Last Updated on April 18, 2025
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As one of the most popular places to visit in the world, Machu Picchu needs no introduction. It’s a bucket list destination and a must on every Peru itinerary. But there are a lot of things to know before you go. Visiting Machu Picchu requires some planning ahead, as it’s not the easiest place to get to, and figuring out all the logistics can be quite confusing.
On top of that, seems like every couple of years, new changes are implemented when it comes to buying tickets, different circuits and general rules for visiting. On my recent 2-week trip to Peru, I spent 2 days at Machu Picchu exploring two different circuits. In this guide I’ll share everything you need to know to plan your visit, including the latest rules.
If you think of visiting Machu Picchu on your own, I will walk you through the entire process, from buying the tickets, choosing the right Circuit, ticket prices in 2025 to ways to get there and what to expect at the site.
Machu Picchu was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and one the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World in 2007.
How to get to Machu Picchu
The closest town, which serves as a gateway to Machu Picchu is Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. Most people arrive in Aguas Calientes by train, from either Cusco or Ollantaytambo.
Cusco to Aguas Calientes is about a 3 hr 30 min train ride, but know, that direct trains run only from May to December, as Poroy Station is closed from January-April. If you book a train ticket during those months, train companies offer Bimodal service, where you take a bus from Wanchaq Station in Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station, then take the train to Aguas Calientes from there.
* Cusco’s train station is in Poroy, which is about 30 minutes outside of the city center
You can also get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo via private transfer, then take the direct train from there to Aguas Calientes. It’s a very scenic 1.5-hour long train ride. Driving to Aguas Calientes is not possible, so coming from Cusco, Ollantaytambo is as far as you can get by car/bus.
There are also people, who instead of taking the train, walk the 28 km distance from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes along the train tracks. Now, this is something I wouldn’t do, nor recommend doing, but I’m just going to throw it out there, that it’s an option.
Train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
Taking the train to Machu Picchu is very convenient, although a little pricey and it’s how most people arrive close to ancient Inca City. It’s an attraction in itself, as it’s considered to be one of the most scenic train rides in the world.
The trains leave from either Cusco or Ollantaytambo and arrive in Aguas Calientes, which is the final station and as close as you can get to Machu Picchu site by train. There are two companies to choose from: Peru Rail and Inca Rail. Both offer variety of classes from basic budget to luxury trains.
- Peru Rail – Expedition (cheapest), Vistadome (glass ceiling, snack and some entertainment) and Hiram Bingham (luxurious and expensive, includes Machu Picchu tickets, a guide and more)
- Inca Rail – The Voyager (cheapest), The 360º (large windows and entertainment) and The First Class (observatory lounge car, welcome cocktail, meal).
Train prices vary depending on which train you choose, time of day and time of year you travel. Booking well in advance will also save you money, as ticket prices increase as you get closer to your travel date.
Know that both companies have restrictions on how much luggage you can bring on board. There really isn’t much space on the trains to accommodate large bags and suitcases. Both offer free luggage storage at the station.
Peru Rail vs Inca Rail – which one is better? Honestly, I don’t think it really matters which one you choose. They are pretty similar, when it comes to service and pricing, so I recommend going with the one that works best with your schedule. Peru Rail has more departures from both Cusco and Ollantaytambo, while Inca Rail departs only from Ollantaytambo station.
I traveled with Peru Rails both ways, but for the sake of comparison I booked the cheapest Expedition train to Machu Picchu and Vistadome for the way back to Cusco. I enjoyed the entertainment on Vistadome, but if you are trying to decide between the two just for the views alone, I personally don’t think Vistadome is worth the extra money. The windows on Expedition are plenty big to enjoy the views. And in case you are traveling after dark, just stick with the basic ticket, as you won’t see a thing anyway.
Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
Once you’re in Aguas Calientes, you are just 10 km from Machu Picchu site and there is a bus that takes you up there.
Buses run every few minutes throughout the day, with the first one leaving around 5.30 am, so even if you have the earliest entry ticket to Machu Picchu, you’ll get there with no problems. The bus drops you off right at the main entrance. Last bus returns from Machu Picchu at 5.30 pm.
