Guide to Visit Machu Picchu, Tips and Advice

Are you ready to explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World? In this guide, we’re sharing everything you need to know to plan your visit to Machu Picchu—with tips and practical advice to make the most of your trip to one of the most important archaeological sites on the planet.

Every year, travelers from all over the world head to Peru to see this iconic site, which is not only a historical and archaeological treasure, but also one of the most visited tourist destinations in Latin America.

The Inca citadel was built in the Kusi Chaka gorge, surrounded by the Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu mountains, northeast of the city of Cusco.

While there are still several theories about its original purpose, what we do know is that it stands as one of the greatest examples of Inca architectural brilliance.

Terraces, temples, plazas, stone houses and paths make this one of the most breathtaking archaeological complexes in the world.

Let’s jump right into our best tips to help you plan your trip to Machu Picchu.

🍀 NOTE: At the end of this article, you’ll find a handy summary with links to book tickets, trains and guided tours, whether you’re planning to visit on your own or join a tour. We also recommend checking out the new circuit-based ticket system that came into effect in June 2024. You can jump to that section from the index or click here.

When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

While Cusco has a dry climate, the Machu Picchu area is more tropical. That’s why timing your visit is key.

The rainy season runs from November to March. During those months, the trails can get muddy and showers are more frequent.

Most travelers choose to visit between April and October, which is the dry season. Even then, occasional rain is possible—but usually light and short.

⚠️ Good to know: the classic Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance, but the Machu Picchu citadel remains open.

If you plan to go during peak season (June–August), make sure to book your entrance tickets and accommodation months in advance.

📝 I visited with friends in July. When we arrived, the whole site was covered in clouds and we couldn’t see anything. But by 9 or 10 a.m., the skies cleared and we were able to enjoy the visit.

What to pack for Machu Picchu

Packing for a trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu can be tricky—the days are usually warm and sunny, but temperatures drop quite a bit at night.

Here’s what you should definitely have in your daypack for a comfortable and stress-free visit:

• Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. You’ll be at 2,430 meters above sea level, and the sun is intense even when it’s cloudy.
• Insect repellent. Being near the edge of the jungle, you’ll likely encounter mosquitoes and other bugs.
• Reusable water bottle. Disposable plastic bottles are not allowed, and there’s nowhere to buy water inside the site.
• Comfortable shoes for walking several hours, plus clothing that covers your arms and legs for sun and insect protection.
• Rain jacket or poncho. Large umbrellas are not allowed, and rain can come unexpectedly, even in dry season.

🔝 Cusco is the nearest major city to Machu Picchu. Check out our guide on what to do in Cusco if you haven’t been yet.

How to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco

One of the most common questions from travelers is how to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco.

To reach the citadel, you’ll first need to go to Machu Picchu Pueblo, also known as Aguas Calientes—a small town at the base of the site. No matter how you travel, you’ll pass through here.

There are different ways to get there, depending on your travel style and budget.

Here’s a quick overview of the main options.

Hiking to Machu Picchu on the Classic Inca Trail

This is the top choice for adventurous travelers—you’ll reach Machu Picchu on foot, after 4 days of hiking and 3 nights of camping in the mountains.

The trail covers about 39 kilometers, along ancient paths built by the Incas hundreds of years ago.

It’s physically demanding, but the reward is worth it. On the final day, you’ll arrive at Intipunku (the Sun Gate), the same way the Incas once entered the citadel.

You’ll get there just at sunrise, with breathtaking views of Machu Picchu—a privilege only available to those who do the full Inca Trail.

📷 Book this 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu from Cusco.

Taking the train to Machu Picchu from Cusco

Taking the train is perfect if you’re short on time or simply want a more comfortable option.

It’s the fastest way to reach Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes). You can board the train from Cusco (San Pedro or Poroy stations) or from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. Depending on where you board, the ride takes 1.5 to 3.5 hours.

There’s no hiking involved, and you can either do a day trip or stay overnight in Aguas Calientes to visit the ruins the next morning.

The views from the train are spectacular—you’ll follow the Urubamba River through mountains and jungle the entire way.

📢 Train tickets sell out quickly during high season, so be sure to book in advance.

📷 Book your train ticket to Machu Picchu from Cusco or from Ollantaytambo.

Reaching Aguas Calientes via Hidroelectrica

The Hidroelectrica route is the cheapest way to reach Machu Picchu, but it’s also the most time-consuming and logistically complex.

