Requirements to travel to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is one of the most impressive and magical tourist destinations in the world. It is an archaeological and cultural treasure that transports visitors back in time to experience the greatness of the Inca civilization that gave birth to it. Its name means ‘Old Mountain’ in Quechua, a name that was given to it by the discoverers of the ruins in the early 20th century. Its founders named the site after the ‘Machu Picchu Mountain’, the ancient summit that towers above the citadel. However, according to many scholars, its original name would have been Llaqta Pata or Patallaqta, meaning ‘high town’ in Quechua, which gives rise to its position atop a hill surrounded by a lush green vegetated valley.

Machu Picchu is located in high in the Peruvian Andes at an altitude of 2,430 m / 7,972 ft in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru. More specifically it is in the Urubamba province, 80 kilometres northwest from the city of Cusco. To get to it you must travel through the picturesque landscape of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, to the town of Aguas Calientes that sits at the foot of Machu Picchu. From there, you need to take a bus up the mountainside to the gates of the citadel of Machu Picchu.

Visitors of Machu Picchu will embark on a journey into the history of the Incas as they walk along its ancient trails, discover the stunning architecture inside the citadel, and marvel at the breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. Amongst the ruins are the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, the main Plaza and many other historic landmarks.

If you’re planning to Travel to Machu Picchu, it is important that you know the necessary requirements imposed on visitors of the site. We have therefore composed a list of recommendations that one needs to consider when visiting the Citadel.

1. Advance reservation: Due to its fame and popularity, entrance tickets into Machu Picchu get booked up quickly, especially in the high season. It is therefore recommended that you reserve your entrance tickets to Machu Picchu in advance. To achieve this, you can book directly through the official ticket platform or use a travel agency to book them on your behalf. During the high season, a maximum number of 5,600 visitors per day will be permitted to enter the citadel, which are distributed between the 10 circuits and sub-circuits throughout the complex.
2. Passport: As well as providing a valid entrance ticket, all visitors to the citadel must present their original passport or identity card (if you are a Peruvian resident). The name on the ticket must match the name on the passport and the passport must be valid for a minimum of 7 months.
3. Travel insurance: Although it is not a mandatory requirement for tourists in Peru, it is highly recommended that you take out travel insurance to cover any medical emergency or unforeseen events that you may occur during your visit to Peru and Machu Picchu. We advise that your travel insurance covers all necessary medical care in Peru and any medical repatriation in the event of an emergency.
4. Vaccine against yellow fever: Some countries require you to vaccinate against yellow fever. In this instance, you must present the vaccination certificate to enter Machu Picchu. It is therefore important to check if your country of origin requires a yellow fever vaccine before traveling to Peru.
5. Good health: Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of 2,430 m / 7,972 ft. For visitors who are not accustomed to such altitudes, it is important that you are in good health to minimise the symptoms of altitude sickness. It is recommended that you make a prior visit to the doctor and follow the recommendations to acclimatize to the altitude, such as resting and maintaining good hydration.
6. Appropriate clothing: It is important to wear comfortable clothing that is suitable for all the potential weather conditions at Machu Picchu. During the morning and afternoon, the sun is strong, but the temperatures can seem relatively cool. We therefore recommend using a good quality sunscreen, wearing insect repellent for the mosquitos, and bringing warm clothing in your backpack with you. In addition, it is important that you wear suitable footwear for walking on the uneven terrain inside the citadel.
7. Respect the rules: Finally, it is important that you respect the rules established by the local authorities during your visit to Machu Picchu. It is prohibited to enter the site with food or drinks, to smoke or make bonfires, or leave behind any litter. In addition, it is important that you take care of the local flora and fauna and follow the instructions of the tour guides by respecting restricted areas.

Don’t forget to book your tickets in advance, as the number of visitors is limited per day and the demand is high. Be sure to bring your passport, good travel insurance and be in good health to fully enjoy the experience.
Do not miss the opportunity to live an unforgettable experience, full of adventure, history and culture. Machu Picchu is an unmissable destination for those looking for an enriching and exciting trip. We are waiting for you in Machu Picchu!