e Inca Trail is one of the world’s most renowned hikes, traversing the heart of the Peruvian countryside and taking travellers deep into the Andean mountains. Your reward? e ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu - one of South America’s greatest treasures! If you’re planning a visit, our essential guide can tell you everything you need to know before your journey. INCA TRAIL & MACHU PICCHU YOUR GUIDE TO THE THE PATH TO MACHU PICCHU e path to Machu Picchu involves a few more logistics than normal, with options including trains, treks & buses. For the more adventurous traveller, popular treks include the classic Inca Trail with a 4 day camping option or a 2 day trek with an overnight town stay, along with the Salkantay and Lares treks which also feature cultural experiences, daily hikes, and lodge accommodation throughout. For those who are unable to hike, or if you’re pressed for time, there are a variety of rail journeys available. For a day trip to Machu Picchu, all you need to do is jump on a train from Cuzco or the Sacred Valley and you are on your way!
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The Inca Trail is one of the world’s most renowned hikes, traversing the heart of the Peruvian countryside and taking travellers deep into the Andean mountains. Your reward? The ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu - one of South America’s greatest treasures! If you’re planning a visit, our essential guide can tell you everything you need to know before your journey.
INCA TRAIL & MACHU PICCHUYOUR GUIDE TO THE
THE PATH TO MACHU PICCHUThe path to Machu Picchu involves a few more logistics than normal, with options including trains, treks & buses. For the more adventurous traveller, popular treks include the classic Inca Trail with a 4 day camping option or a 2 day trek with an overnight town stay, along with the Salkantay and Lares treks which also feature cultural experiences, daily hikes, and lodge accommodation throughout. For those who are unable to hike, or if you’re pressed for time, there are a variety of rail journeys available. For a day trip to Machu Picchu, all you need to do is jump on a train from Cuzco or the Sacred Valley and you are on your way!
MACHU PICCHU IN A NUTSHELL
Every year, millions of people flock to the mysterious Incan ruins at the citadel of Machu Picchu. This UNESCO World Heritage Site treats travellers to giant agricultural terraces, intricate stone constructions, and stunning hilltop views out across the Andean Mountains.
THE LOST CITYOverlooking the Urubamba River, Machu Picchu is nestled within the towering peaks of the Andes 2,430 metres above sea level. Archaeologists believe the site was once used as a sacred sanctuary and royal estate for the leaders of the Incan empire. During the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, some 100 years after its construction, the Incas abandoned the citadel and the knowledge of this grand city faded from historical memory. This architectural treasure had been hidden for more than four centuries before its “rediscovery” on July 24th, 1911 by Hiram Bingham. Its impressive stonework has been well-preserved over the years, featuring over 200 monuments including various temples, caves, astronomical structures, and water fountains. Due to the location of this famous citadel and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the only way to get to there is by rail and bus or by trekking the famous Inca Trail. Planning ahead is key!
THE LLAMAS OF MACHU PICCHUMachu Picchu isn’t just famous for its ancient ruins - it is also well-known for its llamas! Along with alpacas, these creatures are the only inhabitants of the citadel. Llamas held a special place in ancient Incan society, providing wool, food and a way for people to transport goods. On a visit to Machu Picchu, you may just be treated to a llama photo-bomb!
WHEN SHOULD YOU VISIT?Machu Picchu is open year-round, but the best time to visit is generally from late-April to mid-June or from September through to October. July and August tend to be the busiest months with plenty of sunshine and dry weather, while the rainy season runs from October through to April. In February, the Inca Trail closes for it’s annual month-long maintenance. No matter what time of the year you travel, you should always expect crowds.
The Peruvian government has implemented restrictions on the number of people who can visit the Machu Picchu ruins each day. All entrance tickets are now issued with a set time, allowing a maximum of 4 hours at the site for each ticket issued. Your first visit to the ruins must be with a guide where you will follow a set route.
ENTRANCE TICKETSTo access Machu Picchu, you will need to purchase an entrance ticket before your visit. There are four types of tickets, all of which include access to the Inca site, with some also offering visits to museums and nearby mountains:
If you’re unable to hike to Machu Picchu, you’re pressed for time, or you simply want a laid-back travel option, you can board a train! Enveloped by dramatic canyon walls, you’ ll enjoy a scenic rail journey as you travel along the Urubamba River in Peru’s Sacred Valley.
