Machu Picchu Tours 2023

• It’s very important to bring extra money. We recommend taking at least 100-200 soles as emergency funds.
• In Aguas Calientes village, you will find a local market where you can buy souvenirs.
• There are extra activities on this tour, you can book it
• Meals are not included in the package. You can choose from various restaurants in Aguas Calientes town, which is not far from your hotel.
• Entrance fees to the hot springs are not included. If you would like to relax after your train journey, we recommend bringing swimwear and visiting the hot springs.
• Tipping at Machu Picchu: If you are satisfied with your trip, you may consider giving a tip to our guide. It is optional.

If you have extra luggage, it can be left safely in your hotel in Cusco, in the Ollantaytambo railway station or Tierras Vivas luggage storage. If you decide for our storage, our driver picks up your luggage the morning of your trip departure and leave it our office. There, you can pick it up the day your return from your Machu Picchu trip.

We have divided the packing list to Machu Picchu into sections; Before coming, know that the rainy season in Cusco and Machu Picchu goes from November to March, the rest of the time the weather is dry; However, the location of Machu Picchu means that rains can occur at any time of the year, so it is advisable to always carry rain protection with you.

Travel documents

• Airline tickets (confirmation) and itinerary.
• Valid passport (it is essential, not only for the purchase of the Machu Picchu ticket, but also to identify yourself in a country that is not yours
• Credit or debit cards and cash and small denominations.

Clothes and accessories

The suggested clothing may vary according to the Climate of Machu Picchu on the day of your trip; We recommend checking the weather forecast; However, know that in Machu Picchu you can go from a clear sky to a heavy rain, in just minutes.

• Medium backpack (you will not be able to enter Machu Picchu with a large backpack)
• Hiking shoes, especially if you plan to visit some of the mountains of Machu Picchu.

• Sunny days:

• Rainy days:

Basic Accessories

These elements are quite useful to enjoy your visit.

• Enough water to stay hydrated, in a walk of at least 2 hours
• Insect repellent
• Lip protection
• Sunscreen with high protection factor
• Zippered plastic bags

Electronic accessories

We know that you will not forget your cell phone, so we will not include it on the list.

• Photographic camera
• Extra batteries
• Additional storage memory
• Power adapter

Personal Hygiene Accessories

Most of these things can be purchased in Cusco or Aguas Calientes, but you may want to bring your own for convenience.

• Comb brush
• Shampoo, shower gel, soap, towel
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss
• Deodorant
• Lotions, creams
• Lip balm
• Wipes
• Shaving machine and cream
• Nail clippers, lime
• Other personal hygiene items

Medication

Most basic medication can be bought without a prescription at any pharmacy; however, antibiotics and other medications will be sold only with a prescription. If you need any special medication, it is best to bring your own prescription. Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) is the town at the foot of the Inca city of Machu Picchu, and although you can find several pharmacies, it is very likely that there are medicines that you can only get in Cusco. If you have any chronic conditions, consult your doctor before setting out on your trip.

Machu Picchu is one of the 7 wonders of the modern world. What you know of this citadel is still being discovered. It was built approximately in 1450. A.D. under the orders of Emperor Pachacutec. The beauty of the site was not accidental. The Inca ruler looked for a citadel that harmonizes with his natural environment. After the Spanish invasion in the 16th century, the place was abandoned. Several centuries later, in 1911, the American explorer Hiram Bingham found Machupicchu hidden in the thick vegetation. From that day until today, the history of ‘mapi’ is full of discoveries and mysteries. Today it is one of the most visited sites in the world.

Machu Picchu, the jewel of the emperor?

• Machu Picchu was ordered to be built by the famous Inca emperor Pachacutec (1438 – 1471) to be his resting place in a strategic point of the empire: the limits with the Amazon rainforest.
• The buildings of Machu Picchu were built in harmony with their natural environment. The Incas adapted the shapes of the mountains to build their city.
• Most of their construction is underground, since they developed a complete irrigation system to grow plants of different species in various parts.
• In Machu Picchu all types of crops were found: from tubers in the highest areas to hallucinogenic plants from the jungle parts of the empire.
• Like many of the most important Inca settlements, it was built on terraces linked by steep paths and stone steps.

