Machu Picchu · Complete Guide

The Inca legacy: origin and rediscovery

Built around the 15th century under the mandate of Inca Pachacútec, Machu Picchu is a masterpiece of architecture and engineering. Located at 2,430 meters above sea level in the Peruvian Andes, it was abandoned during the conquest and rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the new seven wonders of the modern world.

• 🔹 Function: ceremonial center, royal residence and astronomical observatory.
• 🔹 Perfect construction with "ashlar" stone-cutting technique.
• 🔹 Declared a Historical Sanctuary in 1981.

Getting to Machu Picchu: train, bus and reservations

From Cusco, the most common route is to take a train from Ollantaytambo or Poroy to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes). Then a 25-minute bus ride takes you up to the citadel. You can also embark on the Inca Trail adventure (4 days).

• 🎫 Tickets: limited availability, buy online months in advance.
• ⏰ Schedules: two shifts: morning entry (6 AM - 12 PM) and afternoon (12 PM - 5:30 PM).
• 🚌 Roundtrip bus: approx. $12 USD (adult).

Best time to visit: dry season vs rainy season

High season runs from May to October (Andean winter: sunny days, cold nights). This is the dry season, ideal for hiking and photography. From November to March there is frequent rainfall, but the vegetation flourishes and there are fewer crowds.

• 🌤️ Stable weather: June, July and August (very crowded).
• 🌧️ Rainy season: January and February - some trekking routes close.
• 🧥 Always bring a raincoat and repellent.

What you should know before entering

To make the most of your visit, follow these guidelines:

• ✅ Original passport or ID required for entry.
• ✅ Large backpacks are not allowed (max 20L).
• ✅ Hire an official guide at the entrance or in advance (enriching experience).
• ✅ Bring water, sunscreen and a light snack.
• ❌ Prohibited: selfie sticks, drones, food not allowed inside the protected area.

Preserving the wonder for the future

Machu Picchu faces challenges from mass tourism. The Peruvian government implements measures such as restricted schedules and mandatory routes. As a responsible traveler:

• ♻️ Do not leave trash, take your waste with you.
• 📵 Silence electronic devices, respect restricted areas.
• 🚫 Do not remove stones or archaeological items.

Altitude sickness may affect you; spend a day in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before your visit and chew coca leaves or drink coca tea (natural remedy).