Machu Picchu Tour from Lima

In the morning, we will board the tourist bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. During the bus trip, we will appreciate the Putucusi Mountain and the running of the Vilcanota River. The bus will follow a zigzag path until it arrives at the citadel. The bus ride lasts 30 minutes.

Once at Machu Picchu, you will need to present your passport and entry ticket at the checkpoint, where the ranger will verify the information. After the check-in, you will enter Machu Picchu and walk with your guide to the initial point of your designated circuit.

During the guided tour inside the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, our professional tour guide will introduce you to the most significant attractions, providing insightful explanations during the two-hour and 30-minute exploration (depending on the duration permitted by your ticket). It is crucial to take photos of Machu Picchu from the initial point, as the rules have changed: your ticket is valid for one-way entry only, and revisiting the starting point is not permitted after the guided tour concludes. Therefore, don't forget your camera and relish the visit to 'One of the New 7 Wonders of the World'!

After the guided tour in Machu Picchu, you can choose to climb one of the two mountains offered by Machu Picchu: Huayna Picchu or Mount Machu Picchu. It is very important to book in advance, and there is an additional cost. Alternatively, you can take the bus back to Aguas Calientes village, where you can have lunch (not included in the package). Aguas Calientes is a small tourist site with many restaurants offering both traditional Andean and international cuisine.

In the afternoon, we will take a train back to Ollantaytambo, where our driver will be waiting in front of the railway station to transfer you to Cusco airport. You will be dropped off inside the airport to complete the check-in process and board the local flight from Cusco to Lima.

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Lima, concluding your unforgettable tour to Machu Picchu from Lima.

• A Tierras Vivas representative will be waiting in airport in Cusco (Briefing for your trip Cusco to Machu Picchu);
• Transfer from Hotel - Lima Airport - Hotel;
• Local flight from Lima - Cusco - Lima;
• Accommodation: Hotel in Machu Picchu (01 night);
• Meals: 01 Breakfast, 01 Snack bag (Organic cotton bag);
• Entrance fee to Machu Picchu;
• Professional tour guide;
• Tourist train around trip to Machu Picchu;
• A shuttle bus up and down to Machu Picchu;
• Tourist transportation.

• Meals not details
• Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu Mountain ($80)
• Tips
• Travel Insurance (It is not mandatory, but we recommend it in case you miss your flight or encounter any emergencies)

Extra Budget:

Meal budget: Please allow USD 8-10 for meals not included.

Solo Traveler: Please note that if you have booked the "Solo Traveler" option for this tour, you receive your own single room on overnight.

• Small bottled water (500 ml);
• A small bottle of Gatorade (a sports drink used for rehydration);
• Cusco's cereals or Granola (it consist of kiwicha, quinoa, raisins, honey, and grated coconut);
• Small fruit-juice drink;
• 1x tangerine;
• Raisins with peanuts.

Upon your arrival at Cusco airport, our designated transfer will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name. It is crucial to pay attention and, once you meet your driver, they will escort you to the train station.

In Aguas Calientes, your transfer will be waiting to take you to the accommodation of your selected hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore. Between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, our guide will meet you in the reception area of your hotel for a briefing.

Tierras Vivas representative:

All Machu Picchu tours are accompanied by our driver, Tierras Vivas Tour Guide, a representative, or an expedition team. The goal of our Tour Guides is to eliminate any hassle during our customers' trips and ensure they have the best experience possible. The Tour Guides provide information on the places visited, offer suggestions on what to see and do, recommend good places to eat, and introduce you to their colleagues. The Guides possess broad general knowledge of each country visited during a tour, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. We also utilize local Tour Guides when specific knowledge could enhance the enjoyment of visited places.

More info about our Tierras Vivas Staff & Guides 

The following hotels in Aguas Calientes are used to accommodate our customers during our Machu Picchu 2 day tours from Lima:

- Casa de Luz Machu Picchu

- Pisonay Hotel Machu Picchu

We spend a night in a small locally owned hotel rooms (either twin or matrimonial) with private bathrooms and breakfast facilities. Both hotels are situated within walking distance of the railway station.

Solo Traveler: If you are traveling on your own, and would prefer to share a tent, we'll pair you with another trekker of the same gender and there will not be an extra cost. If you prefer to have a tent to yourself a surcharge of USD 50 will have to be paid. If you want an upgrade any service to the train or accommodation or do you want to stay extra night in Machu Picchu, contact us directly to info@tierrasvivas.com for this to be done and confirmed to you. 

