I still remember the first time I laid eyes on Machu Picchu — the mist curling around ancient stone walls, the quiet hum of nature all around, and that overwhelming sense of awe. If you’re planning a trip to Peru, this legendary Incan citadel isn’t just another destination — it’s a journey back in time.
But there’s more to Machu Picchu than its famous postcard views. Whether you’re passionate about history, seeking adrenaline through hikes, or just wanting to soak in serene landscapes, this site offers a blend of adventure, culture, and nature. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top things to do in Machu Picchu, based on my firsthand experience, packed with practical tips and overlooked gems.
What is Machu Picchu?
Before we jump into what you can do here, let’s clear up what exactly Machu Picchu is:
Machu Picchu: A 15th-century Incan citadel located 2,430 meters (7,970 ft) above sea level in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru.
Built by: The Inca emperor Pachacuti around the mid-1400s.
Rediscovered by: American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911.
UNESCO Status: Recognized as a World Heritage Site since 1983.
Significance: It’s one of the most important cultural landmarks in South America and a top global travel destination.
Why Visit Machu Picchu?
Here’s why I think this place should be at the top of your travel list:
Spiritual and Cultural Depth: You can literally walk through history, temples, and sacred stones once used by the Inca elite.
Natural Wonder: Surrounded by cloud forests and sharp mountain ridges, the views are nothing short of cinematic.
Bucket-List Worthy Hikes: From the classic Inca Trail to the challenging Huayna Picchu climb.
Photographer’s Paradise: Whether you’re shooting on a phone or DSLR, the lighting and backdrop are magic.
Limited Access: Visitor caps mean it’s never too overcrowded — a rarity for a world-famous site.
Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu
| Season | Months | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | April to October | Clear skies, ideal for hiking, great visibility | High tourist numbers, pricier hotels |
| Wet Season | November to March | Fewer crowds, lush scenery, cheaper tickets | Rain, possible trail closures |
My recommendation: Visit in May or September — these shoulder months offer the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds.
How to Get to Machu Picchu
Getting to Machu Picchu takes planning, but it’s worth every effort.
Step-by-Step Route
Fly into Cusco – The main city hub and former Incan capital.
Travel to Aguas Calientes – The town at the base of Machu Picchu:
By train (most popular): PeruRail or Inca Rail from Cusco or Ollantaytambo.
By bus/hike combo (budget option): Travel to Hidroeléctrica, then hike ~2-3 hours.
Take the bus or hike up to the site – A short, 25-minute bus ride or a steep 1.5-hour hike.
Tip: Book train and entry tickets at least 2 months in advance — especially in the high season.
Top Things to Do in Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is more than a single viewpoint. It’s a complex site with multiple points of interest and activities that many travelers miss. Here’s how to make your visit unforgettable:
1. Explore the Main Citadel Ruins
This is where most visitors start — and for good reason. The main ruins are divided into urban and agricultural sectors, with over 200 structures.
Key Highlights:
Temple of the Sun: A curved, finely crafted stone structure used for astronomical observations.
Intihuatana Stone: Believed to function as a solar clock or calendar.
Room of the Three Windows: Offers beautiful symmetry and a peek into Incan architecture.
Sacred Plaza: The ceremonial heart of the citadel.
Take your time here. Walk slowly. Let your guide explain the significance behind the details — or if you prefer a more personal experience, consider private Machu Picchu tours for deeper insights.
2. Hike Up Huayna Picchu
That sharp peak you always see behind the ruins? That’s Huayna Picchu — and yes, you can climb it.
Details:
Elevation Gain: Around 360 meters (1,180 ft).
Time Required: 2–3 hours round trip.
Difficulty: Moderate to hard. Not for those with vertigo.
Permit: Limited to 200 visitors per time slot. Book early!
Why Go? The panoramic view from the top is jaw-dropping. You’ll see the entire Machu Picchu site laid out below like a real-life map.
3. Don’t Miss the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
If you’re not up for the steeper Huayna Picchu hike, the Sun Gate is a solid alternative — and it’s free with your general ticket.
Details:
Origin: This was the original Inca Trail entrance to Machu Picchu.
Time Required: About 1.5–2 hours round trip.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
View: Sweeping, elevated views over the whole complex, especially stunning at sunrise.
Insider Tip: Go early in the morning for a magical, misty reveal as the sun rises over the Andes.
4. Walk to the Inca Bridge
Most tourists skip this — which is a mistake if you enjoy hidden gems.
Why It’s Special:
Historical Use: A secret military entrance with a retractable bridge.