From Cusco, you’ll need to make several transfers:

• A bus to Santa María (about 5 hours).
• Another ride to Santa Teresa.
• Then a taxi or mototaxi to the Hidroelectrica station.
• From there, a 2–3 hour walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes.

The walk is flat and scenic, with lush vegetation and river views. It’s not difficult, but it can be tiring after a long journey.

🚨 Note: this is not an official access route to Machu Picchu, but many budget travelers choose it to save money. It’s a good option if you have the time and are up for an adventure.

🔝 Planning a trip to Peru? Check out our article on what to do in Lima in one or two days.

Visiting Machu Picchu in one day

If you’re short on time, it’s possible to visit Machu Picchu in a single day from Cusco.

It’s ideal if you want to skip the logistics and just enjoy the experience—no need to worry about train tickets, buses or entry times.

Most agencies offer full-day tours that include:

• Round-trip transport (train + bus)
• Entrance to the archaeological site
• A guided tour
• Free time to explore Aguas Calientes

These trips usually last between 14 and 18 hours, depending on the train schedule.

📌 Due to the circuit-based system, these tours usually include tickets for routes 1B, 1C or 2B, which allow you to stay at the site for 2 to 4 hours. Mountain hikes are not included, but you’ll still get to enjoy the site’s main viewpoints and lower terraces.

📷 Book your full-day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu here.

How to visit Machu Picchu by staying overnight in Aguas Calientes

If you’ve got more time and want a slower pace, consider spending the night in Aguas Calientes before your visit to Machu Picchu.

You can get there on your own (by train or the Hidroelectrica route) and book your accommodation, or take a 2-day tour that includes transport, lodging, and a guided visit to the ruins.

Staying overnight lets you enter Machu Picchu in the earliest time slots (6–7 a.m.), which means fewer crowds and better lighting for photos.

Depending on the tour, you might get a basic entrance or one that includes access to Huayna Picchu or other mountain routes—so make sure to confirm the ticket type before booking.

📷 Book this tour to visit Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes. It doesn’t specify the circuit, but it’s most likely a type 1 route based on the duration.

📷 Book this 2-day excursion from Cusco to visit Machu Picchu, staying overnight in Aguas Calientes. Tickets are not included, but you can choose any type of entrance for your visit.

How to get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

If you didn’t book a full tour, you’ll need to decide how to reach the entrance to Machu Picchu from the town of Aguas Calientes.

The site is located about 10 kilometers uphill, and you have two main options:

• Hiking: the trail follows the same road as the buses, with steep stair sections. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and is free of charge, but physically demanding. It’s only recommended if you’re fit and used to walking.
• By bus: the official buses run every 5–10 minutes from 5:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and take 30 minutes to reach the entrance gate. Tickets can be purchased in town (Av. Hermanos Ayar) or online in advance.

📌 Lines can be long early in the morning, especially during high season. If you want to be among the first to enter, make sure to line up early or book your bus ticket in advance.

📷 Book your no-wait bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.

Where to stay in Aguas Calientes

If you’re planning to visit Machu Picchu by staying overnight in Aguas Calientes, you’ll need to find a place to stay.

This small and safe mountain town is completely walkable—everything is close by, no matter where you book.

There’s a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to boutique hotels and cozy B&Bs. Whatever your travel style or budget, you’ll find something that works for you.

• Sanctuary Lodge Machu Picchu
• Amakonkay Machupicchu
• Supertramp Eco Hostel
• Panorama B&B
• Jaya Suite Machu Picchu

🏨 Find here the best hotels in Machu Picchu.

Where to buy Machu Picchu tickets

Since June 2024, tickets to Machu Picchu are organized by numbered circuits, instead of specific zones like before. Each circuit has a fixed route within the site, and some include access to nearby mountains.

This new system was introduced to better manage visitor flow and limit the time spent inside the site.

Here are the main options:

• Circuit 1 (Panoramic): a short route along upper terraces. Great for the classic postcard photo. You won’t access the central ruins.
  • 1A includes the hike to Machu Picchu Mountain.
• Circuit 2 (Classic): the most complete route through the main temples and structures. Ideal for first-time visitors.
  • Includes variations 2A and 2B.
• Circuit 3 (Royalty): a shorter route through lower areas, but the only one that includes access to the mountains:
  • 3A: hike to Huayna Picchu (only for ages 12 and up, requires good physical condition).
  • 3C: includes the route to the Temple of the Moon (Gran Caverna).
  • 3D: short hike to Huchuy Picchu, accessible to everyone.

