Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu, often referred to as the "Lost City of the Incas," is a mesmerizing archaeological site nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. We offer several treks, each unique in trail characteristics and landscape, which lead to these world-famous ruins.
Popular Trips to Machu Picchu
Snapshot of Machu Picchu
An interesting Machu Picchu fact is that the now famous ruins were constructed by the Inca civilization around the 15th century.
The site is a testament to the remarkable architectural and engineering skills of the Inca people and is a UNESCO World Heritage site as well as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
The surrounding area is a never-ending expanse of lush green valleys and towering peaks. The different trails take visitors through a landscape of diverse vegetation types through areas of rich cultural heritage.
Ruins like the Sun Gate in Machu Picchu and the Temple of the Sun in Machu Picchu are a testament to the incredible architectural feat of the Incans.
The site shows off advanced agricultural practices and is evidence of complex and interesting religious beliefs.
Reaching Machu Picchu on foot, as the Incans did, is by far the best way to experience this site. Peru is riddled with ancient footpaths, and several of these trails are open to trekkers when visiting Peru.
The most famous of these ancient pathways is the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This is believed to have been used exclusively by emperors and their attending courts. Today, the Inca Trail is one of the most popular treks in the world. There is also an option to do a Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (the final leg of the trail) if you are short on time. The Inca Trail is heavily regulated, you need to book well in advance to secure a trekking permit.
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a stunning trek that is a few days longer than the Classic Inca. It takes you through diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, high-altitude passes, and dense jungles.
The Inca Jungle Trek is a more adventurous and diverse alternative to reach Machu Picchu. It combines activities like hiking, biking, and zip-lining, providing a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts.
The Lares Trek is known for its cultural immersion and picturesque landscapes. It takes you through remote Andean villages, where you can interact with local Quechua-speaking communities and experience their traditional way of life.
This trek is a great option for those interested in learning about the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Machu Picchu Peru FAQs
The Machu Picchu hike length depends on which route you chose hike to Machu Picchu.
Trails range from 2 to 5 days, like the 4-day Inca trail.
For the Inca Trail, a special permit to visit Machu Picchu is required. If you are interested in either the Classic Inca Trail or the 2-day version, you should book well in advance (+6 months if possible).
For the Salkantay, Inca Jungle, and Lares Trek, the guide only needs to secure an entry ticket to the Machu Picchu site.
You should still book in advance; however, last-minute spaces are sometimes available.
Yes, it is recommended to stay at least two days in Cusco (3,400m above sea level) before hiking in the surrounding Machu Picchu mountains.
Your body needs time to adjust to the increased elevation to help you avoid Machu Picchu altitude sickness.
The best time for a Machu Picchu hike is between June to August (winter/ dry season) during the peak season. May and October are also good months if you want to miss the crowds.
You do need a good base fitness for any trekking in Peru, particularly a Machu Picchu training plan.
Depending on which route you take, you should be doing sport or some kind of strength and cardio training a few times a week in the build-up to your trip.
Most of our Peru trekking tours employ full-time camp chefs. This means you will enjoy delicious meals (often buffet style) during your hike.
If you are staying at a hostel or hotel, meals are usually included with accommodation.
Dietary preferences can be catered for.
Depending on your tour, you will be staying in some combination of hotels, hostels, tents/bungalows. Check your trip FAQs for more details.
Yes, if you book a Machu Picchu tour through Skyhook, simply message the guide after booking.
Speak to them to arrange a ticket to climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
Our guides generally accept teens from the age of 16 years (with a parent). If you have younger children, contact us to see whether it is possible to include them.
This depends on what you want out of the trip.
Each of the following treks is unique in landscape and has a mixture of nature, culture, and challenge levels:
Yes, not only is it better to spend a few days in this city beforehand to acclimatise, there are plenty of things to do in Cusco and its surroundings. It's worth extending your trip to spend time discovering the area. Get in touch with us for some ideas like taking a train to Machu Picchu from Cusco or visiting the Sacred Valley near Cusco.