Places not to be missed during your trip to Machu Picchu
These are some places you can’t miss on your trip to Machu Picchu. The City in the Clouds is one of life’s most stimulating experiences. However, during your trip to Machu Picchu, you can enjoy more than just the Inca City, as there’s much more to explore. Just seeing some archaeological sites is enough to realize that the Incas were among the world’s greatest engineers and architects. If you’re already on your way to Machu Picchu, these are some places you can’t miss and enjoy without spending a lot of money.
Visiting Machu Picchu – Classic photo
Cusco
During our trip, one of the first stops we’ll make, and also one of the last, is the city of Cusco. Here, we’ll find several nearby activities that will give us a more complete overview of the land of the Incas.
The Church of Santo Domingo “Coricancha”
Your visit to Machu Picchu usually begins in the city of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. Today, it is filled with hotels, restaurants, shops, and historical sites, including the Coricancha.
Coricancha means “golden enclosure” and was one of the most important sites for the Incas. It contained the Temple of the Sun, the most important, along with sanctuaries dedicated to the Moon, Venus, the Pleiades, thunder, and the rainbow, according to art historian Jack Daulton.
Although the Spanish destroyed much of the original Inca complex, the remaining foundations bear witness to the Inca’s ingenuity, such as the rectangular stone blocks bolted together with molten metal in a trapezoidal fashion to withstand the region’s frequent earthquakes. The sophistication with which these walls were constructed would make even contemporary engineers proud.
In fact, the entire monumental center of the Imperial City of Cusco is filled with colonial buildings constructed on the imposing foundations of destroyed Inca temples and palaces. Walking through its streets will give you the impression of visiting a vast museum. Trust us, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire will be worth the time you spend.
Coricancha
Sacsayhuamán
The size of the stones at Sacsayhuaman makes everyone look small. These ancient walls from before the 15th century are built with giant stone blocks, larger than any seen in the pyramids of Egypt, joined together in such a way that a knife blade cannot fit between them, but without any mortar.
Furthermore, during your tour, you’ll be able to observe how the Inca fortification blends seamlessly with the surrounding nature. This is evident in all of its citadels and main buildings, revealing their respect for Mother Earth (Pachamama).
From Sacsayhuamán, we’ll also find spectacular viewpoints from which to appreciate the full magnitude of the city of Cusco.
Visiting the Sacsayhuaman fortress
Cusco Tourist Ticket
If you want to visit the Sacsayhuamán archaeological park on your own, you’ll need the Cusco Tourist Ticket for Circuit 1, which also allows you to visit the Qenqo archaeological site, the Puca Pucara archaeological center, and the Tambomachay archaeological complex. All of these sites are located within walking distance of the city of Cusco, making it an ideal half-day tour during your trip. However, if you want to avoid itineraries and planning, you can also visit these sites as part of the Cusco City Tour, focusing solely on enjoying these wonders.
Machu Picchu Museum of the Casa Concha
One of the best pre-tourist experiences to the Inca city of Machu Picchu is the Casa Concha Museum, which houses many of the artifacts extracted by Hiram Bingham during the excavations following its “rediscovery,” brought from Yale University in the U.S.
It’s an ideal place to discover important artifacts from the Inca culture, broadening our historical perspective and giving greater meaning to our experiences through its archaeological sites.
The Machu Picchu Museum at Casa Concha is located just a short walk from Cusco’s main square and is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Tourist looking at ceramics at the Casa Concha Museum
The Eucalyptus Forest
If you’re looking for a day of rest and relaxation in Cusco, a visit to the Qenqo eucalyptus forest is an ideal option. Here, you’ll find a large area where you can engage in many outdoor activities, making for a relaxing day during your trip to Machu Picchu.
The route is very easy, as you won’t have to walk for long. Any transportation that takes you there will drop you off just a few steps away so you can explore. From the city center, it’s approximately a 25-minute walk.
