Machu Picchu is a bucket-list destination, so if you’re finally ready to tick it off your “to-do” list, you’ve come to the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about Machu Picchu, how to get there, what you can do there, and, most importantly, about the Machu Picchu visitor limit and how to get yourself a ticket so you don’t miss out:
What is Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is one of the most stunning relics of the Inca Empire. Built directly into a mountain top, with 360° views that include the Peruvian Andes all the way to the Amazon Basin, this historic town has become something of a pilgrimage for travelers – and for good reason.
Machu Picchu was first made into a National Historic Sanctuary, and then a UNESCO World Heritage site officially in 1983, but its history stretches back to the 15th century, when it was the seat of the Inca empire.
How to Get to Machu Picchu
There are several ways to get to Machu Picchu, but first, you need to get into the area, and to do that, you need to fly into Lima.
1. Via the Inca Trail
One of the more adventurous and unforgettable ways to reach Machu Picchu is to take the Inca Trail, the traditional route the Incas would have taken to reach their city before trains and buses eased the way. Since this is a multi-day hike, however, it’s always recommended that you take a tour. You can get straight to the hike, or take a leisurely luxury tour from kuodatravel.com and include horseback trails, cultural delights, and private tours throughout Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and then, of course, along the trail itself up towards Machu Picchu.
2. Via Transport
Alternatively, you can travel via transport. From Lima, you’ll take a flight to Cusco, and then you’ll need to take a train. If you’re looking for something a little luxurious, consider the Hiram Bingham train. It offers wide viewing glass windows perfect for viewing the sites and an open-air, 1920s Pullman-inspired observatory car. At the station, you will then need to get a bus up to the main gates of Machu Picchu.
Essential: Booking Your Machu Picchu Tickets
Machu Picchu is an incredibly popular destination, so to protect it for future generations, the government has set strict limits on the number of people who can go, and even where you can explore. In 2026, for example:
- You have a choice of three circuits, with time limits ranging from 2 to 7 hours.
- During high season, there is a limit of 5,600 tickets per day. During the low season, this drops to 4,600 tickets per day.
- Tourist groups are limited to a maximum of 10 people per guide.
- Guides are mandatory; you cannot go without one within the site itself. You don’t need a guide to hike the Huayna Picchu mountain.
- You cannot re-enter the site once you leave, and there are no bathrooms on site, so plan accordingly.
With limits on how many tickets are available per day and per circuit, make sure you book your trip well in advance and plan around when you get your timed slot to Machu Picchu!
