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Machu Picchu World Heritage archaeological site in the Andean Mountains.

Perched high on a saddle between two mountains, there are few places which can rival its magnificent setting; surrounded by steep valleys, green forested mountainsides, and low-hanging clouds. Its terraced slopes fall away to the Urubamba River, which rushes along round a great hairpin bend below, making access difficult and the arrival even more magical. 

At Machu Picchu, there are several walks for you to consider, including Huchuy Picchu peak (Low) and Huayna Picchu peak (High) :

Click here to see the walking routes and tickets at Machu Picchu

The ruins of Machu Picchu are very well preserved because the Spanish conquistadors did not find them. It is thought that the citadel was abandoned before the Spanish arrived in Peru, buried for centuries in the jungle, until the explorer Hiram Bingham stumbled upon it in 1911. It was later explored by an archaeological expedition sent by Yale University, and continues to be excavated to this day.

Aside from completing the Inca Trek, Machu Picchu can only be reached by train, either from Cusco or from the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The journey takes about 3 hours and passes through a beautiful valley between imposing mountains. There are different train services available, from the comfortable modern Vistadome train, to the classic and luxurious Hiram Bingham. The trains go to the town of Aguas Calientes, and you ten take a 25 minue bus ride zig-zaging up the mountain to the entrance of the archaeological site. 

Circuits in Machu Picchu Includes Availability Age limit Visiting time Advance purchase
Circuit 1 – Panoramic Ticket Photo Classic Guardian’s House (classic photo) All year Any age 2 hours 30 minutes 1 month in advance
Ticket Machu Picchu Mountain Guardian House (classic photo) and Machu Picchu Mountain All year Any age 6 hours 2 months in advance
Ticket Intipunku Guardian’s House (classic photo) and Intipunku From June 1 to October 15 Any age 4 hours 2 months in advance
Ticket Inca Bridge Guardian’s House (classic photo) and Inca Bridge From June 1 to October 15 Over 18 years 3 hours 2 months in advance
Circuit 2 – Archaeological site Ticket Machu Picchu Classic Classic photo and Inca temples All year Any age 2 hours 30 minutes 3 months in advance
Ticket Machu Picchu Classic 2 Classic photo (bottom viewpoint) and Inca temples All year Any age 2 hours 30 minutes 3 months in advance
Circuit 3 – Lower part Ticket Temples of the lower part Nice photo (agricultural sector) and lower Inca temples All year Any age 2 hours 30 minutes 1 month in advance
Ticket Huayna Picchu Nice photo (agricultural sector), lower Inca temples and Huayna Picchu All year Over 18 years 4 hours 2 months in advance
Ticket Grand Cavern (Temple of the Moon) Nice photo (agricultural sector), lower Inca temples and Great Cavern From June 1 to October 15 Over 18 years 5 hours 2 months in advance
Ticket Huchuy Picchu Nice photo (agricultural sector), lower Inca temples and Huchuy Picchu From June 1 to October 15 Over 18 years 3 hours 2 months in advance

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Frequently Asked Questions

Every journey is unique, and questions are part of the process. This FAQ covers the most common topics to help you prepare, while our advisers are always on hand for more personal guidance.

Best time to visit Machu Picchu

When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during thed dry season from May to September, when clear skies and pleasant temperatures provide ideal conditions for exploring the citadel and surrounding mountain scenery.

Top things to do in Machu Picchu

What are the top things to do in Machu Picchu?

Top experiences at Machu Picchu include exploring the ancient Inca citadel, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, and learning about the site's fascinating history and engineering.

Why Visit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is one of the world's most remarkable archaeological sites, combining breathtaking mountain scenery with the legacy of the Inca civilisation. Its history, setting and cultural significance make it highlight of any visit to Peru.

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