IMPORTANT TO ACCOMMODATION: You must present your passport (copy) to all hotel accommodations. The national sales tax (18%) is charged to all Peruvian citizens and foreigners staying 60 consecutive days or more. In case the room is shared by both a taxable and non-taxable guest at the same time, the sales tax will be applied to the whole room. So please take every caution to not lose this piece of paper. You need to bring it to the Cusco office for your checking. 

UP-GRADING MACHU PICCHU HOTELS

If you would like to upgrade your accommodation, the discount is U$ 25 per person (Double or Single room). We can recommend the following:

Important note: If you want it, you can choose and book the hotel by yourself, our sales department will give you a discount for your accommodation.

If you want to know more information about the hotels, please click on Machu Picchu Hotels

On this Machu Picchu Tours are included the following train services:

PeruRail - Expedition Train

Ollantaytambo - Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu to Cusco

IncaRail - The Voyager Train

Ollantaytambo - Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu to Cusco

• On the Expedition and The Voyager is not included extra service inside the train.

UP GRADING Train service:

If you prefer Vistadome train or Machu Picchu Train 360 for this trek, the extra price is U$ 50 dollars. let us know before your booking your service.

Vistadome train Machu Picchu - Perurail

The Vistadome train have panoramic windows, which allows to appreciate the beautiful scenery along the route.Live an unforgettable experience of magic connection with nature on the Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo route on the PeruRail Vistadome train. 

In the Vistadome service you can enjoy of: 

• Long Stretch (from the Poroy Station, Cusco):
• Outbound: Snack Service
• Inbound: Snack Service
• Short Stretch (from the Ollantaytambo Station):
• Outbound: Light Snack Service
• Inbound: Light Snack Service
• Selection of hot or cold non-alcoholic drinks (one hot drink and one cold drink per person)

The 360 train Machu Picchu - Inca Rail

The only train in Peru with an entertainment app on board which will allow you to learn more about the train journey and the Inca civilization. Experience a unique way to travel to Machu Picchu, exploring the Andean landscape like never before with wider and taller panoramic windows and an observation outdoor carriage including a bar. Enjoy our appetizing selection of cold and warm drinks, prepared using fruit juices and Andean herbs, and our delicious gourmet and organic delights made with products from the Sacred Valley.

You can enjoy of:

• Comfortable seats with tables in front
• Bigger and wider panoramic windows
• Outdoor carriage including a bar to enjoy the landscape
• Gourmet and organic delights made with products from the Sacred Valley
• InTrain entertainment system.

Machu Picchu tours from Lima

Departure Point: Lima - We pick you up from your hotel, hostel or Airbnb in the capital of Peru  - Lima.

Departure Time: 3:00 -4:00 am.

Briefing Point: Cusco, a representative of Tierras Vivas will be waiting in the airport. 

Return Point: Cusco - Our driver will drop-off in the airport. End of the Machu Picchu tour

Machu Picchu Entrance Hours:

During your Machu Picchu tour from Lima, the daily schedule for tourist visits to Machu Picchu starts at 6:00 am and concludes at 5:00 pm. There are nine time slots for visitors to enter the Machu Picchu citadel, with the designated visiting hours ranging from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm. According to the new Machu Picchu rules, visitors are allowed to explore Machu Picchu with their guide for a maximum of 2 hours.

To reach Machu Picchu, visitors must board a shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes no later than 30 minutes before the time indicated on their respective tickets.

New Machu Picchu circuits:

This year, the Ministry of Culture has implemented new circuits for visiting the Inca citadel of Machupicchu. There are a total of 3 circuits, and each one is divided into subcategories that will take you on a different path through Machu Picchu. Below are the 3 new circuits:

Circuit 1 (Panoramic Circuit)

• Panoramic Circuit + Upper Terrace Route
• Panoramic Circuit + Machu Picchu Mountain
• Panoramic Circuit + Inti Punku
• Panoramic Circuit + Inca Bridge
  

Circuit 2 (Inca City Circuit)

• Complete Classic Circuit
• Short Classic Circuit
  

Circuit 3 (Royalty Circuit)

• Lower Royalty Circuit
• Lower Royalty Circuit + Huayna Picchu
• Lower Royalty Circuit + Great Cavern
• Lower Royalty Circuit + Huchuy Picchu

Since reopening, there is a limited time available to visit the Inti Huatana (Solar Clock), Templo del Cóndor (Condor Temple) complexes, and the Temple of the Sun at Machu Picchu. Additionally, the alternative routes of the Machu Picchu citadel, including Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu mountains, Puente Inka, and Inti Punku (Sun Gate), have reopened this year, but there is also a limited time for visiting these areas

If you want to read more information, please click on Machu Picchu tickets

• This tour is ideal for traveler looking for a bit of adventure in Machu Picchu.
• The 2-day Machu Picchu tour allows you to appreciate the best landscapes of Machu Picchu in due time.
• This tour allows you to get to know the town of Aguas Calientes better. After visiting Machu Picchu, tourists can relax in the town's thermal baths.

