Buildings and terraces of Machu Picchu with Huayna Picchu in the background

Cusco & Sacred Valley

Machu Picchu

The lost city of the Incas, at the edge of the cloud forest

Destinations
Cusco & Sacred Valley
Best time to visit
April – October (dry season)
Altitude
2,430 m / 7,970 ft
Suggested stay
1–2 days

Few places on Earth live up to their reputation the way Machu Picchu does. Arrive by luxury train or on foot along ancient trails, and explore the citadel with a private archaeologist-guide at the quietest hours of the day.

Built in the 15th century and hidden from the outside world until 1911, Machu Picchu sits on a ridge above the Urubamba River, wrapped in cloud forest and framed by Huayna Picchu.

How we plan your visit

We secure your entrance tickets and circuit in advance, time your visit to avoid the busiest hours and pair you with a private guide who brings the history to life. Many travelers choose to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes to enjoy a second, early-morning visit.

Highlights

  1. 01

    Sunrise at the citadel

    Be among the first through the gates as mist lifts over the ruins.

  2. 02

    Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain

    Optional hikes for sweeping views over the site.

  3. 03

    Luxury train journeys

    Hiram Bingham or Vistadome trains through the Sacred Valley.

When to go

  1. Jan
  2. Feb
  3. Mar
  4. Apr
  5. May
  6. Jun
  7. Jul
  8. Aug
  9. Sep
  10. Oct
  11. Nov
  12. Dec
  • Ideal
  • Good
  • Rainy season

Right now in Machu Picchu

13°C

Rain

Journeys featuring this destination

Inca terraces at Wiñay Wayna among vegetation and mountains4 days

Private Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 4 Days

A private trek, just for your group: from 2 to 12 people

fromUS$985

Moderate
Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu seen from the Sun Gate5 days

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 5 Days

The classic Inca Trail at a gentler pace, with more time at every Inca site

fromUS$840

Moderate
A person looking towards Humantay Lake and the snow-covered Salkantay peaks5 days

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days

Humantay Lake, the Salkantay pass, the hot springs of Santa Teresa and Llactapata

fromUS$330

Challenging

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to book Machu Picchu tickets in advance?+

Yes. Daily entries are limited, especially from May to September. We secure tickets as soon as your trip is confirmed.

Is the altitude a problem at Machu Picchu?+

Machu Picchu is lower than Cusco, so most travelers feel comfortable. We design itineraries that acclimatize gradually.

G

Your Peru specialist

Speak to someone who has been there

Our Cusco-based specialists have explored every corner of Peru. Tell us what you have in mind and we will shape it into a private journey.

Giovanni · Founder & Travel Advisor · Speaks English, Español

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