The line for the Machu Picchu bus is notoriously long, but don’t panic when you see it. It is long but moves fast and as soon as one bus fills up and leaves, next one arrives. The bus ride takes about 25 minutes, and both times I went, I waited about 25 minutes to board it (it was in high season and the line was extremely long). To ensure you get to the Machu Picchu entrance, I recommend being in line for the bus one hour before your entry time.
You can buy your bus tickets online or in person at the ticket office, which is in this location in town. The bus ticket cost $24 round trip, which is rather expensive for such a short ride. Buses run every few minutes throughout the day, and you don’t really have to prebook your ticket, unless you want to. You’ll need to show your passport when you buy the bus ticket.
Since there’s no specific bus schedule, you can use your ticket anytime during the day.
Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
If you are feeling adventurous, you can also hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, which is one of the most famous hikes in the world. The hike takes you through the Andes Mountains via the ancient trail, with some incredible landscapes around. It ends by entering the Sun Gate at sunrise.
The classic Inca Trail is 43 km (26 miles) long and it’s done over 4 days (3 overnights). While the distance might not sound like a lot spread over a few days, it’s the elevation that makes the hike challenging.
If the 4-day hike sounds like too much, there are also shorter versions like this Inca Trail 2-Day Overnight Guided Tour or even shorter 1 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu hike. They all arrive at Sun Gate at Machu Picchu, but you’re just doing a section of the classic hike.
All variations of Inca Trail hikes require a permit, and there’s a limited number of them issued, so don’t wait till the last minute to get them. They sell out quick and literally months in advance, especially for high season months. Only 500 people are allowed on trails each day, and that includes guides and porters. Inca Trail permits include entrance to Machu Picchu.
The only time you cannot do the hike is February, which is usually the rainiest month in Peru. They close the trails for safety and maintenance.
Hiking the Inca Trail is only possible with a guide, You CANNOT do it on your own.
Best time to visit Machu Picchu
Weatherwise, best time to visit Machu Picchu is during dry season, which is from May to September. This is when you can expect sunny days, clear skies, warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. But that is also peak tourist season in Peru. June, July and August are the busiest months (be sure to make your arrangements way in advance).
Rainy season falls between October and April. It’s not to say, you can’t have a perfectly nice day, but rain (sometimes heavy) is more likely. The upside of visiting during the rainy season is that it’s way less crowded then. And accommodation prices are also lower.
The worst time to visit Machu Picchu is February, as it’s usually the rainiest month. And if you are planning to hike, know that every year Inca Trail is closed during the entire month of February. In 2025, it actually stayed closed until the end of March, due to heavy rains and landslides.
Best time of day to visit Machu Picchu
My rule of thumb, when it comes to visiting the most popular attractions, is to be there first thing in the morning, which is why I booked 7 am Machu Picchu tickets for both days. Well, it turned out that there is some kind of morning rush at Machu Picchu (at least in high season), because it was pretty crowded.
If I was going to go again, I would probably go mid-morning. Right after the first rush, but before day trippers arrive. Also, during the rainy season, early mornings are often foggy, so keep that in mind. It usually lifts later in the morning (unless you get really unlucky with a bad weather day).
Afternoons are less crowded, as day trippers leave to make their way back to Cusco. Last entry time is 3 pm and you can stay until it closes at 5.30 pm. This is a good time to visit, if you want to avoid the crowds and don’t need to rush back to Cusco.
Unless you want to do any of the mountain hikes, as those tickets are available for morning slots only. The perfect scenario, if you have time, would be to get two tickets, one for the morning to do the hike, then return in the afternoon to explore Machu Picchu.
Altitude at Machu Picchu
One thing to take into consideration when planning your Peru trip is the altitude. A lot of the most popular places and Peru attractions are at a very high altitude, which can be challenging for people coming from sea level.
