Do you have a specific question about your trip to Machu Picchu? Below is a list of frequently asked questions about the trip to Machu Picchu. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please send your question to info@boletomachupicchu.com and we will get in touch with you as soon as possible.

• What is Machu Picchu?
• How do I buy Machu Picchu tickets?
• When to go to Machu Picchu?
• How to get to Machu Picchu from Lima?
• How to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco?
• How to go to Machu Picchu by train?
• What is the Inca Trail?
• How to get to Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo?
• How to get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?
• What to see at Machu Picchu?
• Should I hire a guide at Machu Picchu?
• Why was Machu Picchu built?
• Can I hike up to Machu Picchu or do I have to take the bus?
• What is Huayna Picchu?
• Where can I buy train tickets to Machu Picchu?
• What are the train stations to Machu Picchu?
• Can I take the local train?
• Is it easy to find accommodation in Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes)?
• How much luggage can I carry on the train?
• Is there a limit to the sales of Machu Picchu tickets?
• Can I visit Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu on the same day?
• How do I hire a guide at Machu Picchu?
• From what time can I enter Machu Picchu?
• Do I need to bring any documents to enter Machu Picchu?
• Where are the hot springs of Machu Picchu?
• Is it necessary to hire a travel agency to go to Machu Picchu?
• Can Machu Picchu be visited by people of all ages?
• Where can I get more information?

What is Machu Picchu?

• Machu Picchu is an Inca city built in a green environment of mountains and rivers, an impressive historical place, a mystical and mysterious place full of energy; it is also a mixed heritage of humanity and one of the most desired destinations in the world.
• It is located in a cloud forest between the Andes mountain range and the Amazon rainforest foothills, at 2,400 meters above sea level, surrounded by two mountains and other mountains.
• An average of 5,000 tourists can enter Machu Picchu each day. If you enter through the Inca Trail, you will pass through mountain passes and beautiful jungle landscapes. If you choose to come by train, it will take you from the town of Ollantaytambo through the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Machu Picchu

How do I buy Machu Picchu tickets?

• You can buy Machu Picchu tickets through the website of a travel agency or the official online sales website.
• For this, you need to check availability, fill out the reservation form, make the payment, and print your tickets.

When to go to Machu Picchu?

• The season is not really a problem at Machu Picchu, the minimum temperatures range between 8 ºC and the maximum around 20 ºC. We recommend always carrying something waterproof, as the geography of Machu Picchu can lead to rainfall at any time of the year.
• There are 2 seasons in Machu Picchu: the dry season and the rainy season. The rainy season lasts from November to March and is characterized by constant rainfall. The dry season lasts from April to October and is characterized by little rain and sunny weather.

How to get to Machu Picchu from Lima?

To get from Lima to Machu Picchu, you need to travel to the city of Cusco by plane or bus.

• Bus Lima – Cusco: It costs between US$ 50 and US$ 60 and will take you from Lima to Cusco. We recommend considering this as a last option, as you may not enjoy sitting for 20 hours, unless you have time to enjoy stops in some cities along the way. You can visit the Nazca Lines or the city of Arequipa.
• Plane Lima – Cusco: This is the best option, it will cost you between US$ 100 and US$ 120, and you will be in Cusco in just 1 hour. Several flights depart daily from Jorge Chávez International Airport.

How to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco?

• There are three ways to get to Machu Picchu: the classic train trip through the Sacred Valley, the historic 4-day Inca Trail, or the route through the Hydro-Electric Station.
• The most common option is to travel by train, as it is easy and fast.
• The Inca Trail is the longest option, but it allows you to experience more of the Inca heritage on an unforgettable adventure.
• Finally, the cheapest option is the Hydro-Electric route, which involves a long car ride to Santa Teresa (5 hours) and then a short walk (2 hours).

How to go to Machu Picchu by train?

• Traveling by train is the simplest way to get to Machu Picchu. It crosses the Sacred Valley of the Incas in one of the most incredible train rides in the world.
• You can book a tour that includes the train trip or buy the ticket and travel on your own.
• To buy your ticket on your own, you need to visit the websites of the two companies in charge: Peru Rail or Inca Rail. Then, you can choose the schedule and type of train you prefer. Payment is made with a credit or debit card.

What is the Inca Trail?

• The Inca Trail hiking experience, almost 600 years old, is considered one of the five best hikes in the world.
• The route travels almost 40 kilometers from the starting point to the final destination at the Inti Punku Gate in Machu Picchu.
• You can only hike the Inca Trail by hiring an authorized travel agency to maintain strict control over visitors and better preserve the paths.
• There are two versions of the Inca Trail: the classic Inca Trail (4 days) or the shorter version (2 days).
• Remember that you can hike the Inca Trail any month except February when it is closed due to heavy rains.

Inca Trail

How to get to Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo?

