Would you like to know what to do in Machu Picchu Peru? Would you like to make the most of your visit? Look no further! From fascinating hikes to breathtaking views, here you will find everything you need to make your trip unforgettable.
Get ready to explore the mysteries of the ancient Inca ruins and lose yourself in the unparalleled beauty of the landscapes surrounding this magical place with Inkayni Peru Tours. But wait, that’s not all! Around every corner, an exciting adventure awaits you and I’m here to guide you step by step.
So, are you ready to unleash the magic of Machu Picchu? Read on and discover how to turn every moment into an indelible memory – let’s explore together and create memories that last a lifetime! I’m pretty sure you’re in.
GENERAL INFORMATION
WHAT IS MACHUPICCHU?
Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca citadel built in the 15th century. It is believed to have been requested by the Inca Pachacutec and is considered one of the most remarkable achievements of the Inca culture.
Machu Picchu is one of the most popular and unmissable destinations in the modern world.
Machu Picchu is one of the most famous destinations worldwide. It is one of the wonders of the world and was recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site on 9th December 1983.
This is one of the places you must visit at least once in your life. Amazed with every step you take and awaiting surprises for you that you must discover on your own.
WHERE IS MACHUPICCHU LOCATED?
Machu Picchu is located in the Vilcabamba mountain range or Cordillera, specifically on the Vilcabamba’s batholith. Geographically, it is located in Urubamba, Cusco region and 112.5 km from Downtown Cusco.
To visit Machu Picchu, you must first arrive in Cusco and spend some time acclimatizing at 3,000 m / 9,842 ft ALS before heading to Machu Picchu.
If you come from places with altitudes below 1,000 m / 3,280 feet or at sea level, you must consider the acclimatisation process seriously.
HOW TO GET TO MACHUPICCHU?
Getting to Machu Picchu is easier than you think! You just need to plan it well and everything runs smoothly. If you need assistance planning, Inkayni Peru Tours can help by letting us be your travel companion and guide.
Here we will show you how many travellers reach Machu Picchu. Keep in mind to choose the best option that suits your preferences and budget:
RAILWAY
This mode is the most popular and preferred by most travellers, as it saves time and guarantees comfort.
To get to Machu Picchu, either travelling alone or with an agency, you must go to the Ollantaytambo train station from Cusco, which takes about an hour and a half. Afterwards, you should take a train to Aguas Calientes and from there, take CONSETTUR buses to the main gate in Machu Picchu.
Note: You can visit Machu Picchu in one day.
TERRESTRIAL WAY
This is the cheapest option to reach Machu Picchu. However, to visit Machu Picchu by car, you need at least 2 days.
The trip lasts 7 hours taking you through Abra Malaga, Santa Maria, and Santa Teresa, until you reach the hydroelectric plant. Finally, you should walk 2 hours to Aguas Calientes and take the CONSETTUR buses the next day.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MACHUPICCHU?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, much appreciated by travellers and those interested in discovering this wonder of the world. Why? The chances of rain are almost zero!
By travelling during this time, you will avoid any unwanted setbacks that could affect your itinerary. In addition, you will enjoy a spectacular view of Machu Picchu without thick fog and eye-see-level clouds.
WHAT TO DO IN MACHUPICCHU TOWN OR AGUAS CALIENTES?
PUTUCUSI MOUNTAIN
Putucusi Mountain is an unknown but impressive alternative for panoramic views of Machu Picchu. Climbing this mountain is challenging but rewarding, with steep trails through beautiful scenery. From the top, you can admire panoramic views of the Inca citadel and the Andes peaks.
Very important – People could climbed this mountain few years ago but now it’s impossible and forbidden to do it.
WHAT TO SEE?
It offers a different view of Machu Picchu, as well as part of its surroundings, which is part of the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary. Machu Picchu Mountain and Huchuy Picchu offer unmistakable stunning views on their own.
LOCATION
Its location is specifically in front of Machu Picchu. This mountain arose as a witness to Machu Picchu Peru. Also, it’s very close to Aguas Calientes.
