Machu Picchu — UNESCO site, one of the New Seven Wonders, built by the Inca in the 15th century — rewards good planning. Here’s the short list of things to sort before you go.

1. Entry Tickets and Reservations:
Daily capacity is capped by circuit and time slot. Book months out for the May–September dry season. Pick a morning or afternoon entry up front — the choice sets everything else.

2. Inca Trail Permits:
If you’re hiking the classic Inca Trail, permits are released in bulk each October for the following year and sell out fast. Book through a licensed operator; no exceptions, no last-minute workarounds.

3. Train Reservations:
Aguas Calientes is only reachable by train (PeruRail or Inca Rail) or on foot. Reserve class and time slot in advance; the window seats sell first.

4. Accommodations:
Sleep in Aguas Calientes the night before an early entry, or in Ollantaytambo if you prefer a quieter base. Range runs budget to Belmond Sanctuary Lodge.

5. Weather:
Cloud forest climate — sunshine, mist, and sudden rain in one afternoon. Layers, waterproof shell, grippy shoes, a packable poncho.

6. Altitude:
Machu Picchu sits at 2,430 m but Cusco (3,399 m) is where altitude hits. Spend two or three days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley first. Coca tea helps; alcohol doesn’t.

7. Guided Tour vs. Independent Exploration:
A two-hour licensed guide at the start transforms the site. After that, you can split off and walk the terraces on your own.

8. Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain:
Both are permit-only add-ons. Huayna Picchu is shorter and steeper, 400 permits a day; Machu Picchu Mountain is longer and less exposed. Book the add-on with your main ticket.

9. Sustainable Travel Practices:
Stay on the marked circuits, carry out trash, respect the ban on tripods and large bags. The citadel is fragile and the rules exist for a reason.

10. Photography:
Camera or phone is fine; professional equipment and drones need a permit. Charge everything the night before — there are no outlets at the site.

11. Time Management:
An average circuit takes 2–4 hours. Enter at your slot, don’t rush, and build in time to just sit and look.

12. Current rules:
Check the Ministry of Culture page for current circuit numbers and any health protocols before you go — the rules get updated more often than most sites admit.

Sort these twelve items and the day runs itself.

Book here.