Frequently Asked Questions
What is Machu Picchu?
The world’s favorite destination Machu Picchu: the most important construction made by the Incas. It is in the department of Cusco, 75 km northwest of the capital (City of Cusco), at an altitude of 2,400 meters above sea level. It was lost in the misty valleys of the jungle part of the Andean mountain range, until its official discovery in 1911. It is a spectacular citadel built in stone, located at the top of a mountain and very close to the clouds.
What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
It will depend on your preferred climate. The dry season runs from April to October and the rainy season runs from November to March.
Dry season. In the city of Cusco (obligatory stop for almost all visitors), the climate is rather cool throughout the period and quite cold between June and late August. However, Machu Picchu belongs to a subtropical climate, days are warm to hot, sometimes a little cold at night.
Rainy season. On the other hand, in the city of Cusco it rains a lot in these months, but in short periods and 2 or 3 times per week, the same can be observed in Machu Picchu.
What kind of clothes and items should I bring for the trip?
Machu Picchu is located on the border of the Amazon jungle. In other words, it has a subtropical climate (warm and humid), so the type of clothing we recommend you wear is:
If you travel during the rainy season (November – April). The best option is to wear a raincoat as well as waterproof and windproof clothing. But dress in layers, in a way that you can adapt your clothes to a changing climate, either cool or warm.
Even if it’s hot in the morning, always wear a warm garment. It may be annoying to have to carry it during the visit, but it’s best to be prepared for the late afternoon wind.
Long-sleeved polo shirts (preferably). To avoid insect bites and/or annoying sunburn.
Cap and sunglasses. A light and comfortable cap to keep you cool. The lenses will allow you to appreciate all the beauty of Machu Picchu without having to strain your eyes.
Sunscreen and insect repellent.
Don’t forget to bring plenty of water! Staying hydrated with purified or bottled water is the best thing you can do.
What can’t I take to Machu Picchu?
Prohibited objects. It is very important to take this aspect into account as well, to avoid that any of your belongings are prevented from entering the sanctuary and that you have to rent a deposit or locker, whose cost is somewhat high. Our article on what not to take to Machu Picchu will give you all the information in detail.
How to get from the town of Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?
Aguas Calientes (or Machu Picchu town), is next to the citadel. This is also one of the frequently asked questions on the Machu Picchu 2019 tour. There are two ways to get to the Inca Sanctuary from there:
- a) If you like to walk and enjoy nature. There is a route that ends with properly signposted stairs. The average walk will take 1 hour and a half.
- b) The best option is to go by bus. The trip will take about 30 minutes. This bus will drop you off at the entrance to the citadel of Machu Picchu. They depart from 5:30 a.m.
How much luggage can I take on the train and what can I do with my suitcases?
The train services, either Peru Rail or Inca Rail, only allow you to carry one piece of hand luggage, weighing a maximum of 5 kilos. Both companies offer free storage for this luggage. The other option is to leave it at the hotel in Aguas Calientes. For the Machu Picchu tour, a small backpack is enough.
When should I reserve the ticket?
It will depend on your plans. If you want to know only the citadel of Machu Picchu, 2 months in advance is recommended. But if you also want to include the walk of the mountain Huayna Picchu, the reservation should be made about 5 or 6 months in advance, since this attraction is exhausted very quickly.
Can I visit Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu on the same day?
One of the frequently asked questions tour Machu Picchu 2019. Yes it is possible. And obviously it can also be done on different days. The entrance to the mountain Huayna Picchu has 3 schedules: 7 to 8 am (two groups) and 10 to 11 am (last group). Remember that this attraction is within the same citadel. Learn more about the wonderful Huayna Picchu mountain.
From what time can you enter the citadel?
From 06:00 am to 17:00 hours, every day. Your tour will be made within that time, according to the planning that you and we agree. If you want a special schedule or a more individualized service (in general, our tour of the citadel lasts 2 hours and a half, plus an extra time for you to revisit the places that especially interested you), the ideal option is to hire one of our private tours, as these can be completely personalized, differently from conventional tours.
Where are the thermal waters of Machu Picchu?
They are in Aguas Calientes (a town next to the complex). Specifically at the end of Pachacuteq Avenue, about 20 minutes from its Plaza de Armas. The springs sprout from between the rocks with different warmth. The temperature of the waters is between 35ºC and 43ºC.
Is the visit to the historical sanctuary recommended for people of any age?
There is no age limit. Babies, children, young people, adults, senior citizens can visit it. In addition, we can also make tours for people with special needs (for example, tourists in wheelchairs, blind, deaf, etc). The only condition in this case is that the tour is booked in advance, as the preparations are a little more complex.
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