How to plan a trip to Peru covering Lima and Machu Picchu
To see both Lima and Machu Picchu efficiently, spend 2 days in Lima, 3 days acclimating in Cusco/Sacred Valley, and 1 full day for Machu Picchu. Book your train tickets and entry passes to the citadel at least 3 months in advance to ensure availability.
- Book international flights into Lima. Fly into Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM). Plan to arrive before 2:00 PM to avoid heavy evening traffic when heading to your accommodation.
- Secure your Machu Picchu tickets immediately. Visit the official government website (tuboleto.cultura.pe) to purchase your entry circuit for Machu Picchu. If you want to hike Huayna Picchu, book it 4-6 months out.
- Arrange your domestic transport. Book a flight from Lima to Cusco (CUZ) via LATAM or Sky Airlines. Do not take the bus for this leg unless you have 24 hours to spare.
- Plan for altitude acclimatization. Upon landing in Cusco (11,152 ft), head immediately to the Sacred Valley (9,000 ft) for your first two nights. It makes the transition easier than staying in high-altitude Cusco city.
- Coordinate your train and bus. Book the PeruRail or Inca Rail train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Once in Aguas Calientes, buy the round-trip bus ticket to the citadel gate at the local station.
- Do I need a guide for Machu Picchu?
- Yes, as of recent regulations, all visitors must be accompanied by a certified guide within the sanctuary.
- Is it safe to drink the tap water?
- No. Only drink bottled or filtered water to avoid digestive issues.