TRAIN TRAVELThe quickest way to travel to Machu Picchu is to take the train to Aguas Calientes, departing from Cuzco or the Sacred Valley. This charming town is located in the valley below the mountains, making it the perfect overnight base for Machu Picchu visits. The journey to Aguas Calientes is roughly 3 1/2 hours from the nearest train station to Cuzco, and approximately 90 minutes by train from the station at Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley.
Rail experiences to choose from include the Vistadome train, or a luxury rail journey aboard Belmond Hiram Bingham, named after the famed explorer who rediscovered the city’s ruins. While you can definitely visit the citadel on a simple day trip, we do highly recommend an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes if you have time to do so. The town has a lovely local market and some beautiful hot springs which inspired its name.
VISTADOME TRAINThe Vistadome train has large panoramic windows beside and above your seat, offering unparalleled photo opportunities and superb views of the passing scenery. Surrounded by glass on all sides, you will feel as if you are a part of Peru’s remarkable landscape. As you make your way to Machu Picchu, you’ll be treated to traditional music, delicious cuisine, and dances inspired by the ancient culture of the Andes.
BELMOND HIRAM BINGHAMDine and dance your way between Cuzco and Machu Picchu aboard this enchanting luxury train. Inside the 1920s-style carriages, be whisked into the glamour of a bygone era with gleaming woods, fine fabrics and antique fittings. Here, elegance and old-fashioned charm come first. As you glide through the Andes, you’ll experience the magic of the mountains while sampling a host of artisanal delights paired with the finest wines.
THE CLASSIC INCA TRAIL
For those who have the time and would like to experience an active adventure, the trek to Machu Picchu is simply stunning. There are a range of trekking options available to suit every budget, comfort level and fitness ability, with treks running between 2 to 7 days.
ACCLIMATISATION TIPWe recommend you have 2-3 nights in Cuzco or the Sacred Valley prior to trekking to allow you to acclimatise to the higher altitude.
4 DAY INCA TRAIL TREKThe classic Inca Trail is a 4 day camping experience, starting from Km 82 and ending at Machu Picchu. While the trek itself is not physically challenging, it does reach altitudes of up to 4,200 metres. Sleeping bags and camping equipment are included, and porters will carry up to 7kgs of baggage for you while you trek.
THE CLASSIC INCA TRAILThe most well-known option is the classic Inca Trail. The route runs from Peru’s Sacred Valley up to the ruins of the citadel, winding its way through ancient pathways, lush valleys, and the soaring Andean Mountains. Originally laid during the Incan empire in the 15th century, it formed part of a vast system linking more than 23,000 kms of trails to important settlements across South America. The trail is famous for being able to access Machu Picchu through the citadel’s Sun Gate (Intipunku). From here, trekkers catch their first breath-taking glimpse of the ruins from the best panoramic viewing spot on the mountain.
PERMITSPermits are required for treks, with a limit of 500 per day (including Porters). These often sell out well in advance, so booking ahead is essential.
For both options, you can trek on a small group tour with set departures, or on a private basis. Should you wish to upgrade your trekking experience, we can offer the Luxury Inca Trail Trek which includes premium tents with camp beds, a private chef and masseuse. Enquire for more details about booking this experience.
2 DAY INCA TRAIL TREKShould you not have the time or the fitness to enjoy the classic 4 day Inca Trail, you may opt to do the 2 day trek with an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes. This begins at Km 104 and includes trekking to the ruins of Wiñay Wayna, followed by an up hill hike to the site of Machu Picchu. The next day, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the ruins.
TREKKING TO MACHU PICCHU
Although the Inca Trail is the most well-known Machu Picchu trek, there are also the Lares, Salkantay & Choquequirao trails. These offer daily hikes, cultural experiences, and lodge accommodation throughout.
THE LARES TREKThe Lares Trail is a great option for people who want to mix local experiences with lodge based accommodation. The trek offers the chance to explore the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas, which is full of incredible Incan sites. Here, you can also see traditional weavers attired in colourful dress, roving herds of alpacas and llamas, and a panorama of waterfalls, snow peaks, and glacial lakes.
You can enjoy 5 or 7 day Lares trekking options. Programmes are designed to offer different daily hikes for a variety of experience and abilities, along with a range of alternative activities for people who don’t want to hike. You will stay in comfortable mountain lodges built in the towns of Lamay, Ollantaytambo and Huacahuasi. These serve as deluxe base camps for day hikes in the surrounding areas. There are fixed departures, or you can join an exclusive group from Cuzco with an expert guide who will be with the you for the entire journey.
