Machu Picchu Travel Guide: Tickets, Routes, Trains & Essential Tips

Machu Picchu is the highlight of most trips to Peru, but planning a visit requires understanding tickets, train routes, visitor rules, and how altitude affects your schedule. This FAQ brings together the most important practical details so you know exactly how to reach the site, how far in advance to book, what the different circuits mean, and what to expect once you’re inside the ruins. 

If you’re still in the early stages of planning your Peru trip, you can start with the main Peru Travel FAQ hub for a broader overview. You’ll also find helpful references here to our Altitude & Acclimatization and Transportation & Itineraries sections, which offer essential context for timing your visit, choosing the right route, and ensuring a smooth travel day.

Tickets & Access

How long do you need for Machu Picchu?

You need about 2.5 to 4 hours for a standard visit, or 6–8 hours if hiking nearby mountains.

A guided tour of the citadel typically lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes, and the majority of entry tickets allow a maximum of 4 hours on-site for preservation and visitor flow reasons.
If your ticket includes access to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you are permitted to stay up to 8 hours, with time allocated for your hike.
A single-day trip from Cusco, including transfers, can take 14–15 hours round-trip, so travelers often prefer to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes for a more relaxed experience.

Sources:

• Ministry of Culture, Peru (machupicchu.gob.pe)
• U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory

How do I buy tickets to Machu Picchu?

Buy tickets in advance on the official site tuboleto.cultura.pe.

Entry is strictly limited and tickets sell out in advance, especially in high season (May–August).
Online: Use the official government website tuboleto.cultura.pe or the previous portal machupicchu.gob.pe for real-time availability and booking (Do not use unofficial resellers).​
In person: Tickets are sold at the Ministry of Culture office in Cusco and at the Cultural Center in Aguas Calientes, with a limited daily allotment.​
Agencies: Licensed operators and travel agencies may package entry, trains, and guiding, but these tickets ultimately come from the government’s official pool.

Sources:

• Ministry of Culture, Peru (machupicchu.gob.pe, tuboleto.cultura.pe)
• Official ticket sale announcements (perurail.com, 2025)

Can I visit Machu Picchu without a guide?

Starting in 2025, a certified guide is required to enter Machu Picchu.

Regulations mandate that all visitors enter with an accredited guide for site conservation and management. Enforcement is being stepped up from 2025 onward, though spot checks may vary day to day.
Guides can be hired in advance, via operators, or pooled with groups at the entrance gate.
Exceptions remain for independent mountain hikes (Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain), which can be undertaken without a guide as long as you comply with safety protocols.

Sources:

• Ministry of Culture, Peru (machupicchu.gob.pe)
• PromPerú (official tourism board)
• Peru travel regulations (Ministerial resolutions)

How far in advance should I book Machu Picchu tickets?

Book 2–3 months in advance during peak season; 4–6 weeks in shoulder months.

Standard citadel tickets and circuit passes during June–August (peak) sell out 2–3 months ahead, sometimes sooner.
Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain quotas (only a few hundred daily) often sell out 3+ months ahead.
Inca Trail permits are released in blocks 5–7 months early and typically sell out within days, especially for prime months like May–August.
Tickets open four months before the intended visit date; plan accordingly and book promptly.

Sources:

• Ministry of Culture, Peru (machupicchu.gob.pe, tuboleto.cultura.pe)
• PromPerú official advisories
• US State Department Travel Information

What are the rules and restrictions for visitors at Machu Picchu?

Visitors must follow strict preservation rules: no large bags, food, tripods, or drones are allowed.

Bag limit: Each visitor may carry one bag up to 40×35×20 cm; larger bags must be left at external storage.
Prohibited items: Food, alcohol, tripods, professional camera gear, musical instruments, banners, and drones are forbidden per conservation guidelines.
Walking sticks: Only allowed for seniors or disabled travelers, and must have rubber tips.
Re-entry: Exiting the site closes your ticket, i.e. no re-entry on the same ticket is allowed.
Security inspection is mandatory at entry and exit points.

Sources:

• Ministry of Culture, Peru (machupicchu.gob.pe)
• Official Machu Picchu regulations and Ministerial resolutions

Routes & Logistics

How far is Cusco from Machu Picchu by train?