HOW TO GET THERE?
You should start following down the railway from the Police Station in 12 minutes. Then, you will find cut, or another or smaller trail disappearing because no one maintained it in a while. The adventure starts at this point because you will climb and hike upwards until the summit.
I recommend you take it slow and think well about your next step and see what you will touch.
Note: There may be some risky areas along the route. We recommend that you be in good physical condition and have previous climbing experience.
DOES IT COST TO ENTER?
No, it does not cost anything. However, you must consider that this activity is not recommended for children or older adults.
Climbing up Putucusi Mountain is only for the bravest.
GARDENS OF MANDOR AND ITS WATERFALL
Mandor Gardens is a private property offering services such as lodging, food and interpretive trails on its land. The trails wind through beautiful gardens and lead to the impressive Mandor waterfall. This walk provides an opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy hearing birds and streams.
WHAT TO SEE?
This place has a variety of flora and each one is identified by name so you can easily be identified by people. Among them, the orchids are the most brilliant and beautiful plants. Keep in mind that Machu Picchu is home to more than 200 species of this plant.
LOCATION
Located approximately 2 km from the town of Aguas Calientes, on the banks of the Urubamba River, this place is an excellent option to spend your time doing something productive than just staying in your hotel’s room.
HOW TO GET HERE?
You must hike around 1 hour from Aguas Calientes to the hydroelectric plant. Mandor is just beside the railway, so it’s impossible not to find it along the trail.
IS THERE AN ENTRANCE FEE?
Yes, there is an entrance fee. If you are a foreign traveller, the price is approximately 10 soles or 3 dollars. For Peruvian national travellers, the cost is around 5 soles or 2 dollars.
Jardines de Mandor, a destination close to Machu Picchu, is perfect for orchid watching.
VISIT THE BOTANICAL GARDEN
This botanical garden offers guiding services about local plants, medicinal uses and historical importance. By strolling through the garden, visitors learn about the connection between nature and regional history.
What to see?
Visiting the Botanical Garden is another fascinating option in Machu Picchu. This botanical garden presents more than 400 species of flora found in the Machu Picchu Sanctuary. In this garden, you can appreciate 123 species of orchids, representative of Peru’s rich biodiversity.
Location
It is located southeast of Aguas Calientes, approximately 3 km by crossing the Ruinas Bridge. Near this area, you can also find the Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum.
How to get there?
To get to this beautiful garden, you must walk along the Hiram Bingham road towards Machu Picchu. After crossing the Ruins Bridge, you will walk for more o less 15 minutes.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, there is. For foreign travellers, the cost is approximately 22 soles or 5 dollars, while for Peruvian national travellers, adults pay around 11 soles or 3 dollars.
This garden features many of the flora species in the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary.
VISIT THE ALCAMAYO WATERFALL
The Alcamayo waterfall is near Machu Picchu. As Inkayni Peru Tours agency, we recommend this short hike to reach these waterfalls. This allows visitors to explore the natural beauty of the region with the soothing sound of water as a constant companion. This waterfall is the nearest to Machu Picchu town and also gives you more options for what to do in Machu Picchu.
WHAT TO SEE?
Along the trail, you can find a wide diversity of flora and fauna. This is maybe one of the highlights you must explore… Imagine being within the Peruvian jungle and not knowing what is surrounding you! Some reading about biodiversity before visiting Peru would be great.
LOCATION
This beautiful waterfall is located 1 km northwest of Aguas Calientes.
HOW TO GET HERE?
Getting there is easy. Go to Señor de Torrechayoq Street and walk for 30 to 40 minutes. Ask locals for references if necessary. Aguas Calientes is a small town, so you won’t get lost!
IS THERE AN ENTRANCE FEE?
Yes, there is an entrance fee of 20 soles for foreign travellers and 10 soles for Peruvian travellers. It is important to note that this price includes the visit to the hot springs.