Where is Machu Picchu located?

• Currently, the Inca city of Machu Picchu is located in the district of the same name, in the province of Urubamba, in the department of Cusco, in southern Peru (South America).
• If we take geography into account, Machupicchu is located 2,438 meters above sea level (m.a.s.l.), between the Andes Mountains and the Amazon jungle.
• There are 3 mountains that surround the Inca wonder: the mountains Machupicchu, Huayna Picchu and Putucusi. All these mountains belong to the so-called ‘Vilcabamba Batholith’.
• Due to its location at the top of an inaccessible mountain, Machu Picchu was little known by the Spanish invaders and the nearby settlers, until it was known to the world by the investigations of the American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911.

What does it mean?

• The word Machu Picchu comes from the Quechua language (language of the Incas and of many of the current peoples settled in the Andes Mountains) which means “old mountain”. This name was chosen arbitrarily by the settlers who called the mountain that way.
• However, according to various investigations, the true name of Machupicchu would be ‘Patallaqta’, a Quechua word that means ‘people of the steps’.
• Currently Machupicchu is also the name by which the famous town of Aguas Calientes is known, located at the foot of the Inca wonder. The immense mountain on which the archaeological site is located is also known by that name.
• Likewise, the Peruvians baptized as ‘Machu Picchu’ a famous cocktail made from pisco (brandy symbol of Peru) and whose presentation combines the colors green, yellow and red.

Geography

• The geography where Machupicchu is located is characterized by the presence of mountains and peaks belonging to the so-called ‘Cordillera de Vilcabamba’ where the imposing Salkantay mountain stands out.
• The area has geological faults which generated an abundance of granite stones (which facilitated the construction of the Inca city). Two mountains stand out on the Inca citadel: Huayna Picchu and Machupicchu. Currently, both mountains offer the two most popular hiking trails in the area. Another of the nearby mountains is the ‘Putucusi’. Just 10 kilometers away is the famous town of Aguas Calientes.

Flora and fauna

• Machupicchu has a great diversity of butterflies and birds where the cock of the rocks stands out, recognized as the national bird of Peru.
• There are also some wild animals such as the pudu, the sachacabra, the ucumari, the llama, the vizcachas and the spectacled bear, the latter in danger of extinction.
• Among the flower species stands out, without a doubt, the more than 300 species of orchids. This flower is highly appreciated for its beauty and multi-colored shapes. Likewise, there are many species of ferns, shrubs and more.

What to see in Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is impressive: it has temples, residences, platforms, roads and more. Most of these places are included in the tourist route in the company of a guide. To enter others it is necessary to take optional routes, as in the cases of Intipunku and the Inca Bridge. In other cases, such as the Temple of the Moon, the visit is included in a different ticket (entrance that includes the Huayna Picchu mountain).

