TIPS FOR TRAVELING TO MACHU PICCHU

Shermely Fare Content Writer

| June 11, 2025|12min read

✨Machu Picchu is one of those dream destinations that appears on the bucket list of thousands of travelers, especially those seeking a magical, cultural, and natural experience in Peru. If you are planning your visit for 2025, here is a guide with 10 essential tips to help you prepare for your trip and avoid any setbacks. 🧭🦙

1. BOOK IN ADVANCE

especially if you want Circuit 2 or Huayna Picchu

Entrance tickets are limited, and those for Circuit 2 (the most complete) and mountain hikes like Huayna Picchu or Montaña Machu Picchu sell out quickly. It’s best to book 1 to 3 months in advance, depending on the season. 🕐

🔗 Book only at: -> www.machupicchu.gob.pe
🔗 Book only at: -> https://www.treppid.com/es/tickets/machu-picchu-tickets

2. CHOOSE YOUR CIRCUIT WISELY

each offers a different experience There are 3 official circuits

Circuit 2:

Panoramic view + main temples. Ideal for first-timers.

Circuit 1:

Only panoramic view (no access to the urban zone).

Circuits 3 :

Shorter, lower-area access only. Best when paired with mountain tickets.

3. YOU CAN’T RE-ENTER ONCE YOU LEAVE

Please note that entry is a one-time process: once you leave, you cannot re-enter. Therefore, before entering, make sure you've used the restroom, eaten something light, and have everything you need with you to enjoy the tour without interruptions.

✅ Use the restroom (S/2, outside the entrance)
✅ Bring water (non-returnable bottle)
✅ Pack small, discreet snacks
✅ Take your time for photos—no going back

Place the _No Reentry_ sign on a Machu Picchu background (1).png

4. PREPARE FOR THE WEATHER

Be prepared, the weather in Machu Picchu changes without warning.

The weather in Machu Picchu can shift within minutes. You might start the day with sunshine, then face fog, light rain, or even intense heat. That’s why it’s essential to dress in layers and be prepared for all conditions.

Always pack the essentials:

» Essentials

✅ Valid passport
💰 Cash (preferably in Peruvian soles)
💊 Personal medication
💧 Water bottle or CamelBak (optional: purification tablets)
☀️ Sunscreen (SPF 70 or higher)
🦟 Insect repellent

» 👟 Clothing & Gear

👡 Light footwear or sandals (for camp/rest)
👖 Trekking pants
🧦 Trekking socks
🩳 Shorts
🧤 Waterproof gaiters
👕 Long-sleeve shirts
🧥 Warm jacket
🧥 Waterproof jacket
🌧️ Raincoat or poncho
🧢 Sun hat (neck and face protection)
🧣 Neck gaiter or buff
🕶️ UV-protected sunglasses

» 🎒 Additional Items

🎒 Medium trekking backpack (15–25 L)
📷 Camera + charger
🔋 Power bank (portable battery)

A backpack with a day hiking kit including a cap or hat, insect repellent, a light raincoat, layered clothing, and non-slip_trekking shoes. (2).png

5. ARRIVE EARLY AND STAY NEARBY

Sleep in Aguas Calientes or Ollantaytambo

It allows you to reach Machu Picchu earlier, avoid possible delays from Cusco, and start your day more calmly. 😴 Being close to the entrance also makes it easier to enter during the first time slots, when there are fewer visitors and the lighting is perfect for photos. You’ll have more energy and time to enjoy the visit without rushing.
Ideal for those who value comfort, efficiency, and a smoother overall experience.

The importance of being in Aguas Calientes or Ollantaytambo the day before:

✅1. Avoid extreme early wake-ups from Cusco	Departing from Cusco the same day means waking up at 2–3 a.m., which is exhausting and stressful.
✅2. Increase your chances of entering Machu Picchu early	Staying closer allows you to catch the first buses and access the site at sunrise with fewer crowds.
✅3. Break the journey into two more comfortable parts (Ollantaytambo)	From Ollantaytambo, you can take early trains without having to travel in the middle of the night.
✅4. Reduce the risk of delays and losing your tickets	Being closer means any unforeseen issue is easier to solve. From Cusco, there’s no room for error.
✅5. Better physical and mental condition to visit Machu Picchu	Arriving well-rested enhances your experience. Exploring Machu Picchu requires energy.
✅6. More time to enjoy the surroundings	In Aguas Calientes, you can relax in the hot springs. In Ollantaytambo, visit the Inca ruins before your train.
✅7. Choose the best option for your travel style	Aguas Calientes = convenience and smooth logistics. Ollantaytambo = cultural charm and peaceful atmosphere.

6. PLAN YOUR TRANSPORTATION

Nowadays, there are several ways to reach the archaeological center of Machu Picchu, but the key step is first getting to Machu Picchu Town, also known as Aguas Calientes. Below, we show you all the possible routes along with their respective costs, so you can efficiently plan your transportation and make the most of your visit.

1. BY TRAIN

The most popular and comfortable way

🔸Departure stations: Cusco (San Pedro/Wanchaq), Poroy, and Ollantaytambo.

🔸Companies: PeruRail and Inca Rail.

🔸Total duration: 1.5 to 4 hours depending on the station.

🔸Round-trip price: From $120 USD for standard tourist services.

🔸Tip: Book weeks or even months in advance.

➡️Available classes:

🚋 Expedition:	Economy service with panoramic windows and basic snacks.
🌄 Vistadome:	Full panoramic windows, snacks included, and a cultural show on board.
🥂 Hiram Bingham:	Luxury train with gourmet meals, drinks, live music, and bus included to the entrance.

