One-Day Solo Adventure: Sightseeing Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, Peru

1 days

Lost city
Overview of the lost inca city with Wayna Picchu peak
Doorway at Machu Picchu frames a view of Huayna Picchu
Machu Picchu, Peru.
Llama

About Machu Picchu, Peru

Experience the mystical allure of Machu Picchu, Peru, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled high in the Andes Mountains. This ancient Incan city, often referred to as the "Lost City of the Incas", offers breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into a civilization long past. Explore the intricate stone constructions, terraced fields, and sacred temples that have stood the test of time. Hike the famous Inca Trail, immerse yourself in the rich Peruvian culture, and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a nature lover, Machu Picchu promises an unforgettable journey. Don't miss the chance to witness the sunrise over the ruins, a truly magical spectacle. Come, discover the enigmatic charm of Machu Picchu, a testament to Incan ingenuity and endurance.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Adventure and Sightseeing in Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes

Morning

Start your day with a guided tour of the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu. Explore the iconic Sun Gate, the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of the Three Windows. Learn about the history and culture of the Inca civilization.

Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch with a view of the stunning Andean mountains. Sample traditional Peruvian cuisine such as ceviche and lomo saltado.

Afternoon

After lunch, continue your exploration of Machu Picchu. Hike to the top of Huayna Picchu for a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire site. This challenging hike is a must-do for adventure seekers.

Dinner

Dine in a local restaurant in the nearby town of Aguas Calientes. Try a traditional Peruvian dish like alpaca steak or quinoa soup.

Evening

Spend the evening relaxing in the Hot springs of Aguas Calientes. These thermal baths are the perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking and sightseeing.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

Machu Picchu

1
Machu Picchu

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca city located high in the Andes mountains. It's renowned for its sophisticated dry-stone walls that fuse huge blocks without the use of mortar, intriguing buildings that play on astronomical alignments and panoramic views.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Sun Gate

2
Sun Gate

Also known as Intipunku, it was the main entrance to Machu Picchu in Inca times and offers a stunning view of the entire complex.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Temple of the Sun

3
Temple of the Sun

A significant religious site within the Machu Picchu complex, known for its precise stonework and alignment with the sun during the summer solstice.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Room of the Three Windows

4
Room of the Three Windows

An iconic structure in the royal sector of Machu Picchu, featuring three trapezoidal windows looking out over the Sacred Plaza.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Huayna Picchu

5
Huayna Picchu

Huayna Picchu, also known as Wayna Picchu, is the mountain that rises over Machu Picchu, the so-called lost city of the Incas. The mountain offers awe-inspiring views of the Inca ruins and the surrounding mountainous landscape. It's a steep but rewarding hike, with some sections involving narrow and steep stairs. The peak of Huayna Picchu is about 2,720 meters (8,920 ft) above sea level, or about 360 meters (1,180 ft) higher than Machu Picchu.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Hot springs of Aguas Calientes

6
Hot springs of Aguas Calientes

Natural hot springs offering a relaxing experience after a day of exploring the Inca ruins.

Attractions
Entertainment

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Cuy

Cuy

Cuy is a traditional Peruvian dish that is essentially roasted guinea pig. It's a must-try for adventurous eaters visiting Machu Picchu.

Chicha Morada

Chicha Morada

Chicha Morada is a sweet Peruvian drink made from purple corn, spices, and sugar. It's a popular refreshment in the region around Machu Picchu.

Ceviche

Ceviche

Ceviche is a famous Peruvian dish made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, and spiced with ají, chili peppers, onions, and cilantro. It's a popular dish throughout Peru, including Machu Picchu.

Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado is a popular Peruvian stir-fry dish that combines marinated strips of sirloin, tomatoes, onions, and french fries. It's a common dish in the region around Machu Picchu.

Pisco Sour

Pisco Sour

Pisco Sour is a famous Peruvian cocktail made from pisco (a type of brandy), lime juice, syrup, egg white, and Angostura bitters. It's a must-try for visitors to Machu Picchu.

Aji de Gallina

Aji de Gallina is a delicious Peruvian chicken stew made with a creamy yellow chili sauce. It's a common dish in the region around Machu Picchu.

Anticuchos

Anticuchos

Anticuchos are Peruvian skewers traditionally made with beef heart, but can also be made with other meats. They're a popular street food in the region around Machu Picchu.

Alfajores

Alfajores

Alfajores are traditional Peruvian cookies filled with dulce de leche. They're a popular sweet treat in the region around Machu Picchu.

