Complete panoramic view of Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu was an Inca city located in the high jungle of Cusco, on the eastern side of the Andes Mountains. The Incas used its geography to build dozens of agricultural terraces, roads, enclosures, plazas and temples. Today, the archaeological site has more than 150 stone buildings. The most famous are the Temple of the Sun, the Main Temple, the Intihuatana, the Sacred Rock and the Temple of the Condor. However, there are other less popular buildings in Machu Picchu that have great historical value. Discover the most hidden buildings in the Inca site!

The most famous buildings in Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu Sun Temple

Machu Picchu has around 150 stone buildings. Most of them are agricultural terraces, as the citadel once housed approximately one thousand people.

For the survival of this city, the Incas also built enclosures for the population and, of course, housing for the ruling class.

The main temples and homes of the elite are located in the upper sector or hanan. The homes of the population, as well as the workshops and agricultural terraces, are in the lower part or uku.

These are the main constructions of Machu Picchu, the most famous buildings:

• The Temple of the Sun – The temple dedicated to the sun god or Inti. It is the only one with a semicircular shape. It has a precise carving with window and niches. It is located in the religious sector, above the Royal Tomb.
• The Temple of the 3 Windows – The temple that in its three enormous windows represented the Inca worldview on three levels: hanan pacha (upper world), kai pacha (earthly world) and uku pacha (underworld).
• The Main Temple – The temple where the most important ceremonies were held in the Inca era. It has an altar and three large walls, as well as niches where gold and silver offerings were placed.
• The Intihuatana – The sundial also present in Pisac. It was used to predict the correct time for sowing and harvesting in Machu Picchu. It has a small but excellently carved pyramidal structure.
• The Sacred Rock – A huge carved stone monolith whose shape represented the mountains, tutelary gods in the Inca worldview. It is 7 meters high on a 3-meter base where offerings were left.
• The Water Mirrors – Two plate-shaped sculptures in the ground which, when filled with water, reflected the celestial gods such as the sun, stars, and moon. They are located in a special room in the lower part of the Inca citadel.
• The Intipunku – The entrance, exit and control gate of Machu Picchu in the Inca era. The sun’s rays fall through its walls and windows. From there you have the first panoramic view of the Inca city.

The most hidden buildings in Machu Picchu

The Royal Tomb at Machu Picchu

And these are the Inca constructions that are less known or explored by tourists:

• The Inca Bridge – A bridge that connected Machu Picchu with the Inca trails to the east via a wooden bridge on a stone base. It is a 20-minute walk from the Guardian’s House (where you can get the classic photo).
• The House of the Inca – As its name suggests, the most luxurious home in Machu Picchu, with the finest carvings and located next to the Temple of the Sun. It has rooms for resting, bathrooms, terraces with viewing points and more. It is believed that this is where the Inca resided during his sporadic visits to Machu Picchu.
• The Temple of the Moon – A ceremonial enclosure inside a cave and located at the bottom of the Huayna Picchu mountain. It is believed that the caves connected the world of men with the underworld. It has a ceremonial table and carefully carved niches.
• The Secret Door – A mysterious opening inside a stone structure. It is believed that there are objects containing minerals or precious stones inside. However, the Peruvian Ministry of Culture does not allow this walled door to be opened to see its interior. The reason is due to the fear of damaging the Inca citadel.
• The Tres Portadas complex – A complex of workshops and rooms used by the inhabitants of Machu Picchu during the Inca period. It is located in the north of the citadel. It is characterized by its high ceilings and the stone carvings that remain solid.
• The Royal Tomb – A natural cavern located beneath the Temple of the Sun. Precious objects were found during the first excavations there. It is believed that this was the tomb of high-ranking figures of the Inca elite.
• The sacred fountains – A group of water fountains that flow down from the Temple of the Sun and the House of the Inca and disappear through the agricultural terraces with perfect channelling. For the Incas, water was a source of purification of the spirit.

How to visit the buildings in the Inca city?

To see the different buildings of Machu Picchu, visitors must choose one of the three available circuits. See all the circuits and the Inca buildings included.

Ticket prices and circuits in Machu Picchu

These are the prices of the 10 types of tickets to Machu Picchu:

Machu Picchu Entrance Classic Photo

Classic Machu Picchu Entrance

Machu Picchu Classic Entrance (lower terrace)

Machu Picchu entrance Temples of the lower part

Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Entrance

Machu Picchu + Mountain Entrance

Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu entrance

Machu Picchu Entrance + Inca Bridge

Machu Picchu + Intipunku Entrance

Machu Picchu Entrance + Great Cavern

Questions and answers about the most hidden buildings in Machu Picchu

• What is the furthest Inca construction from Machu Picchu?

  The Temple of the Moon is definitely one of the most remote buildings from Machu Picchu. To get there you have to hike for 2 hours or a little more because it is at the bottom of the Huayna Picchu mountain.

• How to visit the Inca Bridge of Machu Picchu?

  To visit this little-known construction of Machu Picchu you must first purchase the ticket ‘Machu Picchu with Inca Bridge’. Once in the Casa del Guardián sector you must take a walk of 20 minutes or a little more until you reach the Inca Bridge.

• What is the Secret Door of Machu Picchu? How to visit it?

  The Secret Door is a mysterious walled-up structure inside a stone building. It is believed that there are objects made of minerals or precious stones inside. However, the Ministry of Culture of Peru does not allow this walled-up door to be opened to see its interior.

• What is the Three Doors complex of Machu Picchu? How to visit it?

  These are enclosures for the population and enclosures for the artisans of Machu Picchu. It has three large enclosures with high ceilings in the north of Machu Picchu.

• What is the Royal Tomb of Machu Picchu? Can I visit it?

  Finely carved structure inside a cave and beneath the Temple of the Sun in Machu Picchu. The mummy of important figures of the Inca elite was probably located there.

• How to visit the House of the Inca in Machu Picchu?

  As its name indicates, it was the home of the Inca during his visits to Machu Picchu. It has the finest rooms and views. You can visit it by doing circuit 3 in Machu Picchu.

• How to visit the Sacred Springs of Machu Picchu?

  A set of perfectly carved water channels in the lower part of Machu Picchu. For the Incas, water was an element of purification of the spirit.

• What is the most hidden construction in Machu Picchu?

  The Temple of the Moon and the Inca Bridge are two of the most hidden and least explored buildings by tourists visiting Machu Picchu.

• Which tour should you choose to visit the most hidden buildings of Machu Picchu?

  Circuit 3 or the Royal Circuit offers a visit to the most hidden but important buildings of Machu Picchu, such as: the House of the Inca, Three Doors, the Sacred Fountains, the Royal Tomb and more.

• Which tour should you choose to visit the most famous buildings in Machu Picchu?

  Circuit 2 or classic circuit offers a visit to the most famous buildings of Machu Picchu, such as: the Temple of the Sun, the Main Temple, the Temple of the 3 Windows, the Sacred Rock and more.

Tourist in Machu Picchu

The entrance to Machu Picchu can only be done with the respective tickets. The way to acquire them without much trouble or avoiding queues, is by making the reservation virtually. However, this does not mean that once you have purchased the ticket to Machu Picchu you can have all the necessary services to get to Machu Picchu. In this blog, we want to detail everything you can consider, acquired, with the reservation of the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu. And it will also be important to mention what you will need to have a successful trip. Without more to say, it is time to clarify some details about these tickets.

Tickets to Machu Picchu

Flames in the Inca citadel

Tickets to Machu Picchu are the only means or document to enter the llaqta of Machu Picchu. It is important to have an adequate planning so that the reservation of this ticket is made with the necessary anticipation. As in all availability there are some tickets that are sold out before others then learn more about these important details of the tickets to Machu Picchu.

