How it works: Visiting Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is one of the world's true bucket list destinations. Here's the skinny on how to make the most of your visit there.

There are a number of different ways to visit Machu Picchu, and an online search will turn up a plethora of options, from day trips from Cusco, to multi-day Inca Trail hikes to luxury trains and more. It can be overwhelming and difficult for first-time visitors to decide what makes the most sense for them. And while there's no one right answer or one size fits all way to visit Machu Picchu, there's one simple rule of thumb that we always go by for our travelers: Stay overnight and visit the ruins at least twice.

Overnight stays can be in Aguas Calientes, the town just below the ruins and site of the "Machu Picchu" train station stop, or at the Sanctuary Lodge, which is right outside the entrance to the ruins. There are a number of lovely hotels in Aguas Calientes, including Sumaq and Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (see below) and from the town it's a 15 minute shuttle bus ride up to the ruin entrance (shuttles depart at frequent intervals throughout the day). Staying overnight allows visitors to make a first visit on their arrival day to Aguas Calientes, with your guide, to get a good overview of the ruins, learn more about the history, and visit some of the main points. Then after a relaxing night at the hotel, a morning return visit on the second day which really takes the Machu Picchu experience to the next level.

Getting there early from town means you'll be able to see the ruins with far fewer people around, as the trains do not start arriving until later in the morning. See the ruins with a different sun and weather (perhaps the famous mist), visit areas of the ruins you didn't on day one, and take the opportunity to do one of the excellent hikes within Machu Picchu: Huchuy Picchu, Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. We always include the "add-on" ticket for one of these two hikes for our travelers and it's a great opportunity for a unique, active experience, and amazing views.

Generally, this afternoon you'll take a train back to Cusco and arrive in the evening. But it's also possible to stay another night in Aguas Calientes for those who wish and who have the time to spare in their itinerary, but spending at least that one night is really something that makes visiting Machu Picchu just that much more memorable and worthwhile. Check out any of the itineraries below to see it in action, and give us a holler for a customized Peru and Machu Picchu itinerary of your own!