Traveling to Cusco, Peru, and seeing Machu Picchu is the goal of millions of travelers around the world. But the question arises: should I go to Machu Picchu on an organized tour or on my own? The answer to this question depends on many factors and your travel skills.

• What aspects should you take into account before traveling to Machu Picchu?
• Who should choose an organized tour to Machu Picchu?
• Who should choose to go to Machu Picchu on their own?
• How to book a tour to Machu Picchu?
• Most popular tours in Machu Picchu
  • 1-Day Machu Picchu Tour
  • 1-Day Huayna Picchu Tour
  • 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour
  • 2-Day Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Tour
  • Machu Picchu + Sacred Valley Tour 2 days
  • Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4-day tour
  • Inca Jungle Tour to Machu Picchu 4 days
  • Salkantay trek tour to Machu Picchu 5 days
  • Tour Lares trek to Machu Picchu 4 days
  • Huchuy Qosqo trek tour to Machu Picchu 3 days
• How to get to Machu Picchu on your own?
• Which tickets should I buy to go to Machu Picchu on my own?
  • Entrance to Machu Picchu
  • Train ticket to Aguas Calientes
  • Bus ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
• What is the estimated budget for going to Machu Picchu?
• Tips for traveling to Machu Picchu with a tour
• Tips for visiting Machu Picchu on your own
• Frequently Asked Questions

Tourists enjoying their visit to Machu Picchu

What aspects should you take into account before traveling to Machu Picchu?

To know whether you should go to Machu Picchu on an organized tour or on your own, you must take into account many factors, such as:

• If it is your first time coming to Machu Picchu.
• If you are an experienced traveler.
• If you are on a budget.
• If you come with children or older adults.
• If you like adventure.
• If you are traveling with plenty of free time.

Who should choose an organized tour to Machu Picchu?

• An organized tour is best for first-time visitors to Machu Picchu.
• It is also ideal for tourists who want to travel comfortably and without any problems.
• It is especially ideal for those with limited travel time.

Please note the following…

• An organized tour is always the most reliable option for getting to Machu Picchu.
• The tour allows you to forget all the logistics of the trip, such as entrance fees, train tickets, bus tickets, and more.
• The tour generally involves a larger budget.
• Perhaps the biggest disadvantage of a tour is having to stick to an itinerary.

There are experiences that can only be enjoyed through a tour. For example, the famous 4-day hiking route to Machu Picchu called the Inca Trail. Because it is a route protected by the Peruvian government, the number of visitors is limited to 200 per day. Tours must be purchased online (through a travel agency) 5 or 6 months in advance.

Who should choose to go to Machu Picchu on their own?

• Traveling to Machu Picchu on your own is a good choice for those traveling on a budget.
• It is also recommended for people who like adventure.
• Tourists who have several days off during their vacation can also choose to travel independently.

Please note the following…

• To travel independently, you must purchase your Machu Picchu entrance ticket, train ticket, and bus ticket online.
• Furthermore, once in Machu Picchu, tourists must find one of the many tour guides who offer their services at the entrance gate.
• Visiting Machu Picchu on your own allows you to save more money and have free time to explore other attractions of the Wonder of the World.

How to book a tour to Machu Picchu?

• You can book a tour to Machu Picchu online or once you arrive in Cusco, Peru.
• There are one-day, two-day, and longer tours to Machu Picchu. In some cases, tours to Cusco or the Sacred Valley of the Incas are included.
• It is recommended to book a tour with an authorized travel agency that has the authorization of the Ministry of Culture of Peru .

Most popular tours in Machu Picchu

If you decide to travel to Machu Picchu on an organized tour, you can choose from the following popular tours:

1-Day Machu Picchu Tour

• The Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour offers an intense adventure. It lasts approximately 15 hours.
• Departure from Cusco at approximately 4 a.m. Then, travel by bus and train to Machu Picchu. After visiting the Inca city, return to Cusco at approximately 7 p.m.
• Includes transportation, train ticket, bus, tour guide, entrance fee and lunch (optional).
• The tour is recommended for people with only a few days of vacation.
• A tour can be purchased online or directly in Cusco (with sufficient advance notice).

• Approximate cost: $290.

1-Day Huayna Picchu Tour

• The one-day Huayna Picchu tour starts very early in the morning and ends at night. It lasts approximately 15 hours.
• The tour is scheduled to reach the entrance to Huayna Picchu between 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Therefore, it requires an early morning departure from Cusco and an evening return.
• The tour includes full transportation, a tour guide, admission to Huayna Picchu, and, occasionally, a buffet lunch.
• One-day tours to Wayna Picchu Mountain can be purchased online through a travel agency.