• Entrance Llaqta Machu Picchu, is one of the tickets that are sold out almost immediately. It is important to make the reservation 3 months in advance.
• Entrance Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu, is another of the tickets that are sold out in a short time. If you want to make the ascent to this mountain we recommend making the reservation 3 to 4 months in advance.
• Entrance Machu Picchu + Mountain or vice versa, is the ticket that allows the ascent to the highest mountain of the place. Live a unique experience. It is recommended to make the reservation 2 months in advance.
• In the case of the entrance to Huchuy Picchu and Inca Bridge, they are the main option for when the previous tickets are sold out. They are usually available up to a month in advance.
• It is important to know that the high season is from May to July.
• The availability of admission tickets will depend on the season and the unpredictable travel intentions of the tourists.
• It is not advisable to be confident about the availability of admission tickets. This can change drastically in a matter of hours.

Where to make reservations to Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu town – Manco Capac Square

Reservations to enter Machu Picchu with any of the 5 entrance tickets to Machu Picchu can be made from the comfort of home. The main way to make reservations is virtually. This does not mean that reservations can be made in person, but this brings some complications that can ruin any trip to Machu Picchu. Let’s take a look at the details.

Benefits of virtual booking

• The convenience of doing it at home and having an adequate travel planning.
• Opportunity to pay by credit or debit card. In other words, a virtual payment.
• You have the opportunity to review the schedules and choose the best option.
• The tickets will be sent to the e-mail address you used to make the reservation.
• You will be able to explore the circuit possibilities offered by each ticket.
• You will acquire a ticket that you really like. Information will be vital for this.

Benefits of booking in person

• There is the possibility of acquiring tickets at the last minute.
• It is advisable to buy it in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
• You will find the printed ticket at the time of payment.
• It is important that you pay with cash or a physical card.
• Unfortunately, in most cases, long queues are required.
• Likewise, you are likely to run out of admission tickets, despite standing in long lines.
• It is important to remember that ticket availability is limited on a daily basis.

All that is included in the entrance tickets to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu panoramic view

The entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, are for exclusive use to enter Machu Picchu. So it will not include any other service. In this sense it is important to know that Machu Picchu requires a trip of approximately 5 hours from Cusco to get there. Normally the trip is made by train, although there are other possibilities.

Now it remains to explain the Inca constructions that can be visited in Machu Picchu according to the entrance ticket purchased. To better understand this, let’s look at the following chart. It is important to note that we will only point out the constructions inside the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. That is to say, we will not mention the trekking routes that are added to some entrances in a specific way. Example: Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu.

Some information that we must take into account about the circuits. For example, the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu + Inca Bridge, includes the tour of Machu Picchu by the different points that we see in the picture. In addition, a short walk to the Inca Bridge which is about 30 minutes walk from Machu Picchu. The same can be applied to the rest of the tickets that include an additional tour, in addition to the Machu Picchu circuit.

• On the other hand, it is important to know that you can only enter the Intihuatana from 7:00 am to 10:00 am.
• The same applies for admission to the Templo del Cóndor. Admission to this place only applies from 10:00 to 13:00 hours of the day.
• The average travel time through the Inca citadel is 2 to 3 hours.
• It is not allowed to run in the opposite direction or against the established circuit.
• In the case of Inti Punku, it is possible to get there only with the Inca Trail trekking routes (4 or 2 days).
• As for the Temple of the Moon, it can be accessed with the entrance to Huayna Picchu. However, the route remains closed (to date).
• In case you take a short trekking route through some of the mountains, we recommend you to make the ascent to Machu Picchu with the ecological buses.
• If you will make the ascent through the mountains, remember that it is important to bring some drinks and snacks.

How to purchase other services?

Machu Picchu by train

The way to get to Machu Picchu is varied. The services needed to do so will depend on the experience you want to have. The main options are the trekking routes or the classic train trip. In both cases, you can access travel agency services or do it on your own.

In this opportunity we will explore the services for the classic trip, that is, making the trip by train. what services are needed?

• First of all, make sure you have reserved your entrance to Machu Picchu.
• The trip to Machu Picchu can be done in one day. This will depend on the time of the day when the reservation was made.
• It is recommended to make reservations between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm.
• The services required to travel to Machu Picchu are: the train ticket (preferably with the bimodal service) and the ecological bus ticket.
• Both services can be purchased virtually.
• Train schedules start as early as 4:00 am.
• The tickets on the ecological bus do not have a fixed schedule. They are based on the entrance time of the ticket to Machu Picchu.
• Remember to have the three essential services for the day trip. Entrance ticket, train ticket and bus ticket (the latter two are best purchased round trip).
• By hiring these services in advance you can have a tour of Machu Picchu without unforeseen events and as it should be.
• Finally, be sure to contact a reliable travel agency.

Questions and answers about tickets to Machu Picchu

• What days can Machu Picchu not be visited?

  Machu Picchu can be visited every day of the year. In case of any natural, political or social unforeseen event. The Ministry of Culture is the entity in charge of issuing the communiqués on the suspension of the visit.

• Which of the entries is the best?

  No comparison as such can be made. In the case of the five entrances, each of them offers a different tour and therefore a completely independent experience is generated with each of the tickets. However, the most requested or the ones that sell out the fastest are the Llaqta Machu Picchu or Machu Picchu Solo and the ticket that includes the tour of Huayna Picchu.

• Is it really necessary to take the tour with a guide?

  It is the most advisable. More and more people are choosing to access these services. The main reason is because it allows a detailed tour of the entire citadel of Machu Picchu. That is to say, you will learn historical data, motivations and even curious facts about the place. This service enriches the travel experience.

• Which entrance ticket is ideal for touring Machu Picchu with seniors?

  For seniors, we recommend the tours with the entrance to Llaqta Machu Picchu, but you can also access the Inca Bridge. Actually, you could do any tour as long as you have your doctor’s approval or recommendations. The longest walking tour can take 5 hours in total and even more.

• Do I really need to take the ecological buses to Machu Picchu?

  It is the most advisable, this way you can make a light tour and with full energy. The ascent on foot to Machu Picchu can take up to two hours and the stretch is completely uphill so you will ascend by stairs. If you are not very prepared it can be quite strenuous.

Tourists waiting for the sunrise in Machu Picchu

The most popular trips in Peru involve visits to Machu Picchu. These trips usually do not have many surprises as long as you have planned the trip well. For different reasons, the high season leaves out many people. This is because tourists arrive en masse. Most of the visitors come for the most favorable weather conditions. Others also relate it to vacations in other countries. The high season refers to the massive visits to Machu Picchu, everything will start from April, extending until the first days of December. In this blog, we will learn more about the high season in Machu Picchu and how is the experience you have when making this trip.

High season details

Tourists visiting Machu Picchu in high season

The high season in Machu Picchu is formed precisely because the visits increase considerably compared to other dates. That is, you can find all services crowded and with little availability. Therefore, it is important to be properly informed about the high season in Machu Picchu.

The high season also coincides with the presence of the dry season. In all of southern Peru, the rainy season ends precisely at the end of April. In this sense, April would represent the beginning of the dry season and the high season.

The climatic conditions of Cusco are quite peculiar, the rains can be present throughout the year. However, they will have much more presence during the months of November to April. During all these months it is likely to get soaked, even in the city tours.

That is why the main reason for the high season to have such a presence is precisely to coincide with the dry season. Thus having an ideal and propitious trip for all the adventures that Cusco offers.

During the first travel excursions, many believed that it rains all year round in Cusco, that it is not a good destination to visit, that the activities are dangerous and even that they can be left halfway. All this, because of the presence of the rains. But the rains generate a more mystical tourism.

Here we do not want to say that the rains are bad, but that they were the main reason why the high season was formed. Otherwise, we are sure that tourists would dare to come all year round. The evidence is not many, but there are those who dare to do it. They make the trips during the rainy season, hoping to be surprised by the mystique of Machu Picchu because of the fog.

Precisely because they can find a calmer tourism, beautiful and green landscapes throughout the region and also beautiful rainbows. All this, normally, appears after the arduous rains. Cusco and the surrounding valleys are the ideal places to appreciate the rainbows that come out and can have a great variety of colors. Now that we know more about the high season, we will be able to know more about the dates and the most important thing, the reservations.