📌 All tickets are personalized and have fixed entry times. Mountain tickets are limited and often sell out months in advance. Buy them only from the official site: tuboleto.cultura.pe. If you want to see maps of the circuits, we recommend checking this article.

The table below offers a clear overview of each type of ticket:

Circuit	Sub-route	Includes	Age restriction	Max duration	Notes
1 – Panoramic	1A	Site + Machu Picchu Mountain	All ages	7 hours	Long, demanding hike
	1B	Upper viewpoint for classic photo	All ages	2 h 30	No access to central ruins
	1C	Site + Inti Punku (Sun Gate)	All ages	4 hours	Great views, limited access
	1D	Site + Inca Bridge	All ages	4 hours	No entry to main city area
2 – Classic	2A	Full route through main ruins	All ages	3 h 30	Best for first-time visitors
	2B	Lower terrace route	All ages	3 h 30	Shorter version of 2A
3 – Royalty	3A	Site + Huayna Picchu Mountain	12+ only	6 hours	Steep and challenging
	3B	Lower temple route	All ages	3 h 30	Short, limited access
	3C	Site + Temple of the Moon	12+ only	6 hours	Long and less visited
	3D	Site + Huchuy Picchu Mountain	All ages	3 h 30	Short, easy hike

General Recommendation

If it’s your first time at Machu Picchu: Circuit 2A is the most complete and accessible.

If you’re looking for a different experience with high-up views: go for 1A or 3A.

If you’re traveling with kids or prefer an easy hike: 3D (Huchuy Picchu) is your best bet.

If you just want the classic photo: 1B takes you straight to the viewpoint, but the rest of the site is not included.

Circuit 1A – Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain

This ticket includes access to the citadel and the hike up Machu Picchu Mountain, which is located on the opposite side of Huayna Picchu. The trail isn’t steep, but it’s long and has many stair sections, so it requires stamina.

It’s a good option if you want higher views without the vertigo of Huayna Picchu. Entry is allowed for all ages, and the maximum time allowed inside the site is 7 hours.

📌 Keep in mind that this route does not include the classic central areas of the citadel, since it follows a more limited path on the southern side. If you want to explore the full site, it’s best to do that separately with Circuit 2.

📷 Book this 1-day tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu with access to Machu Picchu Mountain.

Circuit 3A – Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain

To hike Huayna Picchu, you’ll need to book Circuit 3A, which includes part of the citadel and the climb to the mountain.

The trail is short but very steep, with stairs and narrow sections. If you’re afraid of heights, this might not be the best option. It’s recommended for visitors in good physical condition.

There are two time slots per day for the climb, and the maximum stay allowed at the site is 6 hours. Only 350 tickets are sold daily, so make sure to book well in advance.

📷 Book this 1-day tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu with Huayna Picchu entrance included.

Circuit 3D – Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu Mountain

This is a short and accessible option if you want the experience of climbing a mountain without too much effort. The hike takes less than an hour, with a moderate incline.

This circuit lets you explore part of the citadel (lower area) and climb up to Huchuy Picchu, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with kids or not up for a challenging hike.

📌 Only 200 tickets are available per day, and the maximum time allowed at the site is 3.5 hours.

Circuit 3D – Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu Mountain

This is a short and accessible option if you want the experience of climbing a mountain without too much effort. The hike takes less than an hour, with a moderate incline.

This circuit lets you explore part of the citadel (lower area) and climb up to Huchuy Picchu, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with kids or not up for a challenging hike.

📌 Only 200 tickets are available per day, and the maximum time allowed at the site is 3.5 hours.

What to See and Do Inside Machu Picchu

Before you start your visit, keep in mind that not all areas of Machu Picchu are included in every circuit. For example, the Guardian’s House viewpoint is only available in Circuits 1 and 2, but not in Circuit 3. Also, tickets that include a mountain hike usually follow a shorter route inside the site.

Make sure to double-check what your ticket includes, so you know exactly what to expect.

Guardian’s House and Funerary Rock

This stone house is located in the upper part of the site. You can walk there easily, and you’ll often see llamas nearby—a great spot for taking photos.

Sacred Rock of Machu Picchu

The Sacred Rock is carved from a single massive stone and resembles the shape of the mountains behind it (sometimes hidden by clouds in the background).

It’s considered sacred due to its supposed positive energy and spiritual significance.

Climbing Huayna Picchu

Huayna Picchu is the iconic tall mountain that appears in most photos of Machu Picchu. The trail is steep and narrow—not recommended if you’re afraid of heights.

The summit is small and gets crowded, so entry is strictly limited. You must book a separate ticket in advance (same-day tickets are no longer available).