2 Day Machu Picchu Tour From Lima

Machu Picchu tours from Lima

If you have a short time to visit Peru and you arrive in Lima thinking that Machu Picchu is in the capital of Peru and you are surprised that it's not there. Tierras Vivas have the best option trip to Machu Picchu for you. We can offer the 2-day Machu Picchu tour from Lima. This itinerary is the following. We provide local flight tickets from Lima to Cusco. Once you arrived in Cusco. Our driver will be waiting in the airport and transferring to the train station. You will catch Train to Aguas Calientes town, transfer to the hotel, and spend a night in the hotel.

The second day. Wake up early and take the bus up to Machu Picchu and take a guided tour in the lost city of the Incas. In the afternoon you will take the train from Aguas Calientes town to Ollantaytambo train station. Arrival and transfer from the train station to the Cusco airport. Flight from Cusco to Lima in the night. Or you have the best itinerary for your holidays, please, let us know please, we can help you to organize it. If you have questions, you can contact by WhatsApp: +51 984004472, our staff will reply ASP. or you can send us by emiail your doublt: info@tierrasvivas.com

Machu Picchu is located in the so-called "Ceja de selva" (jungle eyebrows), which means on the edge of the Andean highlands of the Amazon jungle. That is why it has subtropical weather that is much warmer than temperatures in Cusco. Visitors can visit it all year round because it never closes its gate.

However, there are parts of the year that are more popular and correspond to the holiday summer season of the northern hemisphere, ie June to August. In the southern hemisphere is the exact opposite, wintertime. The Peruvian winter is not quite cold there (approx. 18°C), it is basically cold only at night and early in the morning (around 0°C). The advantage of winter is that it has dry weather, so no Machu Picchu viewpoints are spoiled by heavy rains and mist.

April May and September-October are not less worth a visit, because the climate is still mostly dry and the citadel is less crowded.

November to March falls in the rainy season. The peak of the rainy season is January and especially February. The mornings are usually dry and clear, while it rains a lot in the afternoon. The best part of these months is the fact that you can enjoy Machu Picchu along with just a few tourists and the weather is warmer all day (around 25°C) and night.

If you want more information, please click in the Best time to visit Machu Picchu.

When to go?

It is one of the best questions before going to Machu Picchu, and to tell the truth only you can choose when to go to Machu Picchu. The climate in Machu Picchu and Cusco is clearly marked by 2 seasons or seasons; the rainy season and the dry season. We detail each of them below.

Important

No matter what time you come, you should bring waterproof clothing with you since, regardless of the season, the rains can fall at any time of the year.

Acquiring your ticket alone is not sufficient for entry into Machu Picchu; it is also essential to carry your current and valid personal documents. Failure to have documents that match the registered data on your Machu Picchu tickets will result in denial of entry to the archaeological park.

Ensure that your ticket is correctly filled out, without erasures or amendments. In the case of minors without identity documents, they can enter accompanied by their parents under their absolute responsibility. Students must present their International ISIC Card.

To enter Machu Picchu, visitors must not be under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other substances. Firearms, flammable substances, or any objects that may disrupt order within the archaeological site are not allowed. Note that only canteens and walking sticks are permitted for water, and they are exclusively for individuals with disabilities or older adults. Smoking is strictly prohibited in the archaeological park of Machu Picchu.

Movement is only allowed in marked and designated areas. The Regional Directorate of Culture is not responsible for any accidents that may occur.

The duration of your stay in the enclosure is from the registration of the visitor to the departure time specified on the tickets (2 hours).

If you have extra luggage, you can safely leave it at your hotel in Lima. For the Machu Picchu trip from Lima, only small hand luggage is included. If you wish to bring additional equipment, please contact our sales department, and they will provide you with the additional cost.

Before visiting Machu Picchu, you can leave your luggage at the hotel in Aguas Calientes. Upon your return from the Machu Picchu visit, you can retrieve it on the day of 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:
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat or cap, to protect yourself from the sun
  • Detachable pants
  • Light clothing (cotton polo shirts, shorts)
  • Warm clothes (nights are usually cold, especially in the dry season)

• Rainy days:
  • Waterproof cover for the backpack.
  • Waterproof clothing (jacket, rain poncho, windbreaker, gloves)
  • Warm clothing (jacket, coat, poncho)
  • Long-sleeved garments (sweaters or sweatshirts)

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.

