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With each twist and turn offering stunning views and historical intrigue, Machu Picchu is, without a doubt, a must-visit destination for the intrepid traveler. It’s all fine and well booking your flights to Peru with great intentions. But, knowing how to visit Machu Picchu is far more difficult than one might think.
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Knowing where to stay is just one challenge you have to overcome. It can quickly all become too overwhelming to think about, with limited tickets on offer, different transportation options, and plenty of tour companies to pick from.
Don’t worry. It’s not all bad news. This article will cover all the necessary details you need to consider for your trip to the Lost City of the Incas.
Without further ado, it’s time to get stuck in!
How to Get Tickets to See Machu Picchu
Before you even book flights, it’s essential you know exactly how to get your Machu Picchu tickets. As Machu Picchu is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in the world, one can only imagine how busy it gets.
As such, Peru’s Ministry of Culture has limited tickets to 4,500 per day. Although this may seem like a lot, tickets sell out much faster than you think. That said, it is possible to get last-minute tickets, but they can sell out months in advance — especially during the peak season from June to August.
Considering the limited number of tickets, it’s best to book your tickets well in advance. Certified tour companies are designated for the season. So, one of the easiest and sure-fire ways to secure entrance to Machu Picchu is with a tour agency.
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How to Get to Machu Picchu
Seeing as Machu Picchu is buried deep in the Andean Mountains, getting there isn’t as simple as a quick car drive. The nearest major airport is the Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco, so it’s best to fly here.
Then, there are a few ways to get to this famous UNESCO World Heritage Site from Cusco.
By Bus
If you’re a tourist and trying to get to Machu Picchu, you will inevitably need to join a bus at some point during your trip. While you can get the train to Aguas Calientes, you’ll have to get the 30-minute bus to Machu Picchu from this gateway town.
The bus is also the cheaper option when traveling from Cusco, but the trip is a bit longer — usually taking around 4 hours and 15 minutes.
By Train
You can choose from two major train operators: Peru Rail or Inca Rail. Both are fairly affordable, and the quickest travel time is around 3 hours and 15 minutes.
When booking, be sure to check where the train departs from. Some trips only depart from Ollantaytambo, meaning you’ll need to get a bus to the town first. Aside from that, the train is a great option, as it’s generally very spacious and offers stunning views.
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By Private Tour
Despite the options mentioned above, the most convenient has to be with a private tour. Private tours will help organize all the transportation for you, from buses and trains to private vehicles.
Although they are pricier, it does take a lot of the worry out of planning your visit to Machu Picchu.
Hiking
Last but certainly not least, you can hike to Machu Picchu using the ancient Inca Trail. Most hiking tours depart from towns like Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, and Chachabamba.
If you want to hike, then you will need to book a tour with an agency to ensure you are safe and have assistance while climbing in this high-elevation region.
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The Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is between April and October, during Peru’s dry season. The peak visitation times for this archeological wonder are June, July, and August. So, if you want to avoid crowds and pricey accommodation, it’s best to avoid these months.
Your best bet would be visiting between April and May or September and October. Although the weather may still be slightly unpredictable during these months, it’s a lot better than in winter. Plus, you won’t struggle as much to find tickets to Machu Picchu, and you may find better deals on accommodation.
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Where to Stay When You Visit Machu Picchu
With most tours departing from Cusco or Aguas Calientes, you really have two regions to pick from. While Cusco is a major city with far more options, Aguas Calientes is a renowned tourist town with some stunning offerings.
Staying in Cusco
Cusco itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so staying in this city is definitely worth it. If you want quick access to the city’s range of archeological sites, stunning buildings, and bustling culture, staying near Plaza de Armas is best.
For backpackers looking to save a buck, Viajero Kokopelli is a super affordable option. For a middle-of-the-range stay, Hotel Plaza de Armas is a good choice, while those looking to splash the cash can do just that at Novotel Cusco.
Note: Staying in Cusco is ideal for those wanting to have a day trip to Machu Picchu.
Staying in Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes is the ideal choice for those looking to spend more than one day exploring Machu Picchu. The town itself is very walkable so it doesn’t really matter where you decide to stay.
Budget travelers will love Nativus Hostel, while those looking for a mid-range stay will find Inti Punku Hotel to be a fantastic option. For those who want luxury and grandeur of the highest scale, the Sumac Machu Picchu Hotel is undoubtedly the best in town.
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Bonus Tips to Consider When Visiting Machu Picchu
Before heading off on your next Peruvian adventure, there are a few more things to keep in mind.
Where to Eat at Machu Picchu
For a tasty little breakfast, the Tree House Restaurant is a great option that opens early. As for lunches and dinners, Ponchos Machupicchu Restaurant or Chullos Restaurant are fantastic spots to grab a bite.
How to Acclimatize to the Altitude
Staying hydrated is the best way to acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness, so drink lots of water or cacao tea. It’s also a good idea to spend a couple of days in Aguas Calientes or Cusco before doing any strenuous activities to help your body acclimatize.
Do You Need Travel Insurance for Trips to Machu Picchu?
Travel insurance is not mandatory, but it is recommended. Check what your travel insurance covers before booking tours.
What Are the Best Things to Do at Machu Picchu?
The top activities include hiking, taking photos, and joining guided tours to learn more about the stunning region. Some of the top spots at Machu Picchu to visit include Sun Gate, Huayna Picchu, The Temple of Three Windows, and Huchuy Picchu.
What Should You Pack When Visiting Machu Picchu?
The weather can turn pretty quickly at Machu Picchu, so it’s ideal that you bring a raincoat or poncho. Other essentials include sunscreen, a hat, a daypack, your camera, and extra layers of clothes.
Conclusion
So there you have it: a complete guide on how to visit Machu Picchu. No matter your plans, you can now visit this historic archeological site in confidence and with no stress whatsoever.
Just remember to keep track of the weather, book those tickets early, and most importantly — have loads of fun!
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