higher climb with sweeping views and fewer people.
Both require special tickets and are not recommended for those with vertigo.
9. Can I bring food or drinks into Machu Picchu?
Outside food is not allowed inside the site to preserve the environment. Water in a reusable bottle is permitted. There’s a small café and restrooms outside the entrance gate.
10. Is Machu Picchu open year-round?
Yes, Machu Picchu is open year-round, including holidays. However, the Inca Trail is closed every February for maintenance. The rainy season (November–March) may bring trail closures and limited visibility.
Andean Travel Experience combines extensive local knowledge with top-notch service to create unique luxury travel experiences throughout Peru. We can help you realize your dreams of a romantic getaway, a family outing, or a solitary spiritual journey.
Contact us or DM us on Instagram to start planning your Machu Picchu adventure today.