Planning a Machu Picchu tour and unsure where to begin? River Explorers makes your journey seamless with expertly designed Machu Picchu tours that combine culture, nature, and authentic Andean experiences. Whether you prefer a classic guided tour, a luxury escape, a multi-day adventure, or family-friendly travel, our Machu Picchu tour packages offer safe, smooth, and unforgettable exploration—tailored entirely to your travel style.
Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with our Machu Picchu tours and package trips! Immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of the Inca trails. Explore breathtaking landscapes through exhilarating hikes and experience multi-active excursions that will leave you in awe.
Discover our top-rated Machu Picchu tour packages designed for every traveler—featuring scenic train rides, guided tours, cultural experiences, and customizable itineraries across Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the Lost City of the Incas.
Enjoy the absolute freedom of great open spaces of gigantic peaks and lagoons of towering stone cliffs. Explore hidden valleys and jungle forests, native Andean Villages, crystal-clear creeks and far-reaching mountain hills.
The ultimate goal of our exhilarating hiking tours is to immerse you in a breathtaking adventure that brings you right into the heart of nature and its vibrant people, creating an authentic Peruvian Andean experience like no other! With our exceptional service, exclusive access to pristine wilderness, top-notch camping amenities, unparalleled tranquility, and the thrill of exploring remote locations, your journey with us is guaranteed to be nothing short of amazing!
Embark on a journey with our guided Inca Trail Tours, offering 3, 4, and 5-day options tailored for an immersive experience. Walk in the footsteps of the ancient Incas, exploring stunning landscapes and remarkable archaeological sites along the legendary trail.
It lies on the Vilcabamba Mountain range and is ranked among the best 5 hikes on the planet. The trail runs over high mountains. The road system of Inca trails covers a wide range of beautiful landscapes including the Subtropical jungle, snow capped peaks of Andes, lush crowd forest and grassy cold weather Puna Mountains. Our trips of Inca trail will take you to a journey of pre- Columbian site discovering the mysterious Lost City of the Incas. Peru’s Inca trail is definitely an experience of a lifetime. To explore the Inca trails, you can choose between our two, four- and five-day Inca trail trips. Some of our tours include the unique opportunity to visit Machu Picchu twice, allowing you to fully absorb the magic of this iconic destination.
Our tours are created to treat your eyes with the most beautiful destinations and also the ones on off beaten track which are only known by few locals.
The Urubamba mountain range, located in the Cusco region of Peru, forms part of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes and lies on the right bank of the Urubamba River. Key peaks such as Nevado Sahuasiray, Nevado Chicón, Nevado Halancoma, and Nevado Verónica dominate the landscape, making it an adventure hotspot. The range feeds the Vilcanota, Yanatile, and Yavero rivers, and offers stunning destinations for adventure trips. Many of our tours take place in this breathtaking region, providing an unforgettable experience for travelers.
The Machu Picchu complex and its surroundings are located within the Vilcabamba mountain range. It includes notable peaks such as Salcantay, where some of our Machu Picchu hiking tours take place. This ecologically valuable area features dramatic, river-carved canyons, cloud forests, valleys, and Inca ruins. Our Machu Picchu adventure tours often highlight the stunning landscapes of this majestic region, making it a key part of any trip to the area. Historically, it was the Incas’ last refuge after the Spanish invasion until 1573. The region is known for trekking to ancient Inca sites like Machu Picchu and Choquequirao, providing insight into Incan history.
The Sacred Valley of Peru, situated between Cusco and Machu Picchu, boasts a rich history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Renowned for its ancient Inca ruins, vibrant markets, and traditional villages, it is a must-visit destination. Our trips to Machu Picchu often include the Sacred Valley, allowing travelers to explore significant sites like Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Moray. The breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage make the Sacred Valley an essential part of any Machu Picchu tour.
The Inca Trail is a renowned trekking route that culminates at the ancient city of Machu Picchu. Our tours, available in 2, 4, and 5-day options, traverse diverse ecosystems, from high Andean mountains to lush cloud forests. Hikers will experience breathtaking landscapes, a rich variety of flora and fauna, and well-preserved Inca ruins. These adventures offer a unique opportunity to appreciate the region’s cultural and natural beauty, leading to an unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu.
Embark on the journey of a lifetime with our Tours! Choose your preferred way to explore this ancient wonder – whether in an intimate setting with our private service or with like-minded adventurers in our group service. Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Machu Picchu like never before. Book your unforgettable experience now!
Join us on an incredible adventure to Machu Picchu with your friends, classmates, loved ones, best friend, or colleagues! Our private service offers a uniquely tailored and exclusive experience for those who crave a more personal and adaptable adventure. With our private service, get ready to revel in these amazing features:
Personalized Itinerary: Customize your itinerary according to your interests and preferences. Our private service allows you to design your perfect trip.
Dedicated Guide: Enjoy the undivided attention of a knowledgeable and experienced guide who will provide detailed insights into the history, culture, and significance of Machu Picchu.
Private Transportation: Travel comfortably and conveniently with private transportation arrangements tailored to your schedule.