Machu Picchu high season dates and how to book?

Visiting the main temple of Machu Picchu

The high season will start in April, as we have already seen. However, reservations can be made as early as December of the previous year. In other words, if you are planning to travel during the month of April 2025, you can make your reservation as early as December 2024.

It is important to know this or have this information because reservations will sell out even if, following the example, you try to make the reservation during the month of February or March. Otherwise, it is recommended to check the availability status well in advance and frequently to see the changes.

In this sense, it is recommended to make your reservation about three months in advance. Only in this way, you will be able to access the dates you plan to travel. In addition, you have to be attentive and constantly update the availability.

When does the high season start? This is a difficult question to answer precisely. Sometimes the high season is early and sometimes it is late. It usually starts during the first weeks of April and may extend until the end of October or the first weeks of November.

How to make the reservation for the entrance tickets to Machu Picchu? The truth is that it is very simple to do and you only need to have internet and a credit or debit card, both must accept the online purchase. In case your credit or debit card does not accept the purchase, it is recommended to talk directly with the bank that provides you with the card in question. Sometimes it only requires activation through the bank’s application.

Is it better to make the trip to Machu Picchu on your own or with an agency? This will depend entirely on the tourist and the experience he/she wishes to have. The positive thing about doing the trip with a travel agency is that you can only worry about having the best possible experience. In other words, they will take care of everything you need for the trip.

What do I need for my trip to Machu Picchu? The essentials for the trip to Machu Picchu, we will see in the following list:

• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (book 3 months in advance).
• Train ticket, it can include the bimodal service or the trip from Ollantaytambo. It is recommended to make a round trip reservation.
• Transportation ticket in the ecological buses to the access area of Machu Picchu.
• A tour guide for the tour of Machu Picchu.
• You can make the return trip on foot, but you can also do it in the ecological buses.
• If you plan to stay more days in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Pueblo it is important to have a hotel reserved.

Advantages of the high season in Machu Picchu Picchu

Traveler taking a selfie in Machu Picchu

The advantages of travel in high season are related to the good weather. But there are other advantages, let’s see it.

• By the end of April the rains usually stop completely. This provides clearer skies.
• The busiest months are between the months of June, July and August.
• It is possible to find various types of services in both Cusco and Machu Picchu Pueblo.
• Prices can vary from the cheapest possible to the most expensive.
• Option to get to know new cultures. Machu Picchu and Cusco congregate many people from various parts of the world.
• You can take the opportunity to do the hiking trails normally.
• It is possible to make the routes to other destinations. So it is recommended to organize several activities in Cusco.
• Natural destinations such as Laguna Humantay and Montaña de Colores are visited normally.
• You can observe beautiful panoramic landscapes.
• You can have quiet walks through the streets of Cusco without worrying about the rains.
• The main advantage will be the option to do several activities in Cusco. Organize them.

Disadvantages of doing Machu Picchu

Tourists in the Wonder of the World

The disadvantages of visiting Machu Picchu can be related to the entrance fees. The tickets, as already mentioned, are usually sold out even months in advance.

• If you have not booked it is likely that you will not find an entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
• During the high season the availabilities are exhausted, in this sense the visits to Machu Picchu are multitudinous.
• All services to Machu Picchu may be full.
• During the month of June, in Cusco, you may not be able to find a hotel, so take precautions and make a reservation.
• It is important, if possible, to make reservations in most of the services you require such as lodging, restaurants and transportation.
• Although the days are quite warm, temperatures can drop at night.
• You will not enjoy the Cusco festivities that take place in June.

How is the experience of visiting Machu Picchu in high season?

Machu Picchu Inca Citadel in high season

The most important thing to make the trip to Machu Picchu is to have the entrance ticket. Without it we can not even talk about a travel experience. Normally all travelers arrive in Cusco by air travel. This is a way to save time, but the trips themselves can have an extra cost, especially during the month of June.

In Cusco you can find a great variety of hotels and restaurants. So you don’t have to worry too much about that aspect. What you should be aware of is the availability of hotels. Sometimes, the massive visits can overrun the availability of even the most expensive hotels.

Otherwise, it is normal to find quite a lot of people, both in the waiting room of the train stations. The trip in the tourist trains, will respect the seat since these are numbered and personal. During the train ride, you can appreciate part of the Vilcanota River and also the beautiful landscapes that connect the Andes with the high jungle.

Once in Machu Picchu Pueblo it is likely to have queues. This will occur to board the buses to the access area to the archaeological center. Do not worry too much, because these buses do not have a fixed schedule and start their run once the bus is full. The buses only allow the number of passengers to be equal to the number of seats. No one can travel standing.

The tour of the Inca citadel will be quite congested. This is normal, but thanks to the circuits we can have a good flow through the different constructions of Machu Picchu. The return, will be similar, we will find many people at the train station, but fortunately the trips will be comfortable and respecting the schedules.

Photo of Machu Picchu from the lower terrace

Machu Picchu has several tourist options such as the famous Inca Trail route, the economic route by Hydroelectric, the adventurous route by the Salkantay trek, the luxurious experience in the Hiram Bingham train, the route that includes the hike to Huayna Picchu and much more. The safest and most complete way to live these experiences is with an all-inclusive tour to Machu Picchu. How is it done? What does it include? What places does it include? Learn about the best tours to Machu Picchu!

Tour Machu Picchu 1 day classic

Tourists observing from the Guardian House

The Machu Picchu 1 day classic tour offers: pick up from the door of the hotel in Cusco, transportation by bus to the train station, the bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and return to Cusco with the same route. The guide is professional and will accompany you during the visit to Machu Picchu. The most frequent train service is the ‘Expedition’ service of Peru Rail.

This tour offers discounts for Peruvian, Colombian, Bolivian and Ecuadorian tourists. In addition, they offer promotions for visitors under 18 years old and university students. Usually this service starts at 5:00 a.m. and ends at 9:00 p.m. in the city of Cusco or in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, depending on the tourist’s decision.

Tour Machu Picchu 2 days classic

Panoramic view from the upper terraces

The Machu Picchu 2 days classic tour offers pick up from the visitor’s hotel, tourist transportation to the train station (usually Wánchaq), Expedition train ride (Peru Rail service), 1 night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (usually the comfortable 2 star service), tourist bus to Machu Picchu, professional guide in Machu Picchu (group or private service), entrance fees and return to Cusco to the hotel door.

This service lasts two days and starts from the pick up between 5 or 7 am until the return to Cusco at 9 pm on the second day. There are discounts for visitors from Peru, Colombia, Ecuador or Bolivia. There are also promotions for visitors under 18 years old and university students (with valid ID). It is a service recommended for the whole family because it has a tight itinerary.

Tour Machu Picchu 2 days by Hydroelectric

Machu Picchu Intipunku

The Machu Picchu 2 days tour by Hydroelectric is the most economical and one of the most adventurous way to travel to the Inca city. This tour includes tourist transportation (5 hours trip from Cusco to Hydroelectric in the jungle of Cusco), meals (1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner), 1 night tourist hotel in Aguas Calientes (standard service), tourist bus (optional ascent to Machu Picchu on foot), professional tour guide in Machu Picchu and return to Cusco by the same route.

The Machu Picchu 2 days tour by Hydroelectric is recommended for everyone, especially for young adventurers who are looking for a cheaper alternative way to visit the Inca city. There are discounts for Peruvian, Colombian, Bolivian and Ecuadorian tourists. There are also promotions for visitors under 18 years of age and university students. The service starts at 7:00 a.m. in Cusco and ends at 8:00 p.m. the following day, also in the city of Cusco.

Tour Inca Trail 4 days

Tourist descending the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail 4 days tour is considered one of the best trekking routes in the world. It covers 39 kilometers from the starting point of the trek at kilometer 82 of the railway to Machu Picchu and concludes in the Inca city of Machu Picchu. Up to there you go through the Intipunku (sun gate), just as the Incas did hundreds of years ago.