Qenqo eucalyptus forest
Sacred Valley of the Incas
One of the most magical places in Cusco is the Sacred Valley, an ideal place to spend the first days of our trip, given its approximate altitude of 2,900 meters above sea level, allowing us to acclimatize while taking leisurely tours through its magical Inca towns and citadels.
| Town | Main attractions | Type of experience | Distance from Cusco |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pisac | Pisac archaeological site and its craft market | Cultural, archaeological | 33 kilometers (1 hour by car) |
| Ollantaytambo | Inca archaeological complex and cobblestone streets from the Inca era | Archaeological, historical | 72 kilometers (1 hour 45 minutes by car) |
| Urubamba | Top-quality tourist services and natural sites | Gastronomic style=»width: 50px;», rest, exploration | 57 kilometers (1 hour 20 minutes by car) |
| Chinchero | Archaeological park and traditional weaving centers with demonstrations | Cultural style=»width: 50px;», textile, rural | 30 kilometers (1 hour by car) |
| Trace | Tourist services, cultural activities and natural sites | Local, traditional | 50 kilometers (1 hour 30 minutes by car) |
| Lamay | Typical gastronomy and nature walks | Gastronomic, experiential | 40 kilometers (1 hour 15 minutes by car) |
Ollantaytambo
This impressive Inca village was built on a bend in the Urubamba River; according to Nat Geo, this Inca control center played a crucial role in preventing the Spanish from reaching the Inca city of Machu Picchu.
Ollantaytambo will reward you with impressive Inca buildings, perched on a cliff above the Urubamba River. It is also the last station from which you can catch the train to Machu Picchu; otherwise, you will have to travel the 4-day Inca Trail.
Ollantaytambo is a town with Inca foundations that will transport you back to the Tahuantinsuyu era. It’s easy to get around, with no need for transportation. It also boasts a wealth of tourist infrastructure to provide a welcoming retreat on your way to or from Machu Picchu.
Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site
Pisac
If you still have time before your visit to Machu Picchu, we recommend visiting the beautiful colonial town of Pisac, in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, next to the impressive ruins above the city, from where you will see some of the most important temples of this culture, as well as panoramic views of the entire Sacred Valley.
Another of its great attractions is its artisan market , the most prominent in the entire Cusco region, where you can learn more about traditional Andean techniques. It’s an ideal place to buy a souvenir and fill your eyes with colorful garments steeped in history. It also boasts one of the finest 950 silver jewelry stores, where work is done using ancient techniques and unique designs.
Pisac archaeological site
Aguas Calientes hot springs (Machu Picchu town)
The town of Aguas Calientes is home to thermal baths. While they are not the most beautiful in the world, their waters are recommended for treating conditions such as osteoarthritis, arthritis, and other bone and joint problems. Don’t miss the opportunity to receive treatment and enjoy the thermal baths of Aguas Calientes.
Furthermore, these hot springs are located in the midst of the natural beauty of Machu Picchu, so we can feel more connected to the surrounding biodiversity, enjoying an almost magical moment.
Hot Springs of Aguas Calientes
Inti Punku (Ollantaytambo)
The town of Ollantaytambo is the starting point for one of the most impressive hikes in the entire Sacred Valley. The trek takes approximately seven hours (round trip), crossing some of the most beautiful landscapes.
The hike is of medium difficulty, traversing mountain slopes that will lead us to the enigmatic Inca structure of Inti Punku (Sun Gate). Upon arrival, we’ll be able to see immense mountains and snow-capped peaks that give the place a magical aura.
It’s an ideal place to meditate or relax, given that we’ll be at an altitude of approximately 3,900 meters above sea level. It’s very important to bring plenty of water and snacks, and it’s also advisable to set out early in the morning to enjoy the hike at a leisurely pace.
Inti Punku – Puerta del Sol of Ollantaytambo
Tips and recommendations
To enrich your travel experience prior to Machu Picchu, we’ll help you by providing some tips and recommendations that will help you feel better prepared for your visit. Find them here:
- To acclimatize, it’s essential to take light hikes during your first few days in Cusco to avoid altitude sickness. You can choose from our list of hikes.
