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Exploring Machu Picchu: Tips for Maximizing Your Visit to ‘The Lost City of the Incas’
Nestled high in the Peruvian Andes, Machu Picchu stands as an archaeological marvel, captivating travelers worldwide.
Amidst deep valleys and towering peaks, the awe-inspiring ruins await, evoking a sense of wonder as you wander through the ancient stonework, pondering their enigmatic past. A journey to Machu Picchu promises to deepen your affection for Peru (if by chance you hadn’t already been smitten).
Here, we provide invaluable advice for those venturing to Machu Picchu, ensuring an unforgettable experience at this legendary destination.
Best Time to Explore Machu Picchu
Exploring Machu Picchu is an enriching experience that can be enjoyed throughout the year, but it’s crucial to take into account the seasonal variations when planning your trip. Peru experiences two distinct seasons: the wet season (from November to March) and the dry season (from April to October). While rain is still possible during the dry season, you’re more likely to encounter clearer, drier weather conditions.
However, keep in mind that better weather also attracts more visitors. Therefore, regardless of when you plan to visit, it’s essential to book your tickets well in advance. Machu Picchu typically sees over 6,500 visitors per day, so securing your tickets early will help minimize waiting times and avoid disappointment.
Tip: If you’re considering hiking the Inca Trail(Camino Inca)to reach the ruins, it’s best to avoid visiting in February, which is typically the wettest month of the year. During this time, the trail is closed for maintenance.
What to Pack for Your Machu Picchu Adventure
Preparing for your Machu Picchu adventure requires careful packing. Here are some essential items to bring:
- A waterproof jacket (essential regardless of the season)
- Ample water supply
- Sufficient sunscreen — Due to the compromised ozone layer over Peru and the high elevation of the Andes, even cloudy days can result in severe sunburn.
- Insect repellent }
- Appropriate hiking attire and sturdy shoes
- Sun hat
- Trekking poles with protective tips
- Some 1 sol coins for restroom facilities.
Don’t forget to bring your passport as it’s required at the control gate. Additionally, just outside the entrance, there’s a small station where you can get a novelty Machu Picchu stamp to commemorate your visit.
How to Reach Machu Picchu
From Aguas Calientes: The closest settlement to Machu Picchu is Aguas Calientes. From here, you’ll embark on a brief walk to the boarding point where you can catch one of the shuttle buses to the site entrance, a journey lasting approximately 25 minutes.
From Cusco: As the gateway city to Machu Picchu, Cuzco offers convenient access to the site. Travelers departing from Cusco can catch a train from Poroy Station, which takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes.
From Ollantaytambo: Exploring the Sacred Valley before or after your Machu Picchu visit is highly recommended, and Ollantaytambo serves as one of its main hubs. The train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes lasts about 1.5 hours and provides a memorable experience. This route is one of the highest train routes globally, with each wagon featuring a see-through roof that offers breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Via the Inca Trail: Embarking on the Inca Trail Tours is an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression. Throughout the 4–5 day hike (depending on the route chosen), you’ll encounter diverse wildlife, ancient ruins, and awe-inspiring views at every turn. The journey culminates with a spectacular sunrise view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate at Inti Punku.
While prior athletic prowess isn’t necessary, a moderate level of fitness is recommended for the challenging terrain. Be sure to break in your walking boots and pack blister plasters before setting off.
Booking your tickets months in advance is essential for securing your spot on the Inca Trail. This includes obtaining permits and hiring guides and porters to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Where to Accommodate
Aguas Calientes: Commonly referred to as Machu Picchu Pueblo, Aguas Calientes is conveniently located just 30 minutes from the historic site. The town offers various hotels and dining options, serving as an ideal rest stop before or after your Machu Picchu adventure.
Among the top accommodations in Aguas Calientes are Sumaq and Inkaterra. Nestled in serene corners of the town, both establishments offer luxurious retreats amidst verdant surroundings. Returning from a day of exploration at Machu Picchu to indulgent spa treatments, exquisite Peruvian cuisine, and tranquil nights is a rejuvenating experience.
Sanctuary Lodge: Strategically positioned for exploring the ancient Inca Citadel, Sanctuary Lodge is the only overnight accommodation near the site. A stay at Sanctuary Lodge provides unparalleled access, allowing you to bypass queues and fully immerse yourself in the splendor of Machu Picchu, especially during the magical sunrise or sunset hours. Consider incorporating this into your trip’s budget for an unforgettable experience.
Mountains and Hiking Trails at Machu Picchu
While exploring Machu Picchu, consider embarking on one of the iconic mountain hikes in the area, each offering unique experiences and stunning views of the citadel from their summits.
