What to know before you visit Machu Picchu
Get the scoop on what to bring, where to stay, and more.
Updated September 9, 2024
You’ve heard people say it time and time again: “You don’t realize how amazing it is until you’ve actually been there.” And while it’s one of the most cliche things you can hear about traveling, in the case of Machu Picchu, it’s absolutely true. Dating to the mid-1400s, it’s a marvel of mortar-free limestone architecture perched on a high plateau deep in the Amazonian jungle.
Getting there is an adventure on its own. Hopping on a train from Cusco is simple or, if you’re up for a thrilling challenge, make the trip on foot via a multi-day hike of the Inca Trail—you’ll travel through deep Andean gullies full of stunning views. If you dream of visiting this ancient wonder, here’s what you need to know as you plan:
When should I go?
The dry season runs between April and October, and the largest crowds descend in June, July, and August when the weather is best. (Consider May, when temps are slightly lower, as are the crowds.) Outside of this timeframe, the area gets a significant amount of rain. You can still visit, but make sure to plan accordingly—and bring a rain jacket.
You’ll also want to consider what time of day you’re visiting. The early morning is recommended, of course, for the sunrise and fewer crowds. The first entry is at 6 a.m., and the middle of the day tends to see the most foot traffic. Stick to an early visit or come a few hours before closing time (5:30 p.m.).
Where should I stay?
Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes is the closest town to Machu Picchu and where you can catch the bus up to the archeological site (it’s an adventurous route with lots of switchbacks). The town itself is full of energy and has a large market while offering the distinct advantage of being an excellent place for getting an early start to the site. If you’re keeping to a strict budget, consider Inti Punku Machupicchu Hotel & Suite—it’s right next to the train station, and breakfast is included. For more creature comforts, check into Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, where the stone paths are lined with waterfalls and some 200-plus bird species pass through its lush greenery.
Ollantaytambo
Located in the Sacred Valley at the base of the Inca Trail, Ollantaytambo is a great starting point if you’re looking to make the trek. But even for those who plan to take the train, Ollantaytambo features some of the oldest continuously occupied buildings in South America and is well worth a visit for its own fascinating ruins. To dig deeper into this region, consider staying at Las Qolqas Eco Resort, where you’ll be treated to safari-style tents and meals made with ingredients grown on-site. Hotel Tierra Inka Sacred Valley is a great budget pick, and it’s only a five-minute walk from the ruins in the city’s archaeological park.
Book a tour in Sacred Valley
Cusco
Cusco is the largest city in the region and perhaps the most popular point of stay. It's easily accessible to Machu Picchu by bus or train, making a full-day trip entirely possible. It’s a vibrant city full of ancient history and art—Incan majesty and Andean baroque exist side-by-side in its stone streets, epitomized by the Qorikancha Palace and the Church of Santo Domingo on the Plaza de Armas. You can research and compare options from more than 400 hotels in Cusco on Tripadvisor. If saving some money is high on your list, Sonesta Hotel Cusco offers a daily breakfast and an airport shuttle service. On the opposite end of the budget spectrum, Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel has been applauded by past guests for its opulent rooms (think: balconies, beautiful tile floors, and antique furniture) and a stand-out spa.
Tours and experiences in Cusco
Should I worry about altitude sickness?
At 2,430 meters above sea level, it can take the body time to adjust to the decreased oxygen at Machu Picchu. Cusco is even higher at an elevation of 3,600 meters and it can take 1–3 days for the body to acclimatize.
Tripadvisor travelers who've made the trip have several tips for preventing the effects of altitude sickness:
“Some people really feel the altitude in Cusco when coming from sea level but many get by just fine. I was quite badly affected on my first trip there, my wife barely noticed it. Take it easy for the first [few] days and don’t overexert and you could be fine. If concerned, consult your GP re: medication like acetazolamide, which can help a lot.”—@crellston
“I did find coca tea to be very helpful and prefer natural solutions to begin with. I also love tea in general, so I prefer that to be my go-to over medicine.”—@567sunniep
“You should give yourself a minimum 2-3 days in Cusco before doing any hiking higher up. We walked the surrounding hills, look-outs, etc, slowly working up our tolerance. We definitely felt the elevation...and that's from two very active people living in the mountains here in Calgary!”—@Littlechilds
Do I need to buy tickets to Machu Picchu? Can I just show up or do I book it in advance?