• The House of the Guardian – Famous construction from where the entire environment of Machupicchu was watched since it offers a panoramic view of the place. Currently, in this place tourists take the classic postcard photo.
• The Intipunku – The famous ‘Puerta del Sol’ through which the Incas entered Machupicchu from Cusco. The sun’s rays were received there at the summer solstices. It consists of several walls and windows as well as a main door through which tourists who are currently on the famous 4-day trek known as the ‘Inca Trail’ enter. Reaching the top from the current entrance to the archaeological site takes approximately 1 hour.
• The Inca Bridge – The Inca Bridge is a rustic construction made of stone that limited the limits of the Inca empire with the east. Faced with a possible threat, the Incas destroyed the bridge to prevent invasions. Currently going there is an optional route that lasts approximately 30 minutes. It crosses sections close to cliffs but 100% safe.
• The Intihuatana – This construction is made of a large stone sculpted in three levels that directly receive the sun’s rays. This sundial was used to know the sowing and harvesting seasons in the place. It is believed that the villagers who bring their hands to this construction are filled with the energy that comes from the sun.
• The Main Temple – The Main Temple is made up of an enclosure with three walls and a main platform as an offering table. It also has windows where ornaments were placed. Earthquakes and the passage of time have damaged these structures, which are uneven.
• The Temple of the 3 Windows – The Temple of the 3 Windows, as its name suggests, is made up of a stone structure with three windows that symbolize the division of the Inca world into three levels: the Hanan Pacha (heavenly world), the Kay Pacha (earthly world) and the Uku Pacha (world of the dead).
• The Temple of the Condor – This temple is made up of an irregularly shaped rock as well as a stone figure on the ground; which visually united form a figure of a condor, a sacred bird for the Incas. According to the Inca worldview, the condor communicated the earthly world with the heavenly world of the gods.
• The Temple of the Sun – This temple was one of the main religious sites in Machupicchu. It is made of many regularly carved stones that form a circumference on top of a cave. It is on the highest point of the place so it received the rays of the sun inside. Below is a staircase that leads to what would be a royal tomb, due to the relics that were found there during its discovery.
• The Temple of the Moon – This construction is also known as the ‘Great cavern’, since it is built inside a cave. It has finely carved walls and windows as well as a kind of altar where it is assumed that sacrifices were made. The Temple of the Moon is on the Huayna Picchu mountain, an hour from a fork. Visitors who come to the temple will find themselves almost alone since few people come near there.

What to do in Aguas Calientes?

In your free time in Aguas Calientes you can:

• Taking a walk to the Mándor Falls is a quiet walk is 4 km. from town.
• Another option is to go to the Hot Springs of Aguas Calientes, a place that has changing rooms and a snack bar.
• You can visit the Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum where you have a panorama of the discovery and investigation of Machu Picchu.
• There is also the Model Museum of the Municipality of Machu Picchu.
•  And if you have good physical condition, experience in hiking, high-level climbing, you can encourage yourself to ascend to Putucusi Mountain.

Altitudes in Machu Picchu

At what altitude is Huayna Picchu?

• The Huayna Picchu mountain is at an altitude of 8,923 feet (2,720 m.s.n.m.).
• At that altitude the tourist may suffer slightly from the symptoms of altitude sickness.

At what altitude is the Machu Picchu mountain?

• Machu Picchu mountain is located at an altitude of 10,111 feet (3,082 m.s.n.m.).
• At that height, most tourists suffer from some symptoms of altitude sickness such as difficulty breathing.

At what altitude is the town of Aguas Calientes?

• The town of Aguas Calientes is at 6,692 feet (2,040 m.a.s.l.).
• At that altitude, no tourist suffers from altitude sickness.

What to do against altitude sickness?

• Stay calm – his body is trying to get used to the lesser amount of oxygen so it is extremely important that he take it easy the first few days he is in Cusco.
• Take a deep breath – Once again your body is trying to get the necessary oxygen. To provide enough oxygen to the lungs, it is advisable to stop and breathe deeply from time to time.
• Avoid alcohol – Some studies suggest that the effects of alcohol are greater in high altitude locations. Also, alcohol can exacerbate the effects of altitude sickness. Stay away from pisco, at least the first days in Cusco.
• Drink lots of water – Altitude sickness can cause a dry throat, leading to thirst. In addition, drinking water calms rapid breathing and alleviates the sensation of oxygen deprivation caused by altitude sickness.
• Acclimatize to Cusco – The city of Cusco is almost a thousand meters (3,280 ft) away. above Machu Picchu. If the tourist adapts satisfactorily to the city of Cusco, it is sure that he will not have any problem to visit Machu Picchu.
• Sorojchi Pills – One of the drugs recommended to alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness is called ‘Sorojchi pills’. You can find them in any pharmacy in Cusco without a prescription.
• Bring drops of chlorophyll – This natural remedy increases the number of red blood cells in the blood. Therefore, there is more opportunity for oxygen to be absorbed by the blood. It can be found in any health food store in Cusco.
• Drink coca tea – The coca leaf has been used since before the time of the Incas as a remedy for different ailments. Currently, the coca leaf infusion is widely used in Cusco to combat the symptoms of altitude sickness.

