As the mist lifts off the mountains and over the Inca ruins, Machu Picchu evokes an otherworldly feeling.
It’s one of the world’s most incredible archaeological sites. After visiting you will have no doubts as to why it is one of the 7 Wonders of the World. With all that Machu Picchu has to offer, it’s easy to understand why so many are drawn to the visit heartland of Peru. The ultimate decision is how to get there. Choose a trek or take the train? You could hike through cloud forests along the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Fulfill your Andes experience on the Quarry Trail, or challenge yourself on the Choquequirao trek . While the decision is ultimately up to you, 69 Explorer Peru is here to help answer any questions. Maybe a tailor made adventure to any specific needs you may have.
Explore one of the world’s greatest wonders with our private and small group trips to Machu Picchu. A dramatic landscape where the Andes meet the Amazon basin, the ancient city of Machu Picchu was built to perfection by the mighty Inca Empire. You can arrive at Machu Picchu via train or an unforgettable multi-day trekking expedition. Once you step foot into this UNESCO World Heritage site, you will discover its refined architecture, spiritual meaning, and astronomical importance. You will be accompanied by a local expert, English speaking guide for your Eco-friendly hiking tours to Machu Picchu. Your guide will bring the ruins to life through its fascinating oral history.
Enjoy our best selection of the fantastic Eco-friendly hiking tours to Machu Picchu. Find the best prices and itinerary to visit this wonder of the world. Whether by train or car, find the perfect tour for your time in Peru.
69 Explorer, specialists in Machu Picchu Tours
At 69 Explorer we take pride on our experience, top service, knowledgeable guides, unique trips and tailored experiences. From Machu Picchu day trips to Unique Alternative Treks, we got all the routes covered.
We operate tours to Machu Picchu daily, offering our unique 69 Explorer Machu Pichu Guaranty:
“We promise your entry to Machu Picchu Citadel or we’ll refund your money.”
Machu Picchu Circuits
If you want to visit Machu Picchu, you must know which circuit to choose. The citadel is divided mainly in 3 circuits and subdivided. Each one has its perks:
- Circuit 1: Panoramic best viewpoint, perfect for the memorable Machu Picchu picture.
- Circuit 2: Machu Picchu Classic. Stops in the most relevant sectors, the most popular.
- Circuit 3: Machu Picchu Royalty, the most sacred buildings and royalty residences.
Surrounding mountains
There are optional hikes in the mountain, to 3 different mountains and 2 sectors. If you want to take on those hikes you have to buy an specific ticket either in circuit 1 or 3:
- 1A: Machu Picchu Mountain
- 1C: Intipunku
- 1D: Punte Inca
- 3A: Waynapicchu
- 3C: Gran Caverna
- 3D: Huchuypicchu
How to Get to Machu Picchu?
Getting to Machu Picchu is an adventure in itself, with several routes that fit different schedules, budgets, and travel styles. You can take a train, combine car and train, hike the Inca Trail or take the budget Machu Picchu by car route.
The train is the most comfortable and scenic way to arrive in the citadel. Departing from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, the route follows the Sacred Valley and then the Urubamba River until reaching Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. From there, take a short bus ride to the entrance.
If you prefer more flexibility, the car + train combination offers a practical balance. You’ll travel by road to the train station in Ollantaytambo, then continue by rail to Aguas Calientes.
Machu Picchu by car ia a route that takes you on a scenic drive along the Sacred Valley, Abra Málaga, and Santa Teresa, all the way to Hidroelectrica. From there, you hike for about 3 hours along the railway tracks to Aguas Calientes. It’s a longer journey but an adventurous and budget-friendly way to reach Machu Picchu.
If you want to join a journey to living cultural heritage, the Inca Trail remains the most iconic route. The Classic 4-Day trek goes over high mountain passes and ancient ruins, arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). The Short 2-Day Inca Trail starts at Km 104, offering a condensed yet rewarding version of the hike.
| Option | Highlights | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train | Fast, scenic, and comfortable ride through the Sacred Valley | Travelers short on time or seeking comfort | Higher cost, limited flexibility |
| Car + Train | Combines road and rail; scenic and flexible | Balanced travelers who value convenience | Slightly longer total journey |
| Machu Picchu by Car | Scenic road via Abra Málaga and Hidroelectrica; hike along railways | Budget travelers, adventure seekers | Longer day of travel; moderate hiking required |
| Inca Trail (4 Days) | Classic route through ancient ruins and mountain passes | Experienced hikers, adventure lovers | Physically demanding, limited permits |
| Short Inca Trail (2 Days) | Compact trek with key highlights like Wiñay Wayna | Travelers short on time who still want to hike | Limited availability, requires advance booking |
FAQS
Absolutely. Machu Picchu remains one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world, offering a unique combination of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Visiting the Inca citadel allows travelers to explore its finely built temples, terraces, and astronomical structures — a true masterpiece of Inca engineering surrounded by stunning Andean scenery. Whether you go by train or on foot, it’s an unforgettable cultural experience that connects you with the heart of the ancient Inca world.
The Inca Trail is the most iconic route, following original Inca stone paths that lead directly into Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate. It’s challenging but rewarding and requires permits that sell out months in advance.
Alternative treks such as Salkantay, Lares, or the Inca Quarry Trail offer equally beautiful scenery, fewer crowds, and greater flexibility. These routes vary in difficulty and length, often combining high Andean passes, local villages, and jungle valleys before arriving at Machu Picchu. Choosing between them depends on availability, your physical condition, and whether you prefer a cultural or scenic focus.
Traveling by train is the most comfortable and scenic way to reach Machu Picchu. The journey starts from Cusco or Ollantaytambo and follows the Urubamba River through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. From there, a short bus ride takes you up to the citadel. You can choose from different train services, including panoramic options like the Vistadome, which offer large windows for spectacular mountain views. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience Machu Picchu in one or two days without hiking.
This is a more adventurous and budget-friendly route. The trip begins in Cusco and travels through the Sacred Valley and the high jungle, ending near the Hidroeléctrica station. From there, travelers continue on foot along the railway to Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu. Though it involves some walking, it’s an excellent alternative for those who want to save on train costs or prefer a more flexible journey.
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from May to October. During these months, the weather is clearer, trails are safer, and the mountain views are spectacular. The shoulder months of April and November also offer good weather with fewer crowds. The rainy season runs from December to March, when the region is greener but paths can be slippery and visibility limited.
Yes, Machu Picchu can be family friendly — as long as you plan carefully. Options like the train or short tours from Cusco make the trip accessible to children and older travelers. The archaeological site itself requires some walking and climbing, but it’s manageable for most families in good health. Spending a night in Aguas Calientes helps everyone acclimate and makes the visit more relaxed. Multi-day treks, however, are better suited for active families with older children or teens.
Prices vary depending on how you reach Machu Picchu and how many days you travel.
-By train (1-day tour): around $297 USD per person.
-Short Inca Trail (2 days): around $487 USD per person.
-Sacred Valley + Short Inca Trail (3 days): around $627 USD per person.
Longer treks like Salkantay or Lares can cost more, depending on inclusions such as meals, entrance tickets, porters, and transport. Budget options by car are generally cheaper. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the dry season when demand peaks.