Chicha de Jora

Chicha de Jora is a traditional Peruvian corn beer. It's a popular local drink in the region around Machu Picchu.

Rocoto Relleno

Rocoto Relleno is a traditional Peruvian dish made with stuffed spicy peppers. It's a common dish in the region around Machu Picchu.

Picarones

Picarones

Picarones are Peruvian doughnuts made from sweet potato and squash, served with a sweet syrup. They're a popular dessert in the region around Machu Picchu.

Inca Kola

Inca Kola

Inca Kola is a popular Peruvian soft drink with a sweet, fruity flavor. It's a must-try for visitors to Machu Picchu.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Machu Picchu, Peru is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, you'll have the best chance of clear, sunny days for exploring the ancient Incan city. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so it's recommended to book your trip well in advance. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder months of April and October, when there's a slightly higher chance of rain but fewer tourists.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

March 28

Thu

Maundy Thursday

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

June 7

Fri

Battle of Arica

June 29

Sat

St Peter and St Paul

July 23

Tue

Peruvian Air Force Day

July 28

Sun

Independence Day

July 29

Mon

Independence Day (day 2)

August 6

Tue

Battle of Junín

August 30

Fri

Santa Rosa De Lima

October 8

Tue

Battle of Angamos

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

December 8

Sun

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

December 9

Mon

Battle of Ayacucho

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

To get to Machu Picchu, you will first need to fly into the country's capital, Lima, and then take a connecting flight to Cusco. The Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco is the closest airport to Machu Picchu.

From Cusco, you can take a train to the town of Aguas Calientes, which is at the base of Machu Picchu. There are two main train companies that operate this route: PeruRail and Inca Rail. Both offer a variety of services, from budget to luxury, and the journey takes about 3-4 hours.

Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you can take a bus up to the Machu Picchu site. The bus ride takes about 20-30 minutes and buses leave every few minutes from the bus station in Aguas Calientes.

For the more adventurous, you can hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This is a 4-day trek that takes you through stunning Andean landscapes and ancient Inca ruins. Please note that you need to book this trek in advance and it is subject to availability.

Taxis are available in Cusco and Aguas Calientes, but not in Machu Picchu itself. They can be a convenient way to get to and from the train station or airport.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Cusco. However, they are not available in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu. It's a good option for getting around Cusco or for transfers to the train station or airport.

Once you're at the Machu Picchu site, the best way to get around is on foot. The site is a pedestrian-only area and there are many steps and terraces to explore. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and take your time to avoid altitude sickness.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency PEN

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone011, 5114

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type C

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Machu Picchu, Peru as a first time visitor

1

Machu Picchu is located at a high altitude (7,972 feet or 2,430 meters), so be prepared for altitude sickness. Symptoms can include headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath.

2

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from May to September. However, this is also the busiest time.

3

The site is open year-round, but it can be very rainy from November to March.

4

Only 2,500 visitors are allowed per day, so it's best to book your tickets in advance.

5

There are no bathrooms inside the site. The only facilities are at the entrance, so plan accordingly.

6

There are no food or drink vendors inside Machu Picchu. You are allowed to bring small snacks and water, but no large meals.

7

Dress in layers. The weather can change quickly, and it can be quite cool in the morning and evening, but hot during the day. Temperatures can range from 50-80 degrees Fahrenheit (10-27 degrees Celsius).

8

Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. The terrain is uneven and can be slippery, especially if it's been raining.

9

There are no trash cans inside the site, so be prepared to carry out any trash you bring in.

10

It's a good idea to hire a guide for your visit. They can provide valuable information about the history and significance of the site.

11

The use of drones is strictly prohibited in Machu Picchu.

12

You are not allowed to touch any of the structures or climb on the ruins.

13

You will need to show your passport to enter the site.

14

There is no public transportation to Machu Picchu. Most people take a train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of the mountain, and then a bus to the site.

15

It's a good idea to bring a hat and sunscreen. The sun can be very strong at high altitudes.

16

If you plan to hike the Inca Trail, you will need to book a guided tour. Independent hiking is not allowed.

17

The site is not wheelchair accessible, and there are many steep stairs and uneven paths.

18

Flash photography is not allowed inside the site.

19

It's a good idea to bring insect repellent. There can be many mosquitoes, especially during the rainy season.

20

Remember to stay hydrated. The high altitude can cause dehydration more quickly than at sea level.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

A-dee-os

Leaving or saying goodbye to someone

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Gracias

Gra-see-as

Expressing gratitude

Yes

See

Agreeing or confirming

No

No

No

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Perdón

Per-don

Getting someone's attention or apologizing

I don't understand

No entiendo

No en-tee-en-do

When you don't understand what's being said

Do you speak English?