It’s about 3.5–4 hours by train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes.

Train service departs from Poroy station near Cusco and travels approximately 90km, arriving in Aguas Calientes after 3.5–4 hours.
Many visitors opt for a 1.5-hour transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, and board the train there for a shorter (~1.5-hour) ride.

Sources:

• PeruRail official schedule (perurail.com)
• Ministry of Transport and Communications, Peru

How long is the train ride to Machu Picchu?

The train ride takes 1.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the route and service.

Aguas Calientes can be reached in about 1.5 hours from Ollantaytambo or in about 3.5 hours from Poroy/Cusco.
Train fares range from $50 for basic class up to $500 for luxury, with daily departures listed on the operator’s government-authorized websites.

Sources:

• PeruRail and Inca Rail schedules (perurail.com, incarail.com)
• Ministry of Transport and Communications, Peru

Is the Machu Picchu train worth it?

Yes. The train offers the most comfortable and scenic route to Machu Picchu.

The trains have panoramic windows, onboard service, and safe passage through the Sacred Valley’s spectacular scenery along the Urubamba River.
They are recommended by Peru’s national tourism board and Ministry of Culture for visitors not wishing to trek.

Sources:

• PromPerú
• PeruRail official guidance

Which is better, Peru Rail or Inca Rail?

Both are excellent, but PeruRail offers more departure times, while Inca Rail is often quieter and more boutique.

PeruRail runs multiple classes and more frequent departures from both Cusco and Ollantaytambo.
Inca Rail is praised for newer equipment and quieter, boutique-style carriages.
Both operators are licensed and regulated by Peru’s Ministry of Transport.

Sources:

• Ministry of Transport and Communications, Peru
• Official operator websites (perurail.com, incarail.com)

What is the luxury train ride in Peru?

The Belmond Hiram Bingham is the luxury train to Machu Picchu.

This exclusive service features gourmet dining, live music, bar car, and plush 1920s decor, operating the Cusco–Machu Picchu route.
Prices start near $500 per person for one way and include guided entry and on-board amenities.
The luxury operator holds a government concession for the route.

Sources:

• Ministry of Transport and Communications, Peru
• Official Belmond and PeruRail websites

What is the luggage policy on PeruRail and Inca Rail trains?

Passengers may bring one small bag under 8 kg (17.6 lb).

PeruRail luggage allowance: one bag, up to 157 cm in total dimensions and 8 kg in weight.
Inca Rail: slightly smaller maximum (118 cm total) and 8 kg weight.
Large luggage must be stored at your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, as space-onboard is limited.

Sources:

• Official policies: PeruRail and Inca Rail
• Peru Ministry of Transport

Can I visit Machu Picchu in one day from Cusco?

Yes, but it’s a very long day, about 14–15 hours total.

To visit Machu Picchu on a single day from Cusco, most travelers must take an early train to Aguas Calientes, catch a bus to the citadel, and return by evening.
This itinerary is possible but tiring; staying overnight in Aguas Calientes is far easier for most.

Sources:

• PromPerú
• PeruRail schedules

What town is at the base of Machu Picchu?

Aguas Calientes, officially called Machu Picchu Pueblo.

The town serves as the access point for all visitors, offering a range of lodging, dining, and hot springs.
The site is connected to the Machu Picchu entrance by frequent shuttle buses and is the end-point for trains coming from Ollantaytambo and Cusco.

Sources:

• PromPerú
• Official Machu Picchu portal (machupicchu.gob.pe)

Experience & Preparation

Can you stay overnight at Machu Picchu?

No, overnight stays are not allowed inside the ruins.

Accommodation is available in Aguas Calientes; the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge is the only hotel next to the entrance gates (but not inside the site).
No visitors may remain inside the archaeological zone overnight.

Sources:

• Ministry of Culture, Peru
• Belmond Sanctuary Lodge website
• PromPerú

Is Machu Picchu closing? / Why is Machu Picchu closed?

No, Machu Picchu is open year-round.

Only the Inca Trail shuts every February for preservation work.
Occasional closures may happen due to weather or large protests, though they are temporary and the site remains open most days.

Sources:

• Ministry of Culture, Peru
• PromPerú

Is the Inca Trail difficult?

