How to plan your trip to Machu Picchu. One of the most frequently asked questions by many travelers is how to plan a trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu and here we provide the steps you must follow to travel to one of the 7 wonders of the world.
Trip to Machu Picchu
1. Define your Budget and Travel Style:
• Economic: Hostels, public transportation, food in local markets and restaurants.
• Medium: 3-star hotels, group tours, combination of public and private transportation.
• Luxury: 4 or 5-star hotels, private tours, private transportation in Cusco, meals in high-end restaurants.
2. Choose the Best Time to Travel:
• Dry Season (May – September): Ideal weather for hiking, sunny days and cold nights. Greater influx of tourists and higher prices.
• Rainy Season (October – April): Fewer tourists, lower prices, but possibility of rain that can affect visits. The Inca Trail is closed in February.
3. Book your Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets in Advance:
• It is essential to book your entrance to Machu Picchu circuit 2 months in advance, especially in high season, as places are limited. You can buy them online through the official Peruvian government website or through our travel agency.
• Decide whether you want to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These require a separate ticket and sell out quickly.
4. Decide How to Get to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town):
• Train: The most common and comfortable option from Ollantaytambo or Poroy (near Cusco). Book in advance.
• Inca Trail: A multi-day trekking experience that requires special permits and reservations well in advance (6-8 months).
• Other Trekking Routes: There are alternatives such as the Salkantay Trek or the Inca Jungle Trek.
5. Book your accommodation in Aguas Calientes or Cusco:
• Aguas Calientes offers options for all budgets. Sleeping here allows you to enter Machu Picchu early.
• Cusco is an excellent base for exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas and other attractions.
6. Plan your activities in Machu Picchu:
• Decide how much time you want to spend in Machu Picchu (a full day is recommended).
• Hire a private tour guide for a more enriching experience.
• Research the different sectors and points of interest within the complex.
7. Prepare your luggage:
• Comfortable clothing for walking, including layers for different temperatures.
• Water-resistant hiking shoes.
• Raincoat or rain poncho.
• Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Mosquito repellent.
• Reusable water bottle.
• Extra camera and batteries.
8. Acclimatization to Altitude:
• Spend a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to get used to the altitude before climbing Machu Picchu.
• Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and eat lightly.
• Consider drinking coca tea.
9. Get Travel Insurance:
• It is important to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, lost luggage, and other unforeseen events.
10. Research and Learn about Inca History and Culture:
• Learning about the history of Machu Picchu will make your visit even more meaningful.
By following these tips, you can plan an unforgettable trip to “Machu Picchu” and enjoy this wonder of the world to the fullest.
Machu Picchu
