Destination
Cusco & Machu Picchu, Peru
Cusco, the old Inca capital, is the base for Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley's terraced ruins and multi-day treks through the Andes.
Trips to Cusco & Machu Picchu from every city
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When to go
| Month | Season |
|---|---|
| January | avoid |
| February | avoid |
| March | fine |
| April | best |
| May | best |
| June | best |
| July | best |
| August | best |
| September | best |
| October | best |
| November | fine |
| December | fine |
- June: Inti Raymi, the Inca festival of the sun, is staged at Sacsayhuamán on June 24.
- May, June, July, August, September: Dry season with clear skies; Machu Picchu tickets and Inca Trail permits sell out months ahead.
January, February: Height of the rainy season with landslide risk; the Inca Trail closes for maintenance in February.
Where to stay in Cusco & Machu Picchu
- Centro Histórico around the Plaza de Armas: Colonial courtyards on Inca foundations, steps from the cathedral and Qorikancha.
- San Blas: Artisan quarter of steep lanes, cafes and viewpoints above the plaza.
- Sacred Valley (Urubamba and Ollantaytambo): Lower altitude for acclimatising, with resorts and the train to Machu Picchu.
- Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo): Sleeping at the foot of the ruins makes an early-morning entry easy.
What to do in Cusco & Machu Picchu
- Sunrise at Machu Picchu after the train from Ollantaytambo
- Hike the four-day Inca Trail or the Salkantay trek
- Climb the Ollantaytambo fortress terraces
- Day hike to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
- Explore the Sacsayhuamán walls above the city
- Pisac market and ruins in the Sacred Valley
Good to know
| Airports | Alejandro Velasco Astete International (CUZ) |
|---|---|
| Passport for US citizens | yes |
| Price level | mid-range |
| Time zone | America/Lima |
| Kind of trip | history, culture, adventure, nature |
Questions about Cusco & Machu Picchu
When is the best time to visit Cusco & Machu Picchu?
April, May, June, July, August, September and October. January, February: Height of the rainy season with landslide risk; the Inca Trail closes for maintenance in February.
Do US citizens need a passport for Cusco & Machu Picchu?
Yes. Cusco & Machu Picchu is in Peru; bring a valid passport.
How expensive is Cusco & Machu Picchu on the ground?
Cusco & Machu Picchu is mid-range by US standards: plan about $90 per person per day for food, getting around and tickets.