Cusco, Peru +51 984 184 295
View itineraries
Machu Picchu

Expert guide · Historic sanctuary

Machu Picchu
the Inca wonder

2,430 m 1 or 2 days 1.5 – 3.5 h All year From US$ 260
Machu Picchu tours 4

Machu Picchu tours

Your ideal way
to reach Machu Picchu

Visit Machu Picchu by train, by car via Hidroeléctrica or combined with the Sacred Valley. Tickets, circuits, trains and official guide all handled by us.

ALTITUDE2,430 m
DURATION1 or 2 days
TRAIN1.5 – 3.5 h
OPENAll year
UNESCOSince 1983

Expert guide

Machu Picchu, a World Wonder

Built in the 15th century at 2,430 m above sea level on a ridge between Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu mountains, the Inca llaqta was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. Its terraces, drainage systems and temples still amaze archaeologists.

How to get to Machu Picchu

  • By train: from Cusco (Poroy/San Pedro) or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes with PeruRail or Inca Rail (Expedition, Vistadome, The Voyager, 360°). The most comfortable option.
  • By car via Hidroeléctrica: about 6–7 hours by road via Santa María and Santa Teresa, plus a 2.5–3 hour walk along the railway. The budget option.
  • On foot: via the Inca Trail, Salkantay or Inca Jungle.

From Aguas Calientes you ride the Consettur buses (about 25 minutes) or hike up the stairs (1.5 hours).

Tickets and circuits

Entry works with set time slots and circuits defined by the Ministry of Culture, with limited daily capacity. Some tickets include Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain or Huchuy Picchu and sell out first. Circuit rules change often: we choose the circuit that best fits your itinerary and confirm it when you book.

Full day or two days?

The full day is perfect if you are short on time, but means an early start and a late return. With two days you sleep in Aguas Calientes, visit the citadel early with fewer people and can add Huayna Picchu without rushing.

Highlights

Official guide and circuit-based visitEntrance tickets and Consettur buses arrangedPanoramic Vistadome or 360° trainsBudget option by car via HidroeléctricaOptional Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu MountainNight in Aguas Calientes on 2-day routes

Routes and variants

Compare the options

OptionDurationDistanceMax. altitudeDifficulty
01Machu Picchu full day by trainRound trip from Cusco in one day.
 1 day Train 2,430 m Easy
02Machu Picchu 2 days by trainNight in Aguas Calientes and early visit.
 2D / 1N Train 2,430 m Easy
03Machu Picchu by carVia Hidroeléctrica with a 3-hour walk.
 2D / 1N 11 km walk 2,430 m Moderate
04Sacred Valley + Machu PicchuPisac, Ollantaytambo and the citadel.
 2D / 1N Bus + train 3,000 m Easy

Preparation

Tips for
your visit

01

Book early

Tickets have limited capacity; Huayna Picchu sells out weeks ahead in high season.

02

Passport

You must carry the original document used to buy the entrance and train tickets.

03

What to bring

Small backpack (max 20 L), water, sunscreen, repellent and a poncho. Tripods and drones are not allowed.

Tips from our guides

  1. Early mornings often have magical mist and fewer visitors.
  2. There are no toilets inside: use the ones at the entrance.
  3. Stamp your passport with the Machu Picchu stamp at the exit.

Frequently asked questions

Answers to travel with peace of mind.

01How long do you spend inside Machu Picchu?

The guided visit lasts 2 to 3 hours depending on the circuit. Tickets with a mountain climb add 2 to 3 more hours.

02Which train is better: Expedition or Vistadome?

Expedition is the most affordable and comfortable; Vistadome has panoramic roof windows and a snack on board. The Hiram Bingham is the luxury option.

03Can I visit Machu Picchu in the rainy season?

Yes, it is open all year. December to March brings more rain but fewer visitors and very green scenery.

Stories and tips

Keep reading

Explore the journal

Still have questions?

Book your Machu Picchu with local guides

Talk to an expert