The hike from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu citadel is a unique experience that combines adventure, nature, and culture. It's the perfect option for those who want direct contact with local culture and the natural environment. To do this hike, you should know that the road leading to Machu Picchu is called Hiram Bingham, in honor of the American explorer who reached the Inca city in 1911. It’s recommended to be aware of the season you’re planning to hike, as Machu Picchu is known for its changing weather. For the dry season, you should bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, light clothing, and plenty of water in a canteen. During the rainy season, bring a rain poncho, gloves, warm but light clothing, trekking shoes, and mosquito repellent.
The most difficult part of the hike is the initial staircase, which is steep and requires good physical condition. It’s important to carry your Machu Picchu entry ticket during the hike, as you won’t be allowed to continue without it. Along the way, you can visit the Machu Picchu Site Museum as well as the local butterfly sanctuary.
For this hike, it’s recommended to bring sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a hat. If you're going during the rainy season (November to March), a rain poncho is essential. Trekking shoes are advised since the stairs can be slippery during this time.
Aguas Calientes is the gateway to Machu Picchu, a small town surrounded by mountains and crossed by the Vilcanota River. It’s the last train stop from Cusco or the Sacred Valley and the departure point for buses and hikes to the Inca citadel. This makes it the main access route to the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary. Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, you’ll enjoy the local culture, nature, and a pleasant climate.
The town of Aguas Calientes also has its own charm: its hot springs surrounded by lush vegetation. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak after a long journey. You’ll also enjoy its mystical streets, markets, handicrafts, and restaurants offering the best of Peruvian cuisine.
The hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on your pace. Along the way, you’ll pass the Machu Picchu Site Museum and the butterfly sanctuary. The most difficult section is the first set of stairs, which are steep and require good physical condition.
Machu Picchu is located on top of a mountain, so it’s recommended to spend one or two days acclimating to avoid altitude sickness.
For this relatively short route, bring the following items:
It is essential to always carry your Machu Picchu entry ticket. It is recommended to start the hike early to arrive at the entrance on time and have a light breakfast before starting.
This hike is free of charge; however, you must carry a printed entry ticket to Machu Picchu to follow the route.
One checkpoint where you’ll need to present your ticket is at Puente Ruinas. Later, you’ll show it again at the official entrance to the citadel.
If you don’t bring your entry ticket with you during the hike, you won’t be allowed to continue and will need to purchase a new one.
The dry season in Machu Picchu (April – October) is the best time for the hike, as there is little rain and most days are sunny.
In contrast, during the rainy season (November to March), the stairs become slippery. Therefore, it’s recommended to wear a rain poncho and trekking shoes.
Another recommendation is to start the hike early in the morning, as it is cooler. Later in the day, the sun becomes stronger, making the hike more exhausting due to the heat.
