Machu Picchu tours & holidays

Machu Picchu is 15th century citadel and a magnificent reminder of the power and ingenuity of the Inca civilisation. Evidence suggests it was a royal estate and served as a private retreat and spiritual centre – though many mysteries remain about its exact purpose. The Incas abandoned it just 100 years after its construction, likely due to the Spanish invasion which led to the collapse of the empire. 

It was recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage site in 1983 and declared as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.

Machu Picchu sits on a 2430 m-tall mountain ridge on the eastern slope of the Peruvian Andes overlooking the Urubamba River. The site is 9 km from Aguas Calientes – the closest town to Machu Picchu – and about 80 km from the city of Cusco. 

Machu Picchu sits deep in a cloud forest 2440 m above sea level. In terms of altitude, you're unlikely to experience any altitude issues at Machu Picchu itself, as you’ll probably come via Cusco – almost 1000 m higher than Machu Picchu – where you can acclimatise.

Most people start to feel the effects of altitude at over 2000 m ft regardless of age, gender or fitness level. While our guides are first aid-trained and carry oxygen tanks for emergencies, it’s very important to make yourself aware of the cause and effects of travelling at altitude, monitor your health and seek assistance accordingly. Take it easy, drink plenty of water and let your guide know if you feel unwell. 

We recommend seeing your doctor if you have any health concerns before the trip. Particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking any medication.

Machu Picchu is open year-round, but the most popular time, and therefore the busiest, is in the dry season from May to October. June through August is the most crowded, as this is when the weather and hiking conditions are generally at their best.

The wet season is from November to April. The Sacred Valley region sees heavy rainfall, so rain-appropriate gear is essential if you're hiking. If you don't mind getting a bit wet, the plus side is that crowds are typically smaller.

If you want to hike the Inca Trail, note that it closes every year in February for maintenance. The Quarry Trail is a great alternative.

Most travellers fly into Cusco before taking the train or joining a trek in Ollantaytambo – about 1.5 hours from Cusco by bus. 

From Ollantaytambo, you can: 

• Spend a couple of days exploring the Sacred Valley and then take the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu 

• Hike the Inca Trail – a four-day trek to Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate 

• Hike the One Day Inca Trail 

• Hike the equally scenic Quarry or Salkantay trails, then take the train to Aguas Calientes for a tour Machu Picchu after. 

On most of our trips, you can choose the rail journey instead of the hike – just let us know which option you’d prefer. There's no extra cost for this, but fees may apply if you initially booked the Inca Trail and decide to change to the train after we’ve already secured your permit.

You can do both if you choose a trip that offers the One Day Inca Trail. This hike is a great option if you want to get a taste of the scenery and experience walking through the Sun Gate, but aren't up for a four-day trek. 

You’ll take the train to KM 104 checkpoint and complete the last 12 km of the route, followed by a guided tour of the ruins. 

Tours are led by a local guide and usually last for 1.5 to 2 hours. All visitors must follow a pre-determined circuit within the site to relieve crowding. Circuit-based tickets are available on a first come, first served basis, and while we'll try our best to get everyone in your group travelling on the same route, it's not always possible and you may end up on different circuits. 

After the tour, all visitors must exit the site – exploring on your own is currently not allowed. 

You don't need a permit to trek the Quarry Trail or Salkantay trails, but you do need one for the Inca Trail. Permits are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so booking well in advance is essential to secure your spot. 

Our adventure consultants will organise your permit for you – just make sure you have your passport details ready when booking.

For a day trip exploring Machu Picchu, we recommended taking a small backpack with the essentials: sunscreen, hat, water bottle (filled in the morning), a few snacks and mosquito repellent. It helps to wear breathable pants, a long shirt and a waterproof jacket – since the UV index is higher in the Andes and the site is prone to rainfall. 

If you’re trekking, read our detailed packing guide in your Essential Trip Information. 

No. We’ve performed risk assessments on all our optional activities, and unfortunately, we don't consider climbing Wayna Picchu a safe activity at this stage. The climb involves a steep, narrow and exposed sets of stairs, and we just can't guarantee your safety.  

Our leaders are specifically prohibited from assisting you in visiting Wayna Picchu. 

There are public toilets located at the main entrance of Machu Picchu and none after entering the site – so make sure you time your stop before heading off to explore. 

Take some coins with you as there’s a small fee to use them. It’s always handy to carry a small stash of toilet paper and sanitiser too.

It's largely dependent on your specific needs and what support will be available to you. Get in touch and we’ll let you know what adjustments or alternatives might be possible.