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.

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.

Mandor water fall walking tour

Machu Picchu is a must for almost all Peru travelers. Some choose the famous Inca Trail tours or the lesser-known Salkantay trek to reach the Inca site. Most of the Inca sites are reached by train from Cusco to Machu Picchu. If you choose this option, you could take a worthwhile half-day tour to the waterfalls of Mandor.

Machu Picchu waterfall walk

Near to Machupicchu town, there is a new attraction, we work with Aguas Calientes local guides. The Machu Picchu Waterfall is located by the hot spring. Walk for 1 hr up to the head trail and see the small natural waterfall and flora of the area. During the walk, enjoy the singing of the colorful birds. If you are lucky, you can see the cock of the rocks - the national bird of Peru.

Rock Carving Activity

Tierras Vivas has responsible travel and in this opportunity offer the Rock Carving Activity. This activity involves 3 hours with a local carver, who will teach you to rock carve different sculptures of your preference. You can do a sculpture of an Inca or the god sun. This activity will help the local carvers of the Aguas Calientes "Rumimaki Carvers Association" to become worldwide known.

Tierras Vivas is a fully licensed tour operator and has 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor. The copy of our Machu Picchu Tours Tripadvisor reviews below proves our experience and enthusiasm to offer our customers the best experience for Machu Picchu.

Check our Machu Picchu Tours Tripadvisor comments below:

Week in Peru

Review of: 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Oliveol wrote a review May 2024: "This tour was perfect for us! We wanted to experience the Inca trail, but had limited amount of time. This tour provided 6 miles of the spectacular trail into Machu Picchu with the most stunning views you can get. Our guide, Juan de Dios, was amazing! We started early in the morning by train to marker 104, then headed up the mountian. It's a moderate hike, but almost completely uphill... so many steps. The 'Gringo Killer' steps were hilariously true. After arriving to Machu Picchu, we headed down to Aguas Caliente to a hotel, shower and a great dinner. Then the next day for a more in-depth tour of Machu Picchu- then hiked up the WaynaPicchu Mountain for the optional experience- so glad we did. Our guide made sure everything went smoothly and we were so greatful. Tierras Vivas was also organized with everything we needed. They organize smaller groups which made for an amazing experience."

Great Experience 

Review: 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour by Train from Cusco

Zachary M Wrote a review May 2024: "The tour was extremely well organized with written contact with Samuel the entire time! We booked the day before arriving, and they organized the entire tour including getting us admission to circuit 2 and 4 in less than 24 hours. You are very well token care of with professional drivers and transport all organized for you, no hassle and worry free way to see Machu Picchu. On top of that, our guide Samuel spoke with emotion and connection to the culture, and had a depth of knowledge much much deeper than any guide we've had (even some in Machu Picchu). Very happy with our tour and guide."

Machu Picchu 

Review: Machupicchu Guide Service

Dhyago F Wrote a review March 2024: "The trip was extremely easy to navigate, from the moment we landed in Cusco, through out Machu Picchu and even the hotel we were taken care of. Everyone was super friendly and accommodating. Juan Carlos our tour guide took so many photos and showed so much excitement and passion for Machu Picchu and the culture. Views were also breath taking. 10/10 recommend to a friend!"

2 Day Machu Picchu Tour

Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan citadel nestled in the Andes, offers breathtaking views, rich history, and a unique cultural experience. Explore the iconic ruins, marvel at the architecture, and uncover the mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Discover Machu Picchu, the awe-inspiring Incan citadel perched high in the Andes. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts stunning panoramic views, intricate stone architecture, and a rich historical legacy. A must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences.

Unveil the mysteries of Machu Picchu, an iconic Incan citadel perched in the Andes. This renowned UNESCO World Heritage site offers awe-inspiring mountain vistas, masterful stone constructions, and deep historical roots. Ideal for explorers, history buffs, and those yearning for a journey into ancient civilizations.

Experience the wonder of Machu Picchu alongside its charming llamas. Set in the breathtaking Andes, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning mountain views, ancient Incan architecture, and the unique opportunity to encounter llamas roaming the historic ruins. Perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Explore Machu Picchu, the legendary Incan citadel located high in the Peruvian Andes. This iconic site, surrounded by lush green mountains and misty clouds, offers breathtaking views, ancient stone architecture, and a deep connection to Incan history. A must-visit destination for adventurers and cultural explorers alike