Machu Picchu, perched more than 2,000 meters above sea level (7,972 feet) in the Andes Mountains. Machu Picchu is Peru’s most visited tourist destination built around 1450 AD, Machu Picchu was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983 and named one of the New Seve Wonders of the World in 2007. Every year around 4.371.787 tourists arrive in Peru to visit this ancient Inca Citadel. Discover the beauty and mysterious secrets of Machu Picchu with this how-to travel guide packed with facts and insider tips.
Uncover the Secrets with this Machu Picchu Travel Guide and Facts
Find the best Machu Picchu tips with updated information, let us help you plan your trip to Machu Picchu and make it unforgettable. Learn all about how to get the most out of your visit to Machu Picchu.
Have a trip to Machu Picchu coming up?
With this guide, you’ll find out all the facts and secrets of Machu Picchu and get insider tips on how to make the most of your visit. Your Machu Picchu adventure can be greatly enhanced by taking advantage of these expert tips.
1)Is it possible to visit Machu Picchu?
Travelers arriving in Peru will be able to visit Machu Picchu, Cusco, Arequipa and Puerto Maldonado normally. The decision was adopted after a commitment was made by the Machu Picchu Management Unit (UGM), municipal authorities, directors of the Chamber of Commerce and leaders of social organizations to guarantee the safety of the monuments and transportation services.
2)How many new circuits are there in Machu Picchu?
There are 4 circuits to choose from when buying Machu Picchu entrance tickets before visiting Machu Picchu, each circuit allows you to visit different parts of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. click here to learn more about the new circuits in Machu Pichu.
3)Which Machu Picchu circuit should I do?
Circuit 1 and 2 are the most sold circuits since only circuit 1 and 2 will allow you to visit most of Machu Picchu. It will take you approximately 3 to 4 hours to walk around the upper and lower part of this route. So it is advisable to book your Machu Picchu tour beforehand.
4)Did you know that Machu Picchu is at a lower altitude than Cusco?
Many travelers worry about the effects of altitude sickness when traveling to Machu Picchu, However Machu Picchu is actually at a lower altitude than Cusco, which means that you will not be experiencing any symptoms, but on the contrary, it will be the place where you feel the best. Machu Picchu sits at 7,970 feet (2,430 meters) while Cusco is located at 11,200 feet (3,400 meters).
5)Can I take a backpack into Machu Picchu?
Large backpacks are not allowed in Machu Picchu. Carry only daypacks. The official limit is a 20 liter bag maximum, and anything larger must be kept outside. Outside the gates of Machu Picchu there is a locker, you can store your backpack for a fee, the place is secure.
6)What can you not bring to Machu Picchu?
Do not bring food into Machu Picchu, as most bags are checked by guards at the entrance to the site. Water is allowed, however, only one bottle is allowed per person.
7)Can I wear sneakers to Machu Picchu?
Hiking shoes are absolutely necessary if you plan to climb Machu Picchu Mt or Huayna Picchu, as the terrain can be steep and rugged, requiring solid footing with good ankle support. If you are only visiting the site on a tour, you can go with comfortable walking shoes.
8)Do I need bug spray in Machu Picchu?
Mosquitoes in Machu Picchu can be a nuisance, especially if you visit Machu Picchu during the dry season. A good deet insecticide should be sufficient, but it is also advisable to wear pants and loose-fitting sleeves for added protection.
9)Do you have to pay to use the bathroom in Machu Picchu?
There are restrooms outside the main entrance, you can use them for only 2 soles per person. But if you leave the park to go to the bathroom during your visit, you will not be allowed to re-enter.
10)Do I need hiking poles for Machu Picchu?
Walking poles are not allowed inside Machu Picchu, unless you have a disability.
11)How many hours should you spend at Machu Picchu?
For most travelers, one day in Machu Picchu, with a 2-3 hour guided tour, is enough to see all the important archaeological highlights.
12)What are the busiest months at Machu Picchu?
The high season and busiest time to visit Machu Picchu is June, July, August and September. The dry season will always be the best time to visit Machu Picchu as there is a low chance of rain.
13)What does Machu Picchu mean in English?
Machu Picchu, means “Old Mountain” in Quechua (machu = old and picchu = mountain”), was constructed in the mid-1400s. According to most experts, by the great Inca ruler Pachacutec.
14)How old is Machu Picchu really?
Machu Picchu might date all the way back to 1420, 30 years older than thought. Burger and his team made the discovery using organic material taken from skeletons found in 1912.
15)Is Huayna Picchu the same as Machu Picchu?
Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are two mountains located on opposite sides of the Machu Picchu archaeological site. Huayna Picchu Mountain is the most famous and most visited mountain seen in most photos of Machu Picchu.
16)Which is better Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain?
Huayna Picchu Mountain is the most preferred by most travelers. Huayna Picchu Mountain is a must-see for hikers and thrill seekers alike who wish to add an exciting and memorable adventure to their time in Machu Picchu.
17)Can I bring tripod to Machu Picchu?
Tripods are not allowed in Machu Picchu. This is because they interrupt free transit and can damage the floor of the Inca city. Selfie sticks, umbrellas and especially drones are also strictly prohibited.
18)What is the best way to visit Machu Picchu?
It depends a lot on how much time you have to visit Machu Picchu.
If you have a short time it is best to take the 1 day Machu Picchu tour from Cusco.
Machu Picchu 1 day tour: This trip starts at 5am with the pick up from your hotel in Cusco from where you will be transferred to the train station in Ollantaytambo to board the train to Aguas Calientes. This tour allows you to visit Machu Picchu in one day and return to Cusco the same day in the evening.
Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour: If you wish to explore the Sacred Valley and the next day visit Machu Picchu or vice versa you could take the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley 2 day tour from Cusco. This tour will make the most of your trip to Machu Picchu exploring the best of the Sacred Valley and ending the day boarding the train to Aguas Calientes at night.
2 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: This trip is for those seeking adventure The hike is 12.5 kilometers to the Sun Gate and then another 2 kilometers to Machu Picchu. Although the title of the trek says 2 days and 1 night, it is actually just a day hike followed by a day exploring Machu Picchu.
4 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is famous for being one of the top ten treks in the world. Starting at kilometer 82 in the Sacred Valley, the Classic Inca Trail is a route that stretches 42 kilometers over 4 days and 3 nights to reach the Sun Gate, the original entry point to the Lost City of the Incas Machu Picchu.