Path: Narrow trail along a cliffside (with rails for safety).
Time Needed: About 30–40 minutes round trip.
Crowds: Minimal.
This quiet corner lets you feel the solitude and silence that ancient messengers or guards once experienced.
5. Visit the Temple of the Condor
This lesser-known structure features natural rock formations shaped like a giant Andean condor in flight.
Things to Note:
It’s symbolic — the condor was sacred to the Inca, believed to carry souls to the afterlife.
Archaeologists suggest it was used for rituals involving mummified remains.
Take a moment here — it’s one of the most artistically expressive areas in the whole site.
Summary Table: Top Things to Do
| Activity | Time Needed | Difficulty | Ticket Required | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Explore Main Citadel | 2–3 hours | Easy | General Entry | First-time visitors, all ages |
| Hike Huayna Picchu | 2–3 hours | Moderate–Hard | Add-on Ticket | Adventure lovers, great views |
| Walk to Sun Gate | 1.5–2 hours | Moderate | General Entry | Photographers, early risers |
| Inca Bridge Trail | 30–40 minutes | Easy | General Entry | History fans, peaceful explorers |
| Temple of the Condor | 15–20 minutes | Easy | General Entry | Culture buffs, curious visitors |
Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit
Planning a trip to Machu Picchu can be overwhelming. Here’s what I’ve learned from experience — things that don’t always make it into guidebooks, but absolutely matter on the ground.
Book Everything in Advance
I can’t stress this enough. From entrance tickets to train rides and even guided tours, Machu Picchu has strict daily visitor limits.
Entrance Tickets: Buy on the official government site or through a trusted agency.
Trains: PeruRail and Inca Rail offer various classes — book early for better seats and times.
Guides: Hire a licensed guide or go for a private Machu Picchu tour if you prefer personalized pacing and deeper historical context.
Acclimatize in Cusco First
Machu Picchu itself isn’t extremely high in elevation, but Cusco is (3,399 m / 11,152 ft). Give yourself a couple of days there before heading to the ruins.
Why?
Avoid altitude sickness.
Enjoy Cusco’s incredible food, culture, and historical sites while you adjust.
Bring the Essentials
You’ll need to pack smart, especially for the early morning start or potential rain.
Must-Haves:
Passport (required for entry)
Printed ticket or QR code
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
Light rain jacket or poncho
Sunscreen and bug repellent
Snacks and water (no single-use plastics)
Camera or phone (but remember: no tripods or drones allowed)
Follow the Circuit Rules
The site now operates with designated visitor circuits. These one-way paths are designed to protect the site and control foot traffic.
Types of Tickets:
Circuit 1 or 2: Includes upper and lower sectors of the main ruins — ideal for first-time visitors.
Circuit 3 or 4: Shorter, with limited access to some major structures, but required for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hikes.
Tip: Pick your circuit based on what you want to see. Once you’ve started, you can’t go backward or re-enter.
Time Your Entry Wisely
The site opens at 6 AM and closes at 5:30 PM. Here’s how different times compare:
| Time Slot | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 6–8 AM | Misty sunrise views, fewer people, cooler temps |
| 10 AM–12 PM | Busier, but still good lighting for photos |
| 1–3 PM | Warmest part of the day, crowds begin thinning out |
| After 3 PM | Quietest time, soft lighting, ideal for relaxed photos |
My pick: Go early if you want drama and atmosphere, or late if you prefer a more peaceful, less rushed experience.
Respect the Site
This isn’t just a tourist destination — it’s a sacred place. Here’s how to show respect:
Stay on the marked paths.
Don’t touch or lean on ancient structures.
Keep your voice down — the silence adds to the magic.
No loud music, food littering, or climbing on ruins.
Extend Your Adventure
If you’ve got more time, consider exploring:
Machu Picchu Mountain: A longer, higher-altitude hike than Huayna Picchu — incredible views but more strenuous.
Putucusi Mountain: A free but risky climb across the Urubamba River (only for experienced hikers).
Mandor Gardens: A peaceful nature reserve near Aguas Calientes — perfect for birdwatching or a post-ruins wind-down.
Where to Stay and Eat Near Machu Picchu
Spending the night near Machu Picchu isn’t just convenient — it lets you beat the crowds and enjoy a slower, more meaningful visit.
Staying in Aguas Calientes
This small town at the foot of Machu Picchu is the main base for most travelers. Despite its size, it offers a surprising range of accommodation.