- To enter the Machu Picchu Casa Concha museum and the Coricancha temple, you will need tickets, which are sold at the ticket offices on-site.
- During your trip to Machu Picchu, from November to March, you’ll experience the rainy season, so you’ll need to be prepared at all times with waterproof clothing or a rain poncho.
- When you visit Machu Picchu and the Cusco region from April to October, you’ll find the dry season, with clearer weather and a higher number of visitors.
- On your tour of the Sacred Valley, don’t forget to visit each of the magical towns this area is home to. In each one, you’ll find reasons to be amazed and learn more about this rich culture.
- To visit the main archaeological sites in the Cusco region, you’ll need the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which includes three circuits depending on your travel route. The comprehensive ticket is also available, which is the most recommended option and allows you to visit Cusco’s most important historical sites, along with museums and cultural centers.
- Before reaching Machu Picchu, stop in Ollantaytambo to admire its Inca citadel. You’ll also find breathtaking hikes alongside some of the best scenery in the entire Sacred Valley.
- The standard tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas will take you to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. The classic tour is the best option to immerse yourself more deeply in the grandeur of this territory.
- Hiking during your last days in Cusco will allow you to learn more about nature, and many of them follow Inca trails like Huchuy Qosqo .
- Remember that with Boletomachupicchu, you can book experiences in Machu Picchu and all of Cusco. Ask our advisors about the options available to enhance your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) What are the best places to visit before arriving at Machu Picchu?
The best places to visit before reaching Machu Picchu are Coricancha, Sacsayhuamán, and the Machu Picchu Museum at Casa Concha. In addition, in the Sacred Valley, you can visit places like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero.
2) What is Coricancha?
The Coricancha was the main temple honoring the Sun of the Inca Empire. It is currently merged with the Church of Santo Domingo, making it an impressive historical site.
3) Is it worth visiting Sacsayhuamán on my trip to Machu Picchu?
Yes, Sacsayhuamán is one of the most impressive structures in the world, thanks to the size of its stones and its architectural precision. It also offers panoramic views of Cusco.
4) What will I see at the Machu Picchu Museum at Casa Concha?
This museum houses original artifacts extracted by Hiram Bingham in 1912, including ceramics, stone objects, and textiles. It’s ideal for contextualizing what will later be seen in the Inca citadel.
5) What can I do in the Qenqo Eucalyptus Forest?
The Qenqo eucalyptus forest allows you to take light walks, picnics, and rest in a peaceful setting without leaving the city.
6) Which towns should I visit in the Sacred Valley?
The most recommended towns in the Sacred Valley are Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, and Chinchero. They are also visited on traditional tours of this area.
7) What can I do in Ollantaytambo?
Ollantaytambo not only preserves an intact Inca citadel, but is also the main station for the train to Machu Picchu. Along the way, we’ll discover streets that preserve the essence of Tahuantinsuyu buildings, as well as hikes through natural landscapes.
8) What can I do in Pisac besides visiting its archaeological site?
Pisac is also popular for its artisan market, which sells textiles, ceramics, and silver jewelry. It’s also a great place to try traditional dishes and take cultural tours.
9) What is Inti Punku?
It is an ancient Inca ceremonial gateway built high above Ollantaytambo. Access is via a seven-hour round-trip hike through mountainous landscapes.
10) Is it necessary to acclimatize before visiting Machu Picchu?
Cusco is definitely over 3,300 meters above sea level, so it’s advisable to spend at least two days acclimatizing in the city or the Sacred Valley before climbing Machu Picchu.
Advice from people who have been there
By: Andrea B.“A magical town“
“First I visited the Inca terraces at the top, then I went down to the market and felt that time did not pass. Everything is steeped in history and life. I recommend going early to enjoy the scenery calmly.“
By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, July 4, 2025