Machu Picchu: Everything you need to know!

Machu Picchu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Thousands of people travel to Peru every year to see this ancient Incan city. Due to the high elevation and multi-day trek, it might only be for some. If you’re planning a trip to Machu Picchu and looking for someone to go with, hop on Travel vivir to find your adventure buddy.

Before packing your bags, there are a few things you should know. This blog post will give you all the information you need to have a great trip. We’ve got you covered! So sit back, relax, and let us help you plan your dream trip!  

Location – Where and how do you get there

Considered one of the most iconic historical sites in the world, Machu Picchu is located in Peru at the height of 2,430 meters above sea level.

Hot tip! Be sure to pack a pain reliever, altitude sickness medicine, and of course, try local tea to help you acclimate.

While there are many ways to access this World Heritage Site, the most popular route is to take Peru Rail from Cusco to Aguas Calientes before taking a bus or hiking up to Machu Picchu. For those wanting an even more adventurous experience, traveling Peru’s famous Inka Trail is a great way to explore and see some of Peru’s hidden gems.

You will be trekking 26 miles. If that is not for you, take the incredible Peru Rail, providing comfortable carriages for a memorable journey and public transport taking you between destinations. We took the Peru Rail all the way to Agua Calientes, which we highly recommend.

Pro Tip: Although it can be done without a tour. We suggest using a tour company to pick you up in Cusco and guide you throughout your Machu Pichhu. It can get confusing navigating the Peru Rail yourself. We used this company, which handled transportation, the tickets, and the tour.

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When to visit

Machu Picchu is an excellent destination for an incredible travel adventure. The site has a unique appeal that visitors will marvel at, and its rich cultural history is sure to enlighten. Weather-wise, the best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season (mid-April to early October). 

This will ensure milder temperatures and less rainfall, allowing you the best weather to roam around during your sightseeing activities. However, book in advance; since Machu Picchu is quite limited in its number of visitors, spots fill up quickly! For an additional cost, book one of the treks at Machu Picchu. You must book this in advance. If you want the whole experience, we highly recommend these two hikes.

Note: We met a few travelers that waited until they were in Cusco to book. They did purchase about $200 less than our package. However, missed out on the incredible hikes and vistas overlooking Machu Picchu. They also had to stand in line for over 3 hours to secure their tickets.

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What to see – a tour of the different areas of Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is an excellent site to behold, and a guided tour around the different areas can help you appreciate it even more. Before visiting Machu Picchu, research and choose the type of tour that best suits your needs, there are three options! 

 If you have the budget for it, we suggest splurging for a tour guide so you can get a deeper insight into the history and meaning of each area. As you travel down to Intipunku ridge and pass through agricultural terraces towards Huayna Picchu, or explore temples such as the Sun Gate or Temple of Three Windows, don’t be afraid to ask questions – this way, you will be able to learn much more than just the basics.

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Tips for visiting – how to make the most of your trip, including what to pack, where to stay, and how to beat the crowds

Visiting any place is fun, but you also want to be prepared to make the most of your time. Packing appropriately can make or break your trip. Remember bug spray!  Here are my essentials for Machu Picchu:

1. Lightweight waterproof jacket
2. Athletics shoes/hiking books
3. Bug Spray & Sunscreen
4. Lightweight Layers are important
5. Camera

Make sure you know what the weather is like for that time of year, bring sunscreen and comfortable shoes, and throw a few snacks in your bag, just in case. Agua Calientes is a very charming town. The tour package will allow a few hours to roam after your treks. I do not recommend staying there.

It is pricey, and Cusco is only a 3-hour transit away. Of course, there are always crowds at popular attractions, which can be nerve-wracking if not managed right.  Try getting there early morning or late afternoon when things calm down. Lines will be shorter or non-existent at times!

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FAQs – answers to common questions about visiting Machu Picchu

Visiting Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so you want to ensure you get the most out of your visit! To help ensure a great time in Peru’s most famous ruin, here are some answers to commonly asked questions. First and foremost, when is the best time to visit? June through August is the dry season at Machu Picchu, so consider that your ideal window.

You should also wear casual but comfortable shoes or hiking boots, and breathable layers are best for navigating the site. Tourists can choose either single-day or multi-day tickets regarding tickets and entrance fees. Local guides have expert knowledge of Machu Picchu and can be booked in advance for an additional cost.

Lastly, visiting hours are typically from 6am until 5pm daily, though these times may vary depending on the season. Enjoy your stay – Machu Picchu awaits!

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