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Machu Picchu is South America’s most awe-inspiring historical site. Built at 2,390 metres in the Andes, this ancient Inca city draws over 1.5 million visitors per year. But Machu Picchu is not a place you can simply show up to — tickets are strictly limited, altitude sickness is a real challenge in Cusco, and logistics are complex. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Essential Background
Key Facts
- Altitude: 2,390 metres (Huayna Picchu summit approximately 2,700 metres)
- Daily visitor cap: 5,000 people (including trekkers)
- Opening hours: 6:00–17:00 (check the official website for latest updates)
- Official ticket website: .gob.pe domain; reservations open 2 months in advance
Ticket Types
| Ticket Type | Includes | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Machu Picchu Classic | Main site only | Those with limited time or who prefer not to trek |
| Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu | Main site + 1-hour summit hike | Those who want the full aerial panorama |
| Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain | Main site + 2-hour hike | Trekking enthusiasts |
| Inca Trail 4-day 3-night | Full trek + tent camps | Deep-experience seekers with good fitness |
Huayna Picchu is the steep mountain directly behind Machu Picchu — climbing it provides an extraordinary bird’s-eye view of the entire ancient city. Only 400 people per day are permitted to summit, split into two time slots (7:00–10:00 and 10:00–13:00). Places are extremely competitive.
Getting to Machu Picchu
Step 1: Fly to Cusco
Cusco is Machu Picchu’s gateway city at 3,400 metres altitude — higher than Machu Picchu itself. Most international flights connect through Lima.
Altitude sickness is the biggest challenge. Recommended approach:
- Rest for 2 days after arriving in Cusco; avoid strenuous activity
- Drink coca tea (a local tradition; available free at most hotels)
- Don’t take a hot shower immediately upon arrival (stimulates circulation and worsens altitude symptoms)
- Prepare altitude medication in advance (consult your doctor)
Step 2: Cusco to Aguas Calientes
From Cusco, take the train to Aguas Calientes (approximately 3.5 hours). This is the town at the base of Machu Picchu’s mountain and where most visitors stay overnight.
Pre-book train tickets through Klook — tickets sell out during peak season.
Inca Trail Trekking
The Inca Trail is the most iconic route to Machu Picchu — approximately 43km over 4 days and 3 nights.
Route Overview
- Day 1: Cusco → Ollantaytambo → trailhead camp → Dead Woman’s Pass (4,200m)
- Day 2: The hardest day — cross two high mountain passes
- Day 3: Near Aguas Calientes; ruin exploration
- Day 4: Early entry to Machu Picchu; sunrise visit → return to Aguas Calientes → Cusco
Important Notes
- Only 500 people per day are permitted on the Inca Trail; advance reservation is mandatory
- Porters and a cook must be hired; independent hiking is not permitted
- Requires moderate fitness and altitude tolerance
If the Inca Trail is fully booked, the Salkantay Trek (approximately 5 days) is the most popular alternative — passing snowcapped peaks, cloud forest, and Inca ruins, reaching Aguas Calientes without requiring a permit.
Visiting Machu Picchu
Best Seasons
- Dry season (May–September): Stable weather; least rain; most crowded
- Rainy season (October–April): Fewer visitors and lower prices; higher chance of rain and mist
Regardless of season, morning (before 8am) offers the best light and relatively smaller crowds.
Practical Tips
- Bring high-SPF sunscreen — UV is intense at altitude
- Wear non-slip hiking boots — the paths are steep and can be wet
- Carry enough water — nothing is sold inside the site
- Do not feed the wild vicuñas — it is illegal
Cusco Accommodation
| Category | Recommended Option |
|---|---|
| Luxury | Belmond Palacio Nazarenas |
| Upper-mid | Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado |
| Value | Liberty Hotel |
Budget Reference
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Flights (Lima round-trip to Cusco) | $150–300 |
| Train tickets (Cusco–Aguas Calientes return) | $150–250 |
| Machu Picchu entry ticket | $40–75 |
| Inca Trail package (4 days) | $600–1,200 |
| Accommodation (Aguas Calientes 2 nights) | $80–200 |
| Single traveler standard itinerary | ~$800–1,500 |
Summary
Machu Picchu is a must-see in a lifetime. Book tickets early, prepare for altitude, and choose the right entry method — and you’ll safely and comfortably experience one of humanity’s great wonders. Remember: respect the heritage; protect the site; leave everything as you found it.
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