Overview
The citadel of Machu Picchu, nestled amid jungle-covered mountains at 2,430m in the Andean foothills, is arguably South America's most famous site. A tour of Machu Picchu never disappoints: steep stone staircases, bridges, temples, houses and palaces are easy to explore and a photographer's dream.
So remote that it was only discovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911, Machu Picchu is now far more accessible. The journey on the Inca Trail, or by road and rail through an ever-tightening river gorge, is all part of this amazing experience.
Many visitors arrive at Machu Picchu at the end of the world-famous Inca Trail. The full route is usually done over four days, but can be shortened to one or two days. For those seeking a more laidback visit, Machu Picchu is easily reached on a long day trip from Cusco, or on a shorter day trip from the Sacred Valley of the Incas, travelling in style on a Vistadome train offering wonderful views along the river Urubamba. Another alternative is to stay overnight in nearby town Aguas Calientes and arrive at the ruins early in the morning before the crowds.
A guided tour to the ruins is obligatory to learn about the Inca's rich culture and masterful stonemasonry. If you're feeling energetic, then the iconic hump-shaped peak of Huayna Picchu makes a rewarding hour-long climb, or tackle the more challenging hike up to the top of Machu Picchu mountain (3,082m).
Our Machu Picchu Tours
Journey Latin America offers a wide range of tours to Machu Picchu. On our 15-day Highlights of Peru, visit Lima, Arequipa, the Colca Canyon, Cusco, The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, or combine the Inca ruins with the jungle on our 10-day Inca Heartland and Amazon Rainforest.
Alternatively, combine Peru with neighbouring Ecuador and visit the world-famous Galapagos Islands on our Luxury Peru and Galapagos. Or if you'd prefer to travel in the company of like-minded travellers, discover our range of group tours, including 14-day Pelicano: Essential Peru or 10-day Swift: Ultimate Highlights of Peru.
Speak to one of our travel experts today to start planning your Machu Picchu holiday today.
Holidays Machu Picchu
From hiking the Inca Trail to luxurious trips combining Machu Picchu with the Amazon or the Galapagos Islands, we offer a wide range of tailormade and escorted group tours.
Private Journeys
Peru
A Taste of Peru
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Private Journeys
Peru / Bolivia / Lake Titicaca
Active Peru and Bolivia: trekking Andean peaks to tropical rainforest
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Private Journeys
Peru
Active Peru: Cycling, rafting and the Inca Trail
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Private Journeys
Peru
Active Peru: The Ausangate Trek
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Things to do
Investigate things to do in, and around, the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. Book your guided small group tour with Journey Latin America now.
Accommodation
Examine hotels and other first class places to stay in the vicinity of Machu Picchu. Book your Peru accommodation with Journey Latin America now.
Where to go when - our guide to Machu Picchu
The weather in Machu Picchu is wide and varied
Machu Picchu, Peru can be visited throughout the year. With its semi-tropical and humid climate, the city can be shrouded in mist at any time, but you’d be unlucky if the sun didn’t shine at some time during your visit. Most rain falls between December and March.
View our Machu Picchu weather guidePapagaio
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