Escape to one of the world’s greatest wonders on a trip to Machu Picchu. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a treasured place where refined architecture, spiritual meaning and astronomical significance come together to create an unparalleled experience.
Like many other tourist sites, the Inca citadel has strict regulations that visitors must follow to visit it. Here are a few tips to help you navigate them safely.
The Best Time to Visit
There are many factors to consider when deciding when to visit Machu Picchu, including crowd level, cost, and weather. Luckily, we’ve put together a handy guide to help you plan your trip so you can enjoy the ruins at their best.
The dry season, from April to October, is the best time to visit Machu Picchu as the rainy season has passed and the temperatures are at their most comfortable. These months see less rainfall and warm daytime temperatures ranging from 17 to 19degC, making them ideal for trekking to the site.
However, it is important to remember that Machu Picchu is a subtropical area so rain is likely every day of the year. It can be difficult to predict when the rain will start and stop, so you should pack a waterproof jacket and boots for your visit.
The Inca Trail
If you’re considering hiking to Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail is one of the best ways to see the ruins and get a feel for the history of Peru. It’s a moderately challenging trek that takes four days to complete and starts in Cusco.
Before you embark on your trek, be sure to prepare yourself with the proper training and equipment. This includes walking, hiking, and doing stair exercises to build up your muscle strength.
During your hike, focus on pacing and heart rate control to keep you safe and ensure a smooth experience. This also helps with overall endurance and recovery, as you will be hiking up and down stairs for most of the day.
The Inca Trail is a popular trek, so it’s important to book your permit well in advance. This is especially true for certain dates, including Spring break, Veterans Day, and Easter.
Train to Machu Picchu
Trains to Machu Picchu are a fantastic way to enjoy the scenery of Peru’s Sacred Valley, and the ruins themselves. There are a number of different options available, from lower tier budget trains to luxurious first class locomotives.
The best train to Machu Picchu Travel Package depends on your travel style, as well as your budget. There are several different train companies to choose from, including Inca Rail and Peru Rail.
Both offer four levels of comfort, ranging from lower tier budget options to luxury first class locomotives. These trains vary in their schedules, so it’s important to book your tickets as soon as possible, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
If you’re looking for an exclusive, relaxing experience, the presidential service offered by Inca Rail is a great option. This private coach includes a welcome cocktail, gourmet lunch or dinner, Andean teas and fresh fruits. It also features Andean art and tapestries, comfortable seats, and a balcony for enjoying the views.
Hiking to Machu Picchu
Hiking to Machu Picchu is a bucket-list experience for many travelers. With international flights and efficient train services now available, the journey to this UNESCO World Heritage site is more accessible than ever before.
Travelers who want to hike to Machu Picchu must book far in advance. Most trekkers plan to book at least six months ahead, especially if they are traveling with a group.
Before booking, make sure to check the hiking conditions and whether your tour includes a hot shower at the end of each day’s hike. The Inca Trail is a challenging, multi-day trek that requires moderate fitness.
The best way to prepare for a hike to Machu Picchu is to train in advance. Wear the right gear, including thermal base layers, Alpaca gloves and hats. Pack a rain jacket and fleece to keep you warm in the wind and rain, and make sure you have high-SPF sun protection.