3-Day Unforgettable Journey to Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu, Peru
3 days
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.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Discovering Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo
Morning
Visit the Machu Picchu Museum and Botanical Gardens. Learn more about the Inca civilization and the diverse flora of the region.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try a traditional Peruvian soup called 'chupe de camarones'.
Afternoon
Take a train ride to the town of Ollantaytambo. Explore the town's Inca ruins and the local market.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Sample Andean cuisine such as 'cuy' (guinea pig) and 'chicha morada' (purple corn drink).
Evening
Stroll around the Town square of Ollantaytambo. Enjoy the peaceful evening atmosphere and the view of the Inca ruins lit up at night.
Day 3
Hiking the Inca Trail and Farewell to Aguas Calientes
Morning
Hike the Inca Trail to the Archaeological site of Winay Wayna. The site is less crowded than Machu Picchu and offers stunning views of the Urubamba River.
Lunch
Enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the panoramic views of the Andean mountains.
Afternoon
Continue your hike to the Intipunku (Sun Gate) for a different perspective of Machu Picchu. The sunset view from here is a sight to behold.
Dinner
Have your farewell dinner at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes. Try 'rocoto relleno', a stuffed pepper dish.
Evening
Spend your last evening shopping for souvenirs and local handicrafts at the Aguas Calientes market.
Attractions in Itinerary (9)
1Machu Picchu ruins
The iconic Inca ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the past.
2Sun Gate (Intipunku)
Also known as Intipunku, this is the ancient entrance to Machu Picchu, offering stunning views of the ruins and the surrounding landscape.
3Hot springs of Aguas Calientes
Natural hot springs offering a relaxing experience after a day of exploring the Inca ruins.
4Machu Picchu Museum and Botanical Gardens
A museum showcasing Inca artifacts and a botanical garden featuring local flora.
5Town square of Ollantaytambo
The lively town square of Ollantaytambo, featuring local shops, restaurants, and a glimpse into local life.
6Archaeological site of Winay Wayna
An Inca archaeological site located along the Inca Trail, featuring terraces and ruins.
7Intipunku (Sun Gate)
Also known as the Sun Gate, this is the ancient entrance to Machu Picchu, offering stunning views of the ruins and the surrounding landscape.
8Aguas Calientes market
A bustling market offering a variety of local goods, from food to handicrafts.
9Ollantaytambo's Inca ruins
Well-preserved Inca ruins featuring terraces, temples, and stunning views of the surrounding area.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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 |
How to get around
Flight
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.
Train
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.
Bus
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.
Hiking
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.
Taxi
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
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.
Foot
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.
Important information
Currency PEN
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone011, 5114
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
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 | Sí | 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
Waterproof jacket
Hiking boots
Comfortable walking shoes
Hat for sun protection
Sunglasses
Swimwear (for hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
Thermal underwear (for cold nights)
Gloves
Scarf
Extra socks and underwear
Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
First aid kit (including band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)
Prescription medications
Over-the-counter medicine (pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication)
Hand sanitizer
Tissues or toilet paper
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or other ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash (Peruvian Soles)
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Emergency contact information
Maps and guidebooks
Spanish phrasebook or dictionary
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power bank
Camera
Memory cards for camera
Headphones
Travel adapter (for Peru)
Miscellaneous items
Daypack for hikes
Reusable water bottle
Snacks (nuts, protein bars)
Travel pillow and eye mask
Earplugs
Plastic bags (for dirty clothes or trash)
Trekking poles
Binoculars
Notebook and pen
Books or e-reader for leisure reading
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.
| Month | Hi / 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?
Places near by Machu Picchu, Peru
Cusco
Historic city known for its unique blend of Spanish and Inca cultures
Sacred Valley
A region in Peru's Andean highlands with numerous archaeological sites and villages
Ollantaytambo
A town in the Sacred Valley with an ancient Inca fortress
Pisac
Known for its bustling market and Inca ruins
Maras Salt Mines
A stunning collection of salt pans, used for salt extraction since Inca times
Moray
An archaeological site featuring unique Inca ruins
Choquequirao
Often called the 'sister' of Machu Picchu, it is a lesser-known Inca ruin
Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain)
A mountain with naturally multicolored slopes due to mineral deposits
Quillabamba
A city known for its coffee plantations and hot springs
Aguas Calientes
A town with hot springs and the closest access point to Machu Picchu