Yes, the Inca Trail is challenging due to altitude and steep terrain.

The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 4,215 m (13,828 ft) at Dead Woman’s Pass, with steep stairs and intensive days.
Government regulations require hiking with registered groups to ensure safety.

Sources:

• Ministry of Culture, Peru
• Peru’s National Service of Protected Areas (SERNANP)

How strenuous is a trip to Machu Picchu?

The trip is easy by train and bus, but hiking routes are strenuous.

Train and bus travelers walk mostly flat paths; multi-day trekkers face long days and steep climbs.
The government maintains clear stone paths and standards for safety, but acclimatization is strongly recommended.

Sources:

• PromPerú
• Ministry of Culture, Peru

Can a beginner hike Machu Picchu?

Yes, beginners can visit by train or attempt shorter hikes with preparation.

The 2-day Short Inca Trail is suitable for most active beginners with time to acclimatize.
Longer hikes (4-day Inca Trail, Salkantay) require more fitness and extended planning.

Sources:

• PromPerú
• Peru’s National Service of Protected Areas (SERNANP)

Do you have to be physically fit to go to Machu Picchu?

Basic fitness is enough for train visitors; moderate fitness is needed for hikes.

Senior visitors or those with limited mobility can use guided and supported access via train/bus; hikes demand endurance and acclimatization.
Wheelchair access is limited but increasingly supported near the main entrance and site paths.

Sources:

• Ministry of Culture, Peru
• PromPerú

Can seniors go to Machu Picchu?

Yes, it’s safe and accessible for seniors.

Train/bus travel with guided packages is senior-friendly; paths are mostly well-marked.
Rubber-tipped walking poles are allowed for elders and those with disabilities.

Sources:

• PromPerú
• Ministry of Culture, Peru

What to pack for Machu Picchu?

Bring layers, waterproof gear, sturdy shoes, and sun protection.

Guidance from Peruvian authorities recommends a combination of light and warm clothing, a rain jacket, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and refillable water bottle.
Strong walking shoes/hiking boots are required, while high heels/hard soles are prohibited for safety.

Sources:

• Ministry of Culture, Peru
• PromPerú

Do you have to pay to use the bathroom at Machu Picchu?

Yes, toilets near the entrance require a small fee.

Facilities beside the gate charge about 2 soles (less than $1 USD).
No bathrooms are available inside the archaeological site.
Visitors cannot re-enter once they leave through the exit gate.

Sources:

• Ministry of Culture, Peru
• Official Machu Picchu visitor information

Can I bring snacks or water into Machu Picchu?

You may bring water, but food is prohibited inside the ruins.

Only reusable bottles are permitted; food must remain outside the archaeological area.
Snacks should be bought/consumed in Aguas Calientes.

Sources:

• Ministry of Culture, Peru
• PromPerú

What’s the difference between the Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu hikes?

Huayna Picchu is steeper and shorter; Machu Picchu Mountain is longer but less crowded.

Huayna Picchu: 2–3 hours, steep ascent, limited to 200 daily hikers, best views of ruins.
Machu Picchu Mountain: 3–4 hours, less steep, higher altitude (~3,082 m), more nature scenery, fewer hikers.
Both require special tickets and are open to ages 12+.

Sources:

• Ministry of Culture, Peru
• Official Machu Picchu site (machupicchu.gob.pe)

What time of day is best to visit Machu Picchu?

Early morning (6–8 AM) offers the best light and smallest crowds.

Scholars and site managers recommend arriving early for sunrise and fewer people; afternoon visits (3–5 PM) are also quieter and bring warm lighting for photography.
The period between 10 AM and 2 PM is the busiest due to organized tour groups.

Sources:

• Ministry of Culture, Peru
• PromPerú
• Peru travel research (2025)

A successful visit to Machu Picchu comes down to preparation: securing the right tickets, planning transportation wisely, and understanding the rules that protect this UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Once you’ve reviewed the answers in this guide, continue preparing your trip with our FAQs on Altitude & Acclimatization, Safety & Health, and Transportation & Itineraries to make sure your route, timing, and expectations align with real conditions on the ground. With the right planning, your day at Machu Picchu will be one of the most memorable parts of your trip to Peru.