The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Machu Picchu: Tickets, Trails & What No One Tells You

Machu Picchu is one of the world's most iconic destinations — and one of the most logistically complicated to visit. Every year, thousands of travelers get caught out by sold-out tickets, confusing train schedules, or altitude sickness they didn't prepare for.

This guide compiles real advice from travelers who've made the journey, shared on Parada.

Book Tickets Well in Advance

The Peruvian government caps daily visitors to Machu Picchu. During peak season (June–August), tickets sell out weeks or months in advance. Book through the official government website (machupicchu.gob.pe) — third-party sellers charge significant markups.

There are several entry circuits to choose from. Circuit 1 includes the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and offers the most dramatic views. If you want to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, those require separate tickets with even more limited availability.

Getting There: Aguas Calientes

The base town for Machu Picchu is Aguas Calientes (also called Machu Picchu Pueblo). To get there, most visitors take the PeruRail or Inca Rail train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo. The 2-hour train from Ollantaytambo is the most popular option.

Budget tip: Some hikers walk the train tracks from Km 104 or Santa Teresa to reach Aguas Calientes, saving on train fares. This takes a full day and requires physical fitness.

The Inca Trail vs. Other Treks

The classic 4-day Inca Trail is the most famous route, but permits are limited to 500 people per day (including guides and porters) and sell out months in advance.

Alternatives worth considering:

• Salkantay Trek (5 days): Wilder, higher altitude, spectacular mountain scenery
• Lares Trek (4 days): More cultural, passes through traditional Andean communities
• Inca Jungle Trail (4 days): Combines cycling, zip-lining, and walking

Altitude Sickness

Cusco sits at 3,400m above sea level. Arrive at least 2 days early to acclimatize before attempting any trek. Common remedies include coca tea (widely available), drinking extra water, and avoiding alcohol for the first 48 hours. Altitude medication (acetazolamide) is available at Cusco pharmacies.

What to Bring to the Ruins

• Rain jacket (even in dry season, morning mist is common)
• Sunscreen and hat (UV is intense at altitude)
• Layered clothing — mornings are cold, afternoons can be hot
• Snacks — food inside the ruins is limited and expensive
• Walking poles if you have them (useful on uneven Inca stone)

Join the Peru Community on Parada

For up-to-date advice on ticket availability, trail conditions, and the best places to stay in Aguas Calientes, check the Peru community on Parada.

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