The tour includes pick up from the hotel in Cusco, tourist transportation to the starting point of the trek, permits to hike the Inca Trail, full professional guide, meals provided by professional cooks, team of porters in charge of carrying the necessary equipment, entrance to Machu Picchu and return by tourist train to Cusco.

Tpur Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu 2 days

Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site

The Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu 2 days tour is one of the most popular tours among visitors because in addition to Machu Picchu it includes a visit to the Inca sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. In addition, the tour offers a buffet lunch in a tourist restaurant in the town of Urubamba. It also offers an overnight stay in the town of Aguas Calientes.

The tour offers discounts for Peruvian, Colombian, Bolivian and Ecuadorian tourists. There are also promotions for visitors under 18 years of age and university students from all countries. The tour starts at 7:00 a.m. on the first day and ends at 9:00 p.m. on the second day, always in the city of Cusco.

Tour Salkantay trek 5 days

Doing the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu

The Salkantay trek 5 days tour is one of the best long treks in Cusco and Peru. It offers beautiful landscapes, beautiful tourist attractions such as the Humantay lagoon, the Salkantay pass or the thermal baths of Cocalmayo and, of course, Machu Picchu. A total of 70 kilometers are covered in five days and four nights of camping. It is a service in great demand by young and young-spirited travelers all over the world.

Although this tour can be done on your own following the trail and staying in one of the lodges camps along the route, the safest way is with an all-inclusive tour. The service includes pick up from the hotel, transportation to the starting point of the trek, meals provided by cooks, camping in eco lodges, loading of utensils and luggage on horseback, entrance to all tourist attractions, as well as return by tourist train to Cusco.

Machu Picchu Deluxe Tour by Hiram Bingham Train

The most luxurious train to Machu Picchu – Hiram Bingham

The luxury tour to Machu Picchu by Hiram Bingham train is perhaps the most glamorous and special experience on the trip to Cusco. This service includes a trip on the Hiram Bingham luxury train, which offers: lunch or gourmet dinner, free bar, live music show on board, welcome champagne, luxury facilities such as the observatory car and even the bus and the company of a tour guide in Machu Picchu.

The tour also offers pick up from the hotel in the city of Cusco, private transportation to the train station of Poroy (or Ollantaytambo depending on the time of year), the entrance to the archaeological site of Machu Picchu and the return to the door of the hotel in the city of Cusco. This is a high quality service, specially designed for couples who want to spend a very memorable moment in their lives.

Tour Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu 1 day

View to the top of Huayna Picchu Mountain

Huayna Picchu mountain offers perhaps the best hike inside Machu Picchu. The ‘Machupicchu + Huayna Picchu 1 day’ tour is a special way to get to know the archaeological site by adding a special hike on the route. The ascent to the mountain, suitable only for those over 12 years old, lasts 2 hours and offers panoramic views of the Inca city.

The tour starts with the pick up of the visitor from the door of his hotel at approximately 4 am. It also offers full tourist transportation (usually by Peru Rail Expedition train), professional guide, entrance to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, as well as the return transfer to Cusco. It is a service specially designed for nature and trekking lovers.

Machu Picchu archaeological site

Know the main prohibitions in Machu Picchu. This will be of vital importance to avoid making mistakes and even to avoid being left out. Many people are unaware of these restrictions and travel as if Machu Picchu was a shopping mall or just another place. However, Machu Picchu is considered a sanctuary, so some behaviors or alterations that visitors can have are restricted. This, mainly, in order that the citadel or Inca llaqta can be visited for many more years and, in addition, continue to maintain that beautiful particularity in the constructions of good condition. It can continue to be visited in posterity and more generations can reach this beautiful, magical and sacred place.

Machu Picchu is considered a sanctuary. Why?

Full view of Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is one of the best constructions and vestiges of the Inca culture. Finding it meant an important discovery for all that it would show to the archaeological study of Peru. In addition to contributing greatly to the understanding of the scarce history of the Incas.

In addition, this discovery allowed the entire geographic area to be explored in greater depth. The result was surprising. A network of roads was found that connected Machu Picchu with other Inca constructions. Among these constructions we have to highlight the presence of Wiñayhuayna that has incredible terraces, which are a challenge to engineering and physics itself.

This exploration also allowed us to explore the depths of the jungle, where we found beautiful species of orchids, as well as a great variety of butterflies and a unique ecosystem in the world. In this sense, native species of Machu Picchu can be found, both in insects, birds and even orchids.

It is also important to mention that Machu Picchu itself has more than 200 enclosures. Among these we can find the presence of colcas, houses, terraces and also the presence of religious buildings that have beautiful landscapes. Something that is also surprising are the squares or social areas in front of the temples.

Finally, Machu Picchu is considered as a Historic Sanctuary by essential criteria according to the World Cultural Heritage. Let’s get to know these particularities in detail. After that, let’s start with the list of the main precautions that must be followed to visit Machu Picchu.

• Machu Picchu is a work of art, which highlights its ability to integrate urban planning, architecture and engineering.
• It achieves all of the above in a large geographical space that further increases the aforementioned characteristics.
• It served as a center of convergence or articulator of the ancient settlers.
• The architectural capacity stands out because the transformation of an entire mountain was achieved.
• There is an immersion and harmony with the nature and geography of the place.
• Thanks to all the above mentioned, it is a space of great human value, where you can investigate the social, political and religious relationship of the Inca culture.
• All Machu Picchu has its own harmony and aesthetics, and its condition allows us to appreciate all these details in a better way.

Careful when touring Machu Picchu

One of the llamas that inhabit Machu Picchu

The precautions concerning the tour to Machu Picchu can be seen in the following prohibitions.

• You may enter Machu Picchu and tour it with the presence of a guide dog. Other pets or normal pets cannot enter.
• In Machu Picchu you may find the presence of some animals, it is forbidden to feed them.
• During the tour you can not use megaphones and listen to music on portable speakers.
• You have to do the tour of Machu Picchu without shouting, clapping, singing, whistling or any other noise that disturbs the tour or disturb the rest of the tourists.
• In case of doing the tour with a baby, you will have to carry it, the entrance of baby carriages is not allowed.
• During the tour, it is completely forbidden and legal proceedings may be opened in case of disturbance, nudity, running, lying down or similar.
• Likewise, during the course no one may climb or climb on the walls or loose stones.
• You can not stop the circuit, doing dances, social engagements and the like.
• You can not do business or ambulatory trade within the archaeological zone.
• Finally, smoking and vaping are forbidden during the tour. In fact, it is forbidden to generate any kind of fire.
• Remember to follow the corresponding circuits. It is not allowed to go back on the given path.

I can not take to Machu Picchu

Tourists observing the main temple of Machu Picchu

If you are planning to travel to Machu Picchu remember that you cannot bring the following items. No matter how much you insist you will not be able to enter and this can ruin your trip.

• It is advisable to carry a personal backpack. This should have dimensions between 40x35x20 cm.
• You may bring snacks and beverages, but you may not bring heavy food or food in tupperware.
• It is forbidden to carry walking sticks, umbrellas, camera tripods or similar. It is completely forbidden to carry stabilizing elements.
• The entrance to Machu Picchu is forbidden with spiked shoes, heels or similar footwear.
• You may not bring alcoholic beverages. It will even be forbidden to enter if you are in a state of drunkenness.
• It is forbidden to carry aerosols of any kind.
• Carrying professional recording equipment or large equipment.
• It is forbidden to bring posters, banners or clothing for advertising purposes.
• Filming or photographing for advertising purposes is also prohibited.
• It is forbidden to enter with sharp weapons or similar.
• It is not allowed to use drones or similar.
• It is forbidden to bring or enter with animals to Machu Picchu.

Remember to do sustainable tourism

Visitors touring the Inca Citadel

Machu Picchu is characterized by sustainable tourism. It has several policies that are responsible for safeguarding the environment. That is why it is recommended to follow some of these recommendations.

