Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley

For many travelers, Machu Picchu is the main reason they come to Peru. This Inca citadel hidden in the clouds is one of the most breathtaking sites in the world. But what surprised us most is how much more there is around it. Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the towns and trails leading to Machu Picchu are destinations in their own right. Planning this part of your trip carefully will make the experience unforgettable.

How to Get to Machu Picchu

There are two main ways to reach Machu Picchu:

• By Train: The most popular and straightforward option. Trains run from Cusco (Poroy station) or the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo) to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. From there, buses (or a steep hike) take you up to the site.

• By Trek: The Inca Trail (4 days) is the classic route, ending with the iconic Sun Gate arrival. Permits sell out months in advance. Alternatives like the Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, or Inca Jungle Trek offer different experiences, from snow-capped mountains to jungle trails.

👉 Our experience: We chose the Inca Trail and saw not only Machu Picchu but several other sites along the way. Then, walking through the Sun Gate to get our first glimpse of the world wonder after days of trekking was one of the most powerful travel moments we’ve ever had.

Tickets & Rules

• Book Early: Machu Picchu tickets often sell out weeks (even months) in advance, especially for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hikes.

• Bring Your Passport: You’ll need it for entry, and it must match the name on your ticket.

• Don’t Get the Stamp: There’s a tempting “Machu Picchu passport stamp” offered near the exit. Fun souvenir, but it can actually invalidate your passport. Better to take photos or have them stamp a separate piece of paper!

• Timed Entry: Tickets are for a specific time slot, and you’ll need to enter within that window.

Understanding Machu Picchu Circuits

In 2022, the Peruvian government reorganized Machu Picchu visits into circuits to help with crowd control and preservation. When you buy your ticket, you must choose a circuit, and each offers a different route through the site.

• Circuit 1 (Panoramic):

  • Covers the upper terraces with wide, sweeping views of the citadel.

  • Best for photography (it’s where you get the classic postcard shot).

  • Limited access to inner ruins (more of a “scenic overview” route).

• Circuit 2 (Complete):

  • The most popular choice, covering both upper viewpoints and many inner ruins.

  • Includes the main plaza, temples, and residential areas.

  • This is the circuit most first-time visitors imagine when they think of exploring Machu Picchu.

• Circuit 3 (Lower):

  • Starts lower down and stays mainly within the citadel.

  • Skips the high terraces, so you won’t get the famous panoramic view.

  • Good for those with mobility issues or travelers arriving later in the day.

👉 Our recommendation: If it’s your first visit, Circuit 2 gives you the fullest experience. Pair it with an add-on hike (Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain) if you want even more views.

Cusco Tourist Pass (Boleto Turístico)

If you plan to spend time in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, beyond Machu Picchu, this pass is worth it. While it does not include Machu Picchu, the Cusco tourist ticket covers multiple archaeological sites and museums, including Sacsayhuamán, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac. Payment is cash only and can be purchased at the entrance to the sites themselves.

Staying in the Sacred Valley

Many travelers rush through, but we recommend slowing down. Staying in the Sacred Valley lets you acclimate to altitude, enjoy quieter villages, and explore ruins without the crowds. Ollantaytambo is especially charming and has direct trains to Machu Picchu.

Coca vs. Muña Tea

Altitude can hit hard in this region. Locals swear by coca tea, which helps with mild symptoms, but we often found muña tea (a local mint) even more soothing, especially for digestion.

Other Tips

• Massages in Aguas Calientes: If you’re waiting for your train back after visiting Machu Picchu, there are plenty of massage places near the station. It’s a nice way to rest your legs, especially if you have done one of the multi-day treks.

• Gear Rentals: Forgot your hiking poles or need a cheap jacket? Cusco and Ollantaytambo both have plenty of gear rental and budget gear shops.

✨ Bottom Line: Machu Picchu is the crown jewel, but the Sacred Valley and Cusco are what give the experience its soul. Slow down, stay a few nights, and you’ll discover that this region offers much more than just one wonder of the world.