Machu Picchu is at 7,972 feet (2,430 meters), which is just below what’s considered high attitude and a lot lower than Cusco and Rainbow Mountain. But might still be high enough for some people to feel some effects of it. If you do get affected at Machu Picchu, the symptoms of altitude sickness are usually very mild.
If you’ve been in the Sacred Valley for a day or two before or are visiting Machu Picchu from Cusco (and took your time to acclimate there), you should be fine. Cusco sits at 11,152 feet (3,399 meters) above sea level, which is much higher than the Inca City.
But if you are coming from Lima, it might be a good idea to spend a couple of days in the Sacred Valley first, especially if you are planning to hike the Inca Trail. Ollantaytambo is a good place base yourself for a night or two and take it easy.
Visiting Machu Picchu in 2025
Rules for visiting Machu Picchu have changed many times over the years. Long gone are the days when you could freely roam the Inca City. This is one of the most popular attractions in the world, with 1.5 million people visiting each year.
In attempts to control the number of visitors and protect the site, new stricter rules are introduced every couple of years. Those changes include new Circuits, strict time slots and limits on number of people visiting each day
So, what can you expect when you visit Machu Picchu in 2025?
This year the daily limit of people visiting is 5650 in peak season and 4600 in low season. There are now 3 Circuits and each of them has different routes, with a total of 10 routes. When buying your ticket, you have to decide which one of the 10 different tickets to book.
How to get Machu Picchu tickets
Online
Being the number one attraction in Peru, getting your Machu Picchu tickets well in advance is highly recommended. Especially if you plan on visiting in peak season, I strongly recommend booking them online as soon as you can.
Some people have a hard time finding the right website to do so, because when you do a search for Machu Picchu tickets, several sites come up, a lot of them third party websites. The one you want is the official government site, which is this one.
Book your Machu Picchu tickets here.
In person
If Machu Picchu tickets for your desired dates are sold out online, you can try getting one at the ticket office in Aguas Calientes, which is located in Ministerio de Cultura, near the town’s square (in this exact spot).
1000 tickets are available every day for the next day visit. You need to go to the ticket office the day before you want to visit Machu Picchu early in the morning (ticket office opens at 6 am) and get a number. Then return that same day at 3 pm and when your number is called you can buy your ticket from whatever is left/available for the next day.
Tickets are NOT sold at the entrance to Machu Picchu
Book a guided tour
If you book a Machu Picchu guided tour, entrance ticket is usually included in the price. Whether it’s a day trip from Cusco, Ollantaytambo or even a tour you can pick up from Aguas Calientes, this is another option on how you can visit Machu Picchu.
About Machu Picchu tickets
When you book your Machu Picchu tickets, you will be asked to choose your entrance time. Whatever time you pick, you have an extra hour to enter the site. For instance, if you booked a 7 am ticket, you have to get there between 7 am – 8 am.
It’s important to give yourself enough time to get there, so you don’t miss your window. If you are coming from Aguas Calientes and taking the bus, my tip is to be in the bus line one hour before your entry time. The line can be very long, especially in high season, but moves fast. It’s about a 25-minute bus ride once you’re on. The one-hour rule worked perfectly for me on two separate days, and I was there during the busy season.
If you are taking a day trip from Cusco, then obviously you need to account for that extra travel time. They are pretty strict, so if you are late for your time slot, you won’t get in.
With each ticket, you are allowed 4 hours within the site, which is plenty of time and most people don’t even spend that long.
Choosing the right Circuit
In June 2024, just a few days before my planned visit, the Circuits to Machu Picchu changed. They went from 4 Circuits to 3 and different Route options within those Circuits, which caused quite a bit of confusion, especially if you purchased your tickets before that change.
If you are planning to visit Machu Picchu in 2025, there are now 3 main Circuits and 10 Routes within those circuits to choose from. Four of the routes are available in high season only. I will try to break it down for you, so you can decide which one is best for you.