This waterfall is one of the must-see places on your itinerary.
HOT SPRINGS
Taking a dip in the nearby hot springs after exploring is an excellent way to relax after a long day of exploration. These hot springs offer relaxing and healing properties, creating a rejuvenating experience with views of the surrounding mountain scenery.
WHAT TO SEE?
This place offers three large pools and three smaller pools of hot springs with temperatures ranging from 38°C to 44°C. It also has services that will make your stay better, such as a bar. So, enjoying the thermal baths is another activity to do in Machu Picchu to rest and revitalize yourself.
LOCATION
These thermal baths are located in the upper part of Aguas Calientes.
HOW TO GET THERE?
To get to this place and enjoy that well-deserved dip, head for Hermanos Ayar Street. Remember that the town of Aguas Calientes is small. We recommend you get to the town square first and then go to the hot springs; it will be easier than you think.
IS THERE A COST?
If you want to enjoy the hot springs, there is an entrance fee. For foreigners, the cost is 20 soles or 6 dollars. For nationals, the cost is 10 soles or approximately 3 dollars.
A place not to be missed is the hot springs after a long day of travelling in nature.
AGUAS CALIENTES’ MARKET
The Aguas Calientes Market is a vibrant place that reflects local culture. It offers a wide range of handicrafts and local products allowing visitors to interact with the community and purchase authentic souvenirs.
WHAT TO SEE?
Here you will find a wide variety of items, from clothing to books, ceramics and souvenirs. Take the opportunity to get some of them.
LOCATION
This place is located next to the train station. Whether you have taken the PeruRail or Inca Rail service, it will be easy to find it.
HOW TO GET HERE?
This is one of the easiest places to find. Why? Because every traveller, when arriving in Aguas Calientes and getting off the train, can easily locate the Aguas Calientes market just a few steps away. So, it will be a place you can’t avoid on your Machu Picchu trip.
DOES IT COST TO ENTER?
No, it’s free.
During your trip, don’t forget to take some souvenirs of Machu Picchu with you.
MANUEL CHAVEZ BALLON SITE MUSEUM
This museum in Machu Picchu houses a collection of archaeological artefacts and exhibits that shed light on the citadel’s history and cultural significance. Visitors can deepen their understanding of the Inca civilisation and Machu Picchu’s magnificence. Exploring this museum is a cultural activity to do in Machu Picchu to enrich your knowledge of its history.
WHAT TO SEE?
The Manuel Chavez Ballon Museum has 7 rooms where you can explore Machu Picchu’s history, Inca artefacts, ceremonial objects and discover some local stories you may not have known about yet.
LOCATION
This place is in the southeast, a few kilometres from Aguas Calientes. The botanical garden is just beside this museum and allows you to visit both in a row.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Many travellers choose to walk approximately 2.8 km from Aguas Calientes to this place; this journey could take between 30 and 40 minutes of hiking.
IS THERE AN ENTRANCE FEE?
You can enter using your Machu Picchu entrance fee. However, if you don’t have it, you must pay 22 soles or 7 dollars if you are a foreign traveller. For Peruvian travellers, the fee will be approximately 11 soles or 4 dollars.
This museum will leave you open-mouthed as you discover the secrets of Machu Picchu that no one will tell you.
BUTTERFLYARIUM
The Butterfly Farm is a lovely place to learn about butterflies. You can explore their diversity and understand their life cycle. It is an exceptional educational experience, especially for local fauna lovers.
WHAT TO SEE?
Here, you will find a huge variety of endemic butterflies dwelling in the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Some of them will surprise you, as they have camouflage abilities that blend in with their surroundings.
LOCATION
This butterfly farm is located northeast of Aguas Calientes, 1.5 km away.
HOW TO GET HERE?
Getting there will be easy. Do you remember how to get to the Mandor waterfalls and the museum? The route will be the same, but you will be closer to Aguas Calientes. It will take approximately 20 minutes to get there on foot.
IS THERE AN ENTRANCE FEE?
