Machu Picchu is an incredible historical landmark in Peru. Whether you arrive from the Inca Trail, on an alternative trek through Choquecancha, Salkantay, Lares, or by train on our Relaxation and Comfort Tour, we will help you get the Machu Picchu experience you came for.
We arrive early to Machu Picchu and begin with a guided tour of the ruins so you can appreciate the historical significance of the site you are visiting. Then there is plenty of time for you to explore on your own.
While spectacular at every angle, Machu Picchu is especially beautiful from above. There are several ways to enjoy this view, the most popular of which are the Sun Gate, Huaynapicchu, and Machu Picchu Montaña.
Whichever you choose, your guide will show you where to begin your hike. If you need your guide to join you, please let us know beforehand and we will be happy accommodate your request.
Hiking to the Sun Gate is an option available only for the Inca Trail trekkers.
The Inca Trail trekkers will arrive to Machu Picchu through sun gate early in the morning for the first view of Machu Picchu.
Please keep in mind that because the Sun Gate is the main access of the Inca trail trekkers, it does tend to get crowded in the morning, there is a better option to arrive from classic Inca Trail on the afternoon. Learn More
Huaynapicchu permits have an extra cost and is limited to 400 visitors a day. To ensure access, it is best to book this hike at least 3 months in advance.
You can add this hike when you book your tour, and we will purchase the permit for you if it is available.
Permit windows are from 7-8AM and from 10-11AM. We purchase the 10-11AM permit to allow time for your guided tour beforehand. To be granted access to Huaynapicchu, you must start the hike between 10 and 11AM.
This is a challenging, steep hike that leads to extraordinary views (and an awesome Facebook profile photo). It takes approximately 45 minutes to reach the top. After you snap some pics and take in your surroundings, it takes another 45 minutes to return back down.
Machu Picchu Mountain permits is also limited to 400 hikers a day and have an extra cost. Again, to ensure access, we recommend booking this hike at least 2 months in advance.
You can add this hike when you book your tour, and we will purchase the permit for you if it is available.
Permit windows are from 7-8AM and from 9-10AM. We purchase the 9-10AM permit to allow time for your guided tour beforehand. To be granted access to Machu Picchu Mountain, you must start the hike between 9 and 10AM.
Machu Picchu Mountain is very steep and the most challenging of the three hiking options, but also quite rewarding. It takes you much higher, and directly over the ruins, for a stunning view. The hike takes about an hour and a half each way. If you are going on a trek, please keep in mind that you will have already been hiking for several days and may be tired.
If you have further questions about Machu Picchu or would like to know more about the Sun Gate, Huayna Picchu, or Machu Picchu Mountain, please contact us.