Everything you need to know for Machu Picchu trip planning and getting to Machu Picchu, can be found below. From choosing a Machu Picchu guided tour, Inca trail tour, information on hiking the Inca trail, Inca Trail permits, comparing Machu Picchu alternative trails or answering the question, can you get to Machu Picchu without hiking, see the guide below.

Can you get to Machu Picchu without hiking?

Yes. You can take the train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, and then take a 20 min bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.

What is the closest airport to Machu Picchu?

Cusco International Airport (CUZ) is the closest airport for Machu Picchu tours. However, most flights to Cusco will take you through Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima (LIM) for an overnight connect. What airlines fly to Machu Picchu Peru?: Lan Airlines and TACA are the two major South American airlines flying into Peru. American Airlines and US Airways operate with LAN and TACA.

Lima Airport Layover | Sleeping in Lima Airport

Delays in Lima airport: All flights land in Lima late at night (approximately 11 pm - 1 am) and all flights take off for Cusco at approximately 5 am or 6 am. There are many people sleeping at the Lima airport, either in the food court or in the more comfortable chairs, at the gate for departure.

If you do not wish to sleep at the airport, there is a hotel at Lima airport: Costa del Sol. If you are not staying in Lima for sightseeing, it is not recommended that you leave the airport late at night. It can be dangerous. If you have a layover in Lima, and would like to schedule taxi transportation or tours in Lima, just ask and we can accommodate you.

If you wish to have a more comfortable place to sleep for a few hours, you may check out the lounge options available at: Priority Pass. Some airline membership cards, as well as credit cards offer other lounge options. Check with your financial provider for more information.

Lima airport: You will need to go thru customs and re-check your luggage at Lima airport (on the way to Cusco). It can be quite confusing. Once you obtain your luggage at baggage claim, you will actually exit the airport, to go to the ticket counter, to re-check baggage to Cusco. On your return flight from Cusco, if your flight is more than 3 hours away, you may not be able to check-in for your flight. There is a luggage drop-off though when you arrive in the main section of Lima airport.

The drive from Cusco airport to downtown Cusco, is approximately 15 minutes. Your hotel can arrange pickup from the airport.

Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu Guide

With hundreds to choose from, choosing a guide for your Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu can be difficult. PAP Adventures stands apart from the rest. Their chefs have attended culinary training, and will amaze you with their artful presentation of food in the remotest of places. You will not find a more delicious meal on the Inca Trail. PAP is a locally owned and managed tour operator.

BOOK INCA TRAIL TRIP

Inca Trail Permits

Scheduling: They only allow 400 permits per day on the Inca Trail. It is recommended that all Inca Trail tours are scheduled six months in advance, to guarantee that permits are available. It is recommended to arrive in Cusco, two to three days before hiking, to allow time to acclimate to the higher altitude. Cusco altitude is 11,200 ft. The highest altitude on the the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu is 13,770 ft. It is also recommended to have a rest day in between tours. You will need some downtime, in between Machu Picchu, Amazon Jungle and Lake Titicaca tours. Altitude at Lake Titicaca is 12,555 ft. You will want a couple days in Cusco, prior to going on to higher altitude, if you have not done the Inca Trail trek.

About 4 Day Machu Picchu Inca Trail Trek:

The 4 Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu is widely regarded as one of the top ten treks of the world, for its combination of Inca ruins, high passes, snow-capped mountains and ever changing ecosystems. As we hike you will learn about its history, flora and fauna with the help of expert guides. Four days later, having walked 28 miles (40 km) and crossed passes up to 4200m you will reach the climax of this sacred pilgrimage, the wonderful Machu Picchu.

When is the best time to hike the Inca trail to Machu Picchu?

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is closed during the month of February each year. The closure is to allow conservation projects to take place, give an opportunity for camping facilities to be improved and to allow the vegetation to grow back. February is also the height of the wet season. January - April is the rainy season. May - September is high season.