The bottom line: You will want to buy your tickets as far in advance as possible. In fact, make it the first thing you do after deciding on your trip dates to avoid any possible disappointment. The archeological site has a limit of 2,500 visitors per day to preserve it and you’ll need a timed ticket to enter.
Keep in mind that there are several different types of tickets available, depending on whether you want to also explore Huayna Picchu or do the Machu Picchu Montaña climb. There’s no single “see it all” ticket—instead, there are four different circuits with a number of options for each route. This is worth putting some research into, especially if you want that iconic Machu Picchu postcard photo (Circuits 1 and 2 will get you that view).
Timing is also important; mornings tend to be magical but foggy and in the afternoon, the trails tend to heat up. You’re more likely to catch a clear photo of the ruins a bit later in the day but you'll battle crowds. You can view the different options and purchase entry tickets directly from the Peruvian government here.
Make the most of your trip
How hard is it really to hike the Inca Trail?
Stretching 26 miles across contrasting environments, Tripadvisor travelers report that hiking the trail isn’t for the faint of heart, but if you’re up for a challenge it can be one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever experience:
“We designed the itinerary to give us time to acclimatize before our Inca Trail Trek. With six days split between Ollantaytambo and Cusco, we started the trek in good shape. Still gasped for air quite often on all those stone steps going up to the 13,000+ passes, but we really believe the extra time and Diamox helped us adjust quite well.”—@CPSH
“The right gear can make a world of difference. To sleep, we used Merino base layers—incredible weight to warmth ratio. We slept in our fleeces, gloves, and hats as much heat is lost from the head, especially if, like me, you shave your head! Basically, it is early to bed and early to rise. Once the sun comes up, it warms up quite rapidly and you will want to strip off some of those layers so prepare accordingly.” —@crellston
“You want to do the Inca trail while it's got a reasonable chance of being dry and quite cool so September should work well. You can count on it being cool/cold in September and it is the dry season but then I have been soaked in October and this past February when we visited it only really rained at night and only heavily once in six nights.” —@jsthouston (forum topic)
How far in advance do I need to book my Inca Trail trek?
According to travelers on Tripadvisor, it’s important to make a reservation for the Inca trail and pay your entrance fee well in advance. The trail only permits 500 hikers per day, and a large portion of that is devoted to guides and tour staff. Here’s how far in advance you should schedule:
- High season (May through September): book 5-6 months in advance
- Mid season (April and October): book 8-10 weeks in advance
- Low season (December, January, and March): book 5-7 weeks in advance
- February: The trail is closed but Machu Picchu remains open
Maybe taking the train is more my speed. What are my options?
If staying in Cusco or Ollantaytambo, there are two main train companies for visiting Machu Picchu: PeruRail and Inca Rail. As with most Machu Picchu trip planning, you’ll want to nail down your train tickets early.
A trip between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes on Inca Rail is a real treat from the moment you head toward the tracks (we won’t spoil the festivities, but it’s an experience). There are food and drinks available for purchase onboard, but you’ll have a hard time prying your eyes from the incredible scenery to enjoy a snack.
On PeruRail, you can choose between a number of trains. The Vistadome allows panoramic views as you speed through valleys, while the Expedition is a budget-friendly pick for those just looking to get from Point A to Point B.
Once I’m there should I get a guided tour?
While it’s certainly possible to explore the site using just a guidebook, many traveler reviews speak of having exceptional experiences with guides and tours. Guides are often locals and experts on the site who can bring the history of the ancient ruins to life.
If you just want someone to accompany you while in Machu Picchu, there will be guides available to hire right as you wait in the bus line at Aguas Calientes. Just have cash on hand and expect to pay between 100 and 150 soles per person.
If you plan on hiking the Inca Trail, know you’re required to be accompanied by a licensed guide. There are several different routes and many different styles of tours to choose from, many of which are bookable right on Tripadvisor:
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