📌 To climb Huayna Picchu, you’ll need to book Circuit 3A when purchasing your Machu Picchu ticket.

Map – What to See in and Around Machu Picchu

If you visit the site with a guide, they’ll help explain every detail. And although we’ve already covered the highlights, there are plenty of other fascinating spots to explore, such as:

• Temple of the Three Windows
• Temple of the Sun
• House of the Inka
• Main Plaza
• Intihuatana Pyramid
• Hall of Mirrors
• Temple of the Condor

You can find all these locations marked on this map of Machu Picchu:

What to See and Do in Machu Picchu Pueblo and Nearby

Most people travel to Aguas Calientes just to visit Machu Picchu, but some travelers choose to spend a bit more time enjoying the peaceful vibe of the town.

If that’s your plan, here are a few things you can do in and around Aguas Calientes beyond the citadel itself.

Climb Putucusi Mountain

If you’re feeling adventurous, climbing Putucusi Mountain can be an amazing experience.

Along with Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, Putucusi is one of the three peaks that surround the Inca citadel. But unlike the others, you don’t need a ticket to Machu Picchu to access it—just head out from the edge of the town.

The trail to the viewpoint is only about 2 kilometers long, but it’s very demanding. It’s not just steep—some parts require climbing with your hands.

That’s why this hike is recommended only for those in excellent physical condition.

Relaxing at the Hot Springs of Aguas Calientes

The town’s name comes from the hot springs that flow through and around it.

One of the best ways to relax after visiting Machu Picchu is to soak in the thermal pools located in the upper part of Aguas Calientes.

For a small fee, you can enjoy the healing properties of the sulfur-rich waters, with temperatures ranging from 38°C to 46°C (100°F to 115°F).

Visiting the Mandor Gardens

The Mandor Gardens are an ecological reserve located at the base of Huayna Picchu, about 3 kilometers from Aguas Calientes.

It’s a great place to enjoy nature and be surrounded by native plants and birdlife.

Along the trail, in addition to admiring the flora and fauna, you’ll reach the Mandor Waterfalls—a beautiful cascade that feels straight out of a storybook.

SUMMARY – All Your Options for Visiting Machu Picchu

⚠️ If you landed here from a link above, keep in mind that each of these points is explained in more detail throughout the article. And there are even more tips you won’t want to miss!

⚠️ Starting in 2024, a circuit-based system with fixed entry times was introduced. Tickets are personalized and have limited availability, so make sure to book early. If you plan to hike a mountain (Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain or Huchuy Picchu), be sure to choose the correct circuit when buying your ticket.

📌 During high season, it’s common for tickets to sell out weeks in advance.

We originally planned to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu on our own, and even considered the Hidroelectrica route. But in the end, we booked a full tour right at the airport.

It turned out to be a great deal—it included activities in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, round-trip train tickets, Machu Picchu entry, a guided tour, and more. Honestly, it was all much easier and we got to see a lot more. Plus, truth be told… we hadn’t booked anything ahead of time and were risking missing out completely.

⚠️ REMEMBER: I can’t say this enough—book everything as far in advance as possible, even months ahead. Entry times are fixed and spots are limited.

On your own:

Book round-trip train tickets from Cusco or Ollantaytambo here:

• Travel by train Cusco – Machu Picchu – One Way – RETURN.
• Travel by train Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu – One Way – RETURN.

Need more details about the different ticket types, circuits, or availability?

• Check ticket options and real-time availability on the official Machu Picchu website.
• You can also book the bus to the entrance, a guide, or a full tour package (bus + guide + entrance) at these links:
  • Guided visit from Aguas Calientes (guide only or excursion with guide and entrance fees).
  • Reserve your no-wait bus ticket to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes.

From Cusco (Organized Tours)

Want to hike the Inca Trail?

• 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu from Cusco (shorter versions also available)

Already in Cusco and want to visit Machu Picchu in one day? These full-day tours include:

• Entry to Machu Picchu
• Round-trip train tickets
• Spanish-speaking guide
• Bus up and down from Aguas Calientes
• Hotel pickup in Cusco

Choose your 1-day tour option:

• 1-day tour – Machu Picchu entrance only.
• 1-day tour – includes Huayna Picchu.
• 1-day tour – includes Machu Picchu Mountain.

Got more time? Take it slow:

• 2-day tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu, with overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.

We’ve reached the end of this complete guide to visiting Machu Picchu.

I hope all this information was helpful and that you enjoy your visit to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World as much as I did.