This 3-day itinerary is designed for first-time visitors eager to experience the iconic wonders of Machu Picchu and its vibrant gateway town. It balances early morning explorations of the majestic Inca citadel with opportunities to relax and immerse yourself in the local culture, ensuring a memorable and comprehensive introduction to this world-renowned destination.
Getting around 3
Activity 1
Shopping 2
Nature 2
Food 2
Viewpoint 1
Sightseeing 2
Culture 1
Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.
Day 1
5 stops · about 9.5 hrs
Getting around, Activity, Shopping, Nature
1
Train Journey to Aguas Calientes
Getting around
3-4 hours
Experience the scenic journey through the Sacred Valley, a crucial and beautiful part of reaching the ancient city.
Good to know
Book train tickets well in advance, especially during peak season, choosing between PeruRail or Inca Rail services.
2
Explore Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)
Activity
2 hours
Get acquainted with the bustling gateway town, a vibrant hub nestled between mountains and the Urubamba River.
Good to know
Walkable town; explore the main streets, bridge, and river views upon arrival.
3
Mercado de Artesanias
Shopping
1 hour
Discover a wide array of local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs, perfect for finding unique mementos of your trip.
Good to know
Located near the train station, it's a great place to practice your bargaining skills.
4
Aguas Calientes Hot Springs
Nature
2 hours
Relax and rejuvenate in the natural thermal baths that give the town its name, offering a soothing experience amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Good to know
Bring your swimsuit and towel; facilities include changing rooms and lockers for a small fee.
5
Dinner at a Local Restaurant
Food
1.5 hours
Savor traditional Peruvian cuisine, from fresh trout to alpaca steak, preparing for an early start to the main event tomorrow.
Good to know
Many restaurants offer multi-course menus; look for places with good reviews near the main plaza.
Day 2
5 stops · about 8 hrs
Getting around, Viewpoint, Sightseeing, Food
6
Bus to Machu Picchu Citadel
Getting around
30 minutes
Embark on an early morning scenic bus ride up the winding Hiram Bingham Highway to the magnificent Inca citadel.
Good to know
Purchase bus tickets the day before to save time; buses start running very early, around 5:30 AM.
7
Sun Gate (Inti Punku) Hike
Viewpoint
2 hours
Witness the iconic first glimpse of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate, offering a truly breathtaking panoramic view as the Incas would have seen it.
Good to know
This hike is accessible from within the citadel and offers a rewarding, moderate ascent; allow extra time for the round trip.
8
Machu Picchu Citadel Main Exploration
Sightseeing
3-4 hours
Wander through the awe-inspiring terraces, temples, and residential areas of the Lost City, unraveling the mysteries of Inca civilization.
Good to know
Hire an official guide at the entrance for deeper insights; wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
9
Inca Bridge
Sightseeing
1 hour
Walk to the precarious Inca Bridge, a testament to Inca engineering and a less crowded spot offering unique perspectives of the site's defenses.
Good to know
The path to the Inca Bridge is relatively flat and well-maintained, offering a pleasant short walk with impressive cliff views.
10
Lunch with a View or in Aguas Calientes
Food
1.5 hours
Enjoy a well-deserved meal, either at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge for convenience or back in Aguas Calientes for more options.
Good to know
Consider packing snacks and water for within the site, as food options are limited and more expensive near the entrance.
Day 3
4 stops · about 8.5 hrs
Culture, Nature, Shopping, Getting around
11
Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum
Culture
1.5 hours
Gain deeper historical context and appreciate the artifacts recovered from Machu Picchu, understanding the site's discovery and significance.
Good to know
Located a short walk from Aguas Calientes, near the bridge to the bus station; check opening hours before visiting.
12
Mandor Gardens & Waterfall
Nature
3 hours
Escape the crowds for a peaceful walk through lush cloud forest to a beautiful waterfall, perfect for nature lovers.
Good to know
This pleasant walk along the train tracks takes about an hour each way from Aguas Calientes; wear sturdy shoes.
13
Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping
Shopping
1 hour
Grab any final gifts or keepsakes from the local artisans, ensuring you take a piece of Peruvian culture home with you.
Good to know
The market near the train station offers a final opportunity for purchases before your departure.
14
Train Journey from Aguas Calientes
Getting around
3-4 hours
Reflect on your incredible journey as you depart through the stunning Andean landscape, carrying memories of an ancient world.
Good to know
Arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure; confirm your train and seat details beforehand.
Where to stay
Hotels in Machu Picchu
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Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Is 3 days enough for Machu Picchu?
Yes, 3 days covers roughly five stops a day, including Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Citadel Main Exploration, and Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum.
Where to stay in Machu Picchu for 3 days?
Stay near Bus to Machu Picchu Citadel, which keeps Train Journey to Aguas Calientes and Mercado de Artesanias close by.
When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
May to August is the best time to visit Machu Picchu; February is the least favourable.
How long do you need at Explore Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)?
The stated time needed is 2 hours. The town is walkable, with main streets, a bridge, and river views.
How long is the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) Hike?
The stated time needed is 2 hours. The hike is accessible from within the citadel.
What can you see at Mercado de Artesanias?
Mercado de Artesanias has local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. It is near the train station.
What is included at Machu Picchu Citadel Main Exploration?
You visit the citadel's terraces, temples, and residential areas while learning about Inca civilization.
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