PERÚ TRAVEL PACKAGES
30 January, 2024
Have you ever dreamed of visiting the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu but wondered how much time you would need to explore this magical place? From walks along ancient trails to moments of awe in front of spectacular views, get ready to find out how long it will take to live the complete Machu Picchu experience.
Exploring Machu Picchu is a unique experience that stays in the memory of those who live it. This Inca citadel, hidden among the mountains and clouds of Peru, is a treasure full of history, mystery, and natural beauty. But how much time do you really need to immerse yourself in its splendor?
To begin with, a tour of Machu Picchu is generally divided into several parts, including arrival at the site, exploration of the citadel, and time for additional activities. Although the duration may vary for each traveler.
From Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, you can take a bus that will take you to the entrance of the citadel in approximately 30 minutes. It is recommended to arrive early, as the early hours of the day offer spectacular views with fewer crowds.
Once inside, a typical Machu Picchu tour lasts between 2 to 3 hours. This tour includes visits to key points of interest such as the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, the Intihuatana, and the Temple of the Three Windows. These places are essential to understanding the history and Inca architecture.
After the guided tour, you will have time to explore on your own. Many visitors take the opportunity to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, which requires additional tickets and must be booked in advance. These hikes can take between 2 to 4 additional hours, depending on the route and your pace.
If your energy and schedule allow, you can explore other less-traveled trails within the complex, such as the Inca Bridge or the Inti Punku (Sun Gate), which offer unique perspectives of the citadel and its surroundings.
Choosing the best tour to Machu Picchu can be like choosing the best ice cream flavor: there are options for every taste. But how do you know which one is ideal for you? In this comparison, we help you understand the differences between the main options and the times involved, so you can make the best decision.
This is the most popular and perfect if you want a complete experience without exerting yourself too much physically. The classic tour includes a guided tour of the most iconic areas of the citadel, such as the Main Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, and the agricultural zone.
Duration: Approximately 4 hours, including free exploration time after the guided tour. It is ideal if you have a full day and want to immerse yourself in the magic of Machu Picchu without haste.
For adventurers seeking a bit more excitement, this tour includes, in addition to the classic tour, the ascent to Huayna Picchu mountain. From its summit, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views.
Duration: Around 6 to 7 hours, considering the time for the ascent and descent of Huayna Picchu, which usually takes 2 to 3 hours, plus the basic Machu Picchu tour. It is essential to book in advance as slots are limited.
Similar to the previous one but aimed at those who prefer a quieter and less crowded challenge. Machu Picchu Mountain offers less steep trails than Huayna Picchu but equally rewarding.
Duration: Between 7 to 8 hours, as the ascent and descent of the mountain can take 3 to 4 hours, in addition to the standard tour of the citadel.
If you’re dreaming of visiting Machu Picchu but seeking a less-traveled route than the traditional one, you’re in luck! There are several alternatives that offer a unique blend of adventure, nature, and culture. Here, we explore some options that could be the perfect Machu Picchu tour for you, each with its own essence and specific details.
This trail is one of the most popular and spectacular alternatives to reach Machu Picchu. Crossing impressive landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, tropical jungles, and ancient Inca trails, the Salkantay Trek is an unforgettable tour in Peru.
Duration: Generally completed in 5 days and 4 nights, covering approximately 60 kilometers. It’s ideal for those seeking to combine physical challenge with natural beauty.
Less known but equally charming, the Lares Trek offers a deep cultural experience, passing through Andean communities that keep Inca traditions alive. The landscapes here vary from natural hot springs to stunning Andean peaks.
Duration: This tour of Peru usually lasts 4 days and 3 nights, making it an excellent choice for those who want closer contact with local culture.
For true adventurers, this trail is a hidden gem. Connecting two of the most impressive Inca archaeological complexes, Choquequirao and Machu Picchu, this trail is challenging but incredibly rewarding.
Duration: This is the longest of the alternative tours, taking around 9 days to complete. It’s perfect for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the history and majesty of the Andes.
The Inca Trail is the most iconic and traditional route to Machu Picchu, offering a unique experience that combines history, culture, and nature. This ancient trail laid out by the Incas connects various impressive archaeological sites before reaching the Machu Picchu citadel at sunrise on the last day.
Duration: There are two main versions of this tour: the classic, lasting 4 days and 3 nights, and the short, 2 days and 1 night. The classic version covers approximately 43 kilometers, providing a comprehensive experience that allows travelers to immerse themselves in the historical richness of the trail and enjoy spectacular views.
Planning your Machu Picchu tour is exciting, but choosing the perfect time to visit can make your experience even more magical. The Inca citadel has a climate and weather conditions that vary throughout the year. Here, we guide you on the best times to visit Machu Picchu, considering weather and climate, so you can make the most of your adventure.
This is considered the best time for a Machu Picchu tour. During these months, the sky is usually clear, offering spectacular views of the citadel and the surrounding landscapes. The dry season also coincides with winter in the southern hemisphere, meaning temperatures can be a bit cooler, especially at night, but the chances of rain are lower. If you’re looking to hike the Inca trails with fewer interruptions from rain and enjoy clear, sunny photographs, this is the ideal time. However, it’s also the peak tourist season, so expect a higher number of visitors.
Although this season sees more precipitation, it doesn’t mean you should completely dismiss it for your Machu Picchu tour. The rains are usually brief and can add a mystical touch to the citadel, with mists curling around the structures and a more intense green in the mountains. This season offers the advantage of fewer tourists and often lower prices for accommodations and tours. Just make sure to bring waterproof clothing and be prepared for possible changes in your plans due to the weather.
These months can offer the best of both worlds, with fewer crowds than the peak season and drier weather than the rainy season. They are ideal for those seeking a balance between good weather and a quieter experience.
Regardless of the season you choose for your tour, remember that the weather in the region can be unpredictable, and it’s wise to be prepared for all kinds of weather conditions. Wearing layers of clothing that you can put on and take off will help you stay comfortable during your visit.
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