Circuit 1 gives you access to the Upper Terrace and the famous viewpoint, and it has options of adding on small hikes. It does not include access to the main ruins. There are 4 different routes within that circuit to choose from:
- Circuit 1A Mountain Route – includes Upper Terrace and Machu Picchu Mountain hike. With this ticket you can access both the lower and upper platforms, which give you the most famous Machu Picchu view. If you want to hike Machu Picchu Mountain, this is the only way. Note that this ticket is available only for two morning slots. (ticket price: 200 soles)
- Circuit 1B Upper Terrace Route – this is the most basic ticket you can get. It takes you to Upper Terrace with the highest viewpoint. If all you care is to get a classic Machu Picchu photo and to enjoy the views for a bit, that’s pretty much what this ticket is. (ticket price: 152 soles)
- Circuit 1C Ruta Portada Intipunku – IN HIGH SEASON ONLY – this ticket is similar to 1A, as it has access to the Upper Terrace and the famous viewpoint. But instead of Machu Picchu Mountain, it includes a hike to the Sun Gate (Intipunku), which is much shorter and easier. This option is available for four morning time slots only. (ticket price: 152 soles)
- Circuit 1D Ruta Puente Inka (Inca Bridge Route) – IN HIGH SEASON ONLY – similar to the other Circuit 1 options, this ticket includes the Upper Terrace as well as a small hike, in this case to the Inca Bridge. The hike takes about 30 minutes and is pretty easy, with stunning views of the valley along the way. Again, only available for four entry times in the morning. (ticket price: 152 soles)
Circuit 2 is the best and most popular one, as it gives you the classic view of Machu Picchu, as well as access to majority of the site. There are only two routes within this Circuit, both very similar.
- Circuit 2 A Ruta Clásico Diseñada (Classic Route Designed) – starts with the famous viewpoint, then lets you explore both Upper and Lower Ruins. (ticket price: 152 soles)
- Circuit 2 B Ruta Terraza Inferior (Lower Terrace Route) – almost the same as 2A but also includes Terraza Inferior in the Upper Section. (ticket price:152 soles)
Circuit 3 covers the Lower Section of Machu Picchu Ruins and gives you access to the most popular Mountain hikes: Huayna Picchu and Huchuy Picchu. You do not get the most famous Machu Picchu view with this Circuit.
- Circuit 3A Ruta Monta̱a Waynapicchu Рincludes access to Lower Ruins and Huayna Picchu (also known as Wayna Picchu), which is the most popular mountain hike at the site. There are only two morning entries a day. (ticket price: 200 soles)
- Circuit 3B Ruta Realeza Dise̱ada (Royale Designed Route) Рthe most basic ticket in Circuit 3. It lets you explore the lower ruins only. (ticket price: 152 soles)
- Circuit 3C Ruta Gran Caverna (Great Cavern Route) – IN HIGH SEASON ONLY – Lower Ruins access and a short (but steep) hike to Great Cavern, also known as the Temple of the Moon. (ticket price: 200 soles).
- Circuit 3D Ruta Huchuy Picchu – IN HIGH SEASON ONLY – with this ticket you can explore the Lower Ruins and hike up Huchuy Picchu, which is the smaller mountain to the left, when you look at the classic Machu Picchu photo. There are only two morning entry times for this ticket, and you have to be 18 years or older. (ticket prices: 152 soles).
All 10 Routes operate on a one-way system, and there are guards throughout the site, that monitor and enforce it.
Mountains at Machu Picchu
There are 3 main mountains surrounding the Inca City and you can hike all of three of them for amazing panoramic views.
Huayna Picchu, also known as Wayna Picchu, is the most popular mountain and the one you see in all of the classic Machu Picchu photos. The hike up and down takes 2-3 hours total and it’s a pretty challenging climb. Very steep and includes the infamous Death of Stairs. This hike is the most popular and there are only 400 tickets available each day. If you want to hike Huayna Picchu, you need to book the Circuit 3 (Route 3A) ticket.
