No one told us Machu Picchu was this complicated - but was it worth it? Short answer: YES!
If you're dreaming of ancient ruins nestled in the Andes, misty mornings, and llamas posing for selfies, Machu Picchu will absolutely blow your mind. But what no one seems to tell you? Getting there is a lot more complicated than you'd expect.
We're talking regulations, ticket types, strict rules, and very specific timing. Here's what we wish someone had told us before our bucket list trip to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Machu Picchu
1. Book Your Tickets at Least 2 Months in Advance
Yes, really. Machu Picchu now has limited capacity, and tickets for popular routes sell out fast - especially during peak season (June–August). Plan ahead or miss out.
2. Bring Your Passport + PRINTED Tickets
You’ll be asked to show these multiple times. Forget them, and you won’t be allowed in. No exceptions. You’ll need:
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Your passport (not just a photo of it)
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A printed copy of your entrance ticket
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A printed copy of your bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to the site
3. Tour Guide: Optional but Extremely Helpful
Technically, you can book and enter without a tour guide. But having one makes the experience 100x smoother, especially with language barriers, navigating route options, and learning the amazing history you’d otherwise miss. We used a fantastic company that handled logistics and gave us a great experience. Totally worth it.
4. There Are 10 Different Routes - Choose Carefully
Yes, 10 different "experience" tickets. Each one offers a different view, hiking trail, or historical highlight. Some include Huayna Picchu or Huchuy Picchu hikes, while others stick to the main citadel. Each ticket has different time slots, allowed areas, and any hiking restrictions. Do your research before booking, or risk missing what you came for!
5. Hiking Routes Are Seasonal
Dreaming of those epic hiking trails? Make sure you’re visiting between June 19 and November 2 - the only window when they're open.
Also, you must enter the hiking trail before 10 or 11 AM, depending on your route. Miss your time? No hike for you.
6. Rules Are Strict
Guards are everywhere to keep things in check and they’re not shy about enforcing rules. Once inside, expect to follow the rules very closely:
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No touching llamas (they’re cute, but wild)
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No leaning or sitting on stone walls
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Stay on designated paths
7. Dress for Every Season (Even in One Day)
Weather at Machu Picchu is unpredictable and ever-changing. One minute it's foggy, the next it's blazing sun. Remember, June = winter in Peru!
Layer up and bring:
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A light rain jacket
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Sunscreen
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Hat
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Good walking shoes
8. How Much Does It Really Cost?
Here’s a basic breakdown for a DIY budget traveler:
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Train to Aguas Calientes: ~$80–$100 round-trip
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Bus to site: ~$24 round-trip
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Entrance ticket: ~$45–$60 depending on route
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Hotel in Aguas Calientes: ~$30–$60/night
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Food: ~$20–$40/day
Total minimum cost: Around $210 (plus meals and optional guide)
9. Bathroom Breaks? Plan Ahead
The only bathroom is outside the site entrance. It costs 2 soles to use. Once you're in, you're in. No re-entry, so go beforehand!
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth All the Hassle?
Absolutely. The breathtaking views, the mystery of Incan engineering, the energy of this sacred site - it all makes the logistics worth it. But don’t underestimate the planning required.
If you’re heading to Machu Picchu, plan early, stay flexible, and soak it all in. It’s truly an experience of a lifetime. Take tons of photos, bring your sense of adventure, and be ready for some surprises along the way.
Check out our reel to see these incredible views - and peep our TOBIQ Backpack (so useful for a hand-free way to carry the essentials and extras) AND our TOBIQ Splash Pack (this came in clutch to keep things dry). Happy travels, TOBIQ friends!