Weather for: Cusco (Inca Trail)	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Av. High (°F)	66	66	67	68	68	67	67	68	68	70	69	68
Av High (°C)	19	19	19	20	20	19	19	20	20	21	20	20
Av. Low (°F)	44	44	44	41	37	34	34	34	39	42	43	43
Av. Low (°C)	7	7	7	5	3	1	1	1	4	6	6	6
Wet days	16	12	10	7	4	3	2	2	6	8	10	14

Machu Picchu Alternative Trails

Machu Picchu - Inca Trail Trek (Shared)
Luxury Inca Trail Trek
Machu Picchu - Salkantay Trek - Does not require permit, can book as late as one month in advance
Machu Picchu - Lares Trek - Does not require permit, can book as late as one month in advance
Machu Picchu - Choquequirao Trek - Does not require permit, can book as late as one month in advance
Machu Picchu - Huchuy Qosqo Trek - Does not require permit, can book as late as one month in advance

Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail

The Salkantay Trek is famous for its scenery, which most guides attest surpasses that of the Inca Trail. You have a better chance of seeing larger mammals such as foxes, deer, and chinchilla. The plant life is varied as well. It’s a hike through the picturesque Andes which takes you up to imposing glaciers and then has you descend through lush valleys with coffee plantations and then back up into the high jungle. There’s also about 72% less traffic on the Salkantay trek, 50 person daily average compared to a 180 person daily average on the Inca Trail. This means that you’ll have much of the trek to yourself, and the campsites en route aren’t crowded, letting you immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the wilderness and camp in a truer sense.

Salkantay Trek Difficulty

The Salkantay trek is almost twice as long as the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (51mi compared to 26mi) and reaches a higher altitude (15,215 ft rather than 13,800 ft). This does mean it’s more physically challenging than the Inca Trail. It’s generally colder as well.

Lares Trek vs Inca Trail

The Lares Trek is like stepping back into the past. You will meet villagers farming potatoes by hand as they have done for centuries. The locals continue to dress in the famous red ponchos and you will have the opportunity to see the women weaving these. The Lares Trek goes over high mountain passes surrounded by alpacas and llamas with views of high snow peaks. The Lares trail is 2 km (1.2 miles) longer that the Inca Trail, but offers a more culturally immersive experience. This doesn't mean you need to miss out on beautiful mountain top vistas, but because of the numerous smaller villages scattered along the Lares trail, it's an extra opportunity to enjoy a much more comprehensive taste of Peruvian culture. Many of the people who live in the villages along the Lares Trail are direct descendants of the Incas. If you want to experience a more authentic immersion in Peruvian culture, some would say you can look forward to a more culturally enriching experience if you opt for the Lares Trail.

What to pack for Machu Picchu

Inca Trail Packing List
Salkantay Trek Packing List
Lares Trek Packing List

Inti Raymi Celebration

Inti Raymi Festival : The Inti Raymi Festival occurs every June 24th in Cusco, celebrating the winter solstice. The festival is celebrated with parades, costumes, and music. It is the second largest festival in South America, after the carnival of Rio. It takes place at Qorikancha, the Plaza de Armas, and at Saqsaywaman.

Cusco Hotels Luxury

Recommended Hotels in Cusco: Listed by price, high to low - located near the main square in Cusco
Hotel Monasterio - 5 stars, historic monastery (pictured below)

Palacio del Inka - 5 stars, luxury hotel
JW Marriot - 5 stars
Fallen Angel - The small luxury guest house - 5 stars

Cusco Hotels

Hotel Rumi Punku - Mid-range, comfortable beds, excellent customer service (pictured below)

Hotel Royal Inka - Mid-range
Tambo del Arriero Hotel Boutique - Mid-range
Hostal Huaynapata

Additional Cusco Hotels:
Cusco Hotels
Hotels near the city center (Plaza de Armas) of Cusco

Machu Picchu Hotels:

If you are taking the train to Machu Picchu or would like to stay at Machu Picchu after a long hike, there is only one hotel on the grounds of Machu Picchu: The Belmond Sanctuary Lodge at Machu Picchu (pictured below). This is a very luxurious hotel with landscaped ponds and direct views of the Huayna Picchu Mountain.