• Approximate cost: $310.

2-Day Machu Picchu Tour

• The tour is recommended for seniors, families, children, and tourists with enough time to get to know Machu Picchu better.
• The trip begins with a bus ride to Ollantaytambo. From there, you’ll board a train to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay. The next day, you’ll explore Machu Picchu at leisure. Finally, you’ll return to Cusco.
• Includes: transportation, train ticket, bus, tour guide, 1 night in hotel, entrance fee and lunch (optional).

• Approximate cost: $400.

2-Day Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Tour

• The 2-day tour to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu combines admission to both tourist attractions in a single 2-day trip.
• The tour begins in Cusco with a trip to Aguas Calientes. On the first night, you’ll spend the night in a hotel in the town, and the following morning, you’ll visit Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.
• There are also other similar tours that offer a visit to Machu Picchu on day 1 and a visit to Huayna Picchu on day 2.
• These tours include full transportation, one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, a tour guide, dinner, lunch, and admission to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.

• Approximate cost: $420.

Machu Picchu + Sacred Valley Tour 2 days

• This tour is one of the most popular among tourists. It combines the tourist attractions of the Sacred Valley of the Incas with a visit to Machu Picchu.
• It’s recommended for all types of tourists, especially if you’re coming with your family.
• The tour begins in the city of Cusco. Then, you’ll visit Pisac and Ollantaytambo. You’ll travel by train and spend the night in the town of Aguas Calientes. The next morning, you’ll visit Machu Picchu. Finally, you’ll return to Cusco.
• The tour includes: transportation, buffet lunch in Urubamba, train and bus tickets, tour guide, one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, and admission to all sites, including Machu Picchu.

• Approximate cost: $460.

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4-day tour

• This hiking route is one of the most amazing adventures you can have in Machu Picchu. It consists of a four-day trek with three nights of camping. The final destination is the Inca City.
• The tours begin in Cusco. You then travel by bus to the starting point of the hike, which follows trails built by the Incas hundreds of years ago and passes through beautiful landscapes.
• On the morning of day 4, tourists arrive at the ancient entrance to Machu Picchu, the Intipunku. After visiting the Inca city, they return by train and bus to Cusco.
• Hiking the Inca Trail is considered one of the best hiking routes in the world.

• Approximate cost: $620.

Inca Jungle Tour to Machu Picchu 4 days

• This adventure tour to Machu Picchu combines hiking with biking. Ziplining and canoeing are also available. The tour includes a visit to Machu Picchu.
• On day 1, you’ll travel by bus to the ‘Abra Málaga’, where you’ll cycle down to the village of Santa María.
• The remaining days include trekking to Machu Picchu (day 2 includes a visit to the Santa Teresa hot springs). The return to Cusco is by train and bus.
• During the Inca Jungle, tourists have the option of canoeing on the Vilcanota River or ziplining in the town of Santa Teresa.
• The Inca Jungle is one of the most popular tours for young adventurers around the world.

• Approximate cost: $450.

There are two routes to Machu Picchu: the traditional train route and the alternative route via the hydroelectric station. Most people choose to go by train. However, the most adventurous and economical option is the route via the hydroelectric station. The last option is the famous 4-day Inca Trail trek.

Salkantay trek tour to Machu Picchu 5 days

• This hiking tour covers 70 kilometers over 5 days of hiking and 4 nights of camping.
• It owes its name to the fact that it runs through the Salkantay snow-capped mountain pass, at 4,650 meters above sea level.
• Among the tourist attractions visited on the route are: the Humantay lagoon, the Salkantay pass, the town of Santa Teresa, the town of Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
• The route can be done with a tour or on your own and is as follows: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Lucmabamba – Santa Teresa – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu.
• Going on a tour is the safest option because it includes everything you need for the trip: complete transportation, permits, camping equipment, cooking equipment, a professional guide, and necessary utensils.
• The 5-day Salkantay trek is considered the best hiking route in Peru after the 4-day Inca Trail.

• Approximate cost: $600.

