April 6, 2026
Planning a trip to Peru’s most famous attraction? Read my Machu Picchu travel tips to learn all the essentials before your visit.
Standing at an elevation of almost 8,000 feet, Machu Picchu is one of the greatest symbols of the Inca Empire. This ‘Citadel in the Clouds’ features impressive aqueducts, temples, and agricultural terraces built around 1450 AD.
Thanks to its position high up in the mountains, Machu Picchu was never discovered by Spanish invaders. This meant that it stood untouched and well-preserved until its rediscovery by Hiram Bingham in 1911.
This discovery propelled Machu Picchu into the public eye and in 1983 it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, Machu Picchu sees an average of around three million yearly visitors — and you’re up next!
I’ve rounded up my top tips for seeing Machu Picchu based on my own travel experience to help you prepare. Let’s jump right in.
Disclosure: This trip was hosted by G Adventures. However, all views and opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links whereby I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps with the costs of running my website so I can keep my content free for you. Thanks as always for your support! See my disclosure policy here.
Tip: While Machu Picchu is one of Peru’s main attractions, there’s plenty more to do in this country. Read my guide on the best things to do in Peru and learn how to be a sustainable traveller.
Top Tips for Visiting Machu Picchu
There’s more to visiting Machu Picchu than simply getting there. Read my summary of the most important tips to ensure a seamless visit.
Visit During the Dry Season
If you’re wondering when to visit Machu Picchu, plan your trip between April and October. These are known as the dry (winter) months, with July and August being the driest. The dry season has much clearer skies and less rain, which is crucial to get that postcard-worthy view of Machu Picchu. The wet season runs from November to March and is less ideal as hikes may be more challenging.
Book Your Tickets Well in Advance
Machu Picchu is, understandably, a very popular attraction. And to ensure the sight remains well preserved, there are limitations to the number of daily visitors allowed.
This means that entry tickets sell out fast — even weeks or months in advance. This is especially true for peak-season tickets. So buy your Machu Picchu entrance tickets as soon as you know your travel dates.
Additional activities, like the Inca Trail hike and the shorter Huayna Picchu and Montaña Picchu hike, also book out months in advance. In fact, the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu may be booked more than six months in advance.
Booking ahead of time has more benefits than securing a ticket. You may be able to score train and accommodation tickets at a much better price with careful preparation.
Don’t Underestimate the Altitude
At nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, you’re at a real risk of suffering from altitude sickness. This is caused by a rapid increase in altitude and presents as sleepiness, lightheadedness and shortness of breath. In extreme cases, altitude sickness can be life-threatening.
Be sure to spend some time in Cusco first, which is at a higher elevation than Machu Picchu. Taking things slow in Cusco for one or two days will allow your body to acclimatise to the higher altitude. While there, enjoy some local coca tea, which is said to help ease the symptoms of altitude sickness.
Avoid the Tourist Trails
Skip the tourist masses on the Inca Trail and opt for more off-the-beaten-path alternatives instead. The Lares Trek is one alternative way of getting to Machu Picchu. This 3–4-day hike passes by small villages, lesser-known ruins, and stunning scenery. You’ll get to meet local communities and learn about traditional Andean life. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a more authentic experience of Peru.
Ensure You Have the Correct Documentation
Make sure you have the correct tickets for any trains or buses when travelling to Machu Picchu. You’ll also need to show your passport along with your ticket at the entrance to Machu Picchu for verification.
Don’t Ignore Nature’s Call
Before entering the citadel, make sure you head to the bathroom. The only on-site bathrooms are at the entrance and cost 2 soles to use.
Come Prepared for the Weather
Peru is a tropical country, which means the weather is highly variable. Paired with high altitudes, conditions can be very unpredictable and change fast. Keep in mind that nothing’s guaranteed — not even the views. Clouds can roll in quickly. But, things can also clear up rapidly!
Come prepared by dressing in layers. It’s also important to pack on the broad spectrum sunscreen. As Peru is near the equator, the country experiences higher levels of UV radiation. This is intensified at higher altitudes.
Leave the Selfie Stick at Home
There are many rules at Machu Picchu. Drones, tripods, and selfie sticks are all prohibited, so leave those behind and soak up the views.
Other rules worth noting include sticking to a small backpack and not bringing single-use plastic items. You’ll also have to leave your walking sticks at the entrance.
Don’t Pronounce it Incorrectly
A lot of people pronounce it Machu Picchu (pee-chu), which actually means old penis. The proper pronunciation is Machu Picchu (pitch-chu), which means old mountain.
Leave No Trace Behind
To help preserve one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, leave Machu Picchu as you found it. Stay on the designated paths and avoid touching, climbing, or leaning against any structures. Avoid leaving any marks or etchings and take all rubbish with you when you leave the site.
Final Thoughts for Your Trip to Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu is a bucket-list destination that truly lives up to its reputation. But planning is essential to ensure you have the best possible time. I hope these Machu Picchu travel tips will help you plan the ultimate, stress-free trip.
While you’re exploring places to visit in South America, why not consider travelling to Colombia? This country sits north of Peru and is home to vibrant and unique cities. Explore the various things to do in Cartagena or the fun activities in Bogota. There are also some adventurous activities in Quindo, Armenia.
