What you need to know Before Visiting Machu Picchu in 2024

Here we tried to collect some of the main questions we received from people eager to visit Machu Picchu.

First, let’s start from the question of question! What is the best time to go? Here there are divergent opinions that we can report. On one side, we can say that the best time is from July to August, which is the dry season, when you will not find rain and humidity. On the other hand, we can also say that the quietest moment to visit the citadel is the rainy season, where it is less crowded, and prices are generally lower.

When is it convenient to buy tickets? We suggest you buy your entry tickets in long advance since there is a limited number of visitors allowed per day, at the moment 2500 for the citadel and less for the other options (see below). There are two slots per day: in the morning (6:00am-12:00pm) and in the afternoon (12:00-17:30pm).

What are the ticket options? There are several kinds of entry tickets, the basic entry allows you to visit the citadel, but you can add the visit to Huayna Picchu, which allows you to explore the mountain throughout a 2–3-hour hike where you will enjoy stunning landscapes and a great view of Llaqta. The access to Huayna Picchu is allowed only in the morning. The other option is visit to the citadel and Machu Picchu Mountain, a high mountain from where you will enjoy charming views of the citadel. There are more tickets available for Machu Picchu Mountain than for Huayna Picchu daily. Finally, there are tickets available for those visitors who decide to do the Inca Trail.

How do I reach Machu Picchu? This is another common question we often receive. Also, here you have several options:

Train from Poroy or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, which is the little town located at the bottom of the valley below Machu Picchu. The town is also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. The journey lasts 3-4 hours. From here you can take the bus to the citadel. Buses start running from 5:00am in the morning.
If you want to do the Inca Trail you will reach the citadel on your own, but you might need to book the Inca trail several months before due to the high demand and the few spots available.

How do I need to dress? We suggest you wear comfortable shoes, also bring a raincoat, a hat, and sunglasses. It is mandatory to use sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Sun could be very strong over there.