Oct25- hiking is for fit folk. 1 day or 4 day. Choices. Or take the scenic railway and bus and climb last 20mins to summit. Low season but busy. Time for pics and views. Magnificent place. Wonder of the world. Be kind. Allow pics. We all do not know if we'll be back. Qechwan phrase "Tupananchiskama": until we meet again!

Standing before Machu Picchu in person is genuinely unforgettable. As you take in the ancient stone terraces set against the misty mountain peaks, there's an overwhelming sense of peace that settles over you – a tranquility that no photograph can capture.

Beautiful, time travel, breathtaking 😍 Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, known for its sophisticated dry-stone architecture and stunning mountain setting. Abandoned around the time of the Spanish conquest, it is believed to have been a royal estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti and was brought to international attention by Hiram Bingham in 1911. Today, it is a major archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a popular tourist destination reached by train and bus, or by hiking the Inca Trail.

Machu Picchu, the breathtaking Inca citadel in the Andes, is a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its stunning architecture and surrounding natural beauty make it unforgettable. For those exploring the Sacred Valley, this awe-inspiring site deepens the connection to Inca culture and history.

Machu Picchu is one of those rare places that truly lives up to the hype. No matter how many photos you’ve seen, nothing compares to standing among the clouds with the Andes stretching endlessly around you. The ruins themselves are absolutely mind-blowing every stone tells a piece of Incan history, and the engineering is unbelievable. Walking through the temples, terraces, and hidden passageways feels like stepping back in time. I hiked around the site and took my time exploring, and every turn revealed a new breathtaking view. One moment you’re looking out over the terraces, the next you’re peeking through stone windows framed by mist-covered mountains. The famous llamas was a highlight. They roam freely and definitely aren’t shy! I recommend going early in the morning to beat the crowds and catch the magical fog as it lifts over the ruins. Bring water, a rain jacket, and good hiking shoes. The altitude can be a challenge, but it’s absolutely worth every step. This place isn’t just a bucket list destination it’s a soul check moment. One of the most beautiful and unforgettable places I’ve ever been. Highly recommend. #ruins #world wonder

There's a reason it's on the 7 natural wonders. From Cusco, took 5 hours from hotel to the time we entered the park. Van, to train, to bus ... 5 hours. The way they've broken the tours down into different segments seems to be helpful to keep it from being so overcrowded.

A true wonder of the world — absolutely unforgettable! After a 5-day trek, finally reaching Machu Picchu was an emotional and unforgettable experience. Every step of the journey was worth it. The view, the atmosphere, and the history of this sacred Inca site are simply breathtaking. You can feel the power and mystery of the place in every corner. It truly deserves its place among the Seven Wonders of the World — a magical and inspiring destination that I will never forget.

Such a cool place!! Really loved seeing the different birds. Manuel was so nice, could speak perfect english and went out of his way to give me and some other tourists a boat tour through the wetlands:) definitely recommend!

Wonderful refuge in Lima. Make reservations ahead of time. I highly recommend you hire a guide and take the boat. Bilingual guides are available. Fantastic birds. Wonderful staff. (I wish it had a fence to keep the stray dogs out)

Great spot with diverse environs, swamp and ocean. Wonderfully knowledgeable and enthusiastic team. We were lucky to work with Lily. We saw the Peruvian thick-knee among others.

One amazing place, sea of tranquility in a busy city. It's a protected marshes. The guides and stuff made of mainly student. You can observe native and migratory birds. There are 2 parts to it and to see it well will take 2 hrs of walk through the reeds. It take about 20 min from Miraflores to the Pantanos in Chirillios.

It has lagoons and read beds which the visitor can walk around. Pantano's de Villa is a good place, with a huge variety of birds along the coast. The area consists of a few trails that wind around lagoons and some viewing platforms. It's a great reflective place to enjoy nature and do some birdwatching.

