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Machu Picchu
Destination

Machu Picchu

The New Wonder of the Modern World

Why Visit Machu Picchu

Built in the 15th century by the Inca Pachacútec, Machu Picchu was abandoned during the Spanish conquest and 'rediscovered' by the Western world in 1911 by Hiram Bingham. Today it is Peru's most recognizable symbol and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, receiving nearly one million visitors per year.

The Inca citadel is divided into two large sectors: the agricultural, with its impressive cultivation terraces, and the urban, with the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana (sundial), the Sacred Plaza and the Temple of the Three Windows. The perfect integration of architecture with the surrounding natural landscape remains a mystery for modern archaeologists.

Machu Picchu can be visited as a day trip from Cusco (train to Aguas Calientes + bus to the sanctuary), or as a multi-day destination staying at hotels in Aguas Calientes or at the exclusive Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel inside the historic sanctuary. Access via the Inca Trail (4 days of trekking) is the most epic experience for those seeking to arrive as the Inca pilgrims did.

What to See and Do in Machu Picchu

The Inca citadel — UNESCO site and Wonder of the World
Inca Trail, 4 days — the most famous trek on the planet
Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu (epic views)
Aguas Calientes — the base town at the foot of the sanctuary
The Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at dawn
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge — the only hotel beside the ruins

Hotels in Machu Picchu

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Belmond Sanctuary Lodge
Top Pick
4.9
Machu Picchu, Cusco

The only hotel steps away from the Machu Picchu citadel. Exclusive luxury with the world's most unique views.

LujoMachu PicchuPatrimonio Mundial
Free cancellation Excellent
From
$850/ night
2,847 reviews
Book through Hotels.com
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
Sponsored
4.8
Aguas Calientes, Cusco

Award-winning eco-resort amid Andean cloud forests. 83 adobe and colonial tile bungalows with orchid gardens.

Eco-hotelOrquídeasNaturaleza
Free cancellation Excellent
From
$420/ night
3,120 reviews
Book through Hotels.com
El MaPi by Inkaterra
4.6
Aguas Calientes — puerta de Machu Picchu

Contemporary hotel in Aguas Calientes steps from the train to Machu Picchu. Modern Andean design, restaurant with Peruvian cuisine and perfect base for exploring the citadel.

CuscoAguas CalientesMachu Picchu
Free cancellation
From
$145/ night
2,187 reviews
Book through Hotels.com

Tours in Machu Picchu

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Classic Machu Picchu Tour
Top Pick
4.9
Machu Picchu, Cusco

The most complete experience at the wonder of the modern world. Expert guide, transport and entrance fees included.

Machu Picchu1 díaGuía
Very popular Excellent
From
$89/ person
12,847 reviews
Book through Viator
4-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Sponsored
4.9
Cusco a Machu Picchu

The world's most iconic trek. 43km of Inca trail with mountain camps and sunrise arrival through the Sun Gate.

Camino IncaTrekking4 días
Very popular Excellent
From
$695/ person
7,823 reviews
Book through Viator
Choquequirao — The Secret Machu Picchu
Top Pick
4.9
Cusco

The most remote and spectacular Inca citadel, reached only by the most adventurous travelers. 4-day trek through the Apurímac mountains.

CuscoTrekkingInca
Excellent
From
$420/ person
892 reviews
Book through Viator
Vistadome Panoramic Train to Machu Picchu
Top Pick
4.8
Ollantaytambo — Aguas Calientes

The most spectacular train in South America with panoramic glass roof. Travel through the high jungle of the Sacred Valley to the gates of Machu Picchu.

TrenMachu PicchuPanorámico
Very popular Excellent
From
$75/ person
14,532 reviews
Book through Viator

Experiences in Machu Picchu

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Hot Springs at Aguas Calientes
Top Pick
4.5
Aguas Calientes, Cusco

The most well-deserved soak after Machu Picchu. The natural hot springs of Aguas Calientes relieve tired muscles after trekking. Every traveler's mandatory ritual.

TermalesAguas CalientesMachu Picchu
Very popular
From
$12/ person
11,234 reviews
Book through GetYourGuide

Quick facts

Altitude2,430 m
Inca period15th century (Pachacútec)
UNESCO listing1983
Daily capacity4,500 visitors

When to Go

May to October (dry season, ideal for trekking). April and November have fewer tourists. Avoid January–March due to rain and possible Inca Trail closures.

Getting There

From Cusco: PeruRail or Inca Rail train to Aguas Calientes (1h 45min to 3h), then bus to the sanctuary (30 min). Alternative: Inca Trail 4-day hike.

What you can book

3
Hotels
5
Tours
0
Restaurants
1
Experiences
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