¿Hablas inglés?

Ha-blas in-gles

Trying to find someone who speaks English

Where is...?

¿Dónde está...?

Don-de es-ta

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Baño

Ban-yo

Looking for a restroom

Help

Ayuda

A-yu-da

In case of emergency or needing assistance

Food

Comida

Co-mi-da

When looking for a place to eat

Water

Agua

A-gua

When you want to drink water

Good morning

Buenos días

Bwe-nos dee-as

Greeting someone in the morning

Good afternoon

Buenas tardes

Bwe-nas tar-des

Greeting someone in the afternoon

Good night

Buenas noches

Bwe-nas no-ches

Greeting someone in the evening or before bed

I'm sorry

Lo siento

Lo see-en-to

Apologizing

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

Kwan-to kwes-ta

Asking the price of something

I would like...

Me gustaría...

Me gus-ta-ree-a

Expressing a desire or making a request

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing

  • Rain jacket or poncho

  • Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Extra socks

  • Warm layers for cooler temperatures in the evening

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-size body wash or soap

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Personal medication

  • First-aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Valid passport

  • Printed tickets for Machu Picchu

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Emergency contact information

  • Local currency (Peruvian Sol)

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Map of Machu Picchu and surrounding area

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Portable charger

  • Camera

  • Headphones

  • Travel adapter for Peru

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Travel pillow

  • Small backpack for day use

  • Binoculars

  • Travel guidebook for Peru

  • Trekking poles

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Machu Picchu, it's important to consider the weather as it can greatly impact your experience. Machu Picchu, located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, experiences a subtropical highland climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season (May to September) and the wet season (October to April). During the dry season, you can expect clear, sunny days with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C). This is the best time to visit if you're planning on hiking the Inca Trail or exploring the ruins extensively, as the weather is more predictable and the trails are less slippery. However, it's also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowds. The wet season brings frequent, heavy rains, particularly in the months of January and February. Temperatures during this time range from 45°F to 68°F (7°C to 20°C). While the rain can make hiking more challenging and the ruins may be shrouded in mist, the landscape is beautifully lush and the site is less crowded. Regardless of the season, mornings at Machu Picchu often start with mist that clears as the day progresses. Also, due to the high altitude, the sun can be intense, so be sure to pack sun protection including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. In terms of clothing, layers are key. Temperatures can fluctuate greatly throughout the day, so it's best to dress in layers that can be added or removed as needed. Waterproof clothing and footwear are also recommended, especially during the wet season. Remember, the weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your visit and be prepared for a variety of conditions.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

22° / 7°

January is the wettest month in Machu Picchu, with frequent rain showers. Despite the rain, temperatures are relatively warm, ranging from 7 to 22 degrees Celsius.

February

23° / 8°

February continues the rainy season, with warm temperatures similar to January. It's also the month when the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance.

March

23° / 8°

March sees the end of the rainy season, with temperatures remaining warm. The landscape is particularly lush and green this time of year.

April

22° / 7°

April offers a balance of mild temperatures and reduced rainfall. It's a good time to visit to avoid the peak tourist season.

May

20° / 2°

May marks the beginning of the dry season, with cooler temperatures and clear skies. It's an excellent time for hiking and outdoor activities.

June

18° / 0°

June is the coldest month, but also one of the driest. The clear skies offer excellent views of the surrounding mountains.

July

18° / 0°

July continues the trend of cold, dry weather. Despite the chill, it's a popular month for tourism due to the clear skies and minimal rainfall.

August

20° / 2°

August sees a slight increase in temperature, but remains dry. It's another popular month for tourists, offering great conditions for hiking.

September

21° / 4°

September marks the end of the dry season, with a slight increase in temperature and rainfall. The weather remains good for outdoor activities.

October

22° / 6°

October sees a further increase in temperature and rainfall. The weather is still pleasant, but pack a raincoat just in case.

November

22° / 7°

November is a transitional month, with increasing rainfall but warm temperatures. The crowds are fewer, making it a good time to visit for those who don't mind a bit of rain.

December

22° / 7°

December is the start of the rainy season, but temperatures remain warm. Despite the rain, it's a popular time to visit due to the holiday season.

Did you know?

Did you know that Machu Picchu is also known as the 'Lost City of the Incas'?

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Pisac

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Moray

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Choquequirao

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Often called the 'sister' of Machu Picchu, it is a lesser-known Inca ruin

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Aguas Calientes

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