Machu Picchu: the reason you’re probably booking a flight to Peru.

Machu Picchu is the reason you’re probably booking a flight to Peru. It’s one of the world’s new seven wonders, and a first-time trip to Peru wouldn’t be complete without it.

Numerous routes to Machu Picchu exist, each with a different time frame and physical prerequisites. Additionally, planning is essential to further restrict foot traffic in light of new restrictions that go into effect in 2025, mainly for excursions along the Inca Trail and ascents of Huayna Picchu.

This photo-based travel guide will give you an idea of a Machu Picchu schedule, including the hiking Huayna Picchu. We’ll also share advice on getting there, where to stay, how to lessen the effects of altitude sickness, and much more.

VISITING MACHU PICCHU BY TRAIN AND BUS

One of the most important things to consider when planning a trip to Machu Picchu is how to get there.

The best way to get to Machu Picchu after taking a plane from Lima to Cusco is by train. From Cusco and Ollantaytambo, travelers can take the PeruRail to Aguas Calientes, the nearest city to Machu Picchu, for a day excursion. This is the ideal choice if time is of the essence or hiking is not desired.

It’s crucial to remember that all three trains travel the same path, so the views are the same.

There are differences in the comfort, amenities, and service the trains provide. Here is the explanation:

1: PERURAL EXPEDITION TRAIN (ECONOMY)

The most basic option, though essential in this instance, is not too shabby. The seats are comfortable, the windows are enormous, and the views are the same as the other trains. Having been on this and the Vistadome, I would opt for the Expedition. In my opinion, the Vistadome wasn’t worth the additional cost.

2: PERURAIL VISTADOME TRAIN (MID-RANGE)

The panoramic view of the windows extending upwards makes this train, seen above, so famous. Although I was grateful for this, I didn’t look up too frequently. Hot beverages and food were available, and the service on board was pleasant. A masked dancer participated in a live fashion presentation as well. Some thought it was a little corny, but I liked it.

3: PERURAIL BELMOND HIRAM BINGHAM TRAIN (LUXURY)

The rear compartment of this opulent train has an open-air deck and excellent dining. It’s about four times the price of the Vistadome. As a photographer, the deck was very tempting. However, an early sunset meant my return journey would only provide one hour of daylight on the train. The Belmond is known for its luxury and excellent service. If you’re tempted to splurge, consider the Belmond Andean Explorer train from Cusco to Puno.

Regardless of the train, everyone takes the same bus to and from the ruins. Typically, lines form early in the morning and mid-afternoon and are long.

Pro Tip: For great views, sit on the riverside of the train.

GETTING TO MACHU PICCHU BY HIKING

Hiking to Machu Picchu is an intelligent option. It allows you to follow in the footsteps of the Incas and breathe in history.

There is an array of hikes and treks to choose from, lasting two to five days. They take hikers through remote villages, climb the Andes, and pass the Inca ruins.

I opted for the short Inca trail hike, a two-day, one-night affair. The rationale was simple. I only had a short time exploring Peru and wanted to see more of the country. I also didn’t want to pack for a trek, but I enjoyed hiking and wanted to challenge myself.

Related Travel Guide

Please read about my experience on the Short Inca Trail and learn about other hiking options, such as the Salkantay Trek and the entire four-day Inca Trail.

8AM – EXPLORING MACHU PICCHU

Our guide, Odon Perez from Kondor Path Tours Sustainable Tours, picked us up early in the morning and drove us to the ruins.

The first hour of the tour was a history lesson covering everything from what was known about the Inca civilization, the Spanish invasion, and Hiram Bingham’s “discovery” of the site. We also learned about today’s challenges of the Peruvian government trying to reclaim the lost artifacts.

The Machu Picchu ruins have different houses. Some are fit for royalty, and others for regular people.

We walked past storage areas, restrooms, alters, and incomplete projects.

Seeing them in person was an incredible experience, regardless of how frequently I had seen the photographs before my visit.

The most impressive part was the construction of the buildings. Similar to other Inca ruins, we saw how they used large stones that fit perfectly into one another. The precision was so great that they didn’t even use mortar to seal the stones.

Without a guide, I would have missed all of these details. I recommend either doing research beforehand or getting a knowledgeable local tour guide.

Sustainable Travel Tip

It’s easy to think that since these stones have lasted so long, they’re immune to damage, but the truth is that the oils from our hands and pressure from our feet are wearing them down. Avoid touching the stones, and don’t stand or sit on any ruins.

10 am: CLIMBING HUAYNA PICCHU

There was also this pit in my stomach, and I spent the morning strolling about the ruins. Though I had second thoughts, we had bought tickets to climb Huayna Picchu months prior.

I won’t try to hide my lack of comfort with heights. This hike was described as “dangerous,” “death stairs,” and “steep.” I imagined myself getting blown off by a burst of wind while clinging to little stairs on a mountainside. Yes, I know it’s a little dramatic.

But I had the tickets; it would be a waste not to use them, and with the encouragement of my friends, we lined up for our 10 am climb.

I looked at the daunting mountain above me and wondered, “How was I supposed to get to the top?”

Unfortunately for you, my dear reader, I neglected to take pictures because I was too busy trying to survive. I will now attempt to explain that one hour.

• The majority of the hike was shaded, which was its redeeming grace. Although the ascent path was extremely steep, there was always enough room and shrubbery to keep me from plummeting to my death. I was always out of breath, my legs went to jello, and I was sweating, but I never once doubted my ability to reach the top.
• To get a promotion, you had to ascend. Climbing stairs after stairs was the norm. It was wide enough for those moving more quickly but still narrow enough for a single file.
• Everybody moved at their own pace. We were considerate of each other’s pace and supportive of one another. People struck up a conversation; it was like a team effort.
• We reached the summit after an hour, and I finally took out my camera.
• Here’s where I advise exercising extra caution: the top.
• There was not much vertical space, and it was crowded. Everyone wanted to take pictures. Be patient and mindful of your steps.

It was worth it, and I’m so happy I faced my fears.

GETTING TICKETS FOR HUAYNA PICCHU

Huayna Picchu Mountain admission tickets must be reserved three to six months in advance. There are two groups of climbing periods (early morning and late morning), so make sure the time you choose matches the time on your Machu Picchu entrance ticket.

If tickets are not available, you might consider hiking Machu Picchu Mountain. Though the climb is twice as long and less steep as Huayna Picchu, tickets are sold in time slots. This hike offers fantastic vistas with fewer people despite the lack of Inca sights.

Book Tickets for Huayna Picchu with KONDOR PATH TOURS

WHERE CAN I SLEEP IN MACHU PICCHU?

We only recommend products and services we trust. When doing guided hikes, the tour companies provide accommodation. For the two-day Machu Picchu hike, it was a three-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. For longer treks, there are camping sites and lodgings along the trail.