Getting ready to hike to Machu Picchu? Hiking to Machu Picchu is a true adventure, making the journey to the Inca Citadel as rewarding as the ruins themselves. Our aim is to provide inspiring, expert advice to help you prepare for an authentic, once-in-a-lifetime experience in Cusco and Peru at large!
Whether you are wondering which trail to choose, when to travel, or what to pack, we have put together everything you need to know to plan your dream trip to Machu Picchu.
Built in the 1450s during the reign of Inca emperor Pachucuti, Machu Picchu is believed to have been either a royal country estate or a sacred place of worship. The site features an urban and agricultural sector, boasting vast terraces that provided both food and efficient drainage to protect against landslides.
Strategically nestled between two mountains—Machu Picchu to the south and Huayna Picchu to the north—the city was brilliantly camouflaged. In fact, the Spanish Conquistadors never found it! Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site and New Seven Wonder of the World welcomes over 1.2 million visitors annually, remaining a mystifyingly beautiful masterpiece of architectural ingenuity.
Trekking to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable combination of awe-inspiring mountain ranges, diverse flora, and rich archaeological sites. Here are the main routes you can take to reach the citadel:
The sub-tropical Peruvian Andes have two main seasons. Weather is always unpredictable in the mountains, so good waterproof gear is a must regardless of when you travel!
Prices vary wildly depending on the time of year, group size, and your chosen operator. The Classic Inca Trail generally ranges from $750 to upwards of $2,000 for luxury experiences. For alternative trails like Salkantay or Lares, budget between $500 and $850 per person, per day for a small private group.
Almost all treks to Machu Picchu push past 4,000 meters in elevation. This puts you at risk for altitude sickness. Take the time to properly acclimatize in Cusco for a few days before your hike, and ensure you train your body with cardiovascular and leg-strengthening exercises prior to your trip.
Focus on high-quality basics. You will need broken-in hiking boots, moisture-wicking layers, a warm sleeping bag (unless doing the Jungle Trek), and reliable rain gear.
Proper travel insurance is a must. Ensure your policy specifically covers high-altitude trekking (up to 4,600 meters) and emergency evacuation, as standard policies usually exclude these activities.
Let’s plan your dream trip to Machu Picchu today. By choosing the right trail and preparing properly, your journey through the Andean lands of Peru will be an adventure you cherish forever!
All of our tour itineraries are 100% customizable. Just let us know your preferences below and we’ll get back to you within 24-48 hours.