Accommodation Options
| Hotel Name | Type | Price Range (per night) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inkaterra Machu Picchu | Eco-Luxury | $$$ | Private bungalows, gardens, spa, birdwatching |
| Casa del Sol | Boutique Hotel | $$ | River views, cozy atmosphere, good breakfast |
| Supertramp Hostel | Budget Hostel | $ | Social vibe, rooftop terrace, great for solo travelers |
| Tierra Viva | Mid-Range Hotel | $$ | Comfortable, clean, near train station |
Tip: Book accommodation with breakfast included — it saves you time on an early morning departure to the ruins.
Best Places to Eat in Aguas Calientes
Though touristy, Aguas Calientes has some solid food options if you know where to look.
Recommended Eateries
Indio Feliz: French-Peruvian fusion with a cozy, quirky interior. Their trout dishes are a favorite.
Toto’s House: Great for groups, offers traditional Andean meals with buffet options.
Mapacho Craft Beer & Peruvian Cuisine: River views, local beer selection, hearty dishes like alpaca steak or quinoa risotto.
Chullpi Machupicchu: More upscale, perfect for a quiet dinner after your hike.
Eating Inside Machu Picchu?
There are no restaurants inside the archaeological site. Food isn’t allowed past the entry gate, so eat beforehand or pack snacks (non-disruptive and no littering).
For something more upscale, the Sanctuary Lodge just outside the gate offers a buffet lunch — it’s pricey, but very convenient if you’re doing two circuits or need a mid-day break.
Nearby Attractions Worth Exploring
If Machu Picchu isn’t your only stop in the Sacred Valley, here are some additional gems I highly recommend.
1. Ollantaytambo
An ancient Inca fortress and town that’s still alive with culture. Visit the terraces, climb the temple steps, and soak in the vibe of one of the last Inca strongholds.
Getting there: Train or bus from Cusco.
Bonus: You can start the Inca Trail here too.
2. Sacred Valley
Stretching between Cusco and Machu Picchu, this valley is rich with ruins, markets, and landscapes that rival the main site.
Top Stops:
Pisac: Market town with impressive hilltop ruins.
Moray: Circular agricultural terraces that look almost alien.
Maras Salt Mines: Over 3,000 salt pans still harvested by local families.
3. Cusco City
Before or after Machu Picchu, give yourself at least 2–3 days in Cusco.
What to Do:
Visit Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)
Walk the San Blas neighborhood
Try local delicacies like cuy (guinea pig) or lomo saltado
Final Thoughts: My Machu Picchu Travel Advice
Machu Picchu is one of those rare places that actually lives up to the hype. But it’s not just about standing in front of the ruins and snapping a photo. The real experience is in slowing down, understanding the layers of history, and appreciating the genius of Inca engineering that went into every stone and pathway.
My biggest tip? Don’t rush it. Give yourself time — not just for Machu Picchu itself, but for the journey through the Sacred Valley, the moments of quiet between the ruins, and the breathtaking hikes that surround them. Whether you’re into history, nature, or a bit of adventure, this site will leave a mark on you long after you’ve gone home.
FAQ
What are the top things to do in Machu Picchu?
The top things to do include exploring the main ruins, hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, walking to the Sun Gate and Inca Bridge, and visiting the Temple of the Condor.
Is it worth hiking Huayna Picchu?
Yes, if you’re physically fit and want panoramic views of Machu Picchu from above. It’s a steep hike, but the reward is incredible.
Can I visit Machu Picchu without a guide?
Yes, but hiring a guide (especially for your first visit) helps you understand the site’s significance.
How much time do I need at Machu Picchu?
Most visitors spend around 2–4 hours inside the site. If you’re adding hikes like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, plan for a half-day or more.
What’s the best time of day to visit Machu Picchu?
Early morning (6–8 AM) is ideal for fewer crowds and misty sunrise views. Late afternoon (after 3 PM) offers softer light and more space to explore.
How do I get tickets to Machu Picchu?
Buy them online through the Peruvian government’s official site or through reputable travel agencies. Book early, especially in peak season (May–September).
Where should I stay before visiting Machu Picchu?
Stay in Aguas Calientes (also called Machu Picchu Pueblo) the night before for easy morning access to the site. Options range from budget hostels to luxury eco-lodges.
Can I bring food into Machu Picchu?
Food and large backpacks aren’t allowed inside. Small snacks and water bottles are okay, but be respectful — no littering or eating near the ruins.
What should I wear to Machu Picchu?
Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring a light rain jacket and sun protection, as weather can shift quickly.
