The Ultimate Machu Picchu Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Few places on earth inspire awe quite like Machu Picchu. Tucked high in the Andes of Peru, this 15th-century Incan citadel is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a bucket-list destination for travelers across the globe. But planning a trip here isn’t as simple as booking a flight and showing up—there are logistics, regulations, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences you don’t want to miss.

That’s where this guide comes in. Whether you dream of hiking the Inca Trail, pairing Machu Picchu with the Amazon Rainforest, or soaking in the cultural energy of Cusco, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before, during, and after your Machu Picchu expedition—and why working with a travel advisor ensures you’ll experience it all seamlessly.

Why Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu isn’t just a ruin; it’s a symbol of ancient innovation, mystery, and beauty. Built in the 1400s, this once-hidden citadel showcases the genius of the Incan Empire, from its precise stonework to its astronomical alignments. Visitors often describe arriving at Machu Picchu as “spiritual” or “transformational”—it’s a place that stays with you long after you’ve left.

And beyond the citadel itself, traveling here gives you access to Peru’s rich culture: vibrant markets, Andean cuisine, colonial history, and the warmth of the Peruvian people.

When to visit Machu Picchu

  • Dry Season (May – September): The most popular and reliable months for clear skies and hiking. June through August can be crowded.

  • Shoulder Season (April & October): Fewer crowds, mild weather, and good conditions—often considered the besttime to visit.

  • Rainy Season (November – March): Lush greenery and fewer tourists, but frequent rain showers. The Inca Trail closes in February for maintenance.

Pro Tip: Book at least 6–12 months in advance for Inca Trail permits or premium train tickets, as they sell out quickly.

How to Get There

  1. Fly into Lima – Most international flights land in Lima, Peru’s capital.

  2. Fly to Cusco – From Lima, it’s a quick 1-hour flight to Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu. You’ll need a train and then a bus/hike to get there.

  3. Travel to Aguas Calientes – From Cusco, you can take a luxury train (2–4 hours) or a multi-day trek to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

  4. Bus or Hike Up – From Aguas Calientes, it’s a short bus ride or a steep hike to the citadel entrance.

How to Experience Machu Picchu

There’s no one-size-fits-all way to see Machu Picchu. Here are your main options:

1. By Train

  • Luxury trains like the Belmond Hiram Bingham or Inca Rail First Class offer gourmet dining, live music, and panoramic windows.

  • Perfect for travelers who want comfort without strenuous hiking.

2. By Trekking

  • Classic Inca Trail (4 days): The iconic hike, with breathtaking ruins along the way. Permits sell out up to a year in advance.

  • Short Inca Trail (2 days): A condensed version for those short on time.

  • Alternative Routes (Lares, Salkantay, Inca Jungle): Less crowded trails with unique scenery.

3. Private Tours

A knowledgeable guide can provide historical and cultural context, ensuring you don’t miss hidden details or viewpoints.

Other Things to Do

  • Cusco: Explore ancient Incan temples, Spanish colonial architecture, and bustling markets.

  • Sacred Valley: Visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero for local culture and stunning scenery.

  • Amazon Rainforest: Pair your trip with a stay in a luxury jungle lodge or river cruise.

  • Lake Titicaca: The world’s highest navigable lake, rich in indigenous culture.

  • Galápagos Islands: A short flight from Lima and the perfect Machu-Picchu add-on to get the most out of your South America travels!

What to Pack for Machu Picchu

  • Layers – Weather shifts from cool mornings to warm afternoons.

  • Rain Jacket – Showers are common year-round.

  • Sun Protection – Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

  • Daypack – Small bags only; large backpacks aren’t allowed inside.

  • Reusable Water Bottle – Stay hydrated at altitude. Only fill with purified bottled water.

  • Passport – Required for entry.

  • Bug Spray - Don’t worry about bites

  • First Aid Kit - For any accidents

  • Flushable Wipes - Not all restrooms have toilet paper

  • Cash and Soles - Some restrooms require payment and you’ll want to purchase souvenirs at local vendors who only take cash payments.

Shopping Guide

Ready to Experience Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is a place that changes you—it’s one of the world’s most profound destinations. But getting it right requires expertise, foresight, and thoughtful planning. That’s exactly what we do.

👉 Contact us today to start planning your Machu Picchu adventure—we’ll design a tailor-made journey that matches your style, preferences, and pace, so you can experience Peru at its absolute best.

The Importance of Planning with a Travel Advisor

Machu Picchu is tightly regulated, and logistics can be overwhelming—from timed entry tickets to train reservations, hotel bookings, and altitude preparation. When you work with us:

  • We secure exclusive permits and priority tickets.

  • We curate luxury accommodations in Cusco, Sacred Valley, the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest, the Galápagos Islands and Aguas Calientes.

  • We design seamless itineraries—whether you’re combining Machu Picchu with the Amazon or Lake Titicaca.

  • We ensure you travel at the perfect pace, with private transfers, expert guides, and insider access.

This isn’t just another vacation—it’s a journey you’ll remember forever.