Machu Picchu: A Practical Guide to Planning Your Visit

Machu Picchu is one of South America’s most iconic destinations and an experience that many people include in their dream trips. However, to truly make the most of your visit, it’s important to familiarize yourself in advance with various aspects related to transportation, logistics, and more. 

In this blog post ,we’ll go over a practical guide so you can learn all the relevant information about Machu Picchu— from tips for planning your trip and useful information for international travelers to helpful recommendations for making the most of your visit and fully enjoying this unique destination.

Why Visit Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is one of the most important archaeological sites in South America, designated as one of the New 7 Wonders of the Modern World in 2007. 

It was built during the 15th century, and due to its strategic location among the Andean mountains, it stands as one of the greatest symbols of the Inca legacy. 

In addition to its historical significance, the natural surroundings make the visit a more immersive experience. Many travelers seek a destination that combines the country’s culture with other activities such as hiking and dining. One such place is Machu Picchu in Peru. For a first-time visit, it’s recommended to spend several days exploring Cusco and the Sacred Valley as well.

How to Get to Machu Picchu and Plan Your Trip

Most travelers first arrive in Lima, the capital of Peru, and then take a flight to Cusco. From Cusco, there are several ways to continue on to Machu Picchu. The most common option involves ground transportation followed by a train ride to Aguas Calientes, the town closest to the Machu Picchu citadel. From there, you take a bus up to the main entrance. 

Another option, also popular among tourists, is to take a hiking route—the perfect choice for those seeking a more active experience. It’s a hike along a steep trail that takes about 2 hours. A real challenge! 

Travel Tips:

1. Book your train tickets in advance.

2. Consider spending the night before in Cusco.

3. Pack light, especially if you’ll be trekking. 

4. Check ticket availability, keeping in mind that there are four types of tickets depending on the experience you’re looking for. 

What to Do During Your Visit to Machu Picchu

Many people believe that the experience ends once they enter the archaeological site. However, there are several activities that allow you to make the most of your time there.

1. Take a guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel: understanding the historical and cultural context of Machu Picchu allows you to better appreciate each area and fully enrich your visit.

2. Take photos at the main viewpoints: the early hours of the day usually offer better lighting and visibility for observing the landscape and capturing images ofthe surroundings.

3. Explore Aguas Calientes: This is the town of Machu Picchu, perfect for sightseeing. Take the opportunity to stroll through its streets, visit local shops, discover cafes, and enjoy the atmosphere surrounding the entrance to Machu Picchu. 

4. Explore authorized areas: There are different trails within the complex that allow you to see the site from different perspectives and explore specific areas depending on the type of ticket you’ve selected.

There are currently four main types of tickets to enter Machu Picchu, and your choice will depend on the type of experience you’re looking for, the time you have available, the level of physical exertion, and the areas you want to explore within the archaeological complex. 

Some tickets prioritize panoramic views, while others include more comprehensive tours of the citadel or access to specific mountains and trails. 

Check out more detailed information on the Machu Picchu website here. Tickets range from 15USD to 78USD, with discounted rates for students and tourists from Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Peru. 

What else to do during your time in Peru 

Machu Picchu is often combined with other nearby destinations. This allows you to make the most of your international trip. 

1. Cusco: Take time to explore its historic squares, colonial churches, traditional markets, and streets that reflect the cultural legacy of the ancient capital of the Inca Empire.

2. Sacred Valley: Discover traditional villages and archaeological sites surrounded by Andean landscapes that complement the cultural experience of your trip.

3. Sacsayhuamán: Visit one of Peru’s most iconic archaeological complexes, renowned for its massive stone structures and historical significance.

4. Lake Titicaca: If you have more days available, consider extending your trip to this destination to explore its landscapes, local communities, and traditional islands.

5. Multi-destination itineraries: There are also itineraries that combine several destinations into a single trip to make the most of your time and see more places during your stay in Peru.

Useful Information for Foreign Travelers Before Departure

Before visiting Machu Picchu, it’s worth considering a few practical aspects that can make your trip much more comfortable and help you make the most of each day. Two of the most important factors are altitude and climate, as both can influence your itinerary planning, the types of activities you’ll do, and how you pack. 

Altitude: Cusco is located approximately 3,400 meters above sea level, so it’s recommended to spend the first day doing light activities to help your body adjust and avoid altitude-related discomfort. 

Climate: The driest season typically runs from April through October, one of the best times to visit Machu Picchu due to ideal conditions for hiking and outdoor activities.

Final Tips for Choosing the Best Trip

If this is your first time, avoid overly tight itineraries. Remember that the weather and altitude are key factors for this trip, so proper acclimatization in the city is essential. Consider adding at least one extra night in Cusco to adjust more easily and make the most of your time at the citadel.

Combining Machu Picchu with other destinations allows for a more complete experience. Planning your trip properly will ensure you enjoy both the journey and the destination. Machu Picchu isn’t just notable for its historical significance; it also offers a unique way to discover the Andes and connect with one of the continent’s most iconic sites.