Machu Picchu is one of those places that genuinely lives up to the hype — it is totally jaw-dropping. Tucked high in the Andes and surrounded by misty mountains, this ancient Inca citadel is just as impressive in real life as it looks in photos: dramatic, peaceful, and packed with history.

We chose to trek in via the classic Salkantay + Inca Trail (7 days), which made arriving at Machu Picchu even more special. After several days of hiking through cloud forest, stone steps, and ancient ruins, walking through the Sun Gate at sunrise and watching the site slowly reveal itself was unforgettable. That said, there are multiple ways to get there depending on your time, budget, and fitness level — including the Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, Inca Jungle Trek, or simply taking the train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo for a more relaxed option.

We hiked with Salkantay Trekking, and it was an AMAZING experience — from the accommodation and food to the guides. It is a bit more expensive, but the higher level of service makes a huge difference after long, demanding days on the trail.
👉 https://www.salkantaytrekking.com/

Once inside Machu Picchu, visits follow one of the official circuits, which are designed to control crowds and protect the site.

• Circuit 1 focuses on the upper terraces and viewpoints — great for photos but more limited access.

• Circuit 2 is widely considered the best overall circuit, combining the classic panoramic viewpoint with access to the main ruins, temples, and terraces.

• Circuit 3 explores more of the lower sections and is often paired with add-on hikes.

Most visits take 2–4 hours, depending on your circuit and whether you add hikes like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Both offer epic views, though if you’ve already hiked in like we did, you might be pretty wrecked by this point — although we did hear people still go for it, especially since Machu Picchu itself can be misty, and the extra elevation sometimes means the clouds clear as you climb.

One of the best surprises is the llamas that freely roam the ruins. You’ll see them grazing on the terraces or casually wandering past ancient stone structures, completely unbothered by visitors — and they make for some of the best photo moments in the entire site.

Costs vary a lot depending on how you go — trekking options usually range from USD $500–$1,000+, while train-and-bus visits can be done for less if booked early. No matter the route, planning ahead is ESSENTIAL, as tickets, circuits, and hikes sell out, so make sure to BOOK IN ADVANCED!