Cusco & The Sacred Valley, Peru
Cusco is perfect for exploring on foot and what better way to soak up the atmosphere than to wander around ancient streets amidst bowler-hatted locals with their voluminous skirts, little ones cuddled up in colourful shawls on their mother’s backs. There are lots of things to see and do, including the popular chocolate museum with 'make your own chocolate’ workshops- always a hit with children. Don’t miss San Cristobal Plaza, the Cathedral, Saint Peter's market and the Koricancha Temple as well as the artistic Saint Blas quarter, Hatun Rumiyoc Street and the Archbishop’s Palace.
For those interested in ancient history, there is no shortage of archaeological sites in Cusco and the surrounding areas, including Sacsayhuaman,an impressive citadel surrounded by beautiful scenery, the Inca shrine of Qenqo, with its impressive altar embedded in rock, the Puca Pucara watchtower and Tambomachay, a monument of architectural excellence, considered one of the pillars of the Andean view of the world.
Most visitors do of course, come to see the iconic Machu Picchu, easily reached by train from either Cusco or the Sacred Valley via Aguas Calientes, from where you have a short transfer by bus. There are train options for all, the most popular being the Vistadome and the famous Hiram Bingham, now owned by Belmond (formerly Orient Express), if you are intent on arriving in style.
Entrance regulations for Machu Picchu 2020
In order to preserve the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu, the government authorities have implemented a new entry regime as follows:
Entry times for Machu Picchu only:
1st. Schedule:
Entrance to Machu Picchu from 6 am
Entrance to Machu Picchu from 7 am
Entrance to Machu Picchu from 8 am
2nd. Schedule:
Entrance to Machu Picchu from 9 am
Entrance to Machu Picchu from 10 am
Entrance to Machu Picchu from 11 am
3rd. Schedule:
Entrance to Machu Picchu from 12 pm
Entrance to Machu Picchu from 1 pm
Entrance to Machu Picchu from 2 pm
You can remain on site in Machu Picchu up to 4 hours after admission.
There are different entry tickets if you would like to combine Machu Picchu with Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu (over 12s only as it is VERY steep)
For your first visit to Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu you must be accompanied by an official tour guide - either on a shared or private basis. Tour guides will follow specially designed paths.
FAQs
Can I change the entrance time, e.g. from morning to afternoon, once I have my entry ticket?
No, you cannot. The ticket schedule is fixed.
If I want to spend more time in Machu Picchu, can I buy a ticket for the subsequent window?
Yes, it is possible to buy an additional ticket and it should be connected to the bus tickets, if that is the case. If you purchase a standard entry plus Machu Picchu Mountain or Wayna Picchu this allows for the extra time to undertake the hike but does not give you more time at the citadel per se.
How does it work if I buy tickets for the morning and afternoon for the same day?
As well as purchasing two different tickets, you will have to exit the citadel when the first window ends, and then, return for the later window. Eg: If you enter in the morning, you need to exit and pass control checks again to visit in the afternoon. Your stay has a time limit of 4 hours and the closing time is 5:30 PM. Do check the last bus departure to Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes). If you do this we can arrange lunch for you at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge or you can bring a box lunch and leave in the lockers near the entrance.
If I spend the night in Machu Picchu after a regular visit, can I decide to visit again the next day without advance booking?
You can buy tickets at the citadel, but due to limited availability, we recommend buying in advance and adding them to your tour package.
Is it better to make reservations for Machu Picchu in advance?
Yes! Machu Picchu is a world class wonder and there is limited availability, so we recommend making your travel arrangements in advance. Be prepared for changes to the entry requirements too as the authorities are continually looking at how best to manage footfall so as to avoid damage to this historic site.
