TRAVEL GUIDE
Once hidden inside dense vegetation and Andean mountains in Cusco, the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is without a doubt South America’s top destination. Visited by millions of locals and travelers alike every year, it’s mysterious and mystical aura that flows through the ruins are felt nowhere else. The “lost” city of the Incas is a must for anyone traveling to Peru. The jaw-dropping Machu Picchu will give you an unforgettable memory and leave you even more curious about the Inca Empire.
Abandoned by the Inca and never found by the Spanish conquerors, the citadel still remains a mystery to many, although many new discoveries have been made through the years. Through radiocarbon evidence, it is assumed that the site was built in the 15th century. Most historians and archaeologists agree that Machu Picchu was built during the reign of the Inca emperor Inca Pachacutec, who ruled from 1438 to 1471.
We still don’t know exactly why Machu Picchu was built but many theories have been proposed. One theory suggests that it was a fortress during times of war. Others believe that it was an administrative center or religious site sacred to the Incas.
But the most widely accepted theory suggests that Machu Picchu consisted of private land held by Inca royalty. Here, higher-class members would relax and rest in Machu Picchu’s warmer and pleasant climate. It was a sort of royal retreat, to get away from Cusco’s harsh winter climate. Spanning over 9 hectares (22.3 acres), it held a population between 1000 – 1200 people. It was occupied for at least three generations of Incas, until being suddenly and mysteriously abandoned.
On July 24, 1911, Machu Picchu was “rediscovered” after Hiram Bingham, an American explorer, was led to the citadel by a local farmer, after hearing rumors of an Inca city hidden in a dense jungle. Although he is the one who brought worldwide attention to Machu Picchu, evidence shows that 9 years prior, a local explorer named Agustin Lizarraga had discovered the site and left his name engraved on a wall of the Three Windowed Temple. This was recorded as part of Hiram Bingham’s findings, but later omitted from his memoirs.
Machu Picchu today stands as one of the 7 Wonders of the World and a Unesco World Heritage Site, receiving 2,500 visitors per day. Travelers fly from all over Peru and the world, setting off on different hikes and tours to arrive at the “Lost City of the Incas”.
There are a number of ways to reach Machu Picchu. Tours are the more sought out way to get there, with many including train rides or hikes along some of the most beautiful scenery and mountains in Peru.
But to enjoy those options, you need to get to Cusco first.
Below is all the detail info you’ll need!
There are several ways to get to Machu Picchu:
The most popular way to get to Machu Picchu by far. Hike through the path used by the Incas to reach the Inca citadel, passing by snow-capped mountains, cloud jungle forests and other natural beauties. Only 200 travelers are allowed per day so it’s recommended to book at least 6 to 8 months in advance. Please contact us directly to see if we can facilitate you at shorter notice.
Best Inca Trail tours:
The best alternative to the Inca Trail. Although harder in difficulty, this hike is one of the most scenic in the world. Reaching an altitude of 4600 meters, you’ll be mesmerized by the changing climates and landscapes throughout your journey. There is no limit on the amount of travelers per day so availability is not a problem, but we still recommend to book at least 2 to 3 months in advance to assure a well planned out journey.
Best Salkantay Trek options:
Perfect for those looking for a fun way to get to Machu Picchu. A mixture of hiking, biking, river rafting and even zip-lining, you’ll have an unforgettable experience like no where else.
Best Inca Jungle treks:
The quickest and easiest way to get to Machu Picchu. Take the scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the entry to the Inca ruins, and discover it all in a short amount of time. Full day and 2-day options available.
Best Machu Picchu tours by train:
This option is not recommended. Go on a bus ride through the windy roads (not for the feint of heart) of the Andes mountains until reaching the train tracks in Aguas Calientes. From there, its a 1.5 hour walk to the town.
There are 2 ways to get there: by plane and by bus. By plane is the best option for those short on time and daily flights are available from most major cities across Peru. By bus tends to be the preferred method by travelers. This way you get to enjoy the unbelievable scenery across different destinations that you’ll be able to visit on your way to Cusco.
We strongly recommend Peru Hop buses, they offer a hop-on, hop-off system which is a perfect way to travel at your own pace, and visit the places that you want, plus the added bonus of helping you slowly acclimatize to higher altitudes.
You will need your passport to enter the site and to get the Machu Picchu stamp, so don’t forget it!
Weather can be unpredictable in Machu Picchu and it's best to be prepared for a rainy day just in case
You will do a lot of walking around the Inca citadel so make sure to wear shoes your comfortable with
Plastic waters are not permitted into the citadel so make sure to bring your reusable bottle
There is little to no shade in the citadel so it’s important to protect your skin by applying some sunblock
Machu Picchu is situated on top of a mountain in the jungle, home to many harsh bugs
You will need your passport to enter the site and to get the Machu Picchu stamp, so don’t forget it!
Weather can be unpredictable in Machu Picchu and it's best to be prepared for a rainy day just in case
You will do a lot of walking around the Inca citadel so make sure to wear shoes your comfortable with
Plastic waters are not permitted into the citadel so make sure to bring your reusable bottle
There is little to no shade in the citadel so it’s important to protect your skin by applying some sunblock
Machu Picchu is situated on top of a mountain in the jungle, home to many harsh bugs
Machu Picchu is 2,430 meters (7,970 ft) above sea level making it much lower than the city of Cusco which sits at 3,400 meters (11,155 ft).
Yes! Machu Picchu is open 7 days a week all year round.
The best weather can be enjoyed from April to November (dry season), but it also attracts a big crowd. The other months are great for a less crowded experience.
Check out our best time to visit Machu Picchu post for more detailed information!
Yes! For those short on time, visiting Machu Picchu in one day is doable. You take an early train ride to Aguas Calientes and take the bus up to Machu Picchu. Once done, you’ll head back to Aguas Calientes to catch the train back. Check out our Full Day Machu Picchu Tour for more info!
All our tours and treks include the much sought out Machu Picchu tickets.
There are clean and modern bathrooms available for use (at a small cost of 2 soles) at the entrance of Machu Picchu. There are no bathrooms inside the Inca citadel, so make sure to go before entering!
BEST SELLER 
Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley – 2 Day Combo Tour
Combine Peru’s best experiences! Start with the Sacred Valley, stay overnight in Aguas Calientes, and explore Machu Picchu the next morning.
Difficulty
Easy
Time
2 Days / 1 Night
BEST SELLER 
Machu Picchu by Train – Full Day
A perfect one-day trip! Enjoy a comfortable journey to Machu Picchu, with plenty of time to explore the ancient citadel before returning in the evening.
Difficulty
Easy
Time
1 Day
TOP EXPERIENCE 
Classic Inca Trail – 4 Days
Trace the footsteps of the ancient Incas on this iconic 4-day trail, passing archaeological sites and breathtaking vistas before entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
4 Days / 3 Nights
