Travel Guide for your Machu Picchu Tour 1 Day from Cusco
Machu Picchu:
Machu Picchu, recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, is a destination not to be missed if you are planning to visit Peru, it attracts thousands of travelers every year due to its majesty, history and natural beauty. We believe before embarking on this adventure, it is essential to know certain details that will help you enjoy a safe and comfortable experience. From the altitude to the climate and the different ways to get there, here we provide you with a complete guide on what you should know before traveling to Machu Picchu.
Where is Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is located in the Cusco region in southwestern part of Peru. Although many people believe that Machu Picchu is at a higher altitude than Cusco, this is wrong, it is actually at a lower altitude than Cusco, even lower than the Sacred Valley.
Altitude of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu:
Altitude: 2,430 meters (7,970 feet / 1.51 miles) above sea level.
Despite being an impressive mountain, it is not at higher altitudes than Cusco, which makes it a goos place for acclimatization for many travelers.
Cusco:
Altitude: 3,400 meters (11,155 feet / 2.11 miles) above sea level, due to this high altitude, travelers could experience altitude sickness (soroche). It is advisable to stay at the lower elevationest for at least one or two days before Cusco.
Altitude of Aguas Calientes (the nearby town)
Aguas Calientes:
Altitude: 2,040 meters (6,693 feet / 1.27 miles) above sea level.
It is the starting point to reach Machu Picchu and an ideal place to spend the night before exploring the citadel if you are looking for an extended experience.
Inca Trail Elevation
The Inca Trail varies in altitude, reaching up to 4,200 meters (13,780 feet / 2.5 miles) at Dead Woman’s Pass (The highest point of the trek). Trekkers can experience a considerable temperature difference, from the cold of the high mountains to the hot and humid climate near Machu Picchu area.
Weather in Machu Picchu
The climate in Machu Picchu is tropical, consisting of a dry season and a rainy season during the year. Here are the main characteristics of the climate in the region:
Dry season (May to September).
Daytime temperature: Varies between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C (77°F).
Nighttime temperature: Can drop to 8°C (46°F) or 10°C (50°F).
Climate: Mostly dry, with low rainfall. Nights and early mornings can be chilly, so it is important to bring warm clothing.
Rainy Season (October to April)
Daytime temperature: Stays between 17°C (62°F) and 23°C (73°F).
Nighttime temperature: Can range from 12°C (54°F) to 15°C (59°F).
Weather: It rains frequently, especially from January to March. If you are planning traveling during this season, it is essential to bring waterproof clothing and be prepared for sudden changes in the weather during the day.
How to get to Machu Picchu?
There are many ways to get to Machu Picchu, depending on your available time, budget and the type of experience you are looking for.
1. Train to Machu Picchu
The most common and fastest way to get to Machu Picchu is to take a train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes town. Railway companies offer different types of services, from economical options to luxurious ones such as the Hiram Bingham by Belmond.
Travel time by train: About 2-4 hours, this depends on where you take the train from.
Frequency: Trains depart every hour a day from Cusco (Ollantaytambo) to Aguas Calientes.
2. Inca Trail
For those looking for adventure, the Inca Trail is an excellent option. This 4-day trek takes you through beautiful Andean landscapes and archaeological inca ruins. During the trek, you will pass through altitudes of up to 4,200 meters (13,780 feet), which requires good physical preparation and acclimatization.
3. Other Trekking
If the Inca Trail is not available, there are other trekking routes such as the Salkantay Trek or the Lares Trek, which will also allow you to reach Aguas Calientes by trekking and then Machu Picchu.
How Many Days Do You Need to Visit Machu Picchu?
Although you can take a day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco, it is also recommended to spend at least 2 days in the area to enjoy the full experience. This will allow you to:
Day 1: Arrive in Aguas Calientes, explore the town and stay at the hotel.
Day 2: Visit Machu Picchu very early to see the sunrise, do an additional hike (such as climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain) and return in the afternoon.
What to do in Aguas Calientes?
Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu pueblo is a small town where you can enjoy a number of activities before or after your visit to Machu Picchu:
1. Aguas Calientes Hot Springs
The famous hot springs of Aguas Calientes, which have healing properties, are located a short distance from the town of Aguas Calientes.
2. Local Market
If you like handicrafts, you can visit the Machu Picchu market where you will find typical products of the region, such as textiles, ceramics and souvenirs, although we recommed to buy in Cusco.
3. Additional hiking
If you are feeling energetic, you can take a light hike around Aguas Calientes or climb up to the Mirador de Mandor, a panoramic view of the area, also you can climb the Putucusi mountain.
What to eat in Machu Picchu Pueblo?
In Aguas Calientes there are a variety of dining options, from inexpensive menus to gourmet restaurants. Some typical dishes you should try are:
Ceviche: The famous Peruvian dish of raw fish marinated in lemon and chili, the ceviche is typically made with trout.
Cuy chactado: A typical dish of the region, prepared with guinea pig (guinea pig). For best resturants in Cusco to try Cuy, check our article.
Lomo saltado: A delicious dish of meat sautéed with potatoes and rice. (hihgly recommended to try).
Where to sleep in Machu Picchu Pueblo?
Aguas Calientes has a wide range of accommodation, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some recommended options include:
3-4 star hotels: there are several options that offer comfort and services such as Wi-Fi, spas and panoramic views, such as the Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel or Inka Terra Hotel.
Cheaper accommodations: If you are on a tight budget, you can find more affordable hostels or family accommodations. Such as Vista Machu Picchu, Casa del Sol hotel.
Machu Picchu Circuit (Updated 2025)
Circuit 1: Panoramic
Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain (2 hours).
Route 1-B: Upper Terraces (2.5 hours).
Route 1-C: Intipunku (Sun Gate) (2 hours).
Route 1-D: Inka Bridge (1 hour).
Circuit 2: Classic
Route 2-A: (2.5 hours).
Route 2-B: (2 hours).
Circuit 3: Royal
Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu (3 hours).
Route 3-B: Temple of the Moon (2 hours).
Route 3-C: Huchuy Picchu (2 hours).
Recommendations:
We recommend purchasing tickets in advance, as spaces are limited, specially if you are looking for circuit 2. It is advisable to hire a tour guide for a better experience during your exploration of Machu Picchu.