• In case you bring some food, snacks or beverages. Please dispose of your garbage where it belongs.
• Near the bus station you can find garbage containers. All of them are sorted.
• It is completely forbidden to damage or make graffiti in the facilities of Machu Picchu.
• It is forbidden to damage the flora or extract and collect the plants that are growing on the site.
• You may not pick up, grab or throw any of the stones or lithic elements that are loose.
• It is important to make a tour with due respect, both in the facilities, the stone buildings and with the general public.
• The main reason is to generate sustainable tourism and Machu Picchu can continue to be one of the best destinations on planet Earth.

It is suggested to behave appropriately

Tourists feeling the energy of Machu Picchu

All the prohibitions that we detail in all the previous listings are to safeguard the entire archaeological site of Machu Picchu and also so that all the people who travel thousands of kilometers, have an adequate experience.

It is well known that tourism in Peru and especially in Cusco is one of the activities that generate more economic movement. On the other hand, not paying attention to the prohibitions or simply trying to ignore them, will expose you to immediate expulsion.

Likewise, if you commit an offense or ignore the warnings, legal proceedings will be initiated. You may also be expelled without the right to reimbursement. Do not turn your vacation into a bad experience for you, your friends, family and people who often make long trips with the sole intention of visiting Machu Picchu.

Some frequently asked questions about visiting Machu Picchu Picchu

• How can I make professional recordings in Machu Picchu?

  One way to access special permits is in direct conversation with the Peruvian Ministry of Culture. For this, a dialogue table will be opened and it will also be important that the intentions of the video are productive and meaningful. That is to say, the videos that are recorded must have a positive intention.

• How to access or enter Machu Picchu?

  The only way to enter Machu Picchu is having the reservation of the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu. Reservations can be made virtually and all of them have different circuits and activities. In case you want to do the tour of Machu Picchu, it will be essential to make the necessary reservation in advance.

• Are there luggage storage facilities near the access area?

  Yes, precisely as a way to prevent people from having problems with their luggage or hiking equipment, you can find a space to store your luggage or belongings. The ideal is to make the tour of Machu Picchu is carrying only a small backpack. There you can carry your snacks, drinks and personal or valuable documents.

• Can I find restrooms?

  Yes, near the access area to Machu Picchu, you can find toilets and also the area where you can store luggage. It is advisable to make use of these, because inside Machu Picchu you cannot find toilets. In addition, the tour of the Inca citadel has an approximate duration of 2 hours.

• Can I enter Machu Picchu with minors or children?

  Yes, it is possible to enter Machu Picchu with minors. Remember that they will be in charge of the parents or guardians with whom they enter. It is recommended that children receive adequate warning of the care they should take for the tour of Machu Picchu.

Tourist observing the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is one of the best attractions in the world because it allows you to make different types of trips and have new experiences. Probably the best known is the train trip, however, there are more options such as hiking trails. In this blog we will learn more about these routes and the different options or varieties they have. All these routes allow a tour of the Cusco Andes and also an entry to the high jungle. Geographical site where the wonder of the world, Machu Picchu, is located. Join us to learn more about these routes, especially if you are looking for information or more important data about these impressive routes.

How are the trekking routes to Machu Picchu?

Traveling the trails of the Inca Trail

The trekking routes to Machu Picchu are a real adventure in the Cusco Andes. Something special about this route is that it allows you to hike along ancient roads and trails traced by the ancient inhabitants of the Cusco Andes. In addition to crossing part of the Andes, it connects with the Amazon. The high jungle offers a warm space and a great variety of biodiversity throughout the sector, which is the reason why the whole place was declared a Historic and Natural Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

When hiking the trails you can go through some of these places and with a lot of luck find some of the species and animals of Machu Picchu. Many people recorded the presence of bears, manatees, deer near or even among the constructions of the Inca citadel. Also, during the routes you can find some other birds. Some people were fortunate enough to see the emblematic cock of the rock in its natural state. You can also observe many more varieties of birds and animals along the different routes that can be traveled to Machu Picchu.

Normally the trekking routes to Machu Picchu start in Cusco. In Cusco you can find different tourism and travel agencies. They usually take care of all the itinerary, services and more to achieve any of the trekking routes. However, you can also do them on your own. Especially those that follow the Salkantay route and even the most extreme routes such as Choquequirao. In case you wish to do any of the routes on your own, it is important that you have experience in this type of activities.

An important factor to take into account when hiking these routes to Machu Picchu is that you must be properly acclimatized. Some of these trails reach up to 5,000 meters above sea level. In this sense it is recommended that people who decide to do these activities to reach Machu Picchu, have a couple of days in Cusco to acclimatize properly. Failure to do so may cause certain problems and discomfort when approaching those altitudes and even ruin your trip.

Finally mention that the trekking routes to Machu Picchu, are mostly long. The average number of days is 4 days of activities in intimate contact with nature. When doing long treks in the Andes or the Peruvian Amazon, you must spend the night in tents. Likewise, the food for the day should normally be prepared on the route. If you travel with an agency, these details will be covered. In case you travel on your own, remember to have a space in your backpack for food. It will also be necessary to have a backpack that allows you to easily and safely add the camping tent and even other additives such as water.

The main options for trekking to Machu Picchu

Choquequirao archaeological site

The main options to get to Machu Picchu, doing trekking routes, vary during the beginning of the route. Some will start north of Cusco and others just along the same paths traced by the Inca urban planners. Here is a brief list of the main options of the trekking routes and also their particularities. Are you ready?

• The Inca Trail route

  It is the hiking route par excellence. This is because it allows a tour of several Inca constructions and, in addition, to follow strictly, the Inca Trail or Qhapac Ñam. That is to say, the routes and paths traced and perfected by the same Inca planners. The route can be done in 4 days, but there is also the option of 2 days. It covers different geographical areas and the panoramic views of the place are really amazing. Probably its disadvantage is that it only has limited capacity, which is why it usually runs out of availability in a short time.

• The Salkantay or Salkantay Trek route

  It is one of the most requested options by tourists. In addition, it is quite popular. There are several tourists who dare to do it. This is because it is an excellent option due to the limited availability of the Inca Trail route. This route also allows you to appreciate one of the most beautiful natural destinations in Cusco, the Humantay Lagoon. After arriving at this natural wonder, you must continue to the Salkantay pass. This place allows beautiful views, but be careful with the cold and the conditions of the place. After that, follow the road until you reach Lucmabamba and then to Hidroeléctrica.

  This point will coincide with the economic route. From Hidroeléctrica, you must follow a walk of about 2 hours to reach Machu Picchu Pueblo. In this place, it is recommended to spend the night and the next day from the early hours, start with the trip to Machu Picchu. The tour of Machu Picchu will always be better with the company of a guide. They have all the information and data necessary for visitors to better appreciate all the magnificence of Machu Picchu. The Salkantay Trek, has options of 4 and 5 days.

• Choquequirao Trek

  This is probably the most complicated route. This route involves a visit to Machu Picchu’s sacred sister: Choquequirao. The complete route to reach both destinations can be done in seven days or more of arduous trekking. Although the last days will coincide with the Lucmabamba route, passing through Hidroeléctrica. These sections are relatively easier. This in comparison to the walking route that follows the Choquequirao Trek. If you are looking for a real challenge in the Peruvian Andes and the high jungle of Cusco, dare to do this trekking route through a little visited place with unforgettable landscapes.

• Lares Trek on the way to Machu Picchu

  It is the trekking route to Machu Picchu, which allows a tour of some of the high Andean communities of the Cusco district of Lares. In addition, the hike starts from a place far away from Cusco. This allows you to appreciate more of the expansion of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and at the same time understand how some communities managed to maintain the essence and customs of more than five hundred years ago. If you want to meet more people, new experiences and make a cultural exchange before reaching Machu Picchu, the Lares Trek is one of the best alternatives to learn more about the Andean world.

How to purchase the trekking routes?