It has an entrance fee of 20 Peruvian soles per person.
The butterfly house features species endemic to the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary.
VISIT A BAR OR A NIGHT CLUB
In Aguas Calientes, near Machu Picchu, there are places to drink and relax, such as cosy bars. The nightlife is quiet, as most visitors are there to explore Machu Picchu; it can also be part of the activities to do in Machu Picchu to end the day nicely.
HOW TO GET THERE?
We recommend you explore the town square of Aguas Calientes. There you will find many places where you can choose the one that best suits your tastes and preferences.
IS THERE AN ENTRANCE FEE?
Normally, there is no entrance fee to enter these night spots; the entrance is free.
Don’t forget to take advantage and have fun near one of the wonders of the world, Machu Picchu.
WHAT TO DO IN MACHU PICCHU?
HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU
Do you like walking or hiking? Some travellers who are already in Aguas Calientes avoid CONSETTUR bus services because they’re too expensive. So, these people hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu’s main gate in at least 90 minutes.
Travellers, keep in mind these facts about “What to do in Machu Picchu” will help you considerably to make your visit to Machu Picchu much better than that of any other traveller.
WATCHING THE SUNRISE FROM MACHUPICCHU
Sunrise is one of the most beautiful visual spectacles you can experience, especially when you witness it from one of the wonders of the world, Machu Picchu. Some travellers choose to book entrance tickets at 6:00 a.m. This gives the citadel a stunning sunrise view.
Exploring Machu Picchu in the early morning allows you to avoid crowds which make Machu Picchu noisy and makes it a stressful walk.
Let us be your travel companion on your adventures with Inkayni Peru Tours. We will make sure your trip is unique and unforgettable, offering incredible sights at every tourist destination in Peru.
Sunrise at Machu Picchu’s citadel is incredible.
SEE THE TEMPLE OF THE SUN
Being in Machu Picchu is a magical experience that immerses you in a journey into the past. It reveals fascinating places that always have something new to teach you about the rich Inca culture. One of these highlights is the Temple of the Sun, considered a keep and one of the most important buildings with outstanding Inca masonry examples.
Why is this temple so significant? It was believed that stargazing was practised here, providing valuable information for the Incas. The cosmos influenced their preparations, guiding them through what they perceived in this sacred place.
In the “What to do in Machu Picchu” section as travellers, we recommend you explore each of these places that we will share. They are must-see sites that will leave you in awe during your Machu Picchu visit.
Photograph of the Temple of the Sun taken by Inkayni Peru Tours’ guide.
THE INTIHUATANA
Another interesting place to visit is Intihuatana, a word from Quechua that means the place where the sun is tied. Within the Inca culture, one of their most representative gods was the god Inti or Sun God, making this place important as an astronomical device.
For you, curious traveller, a fascinating fact: it was also believed that this stone kept the sun in place as it travelled across the sky.
Picture of one of Inkayni Peru Tours’ travellers at the Intihuatana.
It is a place full of energy; many travellers used to touch it to feel that unique energy that has been still remaining. However, to preserve its legacy, it is forbidden to touch it. Even so, that unique energy is still felt in its surroundings.
As you can see, Machu Picchu is a stunning area, and in every corner, you will find something new that will make you want to visit it again and again.
THE MAIN TEMPLE OR WAYRANA
The main temple is one of the biggest constructions that still stands up. You must visit it because you will be impressed with the stories this magical place holds. From the fact that it was adorned with colourful cloaks to having some of the mummies of its most important leaders. This place is truly amazing.
It is important to note that these buildings have withstood more than 600 years, some earthquakes and tough weather conditions. However, when observing that some structures are damaged, it is due to erosion of the soil over time. Despite this, Machu Picchu’s majesty endures.
One of the must-see sites on your visit to Machu Picchu is its main temple.
At Inkayni Peru Tours, we are proud to be part of these stories and share them with travellers. If you are passionate about history and archaeology, this destination will captivate you. For more fascinating details about “What to do in Machu Picchu”, we invite you to continue reading on.
