The “Lost City of the Incas,” Machu Picchu, is one of the most popular tourist destinations worldwide. It is reported to have been built as an estate for the Incan emperor Pachacuti in 1450 AD. Since its discovery in 1911, this Peruvian city has attracted millions of tourists every year. Given its historical significance and UNESCO World Heritage Site status, the local government mandates tourists to work with a licensed guide while exploring Machu Picchu.

Things to consider when planning trips to Machu Picchu

Best time to visit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu has a warm, subtropical climate throughout the year, making it an ideal vacation spot. While rain can be expected at all times, it is particularly heavy during the months of November and March. February tends to be the wettest month, and it is also when the popular multi-day hiking Inca Trail is closed to visitors for maintenance. As a result, this tends to be the least crowded time of the year to visit the Incan ruins. During this time, travelers may be able to find wonderful discounts on unsold tours and travel packages to Machu Picchu.

The peak season in Machu Picchu is between April to October, also known as the dry season. During this time, the weather is optimal for heading out for a trek and taking in the gorgeous scenery. That being said, one is also likely to hit longer queues and meet more people on the trails.

The month of June is especially busy in Machu Picchu, as this is when the locals celebrate Inti Raymi, or the Festival of the Sun in Cusco. Here, one can expect to get glimpses into the rich heritage of the Incan community, including their clothes, music, and food.

Hiring a guide

When it comes to hiring guides, there’s room for all types of travel planners. While most people prefer to plan their vacations here well in advance by hiring guides online, it is possible to hire local guides right at the entrance of Machu Picchu or find one at local travel agencies in Cusco or Aguas Calientes. Booking in advance is generally advised, especially during the high season, to ensure availability.

Guides are often well-versed in various languages, such as English, Spanish, and more. When booking a guide, one must ensure the professional is licensed and certified for a seamless travel experience.

The cost for a guided tour in Machu Picchu can vary greatly, depending on the guide one hires. A group tour through the ancient structures generally costs around $15-30 per person when hiring a local guide. Private tours, on the other hand, tend to be more expensive, with their costs varying depending on the itinerary, group size, and tour length. With such groups, travelers can expect to pay at least $50 to $100 per person.

These tours through Machu Picchu typically last about 2-4 hours and cover the main site. Longer tours covering Huayna Picchu, Inca Trail hikes, and more are also available.

Getting a permit

On the Inca Trail, there are certain rules regarding the number of trekkers allowed. To hike here, one must also have a valid permit, which tends to run out fast during the high season. That is why it is recommended that travelers plan their trip beforehand and apply for valid permits in a timely manner.

The Quarry Trail, though, does not require any permits and is open for hikers all year round.

Time spent inside the ruins

Tickets for Machu Picchu need to be booked online well before the trip. There are no ticket sales offices outside the archaeological complex. The amount of time one has to explore this site depends on the type of ticket they purchase.

The most basic ticket has a time allowance of four hours only and gives visitors access to the citadel only. Those who would like to explore more can take tickets for Machu Picchu ruins and Huayna Picchu mountains, which allow visitors to tour the area for 6-7 hours (without the need for re-entry). To experience the Machu Picchu hike as well, visitors can opt for the trek and ruin visit, which gives them access to the area for 8 hours.

The site is open to visitors from 6 am onwards, with hourly intake periods up until 2 pm. The site closes at 5 pm.

Types of tours and travel packages available for Machu Picchu

When traveling to Machu Picchu, most visitors prefer planning a longer vacation to take in the stunning natural scenery of Peru. As a result, most tour and travel agencies now offer deals and vacation packages spanning 7-15 days, giving visitors ample time to explore Peru.

1. Inca Trail Express: Starting at around $1300, travelers move from Cusco to the Sacred Valley and the Ollantaytambo ruins before finishing their tour at Machu Picchu. Depending on one’s fitness and activity preferences, this trek can be customized to involve a lot of hiking and trekking, or relax in Cusco and take the train up to Machu Picchu.
2. Sacred Land of the Incas: To explore the extent and the ruins of the Inca empire, visitors can travel from Lima to La Paz with the Sacred Land tours for around $2640. These tours are completely customizable based on one’s needs – from fun and adventurous tours to relaxed train rides to accommodate senior travelers.

Apart from these, many companies also offer cruise tours to Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands, which can be ideal for travel enthusiasts looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation.