MACHU PICCHU TOUR FULL DAY TRIP

EVERYTHING YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE TRAVELING TO MACHU PICCHU

We know you have many questions, traveling to Machu Picchu is easy, but you should consider certain important points to make your experience in Machu Picchu the best.

What is the difference between the 4 circuits of Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu has 4 New Circuits designed to enhance your experience without overcrowding certain areas of the archaeological site. We invite you to watch the following video where we explain more about these circuits.

Circuit 1 allows you to observe the Guardian’s House, near the spot where you can take the classic photo of Machu Picchu. From here, you can also see other points of the citadel, including the Temple of the Sun viewpoint, the Granitic Chaos, and the Pisonay Square.

Circuit 2 is the most comprehensive and recommended, as it covers Circuit 1 and allows you to take the iconic photo that will immortalize your trip. Additionally, you get to enjoy many more archaeological sites such as the Temple Square, Intiwatana, and the Sacred Rock.

Circuit 3 goes through the lower part of Machu Picchu, offering a different view of the Inca citadel. It also allows you to observe archaeological areas such as the qolqas, the agricultural zone, and the Inca House complex.

Circuit 4 is more comprehensive than Circuit 3, as it covers Circuit 3 and gives you the opportunity to observe symbolic places such as the ceremonial fountains, the set of water mirrors, and the Temple of the Condor.

Is it better to enter Machu Picchu in the afternoon or in the morning?

There are 9 entry times to Machu Picchu, which you can choose depending on the time you arrive in Aguas Calientes. Below are the details of the schedules:

Entry times at 6, 7, 8, and 9 in the morning to Machu Picchu
For these schedules, it’s necessary to depart very early from the city of Cusco, considering that the vehicle journey takes 1 hour and 30 minutes to the train station in Ollantaytambo. From there, we will take the train that will take us to the town of Aguas Calientes in a 1 hour and 50 minutes train ride.
If you don’t like waking up very early, you can travel a day before and stay in Aguas Calientes to avoid getting up too early.

During these times, there are not many people, and the visit is calm and pleasant, offering a different perspective compared to other schedules. You will also be able to appreciate the Intiwatana at this time.

The schedules at 10, 11, 12, and 1: It is likely that the influx of people will be more abundant. If you were planning to take the classic photo without people around, it might be a bit more challenging. The sun will be at its highest point, shining directly on the sanctuary with great intensity. However, it also has its charm, as the sky will be clear, and you will have a better view of Machu Picchu.

In the afternoon, at 1 and 2 in the afternoon: Some consider this the best time to visit Machu Picchu due to the sunset between the mountains, covering the citadel of Machu Picchu with its last rays. It’s a perfect panorama for photography, and the weather is cooler. You can travel on the same day; there’s no need to be in Aguas Calientes the day before, but keep in mind that you will also arrive in Cusco a bit late, around 10 to 11 at night.

Can I bring luggage into Machu Picchu?

You are not allowed to carry luggage; you can only enter with a small backpack measuring 40x35x20 cm (16x14x8 inches) to carry small personal items.

What can I take to Machu Picchu?

• Identification document used to register for entry to Machu Picchu.
• Sunscreen.
• Windbreaker jacket.
• Rain poncho (according to the season).
• Trekking shoes.
• Insect repellent.
• Lightweight clothing.
• Water.
• Sunglasses.
• Hat.

What can´t I take to Machu Picchu and what are the prohibitions?

• Carrying backpacks, bags, or purses larger than 40x35x20 cm (16x14x8 inches).
• Entering with food.
• Entering with any type of alcoholic beverage or while intoxicated.
• Carrying walking sticks, umbrellas, parasols, portable seats, tripods, camera or cellphone stabilizers, or any other extension or stabilization element for filming and/or photography.
• Drones are prohibited in Machu Picchu.
• Entering with animals, except for guide dogs.
• Feeding domestic or wild animals.
• Entering with any type of aerosols.
• Engaging in any type of graffiti.

Learn more at www.machupicchu.gob.pe about the restrictions when visiting Machu Picchu.

What is the best season to visit Machu Picchu?

The visit to Machu Picchu is available all year round, but many consider the months of May, June, July, August, September, and October as the perfect season to travel to Machu Picchu. During these months, the sun shines brightly in the mornings and evenings, with a refreshing breeze.

In November and December, the rainy season begins again,and the landscapes gradually turn lush green while the evenings become colder. Although some days may surprise you with rain, the tours continue as usual. Machu Picchu takes on a different appearance, with mist covering the sanctuary, adding a touch of mystery as it dissipates in the air. While exploring Machu Picchu, it might get very cloudy or even rain at some point, but you can still enjoy your tour with a poncho or waterproof jacket.
Many visitors actually enjoy visiting Machu Picchu in the rain more than on a sunny day because it offers a unique perspective of this wonder of the modern world. If you are not a fan of rain, it is more likely to clear up after 11 am, increasing your chances of finding Machu Picchu with clearer skies.

In January, February, and March, the rains are more frequent. During this period, it is considered the low tourist season, which has a significant advantage if you plan to travel during these months, as there will be fewer crowds. On the other hand, the advantage is that the landscapes are lush and the weather is cooler compared to other seasons.
If you have already decided to travel during this season, we advise you to buy your tickets to Machu Picchu for the time slots starting from 11 am, as this increases the probability of finding Machu Picchu with clearer skies. The average number of rainy days per week varies from 3 to 4 days, and some days the rain may be light but last the entire day, while other days it might only rain for a few hours but with greater intensity. In the early morning hours, Machu Picchu is usually cloudy during these months.

Keep in mind that we are in the Andes, and the weather here is very unpredictable. Nevertheless, the information provided aims to give you a close approximation of the climate during each season. We look forward to your visit, we will have everything organized for you, and we have many satisfied passengers who have enjoyed the experiences and services we provide all year round.

How far in advance should I book my ticket to Machu Picchu?

Although it is possible to reserve your ticket to Machu Picchu one day before your visit, the most recommended approach is to make your reservation at least one or two months in advance. The number of entries is limited, and it is advisable to book in advance. If you plan to visit Huayna Picchu (WAYNAPICCHU), consider reserving it three months before your visit.

These recommendations are essential to ensure that your experience at Machu Picchu is the best, especially considering that popular tickets, such as the Machu Picchu circuit 1-2 and Huayna Picchu, sell out very quickly.

In case you couldn’t book in advance, the solution for travelers is to purchase tickets with alternative circuits, such as circuit 4 or 3. With these options, you will still get to know Machu Picchu, but you won’t be able to take the classic photo or visit some specific spots. You will have the chance to explore the temples and see Machu Picchu from the lower areas.

During certain times of the year, it might be challenging to secure last-minute tickets due to high demand. It can be uncomfortable to try and reserve your entry, so our recommendation is to plan well in advance and get in touch with our agency to ensure your visit to Machu Picchu. Contact Us, and we will be delighted to assist you.