Machu Picchu is open year-round, but the best time to visit is between May and October, during the dry season. This period offers clearer skies and better hiking conditions. However, rain can still occur at any time, so it's always a good idea to be prepared for changing weather.

The peak season is from July to August, when the site can be crowded with tourists. To avoid the busiest months, consider visiting in May, June, or September for a balance of good weather and fewer visitors.

Trips to Machu Picchu like no other
 The citadel of Machu Picchu can only be reached on foot or via Machu Picchu Town (formerly Aguas Calientes), a one-hour 45 minute train ride from Ollantaytambo, in the Sacred Valley.

Once at Machu Picchu Town, it is a 20-minute bus ride up the mountain to the citadel. For those wanting more time to fully appreciate this world masterpiece, we recommend a stay in Machu Picchu Town.

Within the Machu Picchu site, there are a series of trails that take visitors around its temples, houses, storerooms and sacrificial sites, and there are various hikes to neighbouring peaks such as Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, enabling you to enjoy different viewpoints of the magnificent ruins.

Here are the top things to do at Machu Picchu:

• Explore the Main Citadel: Wander through the ancient ruins and discover iconic structures such as the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana Stone.
• Hike to Huayna Picchu or Huchay Picchu: Challenge yourself with a hike up one of the mountains overlooking the citadel for incredible panoramic views.
• Visit the Inca Bridge: Explore this hidden section of Machu Picchu, where the Incas built a narrow bridge as a defensive point.
• Hike the Inca Trail to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku): Walk the famous Inca Trail for sweeping views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding valley, a prime spot for sunrise.
• Explore the Lares, Salkantay, or Choquequirao Treks: For a more adventurous experience, embark on one of these alternative treks that offer incredible scenery, cultural immersion, and a less-crowded path to Machu Picchu.
• Learn About Inca History: Join a guided tour to uncover the rich history and significance of the site in the Inca Empire.
• Take a Scenic Train Ride to Machu Picchu: Arrive in style with a scenic train ride from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, passing through lush landscapes.
• Photograph the Iconic Views: Capture the beauty of Machu Picchu from various vantage points, especially from the main plaza and Huayna Picchu.
• Visit the Museum: Gain deeper insights into the archaeological importance of Machu Picchu at the Machu Picchu Museum in Aguas Calientes.
• Relax in Aguas Calientes Hot Springs: Unwind and relax in the soothing thermal waters of the Aguas Calientes hot springs after a day of exploration.

The Inca Trail
Perhaps the most well-known and iconic way to reach the citadel is to follow the Inca Trail. This four-day trek follows ancient pathways through outstanding scenery and past countless centuries-old ruins before finally reaching Machu Picchu at sunrise – an experience that will stay with you forever.
Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu

While the Inca Trail is the most famous route, there are several other treks that offer equally impressive landscapes, cultural experiences, and fewer crowds:

Lares Trek
This beautiful route offers a more remote and traditional experience, passing through picturesque Andean villages where you can interact with local communities. The Lares Trek offers scenic views of snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and stunning valleys. It’s a great option for those seeking a quieter, less trafficked alternative to the Inca Trail, with the chance to witness authentic rural life and indigenous culture.

Salkantay Trek
For those looking for a more challenging adventure, the Salkantay Trek is a perfect option. Known for its dramatic landscapes, this five-day trek takes you through high-altitude mountain passes, lush cloud forests, and expansive valleys. You’ll trek beneath the towering Salkantay Peak, one of the highest mountains in the region, before descending into warmer, subtropical areas and reaching Machu Picchu through the lush jungle. The Salkantay Trek is a rewarding journey for experienced hikers seeking rugged beauty and stunning panoramas.

Choquequirao Trek
The Choquequirao Trek is perfect for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience. This challenging trek takes you to the remote Choquequirao ruins, often referred to as the “sister city” of Machu Picchu. The journey is physically demanding but offers spectacular views and a chance to explore the less-visited Inca site before continuing down to Machu Picchu. This trek is ideal for those who want a more immersive experience in nature and history, as well as the chance to explore one of Peru’s hidden gems.