Are you planning your trip to Machu Picchu? Well, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. This ancient Incan city sits high in the Andes Mountains of Peru and is one of the most breathtaking places in the world. But with all the excitement, it’s easy to feel unsure about where to start.
If you’re wondering how to plan your route, choose the best time to visit, or prepare for the altitude, here are a few tips:
Choose How to Get There
Planning how to reach this ancient city is one of the first decisions you’ll need to make. As you’ll see with various Machu Picchu tours offered by companies like Inca Rail, most travelers either hike or take the train, and each option provides a different kind of experience.
For those craving adventure, multi-day treks such as the Inca Trail, Salkantay trek, or Lares provide a scenic and challenging route through the Andes. Once you arrive, these trails offer dramatic landscapes, cultural encounters, and a sense of accomplishment. However, they require solid fitness and proper planning in advance.
Others may prefer a more relaxed journey. Trains departing from Cusco or Ollantaytambo offer a comfortable and scenic ride to Aguas Calientes, the small town just below Machu Picchu.
Once there, a short bus ride brings you directly to the entrance of the ancient site. This option allows you to enjoy the views without the physical effort of a long trek.
Pick the Best Time to Visit
Machu Picchu welcomes visitors throughout the year, but some months offer a better experience. The dry season runs from May to September and is often considered the best time. During these months, the weather is more predictable, with clear skies and minimal rain, making it easier to explore the ancient site comfortably.
Those planning a visit between June and August should be ready for large crowds, as these are the peak travel months. For a more peaceful trip, consider going in April or October. These shoulder months offer pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and a better chance to capture scenic views without the rush.
Book Your Tickets Early
Securing your entry to Machu Picchu should be one of the first steps when planning your trip. The site has a strict daily limit on the number of visitors allowed, so arriving without a ticket isn’t an option. Advance booking is essential, especially during the high season when demand peaks and tickets can sell out quickly.
Several ticket options are available, each offering a different experience. Some grant access to additional hikes, such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, while others only cover entry to the main ruins. Hikers and adventure seekers should plan, as tickets for the mountain trails are limited and tend to go fast.
Get Used to the Altitude
Most travelers start their journey to Machu Picchu in Cusco, which sits more than 11,000 feet above sea level. The high altitude can be challenging, especially for those arriving from lower elevations. Although Machu Picchu is at a slightly lower altitude, the effects can still be noticeable during the trip.
To stay comfortable, allow your body time to adjust before jumping into demanding activities. Take it slow for the first couple of days, stay well hydrated, and avoid alcohol, which can worsen symptoms. Drinking coca tea and a traditional local remedy helps ease discomfort and support your adjustment to the altitude.
Respect the Site
Machu Picchu is more than just a popular place to visit. It’s a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site and a place of deep cultural and spiritual importance. Visiting this ancient city means being a responsible traveler who values its history and significance.
As you explore, make sure to stay on marked paths. This protects the fragile terrain and keeps the site in good condition. Avoid touching the stone walls, and never remove anything from the area, even small rocks or plants. Every part of the site plays a role in telling its story.
Specific rules are also in place to help preserve the experience. For instance, drones aren’t allowed, and large backpacks may be restricted at the entrance. To make things easier, lockers are available for storing personal items. Respecting these guidelines helps protect the ancient ruins and ensures other visitors can enjoy its beauty just as much as you do.
Stay Overnight in Aguas Calientes
Planning to spend the night in Aguas Calientes can greatly improve your Machu Picchu experience. Since it’s the closest town to the site, staying there gives you convenient access and makes it easier to arrive early in the morning.
This early entry allows you to enjoy the ruins before the crowds, creating a more peaceful and personal visit. In addition, the morning mist often adds a unique and magical atmosphere to the landscape.
Beyond convenience, staying overnight allows you to slow down and enjoy your surroundings. You can explore local shops, try traditional Peruvian food, and get a whole night of rest before starting your day at Machu Picchu.
Hire a Tour Guide
Adding a guide to your Machu Picchu trip can enhance your understanding of this historic site. With their help, you gain insight into the Inca civilization, their customs, and the purpose behind many structures you will encounter. This context transforms your visit from a simple walk through ruins into a deeper cultural experience.
Although you may not need a guide, many first-time visitors find them helpful. You can book a guide in advance or speak with one at the entrance. Most guides speak English and are flexible enough to tailor the tour to your interests and pace.
Pack Smartly
Getting your packing list right can make your Machu Picchu tour much smoother. Although it’s best to travel light, bringing the right essentials will help you stay comfortable throughout your visit.
Start with a good pair of walking shoes, as the site features uneven trails and steep stone steps that require solid footing. Since the weather in the Andes can change quickly, carrying a rain jacket is a wise choice, even during the dry season.
As you prepare for the elements, remember to include sunscreen, insect repellent, a sun hat, and a refillable water bottle. Lastly, you should keep your passport with you since it’s required to enter Machu Picchu.
Take Your Time
Many visitors feel tempted to move quickly through Machu Picchu to see every corner. However, slowing down leads to a more memorable experience. Instead of rushing, pause in quiet areas and let the atmosphere sink in. The sound of birds, the movement of clouds across the mountains, and the peaceful setting can leave a lasting impression.
Although the site covers a large area, it’s still manageable on foot within a few hours. Exploring at a relaxed pace will allow you to notice small details and truly connect with the surroundings.
Explore Beyond Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu may be the highlight of your journey, but the surrounding region offers even more to discover. With its charming cobbled streets and lively markets, Cusco is a great place to start. The city blends colonial architecture with Inca history, creating a unique atmosphere that’s vibrant in culture.
Just beyond Cusco lies the Sacred Valley, where you can explore more Inca ruins, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes. If you have more time, consider visiting Lake Titicaca or Rainbow Mountain. These nearby attractions add variety and depth to your travel experience.
Expanding your itinerary makes your trip more rewarding. It also allows you to connect more meaningfully with Peru’s culture, history, and natural beauty.
Conclusion
Touring Machu Picchu doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of planning and the right mindset, it can be one of the most rewarding travel experiences ever. Whether you’re hiking the Inca Trail or taking the train, you’ll be stepping into a piece of history that leaves a lasting impression.
Take time to soak in the magic: wander the ruins at sunrise, listen to stories from your guide, and let the Andes’ grandeur humble you. And remember, the adventure doesn’t end here. From Cusco’s vibrant streets to the Sacred Valley’s hidden gems, Peru has endless treasures to explore.