Tour Lares trek to Machu Picchu 4 days

• This hiking tour covers 37 kilometers over 4 days of hiking and 3 nights of rest (2 nights camping and 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes).
• The route is free for everyone. However, most people prefer to take a tour.
• Its difficulty is moderate. It’s known as the cultural route of Machu Picchu because along the way, you visit several Andean villages steeped in tradition.
• The route gets its name from the fact that it includes a visit to the village of Lares. There, you’ll visit the local hot springs. This village is the starting point for the hike.
• The route that the Lares trek follows is: Cusco – Lares – Wacahuasi – Casa Pasa pass – Punto Toro – Yanahuara – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu.
• The tour includes everything you need for a safe trip: full transportation, permits, camping equipment, one night in a hotel, cooking equipment, a professional guide, and necessary utensils.
• It is a recommended route for the whole family.

• Approximate cost: $675.

Huchuy Qosqo trek tour to Machu Picchu 3 days

• This hiking tour covers just 12 kilometers over 3 days of hiking and 2 nights of rest (1 night camping and 1 night in a hotel).
• While the route is free for everyone, it is recommended to take the route with an all-inclusive tour.
• The Huchuy Qosqo trek owes its name to the fact that it includes a visit to the Inca archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
• The route also includes visits to beautiful Andean landscapes, the town of Ollantaytambo, the town of Aguas Calientes, and Machu Picchu.
• The route that this tour follows is the following: Cusco – Taucca Chinchero – Huchuy Qosqo – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu.
• The 3-day Huchuy Qosqo trek to Machu Picchu includes: full transportation, permits, camping equipment, 1 night in a hotel, cooking equipment, a professional guide, and necessary utensils.
• Due to the short distance it covers, it is a recommended route for the whole family, including children.

• Approximate cost: $490.

How to get to Machu Picchu on your own?

• The most important step before going to Machu Picchu on your own is to book your Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
• You will then have to decide how to get to Machu Picchu: by train or by the alternative hydroelectric route.
• The fastest and safest way to get to Machu Picchu is by train. Tickets must be purchased online and in advance.
• After arriving in the town of Aguas Calientes, you must board one of the buses that take tourists to the entrance gate of Machu Picchu (a 30-minute trip).
• Bus tickets can be purchased in person in Aguas Calientes. Alternatively, you can book tickets online.
• Once in Machu Picchu, you must hire a tour guide. Official guides will be available to help.
• After visiting Machu Picchu, you must return to the city of Cusco in the same way as the outbound trip.

Train route to Machu Picchu

• The most common way to get there is by taking the train that will take you from the town of Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes .
• To get to Ollantaytambo and board the train, you’ll need to take a shuttle from Cusco to the train station. The trip takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Route through Hydroelectric

• For the more adventurous. This is the most economical way to reach the Inca City, but it will also take longer.
• There you can enjoy spectacular natural landscapes. The route includes a drive from Cusco to the town of Santa María (5 hours), from Santa María to Santa Teresa (2 hours), from Santa Teresa to Hidroeléctrica (30 minutes), and finally, from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes on foot (2 hours).

Tourists taking the hydroelectric route to Machu Picchu

Which tickets should I buy to go to Machu Picchu on my own?

If you decide to go to Machu Picchu on your own, you must buy the entrance fee, the train ticket and the bus ticket:

• Entrance to Machu Picchu – There are 10 types of tickets:

  • Machu Picchu + Mountain (Route 1A)
  • Machu Picchu Classic Photo or Upper Terrace (Route 1B)
  • Machu Picchu + Inti Punku (Route 1C)
  • Machu Picchu + Inka Bridge (Route 1D)
  • Machu Picchu Classic or Classic Designed Circuit (Route 2A)
  • Machu Picchu Classic Circuit or Lower Terrace (Route 2B)
  • Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain or Waynapicchu (Route 3A)
  • Machu Picchu Temples Lower Part or Designed Royalty (Route 3B)
  • Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon or Great Cavern (Route 3C)
  • Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu (3D Route)

  The entrance ticket to Wayna Picchu Mountain must be reserved 2 or 3 months in advance.

• Train ticket to Aguas Calientes – The train takes tourists from Cusco (Poroy or Ollantaytambo station) to Aguas Calientes station, at the foot of Machu Picchu. It is recommended to purchase this ticket after purchasing the ticket to Machu Picchu.

• Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Bus Ticket – The bus takes tourists from the town of Aguas Calientes to the entrance gate to Machu Picchu. However, it is possible to hike up. This is not recommended due to the fatigue involved. Tickets can be purchased in the town of Aguas Calientes.