• In Ollantaytambo, you should board a train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town).
• The train takes about 2 hours and tickets must be reserved in advance.
• To get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, you can take one of the buses from ‘Pavitos’ street in the Historic Center. Alternatively, you can hire a private service through a travel agency. This trip takes about 2 hours.

How to get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?

• Aguas Calientes is the name of the town at the foot of Machu Picchu Mountain, where the Inca City of the same name is built.
• In Aguas Calientes, you can take buses to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
• Although you can hike up, taking the bus is the best option.
• Remember that the tickets are valid for a one-time use and have a duration of 3 days. You can purchase the bus tickets in person in Aguas Calientes or through a travel agency’s website.

What to see at Machu Picchu?

• Machu Picchu houses almost 150 amazing structures such as: the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Intihuatana, or the Temple of the Moon.

Below is a list of places you cannot miss at Machu Picchu:

• The Temple of the Sun.
• The Intihuatana.
• The Temple of the Three Windows.
• The Temple of the Condor.
• The Mirror Room.
• The Stairway of the Fountains.
• Huayna Picchu Mountain.
• The Temple of the Moon.
• The Gate of the Sun (Intipunku).
• The Main Square.
• The Royal Tomb.
• The Sacred Rock.

Should I hire a guide at Machu Picchu?

• Although it is not mandatory to hire a professional guide, it is highly recommended. By hiring this service, you’ll have a much more informative tour, be safer, and follow the correct path.
• You can hire a professional guide in the town of Machu Picchu or through a travel agency for added safety.

Why was Machu Picchu built?

• The Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary was built as a residence for the Inca elite, in addition to being a small citadel.
• It was constructed atop mountains, taking the name of the highest mountain in the area, Machu Picchu.
• Due to the rich biodiversity surrounding the area, you’ll notice how Machu Picchu seems to merge with nature.
• Machu Picchu is located in an easily accessible place, even for the Inca himself. It is said to have also been an isolated monastery where high priests made offerings to the gods.

Can I hike up to Machu Picchu or do I have to take the bus?

• There is a path that goes from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. Although you can hike, the most recommended option is to take the bus.
• Walking from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu takes approximately 2 hours and requires a lot of effort, as it is an uphill climb on stone steps.
• If you want to experience this route, it’s best to do it on your return journey so you won’t overexert yourself.
• Buses to Machu Picchu start operating at 5:30 AM and run every 20 minutes or until full. The last bus departs from Aguas Calientes at 3:30 PM.

What is Huayna Picchu?

• Huayna Picchu is the peak located next to the Inca City of Machu Picchu. The top of this mountain offers some of the most spectacular aerial views of Machu Picchu.
• Reaching the top of Huayna Picchu is an incredible adventure. You hike up a steep path built along the side of the mountain. Most of the path is between the mountain walls and cliffs.
• On Huayna Picchu, the Incas built, in addition to hundreds of stone steps, the famous Temple of the Moon.
• Access is not allowed for those under 12 years old. It is also not recommended for those who suffer from vertigo.

Where can I buy train tickets to Machu Picchu?

• Since 2009, there have been 2 companies offering train services to Machu Picchu: Peru Rail and Inca Rail. Both companies offer a range of services from budget to luxury private services.
• Peru Rail – You can buy tickets online through their website: www.perurail.com. Payment can be made with credit or debit cards. Alternatively, you can buy tickets in person at their offices in the following locations:
  • Lima Office: Malecón de la Reserva 610 (Larcomar Shopping Center).
  • Cusco Office: Portal de Carnes 214 (Plaza de Armas, Cusco).
  • Wanchaq Office: Avenida Pachacutec s/n (Wanchaq District).
• Inca Rail – Their website is www.incarail.com. Tickets can be purchased through their site and paid for using Visa or MasterCard. You can also buy tickets in person at the following offices:
  • Lima Office: Avenida Pérez Aranibar 1874, San Isidro, Lima.
  • Cusco Office: Calle Portal de Panes 105 (Plaza de Armas, Cusco).

What are the train stations to Machu Picchu?

There are 5 train stations to Machu Picchu: 4 for the outbound journey and 1 for the return journey.

• San Pedro Station: The station located in the city of Cusco. Few train services depart from here.
  • Address: Cascaparo 154, Cusco.
• Poroy Station: The station closest to the city of Cusco. Few train services depart from here, including the luxury Hiram Bingham train.
  • Address: Calle Rondan s/n, Poroy.
• Urubamba Station: One of the least used stations by tourists. The luxury service ‘Sacred Valley’ departs from here.
  • Address: Avenida Ferrocarril s/n, Urubamba, Sacred Valley of the Incas.
• Ollantaytambo Station: The most used station for traveling to Machu Picchu, as most train services depart from here.
  • Address: Avenida Ferrocarril s/n, Ollantaytambo, Sacred Valley of the Incas.
• Machu Picchu Station: The only station from which trains return to Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, and Poroy.
  • Address: Barrio Las Orquídeas s/n, Aguas Calientes.

