Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu sits at an altitude of 2,430 meters (7,970 ft). While altitude sickness is common due to the elevation, symptoms like headaches and nausea can be managed by acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before visiting. Staying hydrated and avoiding heavy meals also help.

The best time of year to visit Machu Picchu is from May to October, during the dry season in the Central Andes. This is also the winter season in Peru, and coupled with the altitude, it makes for fresh days and cold nights—however, the lack of rains in winter promises mostly crystal-clear skies and comfortable temperatures for trekking.

There are two main options, both of which begin in the ancient Inca capital, Cusco. From here:

Hiking: Embark on a multi-day trek through the Andes, retracing the steps of the ancient Incas. Plan for 7-10 days, including acclimatization in Cusco, the hike, and a rest day.

Taking the Train: Enjoy a leisurely train ride from Cusco, to Aguas Caliente, the ‘base town’ for visits to Machu Picchu. Stay overnight and hike at sunrise, or take a bus directly to the citadel’s entrance.

The best circuit at Machu Picchu depends on your interests and fitness level. For a classic day trip, we recommend Circuit 2A or 2B, as both cover the main citadel—2A includes the upper terraces, and 2B the lower terraces. If you're doing the Inca Trail, you'll follow Circuit 3B, and will need extra entry permits if you want to visit the citadel. For those interested in hikes like Huayna Picchu, your choice of circuit will vary depending on your arrival time, and you may need two days to fully explore.

Once you enter your chosen circuit you cannot enter areas that are outside of the route, so we do recommend discussing your options with a Destination Specialist to ensure your tour of Machu Picchu is right for you.

It's advisable to book your visit to Machu Picchu well in advance due to limited ticket availability. Tickets sell out quickly, especially during peak season (May to October). The Peruvian government limits the number of visitors per day to preserve the site, so securing your tickets as early as possible is essential. Booking several months in advance is recommended for popular treks like the Inca Trail. In contrast, train and entrance tickets to Machu Picchu should ideally be booked at least a few weeks before your planned visit – ideally, though, at the same time as you book your flight ticket and tour of Peru.

While you don't need to be a super athlete, a reasonable fitness level can enhance your experience at Machu Picchu. The site involves walking and exploring uneven terrain at an elevated altitude, including some steep steps and hills. If you plan to hike the Inca Trail or other trekking routes, a higher level of fitness is necessary due to the physical demands of the trek.

However, for those who prefer not to trek, taking the train to Aguas Calientes and then a bus or walking to the entrance of Machu Picchu is a less physically demanding option. Overall, being moderately fit will allow you to fully enjoy Machu Picchu's wonders with ease.