No matter how you choose to reach Machu Picchu, the rewards will be unmatched. This Inca wonder will be worth every second of your time there. That’s why it’s chosen annually as one of the world’s best tourist destinations. Since 2007, it has been considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

What is the estimated budget for going to Machu Picchu?

• The cost of the trip to Machu Picchu depends on whether it is done in 1 day or 2 days.
• A 1-day tour to Machu Picchu costs approximately $290.
• The one-day trip to Machu Picchu on your own costs approximately $215.
• The 2-day tour to Machu Picchu costs approximately $400.
• The two-day trip to Machu Picchu on your own costs approximately $294.

The entrance fee to Huayna Picchu Mountain costs approximately $62. The ticket includes admission to Machu Picchu. It is one of the most popular among tourists. You can purchase it online through the official website or through a travel agency. However, you must purchase the ticket three or four months in advance.

Tips for traveling to Machu Picchu with a tour

• Make sure tours to Machu Picchu are organized by authorized travel agencies with secure websites.
• All tours must include the following: entrance to Machu Picchu, train and bus transportation, and transfer to the train station.
• 2-day tours must also include 1 night in a hotel in the town of Aguas Calientes.
• If you wish, you can add admission to Huayna Picchu Mountain to your tour. This reservation must be made two to three months in advance.
• Don’t forget to bring your passport, ID, and extra money to buy handicrafts in Aguas Calientes .

Tips for visiting Machu Picchu on your own

• Reserve your Machu Picchu admission ticket online in advance. Then, reserve your train ticket.
• Buses from Cusco to Ollantaytambo can be found on Pavitos Street, in the Historic Center of Cusco.
• If you’re traveling via the Hidroeléctrica route, you can take one of the buses that depart from Antonio Lorena Avenue in Cusco.
• Arrive at the train station 30 minutes early. If you miss your train ride, you are not entitled to a refund.
• Bus tickets can be purchased in the town of Aguas Calientes: Pachacutec Avenue S/N.
• Bring cash, documents, passport, and plenty of water.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) What type of Machu Picchu entrance should I choose?

  Each ticket allows you to choose different routes and views. If you want a challenging hike and spectacular views, choose Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, opt for Machu Picchu on the classic circuit.

• 2) How to get to Machu Picchu without a tour?

  You must travel from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, and then take the train to Aguas Calientes. Then, board a bus to Machu Picchu. You can also take the alternative route to the hydroelectric power station, ideal if you have more time.

• 3) Is it mandatory to hire a tour guide?

  It’s not mandatory, but it’s highly recommended. Official guides provide security and provide a historical and cultural context that enriches the visit.

• 4) When should I book my ticket to Huayna Picchu?

  Book 2 to 3 months in advance. This is one of the most popular routes, and capacity is limited (200 people per day), so it sells out quickly.

• 5) How long does it take to visit Machu Picchu?

  It depends on the type of ticket. A general tour lasts between 2 and 4 hours. If you choose a route with mountains (Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain), add 1 to 2 hours more.

• 6) Which entry route to Machu Picchu should I choose?

  The choice depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. The most peaceful and cultural routes are Circuit 1B (Classic Photo) and Circuit 2A (Lower Classic). For a more adventurous experience, there are circuits with access to mountains like Huayna Picchu (3A) or Machu Picchu Mountain (1A). Those looking for panoramic views can opt for Inti Punku (1C) or Inka Bridge (1D).

• 7) What is the best season to visit Machu Picchu?

  The dry season, from April to October, is ideal for visiting Machu Picchu, as there is less rain and the trails are safer. July and August are the busiest months, so it is recommended to make reservations well in advance.

• 8) Is it advisable to walk from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?

  Hiking is possible and free, but requires good physical condition. The climb takes approximately two hours up steep steps in the middle of the jungle. Most travelers prefer to take the bus for convenience and to save energy for the visit to the archaeological site.

• 9) When is the high season in Machu Picchu?

  The high season in Machu Picchu is between June 19 and November 2.

• 10) What routes are open during the high season in Machu Picchu?

  During the high season in Machu Picchu, 4 new routes are enabled: Machu Picchu + Inti Punku (Route 1C), Machu Picchu + Inka Bridge (Route 1D), Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon or Great Cavern (Route 3C) and Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu (Route 3D).

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu

By: Camila V.

“A marvel that truly thrills“

“Being in Machu Picchu is like traveling back in time. The combination of history, nature and mysticism creates a magical atmosphere. It is a place that touches your soul and remains engraved forever.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, May 2, 2025