Your ultimate guide to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, the jewel of the Inca Empire, is one of the most dreamed-about destinations in the world. Located at 2,430 meters above sea level in the Andes mountain range, this 15th-century citadel continues to captivate travelers from across the globe.

How to purchase tickets?

Entry tickets to Machu Picchu must be purchased in advance through the official website of Peru’s Ministry of Culture. There are different circuits available, each with an estimated tour time. We recommend booking at least 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak season (June-September).

What to bring?

• Original passport (mandatory for entry)
• Sunscreen and hat
• Insect repellent
• Bottled water (minimum 1 liter)
• Layered clothing (weather changes quickly)
• Comfortable trekking shoes
• Camera

Entry schedules

Machu Picchu operates in entry shifts from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Each shift allows a maximum of 4 hours of stay. The first shift (6:00 AM) is ideal for watching the sunrise over the mountains and enjoying fewer crowds.

Important rules

Food, professional tripods, and drones are not allowed inside. Trekking poles are only permitted with rubber tips. An official tour guide is required for all visitors.

Andean Magic recommendations

At Andean Magic, we organize complete tours that include transportation, certified bilingual guide, entry tickets, and all logistics to make your experience unforgettable. Contact us to plan your adventure!

Get to know Machu Picchu’s circuits

Since 2024, Peru’s Ministry of Culture has established 5 official circuits to tour Machu Picchu. Each one offers a different perspective of the citadel and is designed to better distribute visitor flow.

Circuit 1: Complete Panoramic

This is the most complete and popular circuit. It includes the classic panoramic photo from the Guardian’s House, the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, and the agricultural sector. Approximate duration: 2.5 hours. Ideal for first-time visitors.

Circuit 2: The Citadel

Covers the urban area of Machu Picchu with access to the Temple of the Three Windows, the Intihuatana (Inca sundial), and the Sacred Plaza. Duration: 2 hours. Perfect for archaeology enthusiasts.

Circuit 3: Lower Zone

A shorter route focusing on the lower terraces and residential area. Duration: 1.5 hours. Recommended for people with reduced mobility.

Circuit 4: Combined with Huayna Picchu

Includes the hike to Huayna Picchu mountain (2,720 m). Requires an additional ticket and good physical condition. Only 200 people per day. The view from the summit is absolutely spectacular.

Circuit 5: Machu Picchu Mountain

Ascends Machu Picchu Mountain (3,082 m) with 360° views of the entire region. More demanding than Huayna Picchu but less vertiginous. Duration: 3-4 additional hours.

Which one do we recommend?

For a first visit, Circuit 1 is a must. If you’re seeking adventure, complement it with Circuit 4 (Huayna Picchu). At Andean Magic, we help you choose the perfect circuit based on your interests and physical condition.

All routes to Machu Picchu

Getting to Machu Picchu is part of the adventure. There is no direct car access, which makes each route have its own charm and unique experience.

Option 1: Train from Ollantaytambo

The most popular and comfortable route. Peru Rail and Inca Rail offer services from Ollantaytambo (Sacred Valley) to Aguas Calientes. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, with spectacular views of the Urubamba River and mountains. There are options from budget to luxury with panoramic wagons.

Option 2: Classic Inca Trail (4 days)

The most iconic route in the world. 42 km of trekking following ancient Inca trails, passing archaeological ruins, mountain passes at 4,200 m, and cloud forest. Only 500 people per day (including guides and porters). Requires booking 6+ months in advance.

Option 3: Short Inca Trail (2 days)

A more accessible version starting at km 104 of the railway. Includes visiting Wiñay Wayna and entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Intipunku). Ideal for those with limited time.

Option 4: Hidroeléctrica Route

The most budget-friendly option. Van ride from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica station (6-7 hours) then a 2.5-hour walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes. Pure adventure at low cost.

Option 5: Salkantay Trek (5 days)

An epic alternative to the Inca Trail. Crosses the Salkantay snowcap (4,630 m), traverses different ecosystems from snow to tropical jungle, and culminates at Machu Picchu. No special permit required.

Our recommendation

At Andean Magic, we operate all these routes with certified guides and the best logistics. For a first visit, we recommend the train from Ollantaytambo combined with a Sacred Valley tour.