SALKANTAY TREKThe 7 day Salkantay Trek is physically more challenging. Following in the footsteps of the Inca, it winds its way from Cuzco through to the legendary ruins at Machu Picchu via forested canyons and the Vilcabamba Mountains. Highlights include the exquisite beauty of the Salkantay Peak and Humantay Glacier Lake. Throughout the trek, you will enjoy the comfort of mountain lodges, with the last night spent in the town of Aguas Calientes below the ruins before your tour of the Citadel the following day.
NOTE: You should be physically fit and have some trekking experience to complete the Salkatany Trek.
Should you be after a more adventurous experience, then we can also suggest the Choquequirao Trek. The ruins here are believed to be up to three times larger than Machu Picchu and will leave you speechless!
WHAT ELSE IS IN THE AREA?
We highly recommend some sightseeing and time spent in the surrounding cities and towns near Machu Picchu, particularly to ease acclimatization before treks, but what do they offer?
CUZCO CITYThis charming city was once the Inca ‘Capital of the World’ and now serves as a gateway to Machu Picchu. Situated at just under 4,000 metres above sea level, it is the perfect place to base yourself for a few nights before tackling the altitude in the mountains. There is plenty to do and see here, including visits to the Incan citadel of Sacsayhuaman on Cuzco’s outskirts and Coricancha in the city centre, which is one of the most important Inca temples in the area. Intricately decorated cathedrals are also scattered throughout the city, treating travellers to a slice of colonial history. A variety of treks are also available in the area, including Peru’s famous Rainbow Mountain and a hike to Tambomachay, known as ‘the Inca spa’ due to its crystal clear waters.
SACRED VALLEYThe Sacred Valley, including the towns of Pisac and Urubamba, have a much lower altitude than Cuzco, sitting at just over 3,000 metres above sea level. Travellers concerned about altitude sickness in Cuzco can begin their journey in the Sacred Valley, or opt to stay here for the duration of their Machu Picchu trip. Pisac’s bustling markets are not to be missed, while the large stone terraces and ancient ruins at Ollantaytambo will complete your Inca history wish-list. After a long day of activities, or even for a weekend break after hiking to Machu Picchu, travellers can visit the small village of Lares and soak away their stress in the beautiful hot springs!
LAKE TITICACALake Titicaca, known as the ‘Birthplace of the Incas’, is an absolute must see on a visit to Peru! In the middle of the lake you’ll find the Island of the Sun, where the first Inca king is said to have been born. Here, you can learn more about the crops and lifestyle of the Incas, as well as learning how the amazing traditional totora reed boats were made. The lake itself is the highest navigable body of water in the world, set between Peru and Bolivia.
WHAT IS THE ACCOMMODATION LIKE?Below is a “shortlist” of our favourite properties near Machu Picchu. By no means is it the entire selection and we are more than happy to book your own favoured option!
EXPLORA SACRED VALLEY | URQUILLOS
Just an hour’s drive from Cuzco you’ll find the Explora Sacred Valley Lodge. As it is situated at nearly 600 metres lower than Cuzco, acclimatisation to altitude is much easier here - by the time you return to the city, you won’t even notice the higher altitude! Over 30 included tour options by vehicle, foot or by mountain bike are inspired by its unique geography, Incan ruins and the authenticity of its people. Here, travellers can explore the colonial history of Cuzco, discover isolated villages, and marvel at archaeological sites such as Ollantaytambo, Moray, Chinchero and Pisac. The hotel is located in one of the region’s most remote and ancient corn plantations.
INKATERRA PUEBLO | AGUAS CALIENTES
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is an intimate Andean village with terraced hills, waterfalls, stone pathways and whitewashed adobe casitas tucked away in Peru’s cloud forest. The hotel is a member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World, situated on 12 acres of exquisite natural beauty. Guests can enjoy bird watching with over 200 species in the area, nature walks in the forest, orchid trails, visits to the Tea House, twilight walks under the stars, and the flora and fauna at the nearby native farm. Buses to the citadel of Machu Picchu depart the hotel in fifteen minute intervals, beginning just before dawn with the last bus returning at 5:30pm.
BELMOND MONASTERIO | CUZCO
Moments from Plaza de Armas is an ancient monastery that has been at the heart of Cuzco city for centuries. Dine by candlelight among the cloisters, explore interiors rich with art and antiques, and uncover the secrets of Peru’s national drink with a pisco lesson. Belmond Hotel Monasterio is a true jewel in the treasure trove of Cuzco. Every room is different, but all have absolute luxury in common. Be inspired by rich wood furnishings and antique paintings, perfectly complemented by crisp white sheets. Choose between cosy quarters and spacious suites fit for royalty with historical quirks.
