Best Machu Picchu Tours
There’s nothing quite like that moment when you first step out from the mirador on top of Machu Picchu.
Here we can enjoy the impressive views high above the valley, and also learn about this formidable creation as well as the Inca who built it all those years ago.
Whilst it was once only accessible along a long and difficult Andean route, nowadays there’s plenty of options that make getting to Machu Picchu very easy (yet still memorable).
Best Machu Picchu Tours
In this guide we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Machu Picchu. This includes why you should visit, the best time to go, staying safe as well as how to book the very best tours here.
Is Machu Picchu worth visiting?
Although it’s quite touristy nowadays (given it is one of the Seven New Wonders of the World, after all), Machu Picchu will still leave a fantastic Impression on anyone who heads here.
The sweeping landscapes are a highlight, and you can also climb up the alternative mirador of Huayna Picchu for more breathtaking views.
During a guided tour around the site, we’ll also begin to imagine what life was really like during these times. Once a thriving site, Machu Picchu was actually used as a religious site and also was home to some of the most elite levels of the Inca.
The adventure in getting here also makes this trip a must when traveling through Peru. Along the hike you can spot friendly Alpacas and Llamas strolling free as they please, and on longer circuits like the Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trek we can see some incredible alpine lakes and mountain peaks.
Is it safe to visit Machu Picchu?
A popular trip from Cusco, visiting Machu Picchu is very safe and can either be done with an organized trek or visited independently.
The routes here (including both the hidroeléctrica track and longer treks) are easy and safe to walk along, although we still recommend bringing quality gear with you such as sturdy hiking boots (we recommend these for men, and these for women) as well as a comfortable day pack.
Always watch your step when walking these routes, and keep an ear out for the passing train that also uses the track that you’ll walk along!
Inside the site there are various rules you’ll need to follow. These include not passing the ropes, given its a free-fall of over 2000ft off a sheer cliff. Aside from this, treat the site with respect so others can also see it in the same state after you.
How do you get to Machu Picchu?
Having already touched upon this earlier, here we’ll now look at your different ways of getting to Machu Picchu. Regardless of which you’ll pick, you’ll first need to head to the city of Cusco.
Those who want to keep costs the lowest will find that going independently (or with this single day tour) are the very best options. The above tour includes all transport and makes it easy to get there and back from Cusco in a day. Otherwise independently you’ll take a couple of colectivos from Cusco to the start of the hidroeléctrica track, and then walk for 2/3 hours until you reach the site.
Another option (which is really popular) is to first make your way to Aguascalientes, which is a small town that is nestled within the jungle basin between the mountains. From here you can then hike up to Machu Picchu early (6:00am is best to beat the crowds and enjoy the sunrise), and also see other awesome destinations in and around the town.
Finally, you can choose between the longer hiking circuits of the Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trek. These often take multiple days, where you’ll camp on the mountain and see other ancient archaeological sites along the way. These routes are located at high altitude, so make sure you’re properly prepared before tackling these!
We also suggest that you learn some Spanish from a book like this before you arrive to Peru as it can really help you out in different situations along your travels.
Best time to visit Machu Picchu
We’ve covered this topic extensively in this article, however to summarize we’ve found that the best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season.
This is between the months of March and October, where rainfall is less of an issue and you’ll also have plenty of blue skies to enjoy during your visit. We specifically recommend the shoulder months of September, October, March and April.
It’s important to keep expectations in check however, and that there will be crowds regardless of when you visit. Of course visiting early in the day as we mentioned will solve this, however those looking for an overall quieter season will prefer the Autumn months of February, March and April.
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Machu Picchu Tours
Here we will now explore the very best Machu Picchu best tours that you can take to explore this ancient, Andean citadel.
Machu Picchu Tour From Cusco Full Day
By far one of the most popular tour options that you can pick, on this full day tour you’ll get to see Machu Picchu in just one day whilst also getting to ride the scenic train between the winding mountains.
As well as having the rest of your transport pre-arranged, you’ll also have your entrance ticket and a private guide included with your tour.
2 Days Machu Picchu Tour
Having two days to explore Machu Picchu is much more convenient, where you won’t feel like you’re rushing around. On this 2 day tour you’ll have a stay included in the town of Aguascalientes, giving you plenty of time to explore the wider region before climbing Machu Picchu early the next day. As it’s a private tour, you can also enjoy a more intimate (and fully-customisable) experience.
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
Now we move onto the longer multi-day treks, and it doesn’t get any more immersive than this 5 day Salkantay Trek. Here you’ll be hiking through high altitudes as you pass scenic mountains and lakes on your way to Machu Picchu. You’ll have all meals and lodging included in the tour, as well as your own private guide who will show you the hidden secrets of this remote region.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4-Day Trek
The Inca Trail is a formidable route which was once used as a rite of passage by this ancient civilisation. Today it’s still fully navigable, where you can spot numerous archaeological sites along the 4 day trek. On this 4 day Inca Trail trek you’ll have all meals, accommodation and the panoramic train from Aguascalientes included. You’ll also have a porter to help carry your things along the route, and even get your very own custom Inca Trail T-Shirt too!
Machu Picchu: Inca Trail 2-Day Overnight Guided Tour
This shorter Inca Trail tour is a great choice for those who want more authenticity, but don’t have the time or money for the longer trek. Here you’ll visit important sites such as Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate as you make your way down to Machu Picchu. On this 2 day guided tour you’ll also have a night stay in Aguascalientes, all meals as well as your entrance to both Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail included.
Best Machu Picchu Tours
And that’s all for this guide on the best Machu Picchu Tours that you can do from Cusco.
This scenic site is a must-visit when in Peru, where you can explore this ancient archaeological site whilst also taking in some really memorable scenery.
In this guide we’ve looked at the best tours you can do to Machu Picchu, why it’s worth visiting, how to stay safe and much more.
Be sure to read this guide on hiking Machu Picchu, where you can learn more about what to expect as well as tips for having the best experience possible.
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