TravelXP

5-Day Ultimate Machu Picchu Travel Guide

What to Plan, Hike & Eat

Machu Picchu, the 15th-century Incan citadel nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. With its mysterious history, breathtaking views, and diverse hiking trails, it's a dream destination for adventurers and history lovers alike.

This comprehensive 5-day travel guide will take you through everything you need to know to plan, experience, and savor your journey to this ancient Incan masterpiece. From acclimatization in Cusco to hiking the legendary trails and discovering the finest Peruvian cuisine, we've got you covered.

Whether you're planning to trek the classic Inca Trail or explore the Sacred Valley at a leisurely pace, this guide will help you make the most of your once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

1Why Visit Machu Picchu?

Beyond its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, archaeological mystery, and spiritual significance.

What makes Machu Picchu special:

Remarkably preserved Incan architecture and engineering
Stunning panoramic views of the Andes Mountains
Rich cultural heritage and fascinating historical mysteries
Multiple hiking options from beginner to expert level
Gateway to exploring Peruvian culture and cuisine

2Essential Trip Planning Information

Proper planning is crucial for a successful Machu Picchu adventure. Here's everything you need to know before you go:

Key Planning Details:

Best Time to Visit: April to October (dry season) for optimal weather and trail conditions
Closest Airport: Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco (CUZ)
Permits Required: Book Machu Picchu and Inca Trail permits 3-6 months in advance
Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN) - bring cash for small vendors
Altitude Preparation: Cusco is at 3,400m (11,154ft) - allow 1-2 days for acclimatization

Essential Tip: Altitude sickness is real and can affect anyone. Arrive in Cusco 1-2 days before your Machu Picchu visit to acclimatize properly. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and consider coca leaf tea.

Pro tip for permit booking: Machu Picchu entry tickets are limited to 2,500 visitors per day. Huayna Picchu permits are even more restricted (400 per day). Book through the official website or authorized tour operators as soon as your travel dates are confirmed.

3Complete 5-Day Itinerary

This carefully crafted itinerary balances acclimatization, exploration, and adventure while maximizing your Machu Picchu experience.

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco - Acclimatization & Historic Center

Activities: Land in Cusco and check into a hotel in the historic center. Take the day to rest, hydrate, and explore nearby attractions.

Must-see spots:

Plaza de Armas - The heart of Cusco with colonial architecture
Qorikancha Temple - Ancient Incan sun temple
San Pedro Market - Local market for authentic experiences

Evening: Light dinner and early rest to combat altitude effects

Day 2: Sacred Valley Exploration

Full-day Sacred Valley tour: Experience the cultural heart of the Incan empire.

Key destinations:

Pisac Market - Famous for artisan goods and local crafts
Ollantaytambo Fortress - Strategic Incan site with impressive terraces
Chinchero - Traditional weaving demonstrations and colonial architecture

Overnight: Stay in Ollantaytambo to catch the early morning train to Machu Picchu

Day 3: First Machu Picchu Visit

Morning: Take the scenic Vistadome or Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes

Afternoon: Shuttle bus to Machu Picchu for your first visit with a professional guide (2-3 hours)

Optional upgrades: Book tickets that include hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views

Evening: Relax in Aguas Calientes, enjoy dinner and hot springs

Day 4: Second Visit & Adventure Hiking

Early morning: Return to Machu Picchu for sunrise (optional but magical experience)

Hiking options:

Huayna Picchu - Steep and challenging, approximately 2 hours round trip
Machu Picchu Mountain - Less crowded, longer but less steep climb
Sun Gate (Inti Punku) - Part of the original Inca Trail, approximately 1.5 hours

Evening: Return to Aguas Calientes, enjoy hot springs, then take train back to Cusco

Day 5: Final Cusco Exploration & Departure

Activities: Spend your final day enjoying Cusco's remaining attractions

Sacsayhuamán - Impressive Incan fortress overlooking Cusco
Shopping: Last-minute souvenirs and local crafts
Culinary experiences: Final taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine

Departure: Head to Cusco airport for your onward journey

4Top Hiking Routes to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu offers multiple approaches, each with unique experiences and difficulty levels. Choose the route that matches your fitness level and time constraints.