What time is recommended to visit Machu Picchu?

While some people say that 5 or 6 hours is fine; others feel that they would have needed at least two days there. Opinions vary, but it definitely all depends on what you want to do when you get to Machu Picchu.
The most advisable thing would be to go the day before and stay in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) the night before, this will give you the opportunity to board the first bus that leaves for the citadel of Machu Picchu and take the time to enjoy it. . For example, to climb the Huayna Picchu mountain you will need a minimum time of three hours (the entrance to Huayna Picchu must be obtained months before because the availability is limited). Some people feel the need to be up there as soon as possible, in addition to wanting to make their visit as long as possible.

Lima to Cusco

From the Lima airport to the city of Cusco there is a distance of 1,165 km. and it will only take an hour if you decide to travel by plane; On the other hand, the bus trip from Lima to Cusco takes around 20 hours. Remember that the city of Cusco is a mandatory arrival point for people wishing to reach Machu Picchu.

Arrive in Cusco by plane

A flight from the city of Lima to the city of Cusco will take about 1 hour (55 minutes to be exact), flights from Lima and any city in Peru, arrive at the Teniente FAP Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco; there are regular daily flights to and from Lima.

From the Cusco airport there are daily flights to and from Arequipa, Juliaca (Puno Lake Titicaca), and Puerto Maldonado (Tambopata), and international destinations such as La Paz (Bolivia).

The airport of Cusco has; ATMs, restaurants, gift and souvenir shops, bookstores and a small medical center. On the outskirts of the airport you will find taxis to any part of the city.

Get to Cusco by Train

From Cusco you can travel by train the city of Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the city of Arequipa and the National Park of Machu Picchu, so it is also possible to arrive to Cusco via train if you are in any of the places mentioned.

The train route from Cusco to Puno was awarded as the second most beautiful in the world.

During the train journey, you will ascend slowly to great heights. In the first half of the journey, you can enjoy the magnificent Andes mountain range, then you can enjoy the Andean plains, where you can see vicuñas and alpacas.

The trains to Machu Picchu leave from the Ollantaytambo station in Cusco, and the route through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, is considered among the most beautiful short train routes in the world; However, to get to Machu Picchu by train, you must book Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets in advance.

Arrive in Cusco by bus

You can get from Lima to Cusco by bus along the south Pan-American highway route, some people pass through the city of Arequipa during this tour: although you can get directly to the city of Cusco if you wish.

Cusco to Machu Picchu

The city of Machu Picchu does not have an airport. There are no roads from Cusco to Machu Picchu.

There are daily departures of train and / or taxis between Cusco and Ollantaytambo. Also Bus service between the city of Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes) and the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu Inca on the top of the Mountain.

Train to Machu Picchu

Rail travel is the simplest option and the fastest to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu, but also the most expensive. The railway companies that operate there are functioning as a monopoly so prices are high. Now, if you have little time to visit Machu Picchu, hiring a day tour may be the best option.

Inca Trail

Taking advantage of the road that the ancient Incas made to reach Machu Picchu, it has been converted into a tourist destination. The traditional Inca Trail distance involves 40 kilometers from Piscacucho (starting point) to the sacred temple. As I say, there are different versions, but they usually offer you two or four nights. The problem: the price and the excess of demand. To be able to make this Inca Trail Trek, you have to book well in advance. It is also mandatory to hire a guide for the Inca Trail. Adding up everything is an important financial outlay, but everyone who does recommends it.

Adventure trip to Machu Picchu

There are many travel agencies that offer alternative routes to Machu Picchu including adventure elements: bicycle route, zip lines, bungee jumping. Actually, they sell you the complete package but they do not include everything. If you do not want complications, Inka Jungle is a good option, but it also implies schedules and lack of freedom. It is not expensive but you can still look for a more affordable option for your pocket.