CLIMB TO THE SUN GATE (INTI PUNKU)
This point is one of the most privileged places to enjoy a spectacular view of Machu Picchu’s citadel. However, remember that to reach this view from Inti Punku, it is necessary to hike the Inca Trail or the Short Inca Trail.
Can I reach Inti Punku from the citadel of Machu Picchu itself? You will not be able to do so unless you have completed the Inca Trail.
Remember, to get here you must take the Inca Trail. Do not hesitate to contact us.
We recommend hiking the Inca Trail to get to Inti Punku. Remember that you can do this trip with Inkayni Peru Tours, which offers the Short Inca Trail, the Classic Inca Trail and the 5-Day Inca Trail. Please note that you should book months in advance due to the limited availability of Inca Trail tickets.
CLIMBING HUAYNA PICCHU
It is an experience like no other for those courageous enough to face their inner vertigo and challenge heights. Huayna Picchu is one of the highest points with a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu, much higher than Intipunki. To get there, it will take about an hour and a half, with a similar time to return.
Please note! To visit this place, you must book another ticket outside Machu Picchu’s citadel or purchase the “Circuit 4 + Wayna Picchu” Ticket, which also has limited availability.
Climbing Huayna Picchu is an unforgettable experience if you add it to your Machu Picchu trip.
Now that you know more about Machu Picchu thanks to our “What to do in Machu Picchu blog”, what are you waiting for? Machu Picchu is magnificent, but it will be even better with the valuable information Inkayni Peru Tours shares.
VISIT THE TEMPLE OF THE MOON AND THE GREAT CAVERN
The Temple of the Moon is rarely visited due to its distance from Machu Picchu. In addition, many travellers just don’t have time to visit these places.
This temple is only a few steps away from the entrance to Huayna Picchu, and getting there takes approximately 18 to 25 minutes of walking. Along the way, the scenery offers a unique reward as you approach the Temple of the Moon.
Machu Picchu is a stunning place near the Huayna Picchu route.
Traveller! This is a crucial part of the “What to do in Machu Picchu” options. To get there, you will need an entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu or the Huayna Picchu Circuit 4 + Huayna Picchu ticket. Now you know!!!! You have another reason to stay longer in Machu Picchu.
TAKE A PICTURE OF MACHUPICCHU FROM THE GUARDIAN’S HOUSE
One of the most popular places in this area is the Guardian’s House. Here, most travellers take classic photographs with Machu Picchu in the background. From this point, you can also enjoy panoramic views of the whole site.
I’m sure you remember those famous photographs of Machu Picchu shrouded in mist; well, they were captured from this very spot, as well as the classic images that every traveller should include in their album.
This is a popular place to take a classic photo with Machu Picchu in the background.
It is important to note that to access this point you need to book the correct ticket, as 5 types of tickets include different circuits. Inkayni Peru Tours is ready to help you and guarantee an unforgettable experience.
CLIMB MACHUPICCHU MOUNTAIN
You may ask, is there another Machu Picchu? Well, not really. The Machu Picchu that most travellers visit is the Machu Picchu citadel itself. However, there is another mountain nearby that also bears that name, known as Machu Picchu Mountain.
Despite not being well known among travellers and not being highly promoted by travel agencies, this place offers a stunning view of Machu Picchu. This view is as impressive as the one offered by the Huayna Picchu mountain, which we mentioned in the “What to do in Machu Picchu” section above.
It is important to note that to enter this place, you must book the “Machu Picchu Mountain + Circuit 3” ticket through Machu Picchu’s official booking page. This ticket will allow you to enjoy this unique experience.
Machu Picchu Mountain is one of the few places offering an incredible view of Machu Picchu.
Remember that at Inkayni Peru Tours we care a lot about you making the most of your trips. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information or to make a reservation, we are here to help!