Tourist touring the archaeological site of Machu Picchu

To do some of these routes, you only have to contact a travel agency. However, remember that there are all kinds and some have better services than others and even offer more guarantee and security in the whole experience. That is why you should confirm all the services offered in order not to have a bad experience or unnecessary delays that usually occur in informal agencies. In this sense, it will be important to contact the service of an authorized agency, especially if it is the Inca Trail route to Machu Picchu.

On the other hand, in case you want to make the trip on your own, it is important to know that people who decide to do this, will have to make the different transportation and ticket reservations themselves. This is actually not very complicated, most of the services can be purchased virtually. However, you may encounter some problems with transportation, food and lodging. In the case of the latter two, it will be important that you plan well the amounts of food and camping you will use.

Finally, you can not make the route to Machu Picchu without having the reservation of the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu. remember that this requirement will be indispensable. There are some who wish to make the reservation of this ticket, once arrived in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Pueblo. It is a good option, but you should keep in mind that you may find many people queuing up for the same thing. Virtual reservations are secure and through these, you can avoid queues or the worry of finding a ticket to Machu Picchu.

Likewise, you can make several investigations about the route and everything you need before making the trip by a trekking route. In case you are not an expert in trekking routes of several days, you can choose to start the routes to Machu Picchu with the help of a travel agency. Likewise, it is important to be in good physical condition, especially to enjoy the activity and not feel it as a punishment. Doing the trekking routes to Machu Picchu can change your life even before you start trekking in Cusco.

Tourist couple in Machu Picchu

Visiting Machu Picchu is one of the activities that many tourists do in Peru. Many tourists only come to Peru for this purpose. However, there are many people who, unfortunately, do not find out well some data or information about the visit to Machu Picchu. So they tend to make several mistakes and end up disappointed with their trip to Peru. In addition, sometimes things can change drastically, especially during the change of season. That is when the rains start. All this and some other queries from clients who ask us daily, motivated us to create this blog, hoping to be of help in the different points.

Booking tickets in advance

Book your Machu Picchu ticket

An important point for any trip is to have the entrance tickets to the place or site you want to visit. The abundant people who visit Machu Picchu, often makes availability drops considerably. Even this can be seen in reservations from one week to another, even having much less availability in the months of April, May and June, which are usually sold out even from the first week of March. In case you are looking to make the trip to Machu Picchu it is important to make a decision as soon as possible to start planning a safe trip.

As for ticket reservations, there are five. The ones that tend to sell out most frequently are, to begin with, the morning schedules, after that the entrance tickets from Llaqta to Machu Picchu or Machu Picchu Solo and the tickets that include the hike up to Huayna Picchu are sold out more frequently. That is, the entrance ticket Circuit 4 + Huayna Picchu. Another ticket that is also in great demand is the 4-day Inca Trail entrance ticket. This ticket allows access to the Inca Trail and the opportunity to visit several archaeological sites before reaching Machu Picchu by Inti Punku.

The entrance of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, is one of the options that you have to enter the enclosure or Inca llaqta. This trekking route to Machu Picchu is the only one that requires an entrance ticket to make the trek. The other trekking routes, do not require it as such, but yes, you have to have the previous reservation of the ticket and circuit you wish to visit in Machu Picchu. Normally the tour of Machu Picchu, has an average duration of 2 hours. Of course, not counting the tour of mountains and short hikes that usually include some entries. The entrance tickets to Machu Picchu are:

• Machu Picchu Llaqta (Circuit 1 or 2)
• Huayna Picchu + Machu Picchu Circuit 4.
• Machu Picchu Mountain + Machu Picchu Circuit 3.
• Huchuy Picchu + Machu Picchu Circuit 4.
• Inca Bridge + Circuit 1 or 2.

Travel seasons in Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu in the rainy season

Many people wonder when is the best season or during which months are the best or ideal to get to Machu Picchu without problems. For them the answer is simple, they should do it during May, June, and July. During those months there is much less chance of rain since it is within the dry season. This season will coincide with the high season of visitors. Surely, because of the excellent weather conditions for a safe trip to Machu Picchu and the views that can be seen thanks to the clear skies.

Before we continue, let’s be clear about some points. The dry season starts from the first days of April. Sometimes this can be delayed, but normally it happens this way. From April to the last days of November is the dry season. However, some afternoons in August or September a little rain may appear without warning or clear indications. These rains usually do not last long and do not have much intensity.

The rest of the months make up the rainy season. The rains are not synonymous with the impossibility of traveling or knowing Machu Picchu. On the contrary, it offers a new atmosphere and context during the tour and the trip itself from Cusco. Unfortunately, sometimes the rains are intense and cause the train tracks to suffer some damage and even major damage. This causes delays in train travel and even some cancellations. If you have arrived in January and February; months in which it rains more intensely. It will be important that before making the trip, check the condition of the train tracks or similar. Try to make sure that your trip to Machu Picchu by train or trekking will take place.

Bring identity documents

Passport with the Machu Picchu Postal Stamp

Identity documents and even your passport will be of great importance and value during your trip to Machu Picchu. Especially at the time of entry to any enclosure or service. It is normal that at the checkpoints you will be asked for your reservation ticket along with the presence of a document that validates your identification. This is to avoid usurpation or fraudulent reservation sales. It is also important the present identification documents to access other reserved services. In other words, the same identification mechanism will be applied to the train trip and the trip on the ecological buses.

Surely you will also need it for your hotel reservations for any other service you wish to purchase. In the case of extra services such as transportation and other activities, you must make your reservations well in advance. In case, you are a student, you can also show your university card to access some discounts on the Machu Picchu tour. Likewise, do not forget to have cash on hand to buy some snacks or drinks at the different stations or mandatory stops during the trip to Machu Picchu.

Finding a good lodging

Colorful town of Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu

Fortunately, you will find many hotels in Cusco and Machu Picchu Pueblo or Aguas Calientes. The hotels that can be found have different audiences. That is to say, you can even find luxury hotels, 5-star hotels, and, in addition, some lodgings to spend the night with shared rooms.

That’s not all in case you get to Machu Picchu Pueblo you can look for the camping area in charge of the Municipality of the place. Ideal to have an extra saving, before making the trip to Machu Picchu. An ideal place to spend the night will depend on each one, the options are varied and best of all is that you can access most of these services by making virtual reservations.

How to dress for my visit to Machu Picchu?

Familia de extranjeros visitando Machu Picchu

Regarding clothing to visit Machu Picchu, it is important to keep in mind that it is a semi-tropical geography. Hence the rains in high season intensify and also generate fog that often obstruct the panoramic views of the place. That’s not all, in case it is not raining, it is likely to be sunny with great intensity. In this sense, it is important that tourists wear loose-fitting clothing.

It is also recommended to wear long pants and not shorts, because in Machu Picchu there is a large presence of mosquitoes and they have no mercy when they see an uncovered leg. Likewise, you can wear a polo shirt or shirt with long sleeves to have the same protective function.

When small or short clothing is worn, even if mosquito repellent is applied, defense is unlikely to occur. Sometimes repellents are washed away by perspiration and few people apply repellents constantly to avoid this problem. Likewise, sweat can act as a kind of solvent for the repellent and with bare arms or legs, mosquitoes often have a great feast, leaving more than one tourist sore.

What to bring in my backpack?

Tourist observing the Inca citadel

The things you should bring to Machu Picchu will depend on the number of days you plan to stay in Machu Picchu. We mention this because it is possible to make the visit in only one day. For them, it is advisable to have a small backpack where you can carry some important documents, also some extra clothes if you know that you sweat a lot or think it may rain. If you are going to stay longer, it is essential to bring a change of clothes according to the number of days you will stay in Machu Picchu Pueblo. In general, let’s consider this small list as the indispensable things that should be in a backpack for a single day trip to Machu Picchu.