Flexible Schedule: Benefit from a flexible schedule that allows you to start and end your tour at your preferred time, maximizing your time at Machu Picchu.
Accommodations: Choose from a selection of accommodations that offer comfort and convenience during your stay.
Our group service is designed for travelers who enjoy sharing their experience with like-minded individuals and are looking for a more affordable option to explore Machu Picchu. Here’s what our group service includes:
Scheduled Departures: Join scheduled departures with a fixed itinerary, allowing you to experience Machu Picchu with a group of fellow travelers.
Experienced Guide: Explore Machu Picchu with an experienced guide who will lead the group and provide informative commentary on the history and significance of the site.
Group Transportation: Travel together with the group in comfortable transportation arrangements, enhancing the camaraderie among travelers.
Shared Accommodations: Stay in comfortable and centrally located accommodations shared with other members of the group, fostering a sense of community.
Affordable Pricing: Benefit from cost-effective pricing options that make it easier to visit Machu Picchu without compromising on the quality of the experience.
Embarking on a journey to Machu Picchu is an adventure of a lifetime, and we prioritize your comfort and convenience throughout the trip. Our transportation options blend the thrill of the journey with scenic beauty, ensuring a memorable experience from start to finish.
We offer a different array of vehicles, meticulously designed to match the style, road type, and ensure a comfortable journey no matter the distance. Our professional drivers and guides will pick you up from your specified location- airport, hotel, bus station or any other location. They will safely drive you to the activity station. We provide a line of new buses, vans and 4X4 which are specially designed for each activity.
Most of our Machu Picchu trips include a one night stay at Aguas Calientes allowing you to explore the beauty of Machu Picchu. At the end of the tour, we take you to the Ollantaytambo or Cusco railway station where we provide you with the transport to take you to the hotels. We mostly use the Expedition train service. Our packages include a number of choices for the travelers to choose from. If you are luxury lover, you can upgrade your services to luxurious Hiram Bingham or the Vistadome train services.
Expedition: The expedition service is included in all our tours. It provides a wonderful experience taking care of your comfort level. With breathtaking panoramic window to enjoy the views along the way to or from Machu Picchu, it gives you a unique experience of traveling. There are services of air conditioning as well as heating.
Vistadome: With it’s spectacular design, the service is comfortable for people looking for an extra comfort. Its domed roof is covered with windows allowing an astonishing panoramic view of the sacred Valley and Urubamba canyon. It is comfortable, fast and leaves once a day. The passengers on board enjoy shows with dancers, music and a meal with great customer service. Our packages are not just known for adventure and hiking but also for leisure and relaxation.
Hiram Bingham: The readers of Conde Naste traveler UK voted Belmond Hiram Bengham as the best train in the world. It is one of the most luxurious trains in the world. It will take you to a journey full of amenities and first class services. The train has total 4 wagons- two dining wagons, a bar wagon and a kitchen wagon. It has free bar, live Peruvian music shows, hostesses and almost anything that you crave in board. It offers breakfast, lunch or dinner depending on the schedule you choose for yourself.
Choosing the best time to visit Machu Picchu depends on your preferences, interests, and tolerance for crowds and weather conditions. Whether you’re seeking a quiet retreat in nature or an adventurous hike to iconic landmarks, Machu Picchu offers something for everyone year-round. Plan your visit wisely to make the most of this incredible UNESCO World Heritage site and create unforgettable memories in the heart of the Andes!
Best Time of Year to Visit:
The shoulder seasons of April, October, and November are widely considered the best times to visit Machu Picchu. During these months, you can expect milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and less rainfall compared to the peak tourist season. The landscapes are lush and vibrant, making it an ideal time for hiking and photography.
Least Crowded Time to Visit:
If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting Machu Picchu in the afternoon or during the rainy season, especially in February. Statistics show that the citadel is less crowded in the afternoon, allowing you to explore the site at a more relaxed pace. The rainy season offers a unique atmosphere with lush greenery and fewer tourists, making it an underrated time to visit.
Best Time of Day to Visit:
Holiday and Seasonal Considerations:
In 2024, visiting the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu comes with new rules and regulations that focus on preservation and sustainable tourism, aiming to keep this iconic site pristine for generations. The guidelines are straightforward but essential for anyone planning a trip or tour package to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Read The Rules and Regulations for Machu Picchu.
Visitor numbers are capped at 500 people per day, which includes both tourists and support staff like guides and porters. Reservations must be made well in advance through an authorized tour operator, as there’s no ticket sales at the trail’s entrance. All groups are required to be accompanied by a certified guide, and group sizes are limited to 16 people. To minimize environmental impact, porters on the trail are only allowed to carry up to 14 kg, and the trail closes each February for maintenance.
Trekking poles are allowed only with rubber tips, and pets or strollers are restricted to keep paths safe.
At Machu Picchu, daily entries are limited to 4,500, split across five entry circuits, each with assigned time slots. Once inside, re-entry isn’t allowed, so make sure to use the café and restrooms beforehand. Also, tickets are limited to a maximum of four hours within the site to keep traffic moving and allow more people to experience its beauty.