Hotels near Machu Picchu (in Aguas Calientes):

Just a twenty minute bus ride away from Machu Picchu, is the town of Aquas Calientes. There are many nice hotels to choose from, ranging from hostel to 5 star luxury. The Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (pictured below) is a 5- star luxury hotel offering comfort, elegance and relaxation. Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel has spacious, luxurious rooms with a sitting area. All include a cable TV and are equipped with heating. Some rooms feature a private balcony with views of the mountains and the Urubamba River.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo (pictured below) is an intimate 85-casitas luxury hotel in sprawling Andean style village within the secluded12 acres of exquisite beauty. Follow stone pathways along the terraced hills, melding with the sacred energy of the mountains. Indulge in Inkaterra’s spa services which use sublime natural essences. A first-class restaurant boasts stunning views of the rushing Vilcanota River.

Terrazas del Inca Bed & Breakfast (pictured below) is located in the heart of the upper part of town, on the banks of the Aguas Calientes River. It is far from the noise of the main street, and in a peaceful place where you will find it very easy to relax. They have three terraces which have beautiful, panoramic views. You will be able to relax and enjoy a hot tea or a cold drink, while you listen to the soothing sound of the rushing river.

Hatun Sumay (pictured below) is located just a few steps from the central train station as well as the largest craft market in the region.

Lima Hotels

Treat yourself to a memorable hotel experience in Peru at The JW Marriott Hotel Lima. Offering guests superior service, luxury accommodations, and an unbeatable location, the resort caters to the discerning and adventuresome traveler. Located in Lima's distinctive Miraflores district, they're near top fine dining, notable historic sites, and picturesque public spaces. Stylish guest rooms and suites feature spectacular ocean views and include amenities like marble bathrooms and designer bedding.

Del Pilar Miraflores offers spacious suites and free Wi-Fi internet access right in the heart of the Miraflores shopping and business district in Lima, close to the Del Pilar Boulevard. Hotel is within a 10-minute walk of ChocoMuseo, Calle de las Pizzas, and Miraflores Central Park. Kennedy Park and Virgen Milagrosa Church are also within 10 minutes.

Antigua Miraflores is a hidden treasure in the heart of Miraflores.s The Hotel Antigua Miraflores; an authentic introduction to Peru’s rich cultural heritage. Enjoy the elegance and character of a turn of the century mansion with all the comforts and amenities of a fine hotel and the warmth and charm of a colonial B&B. Tasteful decor, attention to detail, and our staff’s attentive and friendly service will make your stay with us, in the heart of cultural Lima, unforgettable. Within walking distance of some of Lima's best restaurants and bars, the Hotel Antigua Miraflores, is the perfect home base to experience vibrant Miraflores. Huaca Pucllana, Miraflores local ruins, the oceanfront board-walk that crosses over Larcomar, and El Parque de Amor, and Miraflores central park – Parque Kennedy – are a few of the must-see sights in Miraflores near the hotel.

Luggage: For Machu Picchu hiking, you will be provided with a duffel bag to put your overnight belongings in. However, it is recommended that you bring your own duffel bag for separating out which items you want to take with you on other tours, such as the Amazon Jungle and Lake Titicaca, and which items you want to leave at your hotel in Cusco. The hotel will lock up any items you do not need in luggage storage.

Duffel for Machu Picchu: A duffel bag with a waterproof liner is provided to you. The weight limit for the duffel bag to be carried by porters is 6 kg (13 pounds) per person for the Inca Trail and 7 kg (15 pounds) per person for all other Machu Picchu trails. Weight limit restrictions are strict and are monitored by the Peruvian government. All hotels in Cusco will have a scale for you to weigh your duffel, in order for you to meet the weight restrictions.

Daypack for Machu Picchu: Daypacks larger than 20 litres will not be allowed into Machu Picchu, but can be checked in storage. For choosing a daypack and knowing what else to pack for the Inca Trail, refer to the Machu Picchu packing list.

Currency: U.S. dollars and Peru's nuevo sol are accepted. U.S. dollars are not accepted everywhere, so you'll want to exchange your U.S. dollars for local currency upon arrival. There are places to exchange money in Cusco, Lima, and Puno. It is not necessary to exchange currency at the airport. ATM's are available in all major cities.

Money exchangers in Cusco are located in the main square, Plaza de Armas. Banks and ATMS are located on Ave de Sol, in Cusco. Make sure to notify your bank that you are planning on using the ATM in Peru, so that they place an alert on your account and that you are able to use your card. Some banks will still not let you use your ATM card, so make sure to bring enough U.S. dollars that can be exchanged.