Please note that some of these hikes have limited availability and restrict the number of daily visitors. It’s advisable to book these hikes in advance, along with your classic Machu Picchu visit, preferably spanning two days.
Putucusi: Ascending to the peak of Putucusi rewards you with breathtaking views of the sacred city of Machu Picchu, the Huayna Picchu Valley, and the Urubamba River. This challenging 2-hour hike demands moderate hiking experience and sure footing due to its near-vertical scales. Along the trail, you’ll encounter lush vegetation and diverse flora, including Alisos, Pisonayes Q’eofias, puya, ferns, palm trees, and over 90 species of orchids.
Huayna Picchu: Rising 2,720 meters above sea level, the cone-shaped Huayna Picchu mountain stands behind the ruins. Despite its steep appearance, the ascent is manageable and often attempted by families with children. Reaching the peak of Huayna Picchu offers panoramic views of the ruins and takes approximately an hour.
Machu Picchu Mountain: For a less crowded alternative to Huayna Picchu, consider hiking Machu Picchu Mountain. This route offers more solitude and allows for last-minute ticket purchases, perfect for spontaneous adventurers! The round-trip hike takes about 4–5 hours and involves some scrambling, making it unsuitable for children and the elderly.
Huchuy Picchu: A relatively easy hike, Huchuy Picchu, or ‘Little Mountain’ in Quechua, spans just 1 kilometer and takes around 1 hour to complete. From the summit, enjoy a stunning view of the Machu Picchu citadel.
Inca Bridge: Another noteworthy feature at Machu Picchu is the Inca Bridge, located on the western edge of the site. This wooden bridge, built by the Inca, clings to the mountainside on a path used for defensive purposes. To reach the Inca Bridge, walk approximately 1 kilometer to the western part of the archaeological site.
Exploring Machu Picchu: Your Ultimate Guide
Upon your journey to Machu Picchu, you will be required to purchase a ticket for a specific route within the ancient archaeological site. This measure is implemented to safeguard the integrity of the revered Inca citadel and ensure the safety of all visitors.
Depending on the extent of your exploration, you have the following ticket options:
- Machu Picchu Only: This grants access to iconic landmarks such as the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Square, the Temple of the 3 Windows, the Intihuatana, the Sacred Rock, the Temple of the Condor, and more.
- Machu Picchu with Huayna Picchu Mountain
- Machu Picchu with Machupicchu Mountain
- Machu Picchu with Huchuy Picchu Mountain
- Machu Picchu with Inca Bridge
Regardless of your chosen ticket, there is a strict 4-hour maximum stay imposed on every scheduled entry. To ensure seamless logistics, your Atelier Travel Designer will meticulously coordinate all aspects of your Machu Picchu adventure, aligning with train departures, bus schedules, and entry times.
For the Classic Circuit (Llaqta of Machu Picchu), it is advisable, if not mandatory, to engage an official tourism guide, particularly during your initial visit, to enhance your experience and understanding of this historical marvel.
Altitudes in the Machu Picchu Region
The Machu Picchu region in Peru is characterized by its mountainous terrain, resulting in relatively high altitudes throughout. Here are the elevations above sea level for Machu Picchu and key landmarks in the area:
- Machu Picchu: 2,430 meters (7,972 feet)
- Machu Picchu Mountain: 3,061 meters (10,042 feet)
- Sun Gate (Inti Punku): 2,720 meters (8,924 feet)
- Huayna Picchu: 2,720 meters (8,920 feet)
- Huchuy Picchu: 2,479 meters (8,133 feet)
- Cusco: 3,399 meters (11,152 feet)
- Sacred Valley: 2,900 meters (9,514 feet)
Tierras Vivas Insider Tips:
Here are some insider tips from our Peru experts to ensure your visit to Machu Picchu is as seamless and enjoyable as possible:
- Stay Flexible: Machu Picchu entrance tickets are in high demand, especially during peak seasons and holidays. Consider traveling during quieter times for a more serene experience. If you do plan to visit during peak times, be sure to book well in advance.
- Remember Your Documents: Your Tierras Vivas Travel Designer will need the following information to secure accurate schedules for your itinerary: full name, passport number, date of birth, and nationality. Once tickets are issued, they are non-refundable. If your ticket is issued with an expired document, bring both the old and new valid documents.
- Opt for Luxury Train Travel: Indulge in the ultimate Machu Picchu experience by boarding the Belmond Hiram Bingham luxury train. This unique journey offers entertainment, cocktails, and fine dining onboard. For an even more luxurious and private experience, consider booking a private carriage for your journey to the ancient Incan city.
Whether you choose luxury train travel or another mode of transportation, Machu Picchu’s ancient ruins promise an unforgettable experience. Contact a Tierras Vivas travel specialist today to arrange your visit to this Peruvian masterpiece.
