There is a lot said and doubt about the steps to travel to Machu Picchu.

There are some very touristic destinations that have such beauty that is totally worth visiting. This is the case of Machu Picchu. A dream destination for many, cataloged as one of the wonders of the world, is undoubtedly one of those places to see before you die.

Machu Picchu is located in the mountain jungles of southern Peru in a beautiful environment, there are different ways to get to Machu Picchu.

Via Train

One of the easiest ways to reach the holy city of Machu Picchu is through the train going from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Many people take this alternative, but there are others who seek cheaper routes because as it is one of the most expensive in the world in relation to the number of kilometers and its value. There are many tour companies that organize the trip from Cuzco which include all transportations for this journey.

You can check prices and schedule at https://www.perurail.com/

The Inca Trail

Otherwise, for the more adventurous is to follow the Inca Trail. A journey that takes place during two or four days of trekking through the mountains. For the more nature and trekking oriented this is a unique experience because you can see beautiful scenery during the journey. While there will be times during high season many following the route, for those who enjoy trekking is an experience you will enjoy. The values are around 300 USD for the four days.

The Alternative Route

Passing through small villages and two hours of walking is the cheapest route to Machu Picchu. You will not spend more than 30 USD in all the way and has a beautiful landscape. Just avoid the rainy season as it can be quite dangerous. (You can read more about this story here)

Tickets for the historic site of Machu Picchu

There are different types of tickets you can purchase including different places to visit at Machu Picchu :

• Machu Picchu: Includes only the entrance to the citadel, there are 2500 seats daily, so if you do not plan to climb the Huayna Picchu, can buy it closer to your travel date. Costs 126 soles.
• Machu Picchu and Museum: Includes admission to the Citadel and the Museum Manuel Chavez Ballon. Costs 148 soles
• Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and Temple of the Moon: access to Huayna Picchu citadel and includes the famous mountain from which you will have a breathtaking view of the citadel and the entire mountain range. The access is at two different times, one that goes from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and another 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. They are only 250 seats per day so it is advisable to buy this ticket with some time in advance, especially during high season. 152 soles and 76 for students.
• Machu Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain: You can visit the fortress and climb to the top of the Machu Picchu mountain, it has a schedule to go up going from 7:00 to 11:00 a.m.. 140 soles.

You can buy the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu online, in the office in Cuzco located at Avenue Casa de la Cultura No. 238 Condominio Huascar, Cusco, Peru, also in Aguas Calientes village or in any authorized tourist offices (you can check them here).

Special student rates are 50% of the value of the adult fare and must be done in the office or through authorized travel agencies. https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/items/estudiantes.html

Do not forget :

– For adults, it is compulsory to have passport or DNI.
– It is only considered students with a valid ISIC card.
– Children under 8 years old are free and children under 18 pay as a student.
– There are special prices for the Andean Community (Bolivia, Colombia, and Ecuador)
– Once you buy the ticket there is no refund, so double-check your travel details and date of entry before making the payment, the ticket is valid only for the dates indicated on your reservation.

Have you visited or want to visit Machu Picchu?

How was your experience?

(Updated February 2018)

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