Can I take the local train?

• No. This train is reserved exclusively for Peruvians. To purchase these tickets, you must present your Peruvian national identity document.
• Peruvians can buy local train tickets at any of the previously mentioned stations. However, like any service, tickets must be purchased one week in advance.
• The local train is not a tourist service and tends to be crowded, with people standing in the aisles.

Is it easy to find accommodation in Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes)?

• If there is one thing that is abundant in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Aguas Calientes, it is hotels of all prices and categories. However, if you visit during the high season (June, July, and August), hotels must be reserved in advance.

How much luggage can I carry on the train?

• Trains to Machu Picchu will only allow you to carry hand luggage, and it must not exceed 5 kg (11 lbs).
• Therefore, it is recommended to bring only the essentials to Machu Picchu.

Attractions in Machu Picchu

Is there a limit on the sale of Machu Picchu tickets?

There are ten types of tickets to visit Machu Picchu, each offering a different experience with specific times. The number of tickets available for online sale varies depending on the date of the visit, considering the high season (from June 19 to November 2) and the regular season (from November 3 to June 18).

• Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket (route 1A) – 300 tickets available year-round

  • Group 1: entry to Machu Picchu from 7 AM / entry to the Machu Picchu Mountain route from 8 to 9 AM.
  • Group 2: entry to Machu Picchu from 9 AM / entry to the Machu Picchu Mountain route from 10 to 11 AM.

• Classic Photo Terrace Ticket (route 1B) – 350 tickets in the regular season and 400 tickets in the high season

  • Group 1: entry to Machu Picchu from 6 AM.
  • Group 2: entry to Machu Picchu from 7 AM.
  • Group 3: entry to Machu Picchu from 8 AM.
  • Group 4: entry to Machu Picchu from 9 AM.
  • Group 5: entry to Machu Picchu from 10 AM.
  • Group 6: entry to Machu Picchu from 11 AM.
  • Group 7: entry to Machu Picchu from 12 PM.
  • Group 8: entry to Machu Picchu from 1 PM.
  • Group 9: entry to Machu Picchu from 2 PM.
  • Group 10: entry to Machu Picchu from 3 PM.

• Inti Punku Gate Ticket (route 1C) – 180 tickets only during the high season

  • Group 1: entry to Machu Picchu from 7 AM / entry to the Inti Punku route from 8 to 9 AM.
  • Group 2: entry to Machu Picchu from 8 AM / entry to the Inti Punku route from 9 to 10 AM.
  • Group 3: entry to Machu Picchu from 9 AM / entry to the Inti Punku route from 10 to 11 AM.
  • Group 4: entry to Machu Picchu from 10 AM / entry to the Inti Punku route from 11 AM to 12 PM.

• Inca Bridge Ticket (route 1D) – 80 tickets only during the high season

  • Group 1: entry to Machu Picchu from 8 AM / entry to the Inca Bridge route from 9 to 10 AM.
  • Group 2: entry to Machu Picchu from 9 AM / entry to the Inca Bridge route from 10 to 11 AM.
  • Group 3: entry to Machu Picchu from 10 AM / entry to the Inca Bridge route from 11 AM to 12 PM.
  • Group 4: entry to Machu Picchu from 11 AM / entry to the Inca Bridge route from 12 PM to 1 PM.

• Classic Designed Ticket (route 2A) – 950 tickets in the regular season and 1200 tickets in the high season

  • Group 1: entry to Machu Picchu from 6 AM.
  • Group 2: entry to Machu Picchu from 7 AM.
  • Group 3: entry to Machu Picchu from 8 AM.
  • Group 4: entry to Machu Picchu from 9 AM.
  • Group 5: entry to Machu Picchu from 10 AM.
  • Group 6: entry to Machu Picchu from 11 AM.
  • Group 7: entry to Machu Picchu from 12 PM.
  • Group 8: entry to Machu Picchu from 1 PM.
  • Group 9: entry to Machu Picchu from 2 PM.
  • Group 10: entry to Machu Picchu from 3 PM.

• Lower Terrace Classic Ticket (route 2B) – 950 tickets in the regular season and 1200 tickets in the high season

  • Group 1: entry to Machu Picchu from 6 AM.
  • Group 2: entry to Machu Picchu from 7 AM.
  • Group 3: entry to Machu Picchu from 8 AM.
  • Group 4: entry to Machu Picchu from 9 AM.
  • Group 5: entry to Machu Picchu from 10 AM.
  • Group 6: entry to Machu Picchu from 11 AM.
  • Group 7: entry to Machu Picchu from 12 PM.
  • Group 8: entry to Machu Picchu from 1 PM.
  • Group 9: entry to Machu Picchu from 2 PM.
  • Group 10: entry to Machu Picchu from 3 PM.