U.S. dollars must be crisp and clean. No worn or torn dollars will be accepted. They will be considered broken. You can change Euros although the rates are not very good. Therefore it is worth changing Euros into dollars before you come to Peru. Bills larger than $20 will not be accepted. Broken and torn bills will not be accepted.

It is acceptable to give U.S. dollars to the guides and porters for tipping. You may want a few $1 bills for tipping at the hotel, but you won't need a lot. It is acceptable to give $1 bills for bottled water, but you will not get the same exchange rate, as if you had paid in local currency.

Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted at hotels and expensive restaurants. Some tourist shops with higher-end products also accept credit cards. However, most places do not accept cards, so don't plan on using a credit card, for all expenses. Make sure to notify your bank that you are planning on using your credit card in Peru, so that they place an alert on your account and that you are able to use your card.

In case of emergency: Things can happen when you're travelling that are out of your control. It is recommended to bring an extra $200 U.S. dollars and a credit card in case of emergency for all tours. If you are travelling to the Amazon, U.S. dollars and credit cards are not accepted, therefore it is recommended that you have $500 soles (Peruvian currency), in case of emergency.

Before you go:
Make a copy of your passport and keep it in your luggage.
Make copies of your cards and keep it in your luggage.
Keep copies of travelers insurance phone number and financial bank contact information, and keep it in your luggage.
Notify your bank and your credit card company fraud division where you will be, so that you have access to your cash.

Recommended Restaurants in Cusco:
Marcelo Batata
Uchu Restaurant
Jack's Cafe

Communications:
Local SIM cards can be purchased in Peru from Claro. For more information, visit their website at:
http://www.claro.com.pe

WiFi: There is WiFi at Machu Picchu (next to the cafe) and the train station going to Machu Picchu for a small fee. Free WiFi is available at most hotels. Many hotels also include a business / internet center with Skype. Other tourist areas and restaurants have wifi available for a minimal fee.

Travel Insurance: International travellers are strongly advised to take out full health insurance and should be prepared to pay up front for medical services. It is recommended that you bring an extra $200 and a credit card, in case of emergencies.

Things can happen when you're travelling that are out of your control, so insurance comes in handy. Considering the unpredictable nature, remote destinations and conditions encountered on many tours it is REQUIRED to have travel medical insurance on ALL hiking trips, and trip cancellation insurance is highly recommended. If you're going to spend your hard-earned money to enjoy your holiday - why not spend a bit more to safeguard it?

Upon starting your tour, the guide will ask everyone to provide a copy of their insurance details to keep on record. Failure to provide this information can, and has, resulted in travellers being unable to continue on tour, so don't leave home without it.

Travel Guard offers competitive plans. You’ll want to get the standard basic medical, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation/delay, baggage delay, etc. These options come with most packages. However, you’ll want to add on the adventure sports waiver though, for high-altitude hiking. All hiking trips are at high altitude, and any claims to your insurance could be denied, if you do not sign up for the adventure sports waiver.

Tipping: Guideline
Tipping is at your discretion but always appreciated. A good rule of thumb is approximately $10 - 15 dollars per day per hiker for the porters. That is a total of $40-$60 PER HIKER, for a 4 day hike. Bills larger than $20 will not be accepted. Broken and torn bills will not be accepted.

Other recommended tipping: Bus tour Cusco to Puno $3, Lake Titicaca tour guide $5 - $10 per day PER PERSON, Amazon tour guide $5 - $10 per day PER PERSON, Air transportation $3, Bag boys $3.

Health:
It is recommended that you bring the following medications: Cipro (for travellers diarrhea), Diamox (for high-altitude), anti-nausea medication for car/boat sickness, pain medication for headaches, cough lozenges, allergy / cold medication and any other personal medications/prescriptions. Please refer to the CDC Vaccination Guide for the list of shots needed for the region that you are visiting.

Food / Water: It is recommended that you drink and brush your teeth with bottled water. Avoid fresh fruits, vegetables and ice.

If you feel that you may be experiencing travellers diarrhea, it is best that you avoid: fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, cheese, chocolate, fried foods, pizza and fat. The recommended foods are: soups, rice, boiled chicken, jelly, potato, and steamed meats.

