Where is Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu sits in the Andes Mountains of Peru about 50 miles northwest of Cusco in the Urubamba Province. You’ll find it perched on a narrow ridge between steep peaks just above the Sacred Valley. The elevation is around 7,970 feet above sea level which puts it right where the Peruvian Andes meet the edge of the Amazon Basin. That steep mountain you see in most photos is Huayna Picchu which rises even higher behind the main site.

Is Machu Picchu one of the Seven Wonders of the World?

Yes. Machu Picchu was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 for its cultural and natural importance. Then in 2007 it was officially recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It’s a well-earned title and one that highlights the scale, setting and preservation of the site.

When was Machu Picchu built?

The Inca built Machu Picchu in the mid-1400s during the rule of Emperor Pachacuti. Historians think it may have been a royal retreat or ceremonial center. It was abandoned about a century later around the time of the Spanish conquest although the Spanish never found it. That helped preserve the site. It stayed mostly unknown outside the region until 1911 when explorer Hiram Bingham arrived and shared what he saw with the world.

What’s the best way to get to Machu Picchu?

Most travelers start by flying into Lima then taking a domestic flight to Cusco. From there, you can board a train—often from Ollantaytambo—to Aguas Calientes, the town below the ruins. The train ride is scenic and popular routes like Inca Rail’s Voyager Premium offer great views of the Urubamba Valley. If you’re looking for adventure, consider the 4-day Inca Trail hike with companies like Trexperience which includes stops at ancient sites like Wiñay Wayna and Intipata. There’s also a budget route that involves taking a bus to Hydroelectrica and walking the tracks to Aguas Calientes.

Do you need a ticket to enter Machu Picchu?

Yes, all visitors need an entry ticket to access Machu Picchu and these must be booked in advance. Tickets are sold for specific time slots and often sell out weeks ahead, especially during the dry season. You can choose from several options including general entry, entry with a hike to Huayna Picchu, or entry with a hike to Machu Picchu Mountain. Tickets are available online through Peru’s official government site or via licensed tour operators. If you’re hiking the Inca Trail, the permit includes your entry. Always bring your passport on the day of your visit — it’s required at the entrance.

What should you pack for Machu Picchu?

Pack layers that are easy to add or remove — mornings can be cold, midday is often warm, and rain can come and go. A lightweight rain jacket is essential, even during the dry season. Good walking shoes with grip are important for uneven stone paths. You’ll also want sunscreen, insect repellent, a refillable water bottle, and a hat for sun protection. If you’re doing any hiking, bring snacks, trekking poles (if needed), and a small daypack. Large bags aren’t allowed inside the ruins but can be stored at the entrance.

Is Machu Picchu accessible for people with limited mobility?

Access to Machu Picchu can be difficult for travelers with mobility challenges. The site includes uneven stone steps, steep paths, and limited seating or shaded areas. There are no paved walkways or ramps inside the archaeological zone. That said, some areas near the entrance have flat ground and short viewing loops which may be manageable with assistance. The bus from Aguas Calientes drops off close to the entrance and walking poles can help with balance. If you or someone in your group needs support, talk to your tour provider in advance to arrange guided assistance.

Where can you stay when visiting Machu Picchu?

Most travelers stay in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of the ruins. It has a range of options from hostels to boutique hotels. Staying there means you can catch one of the earliest buses to the site and beat some of the crowds. Popular mid-range choices include Tierra Viva Machu Picchu and El MaPi Hotel, while luxury travelers might look at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. If you want more time to acclimate or explore, you can also stay in the Sacred Valley — towns like Ollantaytambo or Urubamba offer quieter stays and easy train access.

What should I know before visiting Machu Picchu?

Altitude is one of the biggest things to plan for. Cusco sits at 11,152 feet and the Inca Trail’s highest point, Dead Woman’s Pass, climbs to 13,828 feet. Spend a few days in Cusco first to adjust. Weather can shift quickly in the mountains so pack layers and rain gear. Permits for the Inca Trail can sell out months in advance so book early if you want to hike. Even train tickets and entrance times for Machu Picchu itself can fill up fast, especially in peak season.

When is the best time to go to Machu Picchu?

May through October is the dry season which brings the most reliable weather for visiting Machu Picchu. Clear mornings and fewer rain showers make it easier to walk the site. June to August is the busiest stretch with higher prices and more people. April to May and September to October are quieter with similar weather. The rainy season from November to April has fewer crowds and greener hillsides but there’s a higher chance of trail closures due to wet conditions.

How high is Machu Picchu?

The ruins are about 7,970 feet above sea level which is lower than Cusco but still high enough for some visitors to feel the effects of altitude. You might notice headaches or shortness of breath especially if you haven’t acclimated yet. From the site you can hike higher. Huayna Picchu climbs to 8,924 feet while Machu Picchu Mountain reaches 10,111 feet. Both hikes take effort and reward you with wide views over the valley.

Can a beginner visit Machu Picchu?

Yes. Most people in decent health can visit Machu Picchu even without hiking experience. The bus from Aguas Calientes takes you straight to the entrance and walking the ruins doesn’t require intense effort. If you’d rather hike up from town it’s steep but doable if you take breaks along the way. Hikes like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are tougher but manageable with some preparation. If you’re doing a multi-day trek like the Inca Trail you’ll need to train and take time to adjust to the altitude first.

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Machu Picchu: Inca Trail hike 4 days & Vistadome Train
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Best of Peru
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Premium Peru
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04 Day Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu - Small Group Service
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A 10-Day Adventure in Peru and Brazil: From Machu Picchu to Rio de Janeiro
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INCA ADVENTURES - 7 Days (Lima and Cusco - Machupicchu) with Domestic Flights
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Machu Picchu Jungle Trek 5D/4N (Biking, Zip-Line & Rafting)
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5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: An Unforgettable Journey
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Hiking The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley
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