What to Do in Machu Picchu: Complete Guide to Activities and Routes

Machu Picchu offers different activities beyond the visit to the citadel itself. From hikes on nearby mountains to visits to complementary archaeological sites, there are options for different levels of physical effort and available time.

The Inca citadel must be visited with a certified guide for approximately 2–3 hours. Entrance tickets have specific time slots, and some include access to additional mountains that require advance reservation.

For travelers with more time, there are trekking routes such as the 4-day Inca Trail or shorter 1–2 day alternatives that reach the citadel through different access points. The town of Aguas Calientes, located at the base of Machu Picchu, offers basic tourist services and hot springs.

Machu Picchu Citadel Tour

The visit to Machu Picchu is mandatory with a certified guide. The circuits established by the Ministry of Culture last approximately 2–3 hours and follow specific routes depending on the type of ticket purchased.

Available Circuits in the Citadel

There are different circuits depending on the ticket:

• Circuit 1 (Upper Panoramic): Covers the upper area with panoramic views of the citadel, without descending into the main structures.
• Circuit 2 (Classic): Includes the main constructions: Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, Temple of the Three Windows, and the main plaza.
• Circuit 3 (Royalty): Focuses on the urban and residential areas, including water mirrors and fountains.
• Circuit 4 (Lower): Covers the agricultural area and terraces, with external views of the main structures.

Each circuit has specific entry times, and it is not allowed to backtrack or exit and re-enter. Guides explain the function of the main structures and the spatial organization of the citadel.

Main Sectors of Machu Picchu

The most visited sectors depending on the circuit include:

• Agricultural Zone: Terrace system (andenes) used for farming and erosion control.
• Urban Zone: Divided into Hanan (upper) and Hurin (lower), with residential, ceremonial, and administrative buildings.
• Intihuatana: Astronomical observatory carved in stone.
• Temple of the Sun: Semicircular structure with astronomically aligned windows.
• Temple of the Three Windows: Ceremonial structure with three trapezoidal windows.
• Main Plaza: Central space that divides the urban sectors.

Mountains and Additional Hikes

In addition to the citadel tour, there are hiking options to nearby mountains that require additional tickets and have limited availability.

Huayna Picchu

This mountain is located north of the citadel and reaches 2,720 meters (8,924 ft) above sea level. The ascent takes 1–1.5 hours via steep and narrow Inca stairways. From the summit, you get a vertical view of Machu Picchu. The visit to the Temple of the Moon is included on the descent (optional).

Requirements: Limited to 200 people per day in two time slots (07:00 and 10:00). Reservation required 2–3 months in advance during high season. Minimum age: 12 years. Not recommended for people with vertigo or heart conditions.

Machu Picchu Mountain

This mountain is located south of the citadel and reaches 3,082 meters (10,111 ft) above sea level. The ascent takes 1.5–2 hours on a wider and less steep trail than Huayna Picchu. It offers panoramic views of the entire area, including the citadel, the Urubamba River, and surrounding mountains.

Requirements: Limited to 400 people per day in two time slots (07:00 and 09:00). More accessible than Huayna Picchu. Minimum age: 12 years.

Nearby Attractions

The area features additional attractions that can be visited before or after the citadel tour.

Inti Punku (Sun Gate)

An Inca checkpoint that marked the entrance to Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail. It is located at 2,745 meters (9,006 ft) above sea level and takes 1.5–2 hours of hiking from the citadel. It offers a panoramic view of Machu Picchu and is the arrival point for Inca Trail trekkers. Access is included with the citadel entrance ticket, but additional hiking time should be considered.

Aguas Calientes Hot Springs

Natural hot spring pools located a 10-minute walk from downtown Aguas Calientes. Water temperature: 38–46°C (100–115°F). Hours: 05:00–20:30 daily. Entrance fee: S/20 (approximately USD 5). Includes basic changing rooms and showers. It is recommended to bring a swimsuit, towel, and sandals.

Gastronomy in Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) has restaurants offering regional Cusco cuisine as well as international options. Prices are generally higher than in Cusco due to its tourist location.

Typical dishes available:

• Trout: Fried or baked, locally sourced fish.
• Lomo saltado: Peruvian-Chinese fusion dish with beef, fries, and rice.
• Baked guinea pig: Traditional Andean dish (higher price).
• Alpaca: Served in various preparations (steak, stew).
• Quinoa soup: Regional soup with quinoa and vegetables.

Price range: tourist menu S/25–40 (USD 7–11), à la carte dishes S/35–80 (USD 9–21). Restaurants near the main square tend to be more expensive.

A visit to Machu Picchu can be complemented with different activities depending on the available time and physical condition. Entrance tickets must be booked in advance, especially for the additional mountains with limited availability.

Machu Picchu Viajes Peru organizes tour packages that include entrance tickets, transportation, guides, and meal options. We can coordinate your visit according to your preferred circuit and additional activities in the area.