• Huayna Picchu Mountain Ticket (route 3A) – 350 tickets available year-round

  • Group 1: entry to Machu Picchu from 7 AM / entry to the Huayna Picchu Mountain route from 8 to 9 AM.
  • Group 2: entry to Machu Picchu from 10 AM / entry to the Huayna Picchu Mountain route from 11 AM to 12 PM.

• Lower Temple Royal Designed Ticket (route 3B) – 600 tickets in the regular season and 650 tickets in the high season

  • Group 1: entry to Machu Picchu from 6 AM.
  • Group 2: entry to Machu Picchu from 7 AM.
  • Group 3: entry to Machu Picchu from 8 AM.
  • Group 4: entry to Machu Picchu from 9 AM.
  • Group 5: entry to Machu Picchu from 10 AM.
  • Group 6: entry to Machu Picchu from 11 AM.
  • Group 7: entry to Machu Picchu from 12 PM.
  • Group 8: entry to Machu Picchu from 1 PM.
  • Group 9: entry to Machu Picchu from 2 PM.
  • Group 10: entry to Machu Picchu from 3 PM.

• Temple of the Moon or Great Cavern Ticket (route 3C) – 200 tickets only in the high season

  • Group 1: entry to Machu Picchu from 8 AM / entry to the Temple of the Moon route from 9 to 10 AM.
  • Group 2: entry to Machu Picchu from 9 AM / entry to the Temple of the Moon route from 10 to 11 AM.

• Huchuy Picchu Mountain Ticket (route 3D) – 50 tickets only in the high season

  • Group 1: entry to Machu Picchu from 7 AM / entry to the Huchuy Picchu Mountain route from 8 to 9 AM.
  • Group 2: entry to Machu Picchu from 10 AM / entry to the Huchuy Picchu Mountain route from 11 AM to 12 PM.

Can I visit Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu on the same day?

• Yes, with the Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket (route 3A), you will also have access to Circuit 3 of Machu Picchu, which covers the lower section of the Inca citadel.
• If you’re looking for a more comprehensive tour, you can additionally purchase one of the Classic Machu Picchu circuit tickets (route 2A or 2B) at a different time to enhance your experience.
• Remember that Machu Picchu is open every day of the year from 6 AM to 5 PM. Tickets allow for an average stay of 3 hours, although if your entry includes a hiking route, you can extend your visit to 5 or 6 hours.

How can I hire a guide in Machu Picchu?

• The guided tour service at Machu Picchu varies based on the service you choose: shared group or private group.
• The shared group includes visitors from different origins.
• The private group is exclusive for families, couples, or groups of friends.
• You can hire a tour guide at the entrance gate of Machu Picchu. Another option is to hire one online through a travel agency.

From what time can I enter Machu Picchu?

• Machu Picchu is open every day of the year from 6 AM to 5 PM. The last entry time to the Inca citadel is at 3 PM.

Do I need any documents to enter Machu Picchu?

• To enter Machu Picchu, you must present the printed Machu Picchu ticket and the document with which you purchased the ticket: passport, identity document, or university ID.
• The documents must be valid at the time of entry to Machu Picchu.

Where are the thermal baths of Machu Picchu?

• The Thermal Baths of Machu Picchu are located at the end of Pachacutec Avenue in the town of Aguas Calientes (15 minutes walking from the Main Square).
• The average temperature of the thermal waters ranges from 35ºC (95ºF) to 43ºC (109ºF).

• Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 5:30 AM to 8 PM.
• Rates: Foreigners 20 S/. / Nationals 10 S/. / Children 5 S/.

Is it necessary to hire a travel agency to go to Machu Picchu?

• No, you can organize your trip to Machu Picchu on your own. However, you will need to purchase all the necessary tickets and services in advance.
• To make your trip to the world wonder easier, it is highly recommended to book a tour package, so you can focus solely on enjoying the experience.
• Booking a tour package should also be done in advance to include the Machu Picchu ticket on your preferred route.

Can Machu Picchu be visited by people of all ages?

• Machu Picchu can be visited by people of all ages.
• However, some hiking routes only allow entry for those over 12 years old. This is the case with the Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket, the Huchuy Picchu Mountain ticket, the Temple of the Moon, and the Inca Bridge.

Where can I get more information?

• If you have a question, you can contact us at info@boletomachupicchu.com. You can also visit our ‘Tips’ section, where you will find everything you need to know about your trip to Machu Picchu.

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu

By: Selena D.

“Adventure on the Huayna Picchu Mountain“

“One of the most adrenaline-pumping moments of my life. I believe the landscapes from the summit were the true stars of my trip to Machu Picchu. It truly is the best entrance one can choose.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, February 25, 2026