Special Dietary concerns: Vegetarian, lactose intolerant, or gluten concerns can be addressed on most tours, just let us know when scheduling.

Feeling Sick: If you are experiencing any health issues, make sure to let your guides know. There are doctor's on call, that can issue prescriptions and take care of any issues that arise, before your condition gets worse. The process is very smooth, do not wait until you feel worse.

Toilets: Not all toilets have toilet paper. It is recommended that you bring toilet paper or tissue, plus hand-sanitizer everywhere you go. The plumbing is not as strong as the U.S. It is recommended that you put tissue in the garbage can next to the toilet. Not all toilets are flushing. The water bucket next to the toilet is for flushing. Pour water down the toilet after using to flush.

Toilets on the Inca Trail and all other Peru trails: A private toilet tent is provided, with a sit-down toilet, at the overnight campsite. Public squat toilets are available on the trail during the day.

Toilets at hotels and lodges: Toilets at the hotel and lodges are standard, sit-down toilets, with toilet paper. It is still recommended though, that you put tissue in the garbage can next to the toilet.

Photos: Photos with or without flash are not allowed in some museums and churches. There will be a sign letting you know, if that is the case. In the touristy areas, there will be locals dressed in traditional Andean dress. They will pose for photos, for a few soles. The cost can vary, just ask before taking a photo. For Lake Titicaca tours, it is not necessary to pay additional for photos of the locals. Your tour guide will let you know when it is acceptable or not acceptable to take photos of the locals.

About Amazon:

Puerto Maldonado airport is closest for Amazon jungle tours.
The Peruvian Amazon jungle is one of the most biologically diverse areas on Earth. Most species have probably still not been discovered, or adequately studied. As a nation, Peru has the largest number of bird species in the world and the third largest number of mammals; 44 percent of birds and 63 percent of the mammals inhabit the Peruvian Amazon. Peru also has a very high number of species of butterflies, orchids, and other organisms.

You will be amazed by the qualities of it's plants, from which most of our medicines originated and from which most of the cures we desperately seek will be found if we don't destroy it first. Each evening there will be some form of nocturnal activities. Night walks (optional for those who don't want to look for Tarantulas and other creepy crawlies), Cayman spotting when conditions are optimal. And it's possible, that your favorite memory of the Jungle will be the delicious meals, combining international & local cuisine, carefully prepared with fresh, high quality ingredients.

About Lake Titicaca:

Juliaca is the closest for Lake Titicaca tours. However, all Lake Titicaca tours depart to and from Cusco. Bus transportation from Cusco to Puno is included.

Language: Spanish is the primary language in Peru. Quechua and Aymara are spoken in the islands of Lake Titicaca. Some English is spoken in the touristy areas.

Gifts: If you are doing a home-stay with a family in Lake Titicaca, it is recommended that you bring gifts of books and toys for the children.

About Huaraz Region tours: Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima is the closest airport for Huaraz Region tours. Huaraz is located 408 km north of Lima, 8 to 9 hours by Bus. Cost of bus ticket from Lima to Huaraz aprox. US 25 to 30 per person . The good buses are ( cruz del sur – movil tours ).
Lima Hotels

Cash back and Cheap travel tips:

Everyone says that travel is expensive, but I feel that is not true, if you do some planning. Personally, I like to use airline miles for flights and here is an article I wrote on my blog about it.

Also, my newest favorite savings tip is to download several cash back apps. You can save money on groceries, gas, shopping, booking travel at various hotels, even flights. Here are the ones I use. By using my referral links, you'll get a welcome bonus and so will I.

iBotta: This is the highest paying cash back grocery app! Plus, you can earn cash back on TRAVEL and Hotels, Groupon, Amazon, and other mall stores.
eBates: Cash back on TRAVEL, Lyft, Groupon, mall stores, etc.
Dosh: Cash back on nearby restaurants.
Sweatcoin: Earn cash back while hiking, walking, and running!!
Achievement: Earn points while hiking, walking, and running to earn gift cards!!

To earn more cash back, you'll want to double-dip and earn from more than one app, on the same purchase.
Then what do I do with that cash back savings?
I put it in my Robinhood investing account of course, to save up for my next vacation! Also, if you use my Robinhood referral link, we'll both get a free stock.

Return to top