Popular Trekking Options:

Classic Inca Trail (4 days): The most famous and historic route with limited permits
Short Inca Trail (2 days): Perfect for those with limited time
Salkantay Trek (5 days): High-altitude, off-the-beaten-path adventure
Lares Trek: Cultural route through remote Andean villages
Inca Jungle Trek: Multi-activity adventure including biking and zip-lining

Important note: All guided treks require advance booking through licensed tour operators. The classic Inca Trail sells out months in advance, especially during peak season (June-August).

5Where to Eat: Culinary Experiences

Peruvian cuisine is world-renowned, and your Machu Picchu journey offers incredible dining opportunities from local markets to gourmet restaurants.

In Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo):

Indio Feliz - Exceptional Franco-Peruvian fusion cuisine with famous trout dishes
Tree House Restaurant - Gourmet fusion dining with stunning jungle views
Café Inkaterra - Farm-to-table dining with organic ingredients

In Cusco:

Chicha por Gastón Acurio - Modern Peruvian by celebrity chef Gastón Acurio
Green Point - Outstanding vegetarian and vegan Peruvian cuisine
Morena Peruvian Kitchen - Excellent ambiance with authentic local flavors
Central Restaurante (if visiting Lima) - World's #1 restaurant showcasing Peru's biodiversity

Must-try dishes: Ceviche, lomo saltado, quinoa soup, coca tea, pisco sour, and roasted guinea pig (cuy) for the adventurous.

6Essential Tips for a Smooth Visit

These practical tips will help ensure your Machu Picchu adventure goes smoothly from start to finish.

Booking and Documentation:

Book entrance tickets and train rides early, especially during peak season (June-August)
Bring your passport - it's required for entrance and to get the coveted Machu Picchu stamp
Consider travel insurance due to altitude and remote locations

What to Bring:

Cash (Peruvian Sol) for small vendors and local tips
Layered clothing - weather can shift from cold mornings to hot afternoons
Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Rain gear during wet season (November-March)

Photography tip: Bring extra batteries and memory cards. The views are incredible, and you'll want to capture every moment. Professional tripods require special permits.

Complete Machu Picchu Planning Checklist

Planning Category	Action Items	Timeline
Permits & Tickets	Book Machu Picchu entrance and hiking permits	3-6 months in advance
Transportation	Book flights to Cusco, train tickets to Aguas Calientes	2-3 months in advance
Accommodation	Reserve hotels in Cusco, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes	2-3 months in advance
Health Preparation	Consult doctor about altitude sickness medication	1 month before travel
Travel Insurance	Purchase comprehensive coverage including adventure activities	1 month before travel
Packing	Prepare layered clothing, hiking gear, essential documents	1-2 weeks before travel
Money	Exchange currency, notify banks of travel plans	1 week before travel

7Cultural Etiquette and Respect

Machu Picchu is not just a tourist destination—it's a sacred site with deep cultural significance for indigenous Peruvian communities.

Respectful Practices:

Follow designated paths and respect barriers
Don't touch or climb on ancient structures
Respect photography restrictions in certain areas
Support local communities through ethical tourism choices
Learn basic Spanish phrases to connect with locals

Cultural insight: The Quechua people consider Machu Picchu sacred. Take time to understand the spiritual significance of the site and approach it with reverence and respect.

Conclusion: Your Machu Picchu Adventure Awaits

A 5-day trip to Machu Picchu offers an enriching blend of adventure, history, culture, and natural beauty. With proper planning, thoughtful hiking choices, and an appreciation for local cuisine and customs, your journey to this ancient Incan citadel will create memories to last a lifetime.

Whether you're trekking the legendary Inca Trail, exploring the Sacred Valley's cultural treasures, or simply marveling at the architectural genius of the ancients, Machu Picchu delivers an experience that transforms every traveler who walks its ancient paths.

Ready to plan your Machu Picchu adventure? Start by booking your flights to Cusco and reserving your entry tickets today. The Lost City of the Incas is waiting to share its secrets with you!