Huchuy Picchu is the smaller mountain you see next to Huayna Picchu. This hike is pretty short and easy, it took me 20 minutes to get to the top, less to come down. If you want to get some great views but are not up for a challenging hike, this is the perfect choice. Even though it’s not as high as Huayna Picchu, the views are pretty spectacular. There are only 50 tickets available each day. To access Huchuy Picchu you need to book Circuit 3 (3 D) ticket, which is available in high season only. There are no age restrictions for this hike
Machu Picchu Mountain (Montaña Machu Picchu) is the tallest of the three. The hike itself is longer than Huayna Picchu, but not as steep. It takes 2 hours round trip and there are only 300 tickets available each day. The ticket that gives you access to Machu Picchu Mountain is Circuit 1 (Route 1A).
The Machu Picchu tickets including the hikes are available for morning slots only.
Do you need a guide to visit Machu Picchu
Contrary to some information circulating online, you can absolutely visit Machu Picchu without a guide. It might have been mandatory in the past, but that’s no longer the case.
You can hire a guide, if you’d like, and there will be plenty waiting near the entrance. Both Spanish and English. You will also get approached by several guides as you wait in line for the bus in Aguas Calientes.
Tips for visiting Machu Picchu
Book your tickets in advance – Machu Picchu tickets are a hot commodity, so book yours as soon as you know your travel dates. Definitely if you are traveling in high season. There’s a limited number of tickets per day and they sell out quick, especially the most popular circuits. Don’t wait until the last minute, as tickets may or may not be available for your dates.
Spend a night in Aguas Calientes – while visiting Machu Picchu on a day trip from Cusco is doable, it makes for a very long day.
Sun protection – the sun is much stronger in high altitude places, so using sunblock is a must. Sunglasses and hat are also highly recommended.
What you should know before visiting Machu Picchu
Bring your passport – you will need to show your passport in order to enter Machu Picchu, and also when getting on the bus in Aguas Calientes. Photocopies are not accepted. neither are photos of it on your phone.
Tripods, selfie sticks and drones are not permitted
Umbrellas are not allowed – as the weather in high elevations is unpredictable, you should be prepared for rain even in dry season. You can’t bring an umbrella but be sure to throw a raincoat in your daypack.
Luggage storage – only small bags are permitted inside, so if for some reason you arrive with heavier luggage, there is storage right by the entrance.
No re-entry – your ticket allows you a one-time entry and once you leave, you cannot go back in. The only way you can enter again is if you have another ticket for a different circuit on the same day.
Food – according to the official rules, you are not supposed to bring in food, but they were pretty relaxed about it both times I went.
Restroom – the only restroom at Machu Picchu is located right before the entrance, so be sure to use it before going in. Once you enter the site, there’s no facilities of any kind.
Bring some coins – you will need some small change for the bathroom (2 soles).
There are no ATMs – get all your cash in Aguas Calientes, as there are no ATMs near the Machu Picchu site.
Where to stay near Machu Picchu
Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel – this is the only hotel located right near Machu Picchu, literally outside of the entrance gate. But staying next to one of the 7 Wonders of the World will cost you quite a bit. This is one of the most expensive hotels in Peru.
There are also a lot of hotels in Aguas Calientes, and I highly recommend spending a night before visiting Machu Picchu. The buses start running early in the morning, so there’s plenty of time to arrive right before the site opens. You can find most of the accommodations on Booking.com.
Rockrivers Machu Picchu – great hotel with modern, comfortable and spacious rooms in an unbeatable location, steps away from the train and bus to Machu Picchu. Breakfast is included in the rate and starts at 5.30 am, which is great if you have to catch an early bus. Also, one of the best restaurants in Aguas Calientes, Ponchos, is downstairs and as a guest of the hotel you get a 10% discount.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel – beautiful 5-star hotel, located a short walk to town, but secluded enough for a peaceful stay. Set on beautiful grounds with lush gardens. Both breakfast and dinner are included in the rate. Hands down the nicest place to stay in Aguas Calientes, Peru.
READ MORE:
- Top Things to do in Cusco, Peru + Cusco Travel Essentials
- How to spend one day in Lima, Peru
- What’s it really like to visit and hike Rainbow Mountain in Peru
- The Ultimate Peru Packing List – What to Pack for Peru in both seasons
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