Experience the magic of Machu Picchu with our carefully crafted tours. From single-day adventures to multi-day explorations combining the Sacred Valley, we offer the perfect way to discover this ancient Inca citadel. All tours include expert guides, train tickets, and entrance fees.
Hidden for centuries in the misty peaks of the Andes, Machu Picchu remains one of humanity's greatest mysteries and achievements. Discover the secrets of an empire that once ruled over 12 million people.
The Inca Empire, known as Tawantinsuyu ("The Four Regions"), was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America. At its peak around 1500 AD, it stretched 4,000 kilometers along the western coast of South America, from present-day Colombia to Chile.
Without a written language, wheels, or iron tools, the Incas built an advanced civilization that mastered architecture, agriculture, astronomy, and engineering. Their road system spanned over 40,000 kilometers, connecting diverse ecosystems from coastal deserts to cloud forests.
Emperor Pachacuti ordered the construction of Machu Picchu around 1450 AD as a royal estate and sacred religious site. The city was built at 2,430 meters above sea level on a narrow ridge between two peaks, surrounded by the sacred Urubamba River.
The Incas moved massive granite blocks—some weighing over 50 tons—without wheels, iron, or draft animals. Using only bronze tools, they cut stones so precisely that not even a knife blade can fit between them. This technique, called "ashlar," made structures earthquake-resistant.
Historians debate Machu Picchu's primary function. Some believe it was a royal retreat for Emperor Pachacuti. Others argue it was a pilgrimage site, astronomical observatory, or training center for Inca nobility. The truth likely combines all these purposes.
One of the greatest mysteries: Why was it abandoned? Around 1572, during the Spanish conquest, the city's inhabitants disappeared. Yet the Spanish conquistadors never found Machu Picchu—its location remained unknown to the outside world for nearly 400 years.
On July 24, 1911, American historian Hiram Bingham III, guided by local farmer Melchor Arteaga, climbed through dense jungle and stumbled upon the overgrown ruins of Machu Picchu. Though local Quechua families knew of its existence, Bingham's expedition brought it to global attention.
Today, Machu Picchu is recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World (2007) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1983). Over 1.5 million visitors annually make the pilgrimage to experience its magic firsthand.
The "Hitching Post of the Sun" - a ritual stone believed to hold the sun in place during winter solstice. One of the few that wasn't destroyed by Spanish conquistadors.
A semicircular tower with perfectly fitted stonework, aligned to capture sunlight during the June solstice. Used for important astronomical observations.
Located in the Sacred Plaza, these three trapezoidal windows symbolize the three worlds of Inca cosmology: heaven (Hanan Pacha), earth (Kay Pacha), and underworld (Uku Pacha).
The iconic peak rising behind the citadel. At 2,693m, it offers breathtaking views and contains the Temple of the Moon—a sacred cave shrine.
A natural cave beneath the Temple of the Sun, carved with ritual niches. Believed to be the mausoleum of Inca royalty, though no mummies were found.
Over 700 terraces prevented erosion and created microclimates for growing crops. The Incas grew over 3,000 varieties of potatoes and many medicinal plants.
"Few romances can compare with that of the granite citadel on top of the beetling precipices of Machu Picchu, the crown of Inca Land."— Hiram Bingham III, 1913
From quick day trips to immersive multi-day experiences, find the perfect tour to discover the ancient Inca citadel. All tours include professional guides, entrance tickets, and seamless logistics.
Visit the iconic Machu Picchu citadel in a single day from Cusco with train, guide, and all logistics included.
Enjoy Machu Picchu with an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes for a more relaxed experience.
Combine the Sacred Valley archaeological sites with Machu Picchu in a 2-day adventure.
Visit the stunning Maras salt mines and Moray agricultural terraces before Machu Picchu.
Complete 3-day tour covering Cusco city, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu.
The ultimate 3-day experience combining Rainbow Mountain, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu.
Let us create a custom itinerary tailored to your preferences, schedule, and budget.
We're not just another tour company. We're local experts passionate about sharing our homeland's wonders with you.
Our guides are born and raised in Cusco, offering authentic insights and stories you won't find in any guidebook.
Book directly with us and get the best rates. Find a lower price elsewhere? We'll match it and give you 5% off.
Maximum 12 travelers per group ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience at each site.
Train tickets, entrance fees, meals, and transfers all included. No hidden costs or surprise fees.
Our team is available around the clock before, during, and after your tour for any questions or assistance.
Transparent policies with 50% deposit to confirm. No hidden fees - train tickets, entrance fees, and tours are non-refundable once purchased.
Find answers to the most common questions about visiting Machu Picchu and our tours.
The most common way is by train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), then a 25-minute bus ride up to the citadel. All our tours include these transfers. Alternative options include multi-day treks like the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek.
The dry season (May-October) offers clearer skies and less rain, making it the most popular time to visit. However, this also means larger crowds. The wet season (November-April) has fewer tourists and lush green landscapes, though afternoon showers are common. Machu Picchu is stunning year-round!
We recommend booking at least 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak season (June-August) and holidays. Entrance tickets are limited to approximately 4,500 visitors per day. For Inca Trail treks, book 4-6 months ahead as permits sell out quickly.
Yes! Our train-based tours require minimal physical effort. The site itself has some stairs and uneven terrain, but most areas are accessible at a leisurely pace. We recommend spending a few days in Cusco first to acclimatize to the altitude.
Machu Picchu now has designated circuits (1-5) that visitors must follow. Our standard tours use Circuit 2, which includes the classic viewpoint and main temples. We can arrange tickets for different circuits or additional climbs to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain upon request.
Essential items: Valid passport (required for entry), comfortable walking shoes, rain jacket or poncho, sunscreen, hat, water bottle, and camera. Not allowed: Large backpacks (over 40L), tripods, selfie sticks, food, and drones.
Machu Picchu (2,430m) is actually lower than Cusco (3,400m), so most people feel better there! However, if you're flying directly to Cusco, spend 2-3 days acclimatizing before your tour. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and try coca tea. Our guides are trained to recognize and assist with altitude issues.
All our Machu Picchu tours include: round-trip train tickets, bus tickets to/from the citadel, entrance fees, professional English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco, and (for 2+ day tours) accommodation and specified meals. We have no hidden fees.
Absolutely! We specialize in creating custom itineraries. Want to add Huayna Picchu climb? Stay an extra night in Aguas Calientes? Upgrade your train class? Combine with other destinations? Contact us and we'll design the perfect experience for you.
A 50% deposit is required to confirm your booking, with balance due 48 hours before tour. Cancellations 30+ days before: 50% deposit refund. Cancellations 29 days or less: No refund. Train tickets, entrance fees, and flight tickets are non-refundable once purchased. We strongly recommend travel insurance.
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Contact UsOur team of local experts is ready to help you create the perfect Machu Picchu journey. Whether you have questions, need a custom itinerary, or are ready to book, we're here for you.
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