FIND THE INCA BRIDGE
This is one of the places that often goes unnoticed by many travellers, as it is a bit off the beaten track that your guide may take when showing you around the Machu Picchu Citadel. This place is just a short walk from the guardian’s house, about 10 to 15 minutes away. When asking your guide about this small bridge, you may be left with more questions than answers.
It is interesting to note that these bridges, although seemingly temporary, had a strategic purpose. It was believed that, in the event of a possible conquest or invasion by other civilisations, erecting these bridges would block access to Machu Picchu’s citadel. The reason behind this tactic was that the citadel path was complicated and narrow. It had a tremendous drop-off to one side that made it difficult to advance.
Although it may seem unnoticed, this bridge is iconic with many stories behind it.
In this blog about “What to do in Machu Picchu”, we hope that the information provided will be of great help to you, thus enhancing your travel experience compared to other tourists. Keeping that enthusiasm for discovering unique places makes every trip special.
VISIT THE CONDOR TEMPLE
You should not overlook another important point: the Temple of the Condor. This place got its name because one of the carved rocks is in the shape of a condor’s head. Interesting. Keep in mind that the condor was considered a sacred bird by the Incas, as it was believed to act as a mediator between the earthly world and the celestial world.
This site offers a unique experience that you can make the most of. Most guides, such as Inkayni Peru Tours, often include this site in their tours. They share insights into the magic that permeated the daily life of the Incas and reveal curiosities about how this place shows the amazing skill of the Incas in their constructions, as well as details that sometimes go unnoticed.
Photographs of the Temple of the Condor with carvings of a condor’s head.
For you travellers, it is essential to visit Machu Picchu’s citadel during the dry season. This period will allow you to enjoy this place to the fullest, especially the breathtaking sunrises and panoramic views it offers.
VISIT THE AGRICULTURAL TERRACES
If you are travelling through Cusco, you will most likely come across these terraces, even if you have not yet reached Machu Picchu. This is one of the examples of the great achievements of the Incas, such as their ability to adapt the mountainous terrain of the Andes to agriculture. A notable example is the site called Moray, which has circular terraces, a curiosity that survives to this day.
This place on the terraces is also one of the quietest corners. Here, you can seek a moment of respite away from the crowds during your tour. If you are a traveller who wants to make the most of this marvel, you can find it without hassle. First impressions never disappoint, but always remember to bring your camera to capture those unique moments.
These terraces were unique constructions of the Incas and their predecessors.
Remember! To avoid the crowds, we recommend booking your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu at 6:00 a.m. This way, you can also take advantage of the beautiful sunrise in this citadel, as we mentioned earlier in our blog section on “What to do in Machu Picchu”. Be well prepared and don’t forget anything, so your experience will be unforgettable.
VISIT THE SACRED ROCK
We are almost finished with our blog. At this point, it is crucial to visit and learn about another special place: remember the Intihuatana? This site also radiates a unique energy that still resonates today. Although we would like to touch the structures and experience that feeling more deeply, it is currently not possible. This is due to the need to protect the citadel’s integrity.
The sacred rock is one of the specimens that has stood the test of time, as it is in the shape of the Yanantin Apu. It is essential for you, the traveller, to know this: in Inca times, each mountain represented an Apu or a deity, to live in harmony with nature.
Photo by Inkayni Peru Tours travellers at Machu Picchu’s Sacred Rock.
Another interesting fact about “What to do in Machu Picchu“: this specific place is located in the centre of a small square where religious rituals are believed to have taken place. If you are a traveller in search of this experience, you will be able to find it easily, as it is just a few steps away from the entrance to the Huaynapicchu mountain.
Machu Picchu, the wonder of the world, is a destination not to be missed. With its impressive architecture, natural landscapes and millennia of history, it will take your breath away.
We’ve told you everything you need to know to plan what to do in Machu Picchu better. From how to get there, to what to see and do, we’ve given you all the keys to make your experience unforgettable. Inkayni Peru Tours is the best option!
But what if you still have doubts, and don’t know where to start?
Don’t worry, we are here to help.
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