Machu Picchu day Trip from Cusco

What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

Choosing the best time to visit Machu Picchu depends on several factors, including weather, crowd levels, and personal preferences. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you decide when to plan your trip to this iconic Inca site.

1. Dry Season: May to September

The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit Machu Picchu. Here’s why:

Weather: During these months, the weather is typically dry and sunny, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the ruins.
Crowd Levels: July and August are the peak tourist months, so while the weather is excellent, expect larger crowds.
Advantages: Clear skies offer stunning views and great opportunities for photography. This is also the best time for trekking the Inca Trail.

2. Shoulder Seasons: April and October

The shoulder seasons are a great compromise between weather and crowd levels:

Weather: These months mark the transition between the dry and rainy seasons, with relatively mild weather and fewer rainy days compared to the peak of the rainy season.
Crowd Levels: Fewer tourists than during the peak season, providing a more relaxed experience.
Advantages: Good weather conditions and fewer crowds make for an enjoyable visit. Prices for accommodation and tours may also be lower.

3. Rainy Season: November to March

While the rainy season has its downsides, it can still be a good time to visit Machu Picchu under the right circumstances:

Weather: Expect frequent rain showers and cloudy skies. February is the wettest month, and the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance during this month.
Crowd Levels: Significantly fewer tourists, which means a more serene experience.
Advantages: Lush green landscapes and fewer crowds. If you don’t mind the rain and are prepared for it, you can still enjoy the beauty of Machu Picchu.

4. Festivals and Events

Consider planning your visit around local festivals and events for a unique cultural experience:

• Inti Raymi: Held in June, this is the Festival of the Sun, a significant Inca celebration in Cusco that attracts many visitors.

• Winter Solstice: Occurs around June 21st, marking an important time in Inca astronomy and culture.

Tips for Visiting Machu Picchu:

• Book in Advance: Regardless of the season, it’s essential to book your tickets and accommodations well in advance, especially if you plan to hike the Inca Trail.

• Pack Accordingly: Bring appropriate clothing and gear for the weather, including rain gear if you’re visiting during the rainy season.

• Stay Hydrated: At high altitudes, staying hydrated is crucial. Carry water and take breaks as needed.

• Altitude Preparation: Spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before visiting Machu Picchu to adjust to the altitude.

Differences Between the Circuits of Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic tourist destinations, offers several circuits to explore its wonders. Each circuit has its unique features and highlights. Here, we present the differences between the main circuits to help you choose the one that best suits your interests.

1. Circuit 1: Short High Circuit

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
Difficulty Level: Moderate.
Main Attractions:

• The Guardian’s House

• The Sacred Plaza

• The Temple of the Sun

• The Sacred Rock

Features: This circuit is shorter and focuses on the higher points of the citadel. It is ideal for those with limited time but who want to see the most iconic spots of Machu Picchu.

2. Circuit 2: Long High Circuit

Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
Difficulty Level: High, due to the greater number of stairs.
Main Attractions:

• The Guardian’s House

• The Sacred Plaza

• The Temple of the Sun

• The Sacred Rock

• Intihuatana

• The Eastern Terraces

Features: This circuit covers more ground and offers a more comprehensive view of the upper part of Machu Picchu. It is ideal for those who want to explore in more detail and are in better physical condition.

3. Circuit 3: Short Low Circuit

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
Difficulty Level: Low.
Main Attractions:

• The Temple of the Condor

• The Quarries

• The Mirrors of Water Enclosure

Features: This circuit is more accessible and focuses on the lower parts of the citadel, making it ideal for people with physical limitations or families with young children.

4. Circuit 4: Long Low Circuit

Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
Difficulty Level: Moderate.
Main Attractions:

• The Temple of the Condor

• The Quarries

• The Mirrors of Water Enclosure

• The Sacred Rock

• The Temple of the Sun

Features: This circuit covers more ground in the lower parts and some areas of the upper parts, offering a more complete view of the citadel without the need to climb many stairs.

General Comparison

Additional Considerations

• Tickets and Schedules: Book in advance, especially in high season. Entry times vary for each circuit.

• Tour Guides: Hiring a guide enriches your visit with historical and cultural insights.

• Weather and Gear: Weather can change quickly; pack layers, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes.

• Restrictions: Some areas may close seasonally due to maintenance or weather.

We do not enjoy going in large groups; may we organize a private tour?

Yes, you can. Our group trips are for 10 or 15 persons, but you may also organize a private tour. We have varying pricing based on how many persons you have.

How about my luggage? Can I bring all of my stuff, or where can I keep it?

We recommend bringing only small backpacks because there are hikes to do; the rest of your belongings can be stored at your Cusco accommodation. All hotels have storage, so if you book the night for your return, you can leave your belongings there; another option is to leave your belongings in our office; neither option requires you to pay any additional fees.

Where is Machu Picchu?

It is located in the center of Peru’s cloud forest, in the Cusco area. The iconic Inca Citadel sits atop a peak almost 2,400 meters above sea level.

Is one day enough to explore Machu Picchu?

Yes, one day is plenty to explore the historic fortress of Machu Picchu. However, the visit is limited to four hours per passenger, and tickets are given with a certain admission time. Furthermore, if you undertake the additional hikes, your stay may be extended from 2 to 3 hours.

Are there restrooms in Machu Picchu?

The Machu Picchu citadel’s only bathrooms are located near the main entrance. There are no bathrooms in the archaeological complex.

Is it necessary to purchase Machu Picchu entry tickets in advance?

Yes, it is strongly advised to book your Machu Picchu ticket in advance, especially if you are visiting during the peak tourist season. For further information, contact your travel agent.

Is there an age limit?

No, there is no age limit for entry inside the historical sanctuary.

Should I hire a guide to Machu Picchu?

Yes, a guide must accompany you on your visit to Machu Picchu.

Can you hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?

Yes, you may walk from Machu Picchu Town to the Inca citadel, which takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Can I purchase a bus ticket to Machu Picchu in advance?

Currently, it is not possible to purchase bus tickets to Machu Picchu in advance. However, you may simply buy it once in Aguas Calientes.

Do I need to purchase my rail ticket to Aguas Calientes in advance?

Yes, we strongly advise reserving a train ticket to Aguas Calientes in advance. For further information, please contact your travel agent.

Are there any limits on Machu Picchu?

Yes, to improve the experience within the archaeological site, the Peruvian government has adopted the following measures:

• Permanence is restricted to four hours per ticket.

• You will be unable to access the fortress without a guide.

• Only small backpacks are permitted at the archaeological site.

• Alcohol, narcotics, and tobacco are prohibited.

• Drones are not permitted in the historical sanctuary.

• Tripods, huge umbrellas, and selfie sticks are not permitted.

• Baby carts are not permitted.

• Professional cameras require a specific permission.