• Repellent against mosquitoes or mosquitoes.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat or cap.
• Bring a change of clothes, in case you feel you will need it.
• A camera.
• Battery charger for cell phone or others.
• A waterproof poncho. It does not matter the season in which you make the trip.
• You can use any footwear that is safe and comfortable.
• It is advisable to bring some snacks and drinks.
• Bring a small bottle of water or a soft drink.
• Have cash for any unforeseen events or for the purchase of souvenirs.
• Do not carry too much weight, especially if you know you will be making the trip in only one day.
• You can have a small jacket or similar, for the cold you will feel when you return to Cusco.
• Some people recommend carrying printed reservations, but you can also show the QR or validation code on your cell phone screen.
• Finally, bring a lot of optimism for the tour of Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu is once again receiving more and more visitors. However, for some, the arrival to this magical place can be confusing and complicated. This is because the location of Machu Picchu requires an extra trip from Cusco. In this sense, the most important thing will be to get to Cusco. We know that many people from outside Peru may be confused, thinking that Machu Picchu is very close to Cusco. However, it requires a 5 hour trip. The trip can be done by train or a combined trip of a stretch to Ollantaytambo by bus and continue the rest of the trip by train to Machu Picchu Town. A place where you will already be close to the wonder of the world Machu Picchu.

Entering Peru requires certain documentation, just as when visiting any other country. Likewise, it is possible to find ease of entry for some countries while for others it will be necessary to process the required documents. As this is an informative blog, we only want to point out some general aspects. The specific ones can be quite complicated to deal with and we could confuse the public. For them, it would be advisable to contact directly the Peruvian Migration website, the Peruvian Consulate or the Peruvian Embassies abroad. For the time being, let us know more information about travel to Peru by foreign citizens as tourists.

• Citizens or tourists coming from Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, and Paraguay may enter Peru carrying only their physical identity documents.
• In case your nationality or country of origin is not specified in the previous case, you will need to apply for a tourist visa.
• They must also carry a passport valid for at least 6 months.
• Some countries do not require a tourist visa, but a passport valid for 6 months. These are some of the countries: Spain and Central American countries except Cuba, Haiti, El Salvador, and Nicaragua.
• In the case of Mexican tourists, they do not need to apply for a tourist or business visa. They can enter Peru carrying their passport (possible change).
• For those applying for a tourist visa, the time allowed is 90 days. However, for people coming from Chile and Brazil, it can be extended up to 180 days.
• Here are some other countries that do not require a tourist visa to enter Peru. But you will have to show your passport. The countries are Republic of South Africa, Israel, Iraq, Arab Emirates, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Thailand, Germany, Austria, Andorra, United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Poland, Netherlands, Serbia, Portugal, Austria, New Zealand and other countries in the world.
• El listado completo se encuentra en la página web del Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores del Perú.

To enter the list and the corresponding attention to obtain the tourist visa. You can do it virtually by requesting an appointment to the e-mail “visatur.cita@embaperu.org”. In this email, you must indicate your first and last names, date of birth, passport number, and telephone or cell phone number. Remember to also indicate your nationality and telephone code for effective communication. Also, make them 30 days in advance before your flight or trip to Peru. The requirements are:

• Tourist visa application form to enter Peru.
• Passport. Remember that it must be valid for at least 6 months, counting the date of your arrival.
• Bank statement.
• Certificate of domicile of the dwelling.
• Certificate of criminal record.
• Ticket or flight ticket.
• Hotel reservations.
• The cost of the procedure is 30 euros.
• If you have any doubts or need more detailed information, please visit the web page of the Peruvian Consulate or write to “visatur.cita@embaperu.org”.

After the tedious paperwork to start the trip to Peru, if and when you feel the need to do so, it will be time to make the reservations to enter Machu Picchu. Fortunately, all this is now less complicated.

Tourists taking the classic photo at Machu Picchu

To date, there are 5 types of entrance to Machu Picchu in a traditional or normal experience. Two other tickets include treks of 4 or 2 days for the memorable and beautiful Inca Trail. Thus, it can be understood that there are 7 entrance tickets to Machu Picchu. Although the last two options we mentioned are usually more directly for those who like or want to do trekking routes. Now let’s know a little about these entrance tickets.

• Llaqta of Machu Picchu – This is the most popular ticket and therefore sells out in less time. The tour with this ticket is done following Circuit 1 or 2. These circuits allow access to Machu Picchu through the upper platforms and take the classic postcard photo. The main constructions such as the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the 3 windows, and other buildings that have the imperial finishes are also toured. However, the tour is limited to the citadel without the possibility of making small hiking trails into the mountains surrounding the Llaqta of Machu Picchu.
• Circuit 4 and ascent to Huayna Picchu – The ascent of Huayna Picchu or Waynapicchu, is another of the most requested activities by tourists. In case you are looking to make the ascent to this mountain, we recommend you make the reservation at least 3 months in advance. The route of this ticket allows you to make the Circuit 3, in this sense, you enter through the part of the platforms to the Llaqta of Machu Picchu, you can see the Temple of the Sun and the Main Square. Further on and passing by the Sacred Rock, the entrance to Huayna Picchu begins. There, more Inca constructions are a real challenge to gravity. The views from the top are unparalleled.
• Machu Picchu Mountain and Circuit 3 – This is one of the variants that were created by the abundant request and desire of visitors to climb the Huayna Picchu mountain. This ticket allows the ascent to the highest mountain of the place. So you have to follow an ascending trail for 1 hour and 30 minutes. The view from this place allows us to appreciate more places than just Machu Picchu. It is possible to contemplate all the geography of the place and at the same time to understand the special link that the Inca constructions had with nature or the environment.
• Circuit 4 and tour to Huchuy Picchu – As we have already seen, Circuit 4 allows us to appreciate the main constructions of the Llaqta of Machu Picchu. As with the entrance to Huayna Picchu, the tour will reach the Sacred Rock. This is because you have to follow a small hiking trail to the top of Huchuy Picchu. One of the smallest mountains of the place, but like other mountains it allows beautiful views of all Machu Picchu. Some theories suggest that this place was linked to the small pyramid where the Intihuatana is located.
• Inca Bridge Tour and Circuit 1 or 2 – This is one of the options that many leave aside. In that sense, if you don’t get the entrance you want, this is one of the options you can have. The tour to the Inca Bridge is not as long as the other options, but it allows you to follow trails built by the Incas. It also has panoramic and beautiful views of the entire Llaqta of Machu Picchu. So it is an excellent option especially if you had planned to purchase the entrance ticket of Llaqta Machu Picchu, this because it follows the same circuits.

View of the Cathedral in the Main Square de Armas of Cusco

Before starting with the details to get to Cusco, it is important to highlight the importance of virtuality and how beneficial it can be. In the case of entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, reservations can be made virtually, even 4 or more months in advance. Likewise, it is possible to make reservations with travel agencies that facilitate the travel experience because they take care of all the logistics required to make the trip enjoyable. In addition, they at the request of the tourist, can plan various activities to make the travel experience completely enriching.

There are several means of transportation to get to Cusco, as always the fastest way to get there is by plane. Some international flights will connect directly to Cusco, some of these flights come from Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina. Other flights will arrive in Lima, especially those in the northern hemisphere and flights from Europe. Fortunately, the flight time from Lima to Cusco is only 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Of course, there is also a way to travel by bus, there are different types of services for this. Unfortunately, the travel time is 20 hours. Something that can be for some a waste of time. Also, from many places in Peru, you can get to Cusco, either by plane or by bus. The important thing will be to take into account the travel time and from what time the activities of the trip will begin.

Travel by train to Machu Picchu

Once in Cusco, there are different ways and alternatives to get to Machu Picchu. Among these will highlight the presence of train travel and also the hiking trails. Choosing one of them will depend strictly on the tourists and the type of experience they want for their trip. Normally divided into ways to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco. Below, we will detail them:

• Bus trip or economy option – This option requires a trip by bus or minivan or indeed any other vehicle to Hidroeléctrica. Normally some agencies make the trip by minivan for several people. The route that follows this option is through the high jungle of Cusco. That is to say, when you arrive in Ollantaytambo you continue the trip by the road that connects to Quillabamba, but before arriving there, precisely in the district of Santa Maria, you make a small detour. That is to say, from Santa Maria, you follow another road to get to Santa Teresa and from there to Hidroeléctrica. It is from this point where you hike for less than 3 hours. This option requires 2 days. However, it is still a very economical option. On the second day, you make the trek to Machu Picchu.
• Travel by train – It is the best known option and certainly the traditional way to visit Machu Picchu. That is why there are different train travel options. It is possible to find luxury trips and some similar options. Likewise, some tickets are somewhat cheaper, if we compare them. Currently, two companies are in charge of making these trips. One of them is PeruRail and the other is Inca Rail. Both companies handle similar prices so finding a difference as such, can be complicated. As for the comfort of the trip and the services they offer, they are quite similar, even in price. Probably the main difference is in the schedules. This service to get to Machu Picchu can also be done to return.
• Hiking trails to Machu Picchu – Another option to reach Machu Picchu is the hiking trails. Being an adventure option, it requires physical effort and a link of several days with nature. They spend the night in camps at the heights of Cusco and then go deep into the Cusco jungle. Some of these options allow a tour of the Inca Trails and allow you to visit several Inca archaeological sites. You can also follow routes through high mountains and even combine trekking with other adventures. In the end, all trails will lead to Machu Picchu.

Tourist couple visiting Machu Picchu

Recently the visiting hours to Machu Picchu were increased, which made it possible to visit the Inca citadel in the afternoon. This is a little-known tour and for some, it is very risky to do. It is advisable to do it during the dry season, to avoid unforeseen delays in train travel due to the presence of rain. However, it can also be an option for people who neglected their reservation or entrance ticket to find this option to enter and walk the streets of Machu Picchu. All the details are below.

Let’s start making the trip to Machu Picchu

Landscape that can be seen from the train on the way to Machu Picchu

The experience of reaching Machu Picchu begins from the moment you decide to make the trip. Many people dare to make this trip from different parts of the world, even from faraway places like Japan and other Asian countries. That is why everything will start with the trip itself, to Lima, and then to Cusco. The trips to Peru, to date, will mostly arrive in Lima. The capital of the Peruvian country and where you can find different migration offices and even embassies of several countries. However, some flights can make international and direct flights to Cusco itself.

It is estimated and according to the projection of the new international airport of Chinchero, where flights will arrive directly to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Where, the next adventures on the way to Machu Picchu will begin. For the moment, we cannot talk about it, but we can talk about the current possibilities. This blog will share information for those who wish to make a trip to Machu Picchu, much quieter and without the need to get up early or with a relatively tight schedule. In this sense, it is an excellent option for those who want tranquility and serenity in their trip. This will also allow a better connection with the spirituality of the site.

Traveling to Machu Picchu in the afternoon can allow tourists more time to rest once they arrive in Cusco. Sometimes flights arrive late in the afternoon and even at night. This makes it difficult to have adequate rest, especially for those who will have certain ailments typical of altitude sickness. Remember that Cusco is located at 3,399 meters above sea level. This attitude is not usually a problem as long as the affected person (or everyone for that matter), has adequate rest, hydration, and enough sleep.

The trip to Machu Picchu in the afternoon will start at 7:00 in the morning. Being a more comfortable schedule for many people. The traditional trip to Machu Picchu starts at 4:00 in the morning and even, depending on availability, trips are made much earlier. When starting at 7:00 a.m., there is enough time to have a nice breakfast and prepare the belongings after sleeping peacefully and at least a couple of extra hours. In this sense, we dare to say that this option can become the favorite of many people, especially for groups with small children or older adults.

A new experience of visiting Machu Picchu in the afternoon.

Turistas disfrutando de la ciudadela Inca

As mentioned above, this form of travel is different from traditional trips such as the Full Day Machu Picchu. However, like the previous one, it also allows you to make the entire trip to Machu Picchu and back in only one day. The trip from Machu Picchu Town or Aguas Calientes will start from 18:20 hours and is estimated to arrive in Cusco, minutes before 23:00 hours of the day. Of course, once all the activities to visit the wonder of the world have been completed.

This new experience begins in Cusco. It is advisable to leave even before 7:00 in the morning. This is to have a comfortable and unhurried trip. In Cusco at that time, you can find a cab service with greater availability than in the early hours of the morning. It is also very important to make the reservation of the entrance tickets to Machu Picchu. It is recommended to purchase the entrance tickets from 14:00 hours, so you will have the option to enter at 15:00 hours. That is, depending on the ticket you choose, you will be able to enter until minutes before 16:00 hours. All this will be detailed later on.

The entrance to Machu Picchu will take place after having a nice lunch. Throughout the district of Machu Picchu Town, you can find several restaurants of different specialties. Likewise, you can find some buffet options, of course, some better than others. These places will be ideal to have a proper tasting of some of the flagship dishes of Peruvian cuisine. Having little time, it is recommended to make the ascent to the archaeological site in the ecological buses. This trip will only take 30 minutes. And at that time the buses usually go up with few passengers.

The tour will also be accompanied by a few people. The people who travel to Machu Picchu, mostly prioritize the morning hours. In this sense, the tour is accompanied by a large number of people. Another benefit of doing this tour is that you can see the entire extension of Machu Picchu through the mountains without the presence of the mist that often overshadows the panoramic views of the place. You can see a clear sky in the afternoon, even in the rainy season.

Services to get to Machu Picchu in the afternoon

Group of friends exploring the ruins of Machu Picchu

• The main service needed to visit Machu Picchu is the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
• There are 5 tickets, but to enter in the afternoon we will only use the tickets: Llaqta Machu Picchu and Inca Bridge + Machu Picchu.
• In the mentioned tickets you can find the entrance hours until minutes before 16:00 hours.
• The entrance tickets that you can buy are the ones that have the start time of 14:00 and 15:00 hours.
• Thanks to these tickets you can make and appreciate the classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu. That is, from the upper platforms.
• The second service to take into account is the trains or more precisely the transportation.
• The transportation by train will depend a lot on each one. There is the possibility of boarding the train from Ollantaytambo or starting the trip in Cusco.
• When leaving from Cusco, sometimes the bimodal service is followed. This service consists of a bus trip and then a train trip. It is usually the most used.
• It is recommended to leave at times that have an interval between 6:30 and 8:00 in the morning.
• Keep in mind that, by leaving later, you may jeopardize your lunch break.
• Remember that the total travel time is almost 5 hours.
• When you arrive at Machu Picchu Town, you will only need to buy transportation tickets to the archaeological site.
• This last trip is also done by bus. The bus will only take about 30 minutes at most to arrive.
• In all transportation services, you can choose to purchase the full round-trip service. The price is usually lower in some cases.
• If you purchased your return ticket by train, you may depart at 18:20 hours. The return trip is also that long.
• Normally and with a proper plan and itinerary, you can arrive in Cusco minutes before 23:00 hours.
• If you contact a travel agency, they will likely offer you transportation service from your arrival at the train station.

More services and recommendations

• The services you can find in Cusco and Machu Picchu Town are varied and for different purposes.
• To facilitate your short trip to the train station in Cusco or Ollantaytambo, you can access private transportation. This service will also serve to get to the hotel, once you arrive in Cusco.
• As for hotels, you can find a great variety of options both in Cusco and Machu Picchu Town.
• Remember that you have to purchase transportation services in buses to arrive faster and with enough energy to Machu Picchu.
• The restaurants in Cusco and Machu Picchu Town, have good quality. In addition, they do not have very high prices.
• Likewise, the options are varied and it is always possible to find what you are looking for.
• It is very important to do a tour of Machu Picchu with a tour guide. They have the data and information about all of Machu Picchu.
• Remember to make the trip with comfortable and light clothing.
• It is also necessary to use sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
• Bring snacks and drinks in a small backpack. The tour of Machu Picchu usually lasts a little over 2 hours.
• If you find it convenient, bring a light jacket, this will be useful when you return.
• You can do this trip on your own or with a travel agency.
• Travel agencies make sure to reserve everything you need for the tour.