Now with these practical tips that will help you get from Lima to Machu Picchu and take the trip in the most complete and comfortable way, do not miss the opportunity to visit one of the seven wonders of the world and explore the imperial city of Cusco as It is due and unhurried. Distances and travel times are not that great in Peru; However, geography requires that drivers take things slowly, and without a doubt it is the best way to travel to a destination like Peru.

How long does it take to get to Machu Picchu?

• Machu Picchu is located in the Andes Mountains of Cusco in Peru (South America).
• To get there, the visitor needs to take a flight to the city of Lima (capital of Peru). Then, you must take another flight to the city of Cusco.
• Once in the city of Cusco, the tourist is 74 kilometers from Machu Picchu. To get there you must take a train route through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
• The trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu by train takes approximately 4 hours.

Where to sleep on the 2-day trip to Machu Picchu?

• During the 2-day trip to Machu Picchu, the visitor will be able to spend the nights in hotels in the city of Cusco, the town of Urubamba and the town of Aguas Calientes.
• There are 5-star hotels in Cusco, Urubamba and Aguas Calientes. It is also possible to get cheap accommodation.
• It is recommended to book hotel services online and in advance. Thus the visitor will be able to get the rooms of their preference and at the best price.

What are the risks of a quick visit to Machu Picchu?

• There are some risks associated with fast travel such as flight delays or itinerary clutter.
• On the 2-day trip to Machu Picchu, you will sleep little. This excursion is not for every type of traveler. It is a maximized itinerary to make the visit to Machu Picchu possible in record time.

What tour to Machu Picchu to choose for seniors?

Older adults should choose a 2-day tour to Machu Picchu as long as it does not include the ascent to the Huayna Picchu mountain.

What tour to Machu Picchu to choose for children?

If you travel to Machu Picchu accompanied by children, you can choose the 2-day tour that includes the ascent to Machu Picchu Mountain. In addition, in the town of Santa Teresa there are some perfect thermal baths to relax with the little ones.

Traveling to Machu Picchu with a tour or on your own?

Both options are good to enjoy Machu Picchu. Tours are a good option for family travel. Young people can choose to travel on their own. In that case, they should purchase the Machu Picchu ticket online and in advance.

How much luggage can i bring on the train?

The train services either Peru Rail or Inca Rail only allow you to carry hand luggage. Maximum weight 5 kilos (11 pounds). Dimensions: 150 linear meters (width + length + height). However, you can find guardian services at the Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu stations.

From what time can you enter Machu Picchu?

The entrance to the Inca City of Machu Picchu is from 06:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The buses to Machu Picchu go up from 05:30 hrs.

What is the town of Ollantaytambo?

Ollantaytambo is a famous town located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco, Peru. Its fame is due to the fact that it is the only Inca town that preserves its streets and urban design. In it is the important Archaeological Site of Ollantaytambo.

How far is it from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu?

Ollantaytambo is also famous for being a mandatory route before reaching Machu Picchu. Both tourist destinations are separated by 32 kilometers apart.

Where is the Ollantaytambo train station located?

The train station is located on Avenida Ferrocarril s / n, a 15-minute walk from the Main Square of the town of Ollantaytambo.

How to get to the Ollantaytambo train station?

To get to Ollantaytambo you will need to board a minivan from Pavitos street in the city of Cusco. This trip will cost you around S /. 15 (US $ 4). The final stop of these cars is in Ollantaytambo, just a few meters from the train station.

How is the train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes?

The train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes runs along the banks of the Urubamba River through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

This 2-hour stretch by train is considered one of the most beautiful short tours that exist. Do not forget to carry your camera well charged.

Where and when can you choose your preferred time in Machu Picchu?

When you have made your reservation with us, you will automatically receive an email in which all important questions about your day trip to Machu Picchu, the airport transfer and much more will be answered. We recommend answering this email as soon as possible so that we can start coordinating your tickets and guarantee you an excellent experience.

What is the Vistadome train and how can I book it?

This train option offers panoramic views due to the larger windows. It differs in price. There is an additional cost of USD 40 per train per person for this option.