All our Inca Trail tours and Machu Picchu adventure tours follow a “leave no trace” policy. Participants must stick to marked paths, refrain from touching structures, and use designated waste containers. We strongly discourage plastic use, so please bring a reusable water bottle. Additionally, loud noises, large backpacks, selfie sticks, and drones are prohibited, ensuring a peaceful experience at this historic site.
For Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hikes, a guide isn’t mandatory, but it’s still recommended to enrich your experience of the citadel itself. Finally, while photography is encouraged, tripods are not allowed inside Machu Picchu to avoid obstructing pathways.
All Machu Picchu hiking tours need to folow the regulations impposed by our governmnet authorities. Breaking these rules can lead to fines, removal without a refund, and even lifetime bans for more serious violations. These simple guidelines let everyone enjoy a meaningful and respectful experience on our tours while helping to preserve the magic of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail for the future.
Explore Machu Picchu the right way with a balanced mix of guided sightseeing, cultural immersion, scenic train journeys, and optional adventure add-ons.
Stroll through San Blas, explore the Plaza de Armas, and enjoy a gentle introduction to Inca history.
Visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, alpaca farms, and local artisan workshops.
Relax on the Vistadome train with panoramic windows and arrive at your hotel in Aguas Calientes
Explore temples, terraces, viewpoints, and optional hikes like Sun Gate or Inca Bridge.
Choose optional activities such as hot springs, Mandor Gardens, or additional archaeological sites.
Options include the Amazon, Lake Titicaca, Rainbow Mountain, or Inca Trail segments.
• Acclimatize before visiting
• Book permits early in high season
• Bring layers, sunscreen, rain jacket
• Choose morning entry for best views
We’ve compiled a list of the questions we’re asked most often. If you don’t see the answer you’re looking for or have additional questions, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help.
Aguas Calientes is the only town near to Machu Picchu. Due to it’s high demand, this place is usually crowded by tourists. So hotels are also high in demand. We use a 3.5 star hotel- Tierra Viva. It has amazing reviews on Trip Advisor and is known for it’s excellent service and hospitality. If you are joining our trips, you’ll be offered roomy camping tents. If you are joining are off the beaten path tours, we provide you the service of best available accommodations and in most of the cases they are guest houses or a basic hostel.
To ensure you don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, it’s essential to plan ahead and book your Machu Picchu trip well in advance – ideally at least 6 months prior to your intended travel dates. This will not only guarantee your spot at this iconic site, but also allow you ample time to meticulously arrange all the logistics, from transportation to accommodations. Don’t delay – start planning your dream journey to the “Lost City of the Incas” today, and get ready to be utterly amazed by the majesty and mystery of Machu Picchu!
The only document available to book your Machu Picchu trip is your passport, even the slightly mistake introducing your detail at the moment of purchasing your entry permit with incur in denying your entry to the park and to the Inca Trail.
You are definitely eligible to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain. However, if you are scared of heights, we strictly recommend you to avoid it. The minimum age for hiking on Huayna Mountain is 9 years but the children should be accompanied by adults. The full responsibility of any accident is on you. Huayna Picchu consist of 200 spaces. The hike is divided into 2 shifts- each shift of 2 spaces. Hiking permits of Huayna Picchu are in high demand. This permit is not included in the price of our Machu Picchu trips packages.
Another wonderful spot for hiking is Montaña Machu Picchu. This Mountain is higher and longer to climb than Huayna Picchu bus is less demanding. The permits for the entry is limited to only 400. It is also divided into two shifts. Inti Punku is also a good option for hiking. Hiking to this place is free of charge.
No, the permits are not included in the trips packages. However, the prices vary according to the tour you choose. For these two options, our Inca trail tour price for climbing Huayna Picchu or Montaña is $80 per person. For other tours except Inca trail, the price is $20.
If you want to accompany your kids with you, you can absolutely take them with you to visit Machu Picchu. There’s no specific age to enter Machu Picchu. You just have to pay an entry fee if your kid is 7 or above 7 years of age.
No, re-entry into the Machu Picchu Citadel is prohibited once you exit the site. Please plan your visit accordingly and utilize the restroom facilities located at the entrance before entering the historic area.
There are no specific age restrictions for visiting Machu Picchu. However, the terrain can be uneven and challenging in some areas. Visitors with mobility issues should consult with us beforehand to ensure a suitable experience.
You can now enjoy a captivating 2-hour guided tour that provides valuable insights and context about this awe-inspiring Incan citadel. But the adventure doesn’t have to end there you can extend your stay by embarking on any of the optional hiking trails located within the Machu Picchu site. These exhilarating treks offer the opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes, discover hidden ruins, and truly immerse yourself in the breathtaking splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage marvel. With the new regulations in place, you can now customize your Machu Picchu experience to suit your interests and fitness levels, making it an even more remarkable and unforgettable journey.
If you are traveling in a group of four or above, there are exciting discounts for you.
Restroom facilities are limited within the historic area, with the last available facilities located at the entrance. Visitors are advised to plan accordingly to avoid inconvenience during their visit.