2.BUS + TRAIN VIA OLLANTAYTAMBO

flexible and more affordable route

From Cusco, take a bus for approximately two hours to Ollantaytambo, and from there, continue by train to Aguas Calientes. This route is popular during the rainy season, when there are no direct trains from Cusco. It's also an ideal option for those who want to combine the trip with a visit to the Sacred Valley.

3. ALTERNATIVE ROUTE VIA HIDROELECTRICA

the most affordable and adventurous option

The route consists of a bus ride from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica, lasting approximately 6 to 7 hours, followed by a 2 to 3-hour hike to Aguas Calientes. The total round-trip cost is between $30 and $40 USD. This option requires an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes and a good level of physical fitness, as the visit to Machu Picchu takes place the following day.

4. MULTI-DAY TREKS

🥾 INCA TRAIL (4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS)

A trek along ancestral trails surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and Inca ruins. With limited daily permits and high demand, booking 7–9 months in advance is essential.
Includes a professional guide, meals, campsites, and return train.
Price: $600–$900 USD
Short version (2 days): $450–$550 USD

⛰️ SALKANTAY (5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS)

A stunning journey through snowy mountains, turquoise lagoons, and lush cloud forest. Crosses the mighty Salkantay Pass at over 4,600 m altitude. Ends in Aguas Calientes after a scenic hike from Hidroelectrica.
No special permits required, making it ideal for those seeking an intense, nature-filled experience.

Includes guide, meals, campsites, and return train.
Price: $600–$700 USD (5 days)
Short version (4 days): $550–$595 USD

🚴 INCA JUNGLE (4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS)

An adventurous alternative that combines mountain biking, rafting, jungle trekking, and zip-lining (depending on the operator). Perfect for young, active travelers seeking adrenaline and diverse landscapes.
The journey ends at Machu Picchu, with the option to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

Includes guide, transportation, meals, basic lodging, and return train.
Price: from $300 to $350 USD per person.

🏞️ LARES (4 DÍAS / 3 NOCHES)

A 3 to 4-day route through traditional Andean communities, surrounded by peaceful landscapes and far from tourist crowds. It offers a unique cultural exchange, allowing you to connect and share moments with local families.
The trek ends in Aguas Calientes after transportation from Ollantaytambo.

Ideal for travelers seeking authenticity, tranquility, and meaningful human connection on their way to Machu Picchu.
Price: from $400 to $500 USD per person.

🚌 Bus from Aguas Calientes

From Aguas Calientes, you can take a bus directly to the entrance of Machu Picchu — a comfortable and straightforward ride. If you choose to go on foot, keep in mind it's a demanding uphill hike of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. The route is physically tiring, so it's only recommended for those in good physical condition and seeking a more challenging experience.

If you want to go up by bus, here are some things you should know:

Buses depart from Av. Hermanos Ayar, near the Puente Ruinas.
They leave every 5 to 10 minutes toward the Machu Picchu entrance.
They operate from 5:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with departures every few minutes.
The ride takes about 25 to 30 minutes.
⚠️ Recommendation: Arrive early, especially during high season, as there may be lines.
You can buy your ticket in Aguas Calientes or online through the official website.
🛂 Don’t forget: Keep your passport and your printed or digital ticket handy.

Conclusion:

If you're looking for comfort and speed, choose the direct train (from Cusco, Poroy, or Ollantaytambo).
Flexible option: bus + train via Ollantaytambo, ideal for a more personal journey.
If you're on a tight budget, the Hidroelectrica route is the most affordable.
If you seek adventure and nature, go for a multi-day trek.
Always book your tickets and trains in advance, and organize everything based on your Machu Picchu entry time.

7. A GUIDE CHANGES YOUR EXPERIENCE

A professional guide will take you beyond what meets the eye: they’ll explain the history, symbols, and details you might otherwise miss. Choose one who speaks your language and has a good reputation. 🌟

🎧 Private tour or small group = better experience.

8. DON’T UNDERESTIMATE THE STAIRS

Machu Picchu is filled with stone stairways—many of them narrow, steep, and without handrails. These steps are an essential part of the route, connecting terraces, temples, and viewpoints throughout the site. For those not used to walking on uneven terrain or with limited mobility, some sections can be physically demanding.

If you're not in good physical shape or prefer a lighter walk, it's best to choose a shorter, more accessible route like Circuit 3, which still offers amazing views without the physical strain. Wearing proper footwear and walking carefully will also make a big difference in your overall experience.

⚠️ Climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain requires good stamina.

9. THE BEST VIEW IS EARLY

The view may surprise you... or hide in the mist.

Visiting Machu Picchu early in the morning has great advantages: there are fewer visitors, allowing you to explore the site more peacefully, enjoy the surroundings in silence, and take better photos without crowds. In addition, the access routes and entry process are smoother and more comfortable.

⏰ Ideal photo time: between 6:00 and 8:00 a.m. ☁️ Fog is common at that hour but usually clears up around 9:30 a.m.

📷 Tip: Be patient—it’s worth the wait!

10. RESPECT THE SPIRIT OF THE PLACE

Machu Picchu is a sacred site. Many travelers describe it as a spiritual experience. ✨

🙏 Recommendations:

Don’t shout or play music. 🎵❌
Don’t eat inside the circuit. 🍽️❌
Don’t climb on walls or stones. 🧱❌
Don’t leave trash behind. 🚯
Take a few minutes for silence and reflection. 🌄

🎒 Ready for an unforgettable experience?
Traveling prepared will help you avoid surprises and allow you to deeply connect with Machu Picchu.It’s not just a photo—it’s a transformative journey. 🌎💫

📌 Final tip: Check the rules and schedules on the official website www.machupicchu.gob.pe.

If you're traveling with a tour company, make sure it's formal and uses certified guides. ✅

Get ready for one of the most memorable trips of your life! 🦙📷✨