This is a first class itinerary which gave us five ‘mega day’ experiences of Peru, each of which was quite different from the others: seeing the wonderful condors in Colca Canyon; visiting the families on a reed island in Lake Titicaca; walking the last part of the Inca Trail and seeing Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate; seeing the great colonial religious art and architecture in Cuzco and spending time in the rain forest on a tributary of the Amazon. These memorable experiences were separated by other days travelling through scenic landscapes, visiting interesting sites and staying in some great hotels. The Colca Lodge and ICH Lodge on the river were both wonderful. Bar one that I’ve reported to Exodus, the others were all solid four star hotels with comfortable rooms and good food and locations. The food in Peru is generally good and we had tasty lunches and dinners out. I’ll pass on the guinea pig next time though!
Machu Picchu Tours
Our Guide to Machu Picchu
Our tours to Machu Picchu
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a path every traveller must take at least once in their lifetime. Possibly the most famous panorama and archaeological site on the planet, Machu Picchu is an intricate labyrinth of stone temples and palaces on brilliant green terraces, cradled between two dramatic peaks and surrounded by the all-consuming beauty of the Andes.
The mountains reach for the skies as cloud forests give way to sheer cliff faces, sharply descending into the deep canyon and the rushing river Urubamba far, far below. It’s famous for a reason and that’s because there’s not a soul on Earth who can fail to be impressed by the majesty of this lost Inca city in the clouds.
Our Inca Trail & Machu Picchu holidays offer something for most travellers. From a little extra comfort and super-specialist tour guides to extended trips taking in the best Peru has to offer, you can find the perfect Machu Picchu trips for you below.
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Darren Lyon Inca Trail & the Amazon Rainforest3 nights in the Amazon were unbelievable, so much to see and do and our Amazon guide Roland was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. He made everything easy.
Hiking the Inca Trail through the scenery of the Andes mountains was awesome and our guide Ollie was also amazing at looking after us and explaining the history of pre Inca civilisations and the Incas.
Our home stay with villagers on Lake Titicaca was also a fantastic experience, watching the sunset and learning about their lifestyle on Amantani island.
Also the time spent in Lima, Cusco and Puno was also very enjoyable for more of a city feel and they are beautiful cities.
Edward Bedford The Inca Trail in ComfortThere may be an easier way to see Machu Picchu, but I don’t think there is a better way! The local team , led by Edwin, were absolute legends – 100% professional throughout, and took the very best care of us. I remain in awe of how head porter Roger and his team did everything we did (but carrying an entire campsite and in a faction of the time!) and chef Roberto is a magician for producing restaurant standard meals in remote mountain locations! The trek was certainly hard in places – but not excessive – and it was a truly special and rewarding way to see this iconic location (with added bonuses of the sacred valley at the start and being able to see Machu Picchu twice at the end – once when you descend from the trek and again, in more leisure, the following morning).
What are the best months to visit Machu Picchu?
What are the best months to visit Machu Picchu?
If you want to get the iconic Machu Picchu photo of the archaeological site surrounded by wispy clouds set against a clear blue sky, visit during the dry season between May and October. Do be aware that early morning mist and unexpected downpours are likely to happen no matter what time of year you choose to travel!
The months of June, July, and August are also the busiest in terms of mass tourism. During these peak times, it may be difficult to freely move around the ruins on your Machu Picchu holiday. There are likely to be lines everywhere – on the way to Huayna Picchu, to access the best places for photos of Machu Picchu, and for the bathroom!
April, May, September, and October are all good shoulder season months. During this time, you’ll find smaller crowds and dry, pleasant weather, with warm days and cool nights, making these months some of the best to go on a Machu Picchu adventure holiday.
How long is the flight to Machu Picchu?
A flight from the UK to Cuzco, the nearest international airport to Machu Picchu, takes anything from 18 to 24 hours, including transfers. From Cuzco, you take a coach, train, or taxi to Machu Picchu. Don’t worry, though, as we can organise your travel plans when you book one of our Machu Picchu holidays, with flights included, to make the journey as straightforward as possible.
Lightweight layers are your friend when climbing Machu Picchu. The weather can change in a heartbeat, so having lightweight clothes you can remove or put on quickly is essential. You’ll need waterproof clothing and footwear too as you won’t want the extra weight of wet clothes slowing you down. Equally, you need to keep your body safe from the sun by wearing hats and long-sleeved tops and trousers.
You’ll be camping during your stay and nights can be very cold as you ascend the mountain. Pack warm pyjamas and make sure you have a thermal base layer as an added precaution too.
Machu Picchu is 2,430 meters above sea level.
Machu Picchu holidays are a lot easier when you have the right gear with you. Here are the essentials items you’ll need to pack for a successful trip:
- Passport
- Money
- Water
- Insect repellent
- Sun cream
- Thin and breathable clothes
- Comfortable footwear
- Light waterproofs
- Swimming costumes
Remember that what you pack is what you’ll have to carry up the mountain, so pack light for a much more enjoyable experience.
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Book your tour to Machu Picchu today!
Are you ready to set your sights on this sprawling Inca citadel? Whether you’re hoping to experience Machu Picchu in isolation or as part of a wider journey through Peru, our Inca Trail to Machu Picchu trips are justifiably popular. It’s a good idea to book early to secure your place on the journey of a lifetime.
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