Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca citadel nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, also a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its stunning location and well-preserved ruins, Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic ancient cities in the world.

The citadel sits at an elevation of approximately 7,970 feet and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Urubamba River below. The intricate stone architecture, terraced fields, and ceremonial sites showcase the impressive engineering and craftsmanship of the Inca civilization.

You can explore the site's temples, palaces, and terraces while learning about the rich history and culture of the Inca Empire. Highlights include the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and the Temple of the Three Windows. Guided tours are a good option to enhance the experience and provide insights into the significance of each structure.

The easiest and most popular way to reach Machu Picchu is taking a scenic 2-hour train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, and then a short hike or bus ride to the site's entrance. 

You can also embark on one of the three iconic multi-day hikes that end up at Machu Picchu — Inca Trail, Salkantay Trail, or Choquequirao Trek. These scenic trails range from 2 to 4 days and weave through diverse landscapes, including cloud forests, high mountain passes, and Inca ruins, leading to Machu Picchu. Check all these options as separate activities in the app to get more details.

Machu Picchu is not only a testament to the ingenuity of the Inca civilization but also a place of immense natural beauty and spiritual energy. It continues to captivate and inspire visitors with its architecture, stunning surroundings, and fascinating history.

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Machu Picchu Citadel

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I’d go for Inkaterra Machu Picchu if you want a stay with a spa. Having a restaurant on site is handy.

Peru is enormous, as well as its opportunities for adventures. This land of ancient wonders and vibrant culture warrants for visiting over and over to explore all its stunning regions. From the vibrant streets of Lima, through the lush Amazon in Iquitos, to the mystical allure of the Sacred Valley – Peru will ignite a sense of adventure that will stay with you forever.

The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is a 5-star retreat in Aguas Calientes, offering an exceptional experience for those visiting the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. The hotel is designed as an intimate Andean village, nestled in the cloud forest with terraced hills, waterfalls, stone pathways, and whitewashed adobe casitas.

The hotel is situated on a private five-hectare (12.3-acre) mountainside reserve, just across from the train station of Aguas Calientes. It provides a serene environment at an elevation of 6,627 ft above sea level, between the highlands and the rainforest.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu boasts stunning natural beauty, and its surroundings are home to a remarkable array of flora and fauna. The property has been recognized for its commitment to conservation and is a sanctuary for 214 bird species, including the golden-headed quetzal and the Andean cock-of-the-rock. It also hosts the world's largest collection of native orchids, with 372 registered species.

Beyond exploring the Historic Sanctuary and partaking in in-house excursions, you can indulge in the Unu Spa. The spa combines traditional nurturing techniques with mystical Andean influences, offering a range of treatments using natural products derived from local botanical extracts, such as mint, eucalyptus, and orchids.

The hotel's first-class restaurant provides stunning views of the Vilcanota River and serves Peruvian cuisine with a contemporary twist, allowing you to savor the flavors of the region while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel offers an enchanting and luxurious retreat in the midst of nature, providing a seamless blend of comfort, sustainability, and captivating Andean experiences for guests visiting Machu Picchu.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu

Get immersed in Lima and explore stunning sights of coastal Peru.

Lima and Coastal Peru

Peru long-weekend style: fly in to Cusco, acclimate, Machu Picchu, and fly out.

Machu Picchu Escape

Explore Peru's most stunning regions with top sights and hidden gems.

Peru Highlights

The ultimate trip with the coast, the Amazon, famous mountains, and Titicaca.

Peruvian Adventure

The lost city of the Incas, shrouded in mystery and beauty. Arriving at sunrise to watch the mist lift over the ruins is a moment of pure magic that speaks to the soul.

Machu Picchu

Expedition, Vistadome, Observation Vistadome.


The scenic train between Cusco and Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) is a breathtaking experience that takes you through the picturesque landscapes of the Peruvian Andes. This unique transfer features stunning mountain views, lush valleys, and winding rivers.

Throughout the journey, you'll be immersed in the rich culture and history of the region, as the train traverses through traditional Inca villages and passes by ancient archaeological sites. The comfortable and well-equipped trains provide an enjoyable ride, allowing you to relax and soak in the awe-inspiring scenery.

The train route follows the Urubamba River in the Sacred Valley, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. You'll witness the natural beauty of the Andean highlands, with snow-capped peaks, terraced fields, and traditional Andean villages dotting the landscape.

Logistics tip. We recommend exploring the Cusco region and embarking on this train from the Ollantaytambo station, not Cusco. And then riding all the way to Cusco on your way back. Or back to Ollantaytambo if you left your car there. It takes 1.5h to get to Machu Picchu station from Ollantaytambo, and 3.3h from Cusco.

Train fares. There are three types of trains: Expedition, Vistadome, and Observation Vistadome. We recommend going with the latter two options (Vistadomes) since they feature beautiful panoramic dome carts for enjoying the views. Both The Observation option features an extra observation lounge cart, while the Vistadome option features cultural performances on your way back to Cusco.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu

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