A very special refuge in the heart of a mega city. Pantanoes de Villa is an incredible place to come and see migratory birds and to study humanities encroachment on wild spaces. The signage and info could be more thorough, but the staff do their best to educate and protect this very delicate ecosystem! Relaxing, quiet and reflective. Note: some parts would be very difficult to navigate in a wheelchair

The government has made some effort to protect this important natural area, but it is surrounded by many buildings and roads. This obviously degrades the quality of the preserve and makes it difficult to access. Nonetheless, birds and wildlife do live here and enjoy a semblance of their natural world.

Very good place to enjoy your time

I just wanted to comment that we found all dishes of the taster menu of very high quality and extremely good ,Awesome location excellent reception and extraordinary treatment for all guests.

Excellent place to visit

Good place .loved it

Good place.... Enjoy the location

Beautiful place to enjoy

Good place with great atmosphere

The islands are worth the trip on a touristy boat with strangers. If you love birds, penguins, and sea lions it's worth the trip. If you don't love these you probably shouldn't go as there isn't anything else like a cool boat ride or whatever to make it worthwhile.

Beautiful, only downside No enough sea lions and zero penguins 🐧

A good tour and activity. We had to weirdly wait 40 mins for one person for our boat to complete its occupancy. When departed, it took 20 something minutes to reach the islands. Take a coat please, the breeze is extremely cold. On the islands itself, if you have never seen penguins and sea lions, it is a great experience. Interesting story around the bird poo as well.

Be ready to experience a day trip to the desert oasis Huacachina and Paracas natural reserve! 🐧🦭🐦💛

(Translated by Google) It's beautiful to see the habitat of marine animals and birds. A beautiful experience to sail the sea to that place is fantastic, I loved it. (Original) Es lindo ver el habitad de los animales marinos y las aves una experiencia bonita surcar el mar hasta ese lugar es fantastico me encanto.

Nice tour to see some sea lions, penguins and a lot of birds! You might get a bit wet! Must do if you’re visiting Paracas/Ica.

(Translated by Google) A special place to see sea lions and Humboldt penguins in their natural habitat. (Original) Lugar especial para ver en su hábitat natural a los leones marinos y los pingüinos de Humboldt.

The islands are worth the trip on a touristy boat with strangers. If you love birds, penguins, and sea lions it's worth the trip. If you don't love these you probably shouldn't go as there isn't anything else like a cool boat ride or whatever to make it worthwhile.

Beautiful, only downside No enough sea lions and zero penguins 🐧

A good tour and activity. We had to weirdly wait 40 mins for one person for our boat to complete its occupancy. When departed, it took 20 something minutes to reach the islands. Take a coat please, the breeze is extremely cold. On the islands itself, if you have never seen penguins and sea lions, it is a great experience. Interesting story around the bird poo as well.

Be ready to experience a day trip to the desert oasis Huacachina and Paracas natural reserve! 🐧🦭🐦💛

(Translated by Google) It's beautiful to see the habitat of marine animals and birds. A beautiful experience to sail the sea to that place is fantastic, I loved it. (Original) Es lindo ver el habitad de los animales marinos y las aves una experiencia bonita surcar el mar hasta ese lugar es fantastico me encanto.

Nice tour to see some sea lions, penguins and a lot of birds! You might get a bit wet! Must do if you’re visiting Paracas/Ica.

(Translated by Google) A special place to see sea lions and Humboldt penguins in their natural habitat. (Original) Lugar especial para ver en su hábitat natural a los leones marinos y los pingüinos de Humboldt.

Best place near Lima for rafting. One hour in the river for a little price.

It was a wonderful moment that will always be in my mind

Fun times on the water. Guide was excellent.

It was really nice experience

Just take care of the mosquito

Love it

Good experience

The reserve is beautiful. The process of purchasing tickets and boarding the boat for travel is confusing. Thankfully the tour guide was able to the information in both English and Spanish. Visitors should be prepared for about a 15 minute boat ride through open water which can be windy, wet and cold.

Such a raw, beautiful place. Explored the reserve by bike and spotted condors and so many sea birds. Love the La Mina beach to take an ocean dip and enjoy the afternoon in the last part of the bike route!

Absolute must see when in Paracas and should be on the Peru's must see lists. Beautiful views on every view point. Easily accessible on a day trip by bicycle, scooter or car. Just skip the Lagunillas restaurants, they are mostly tourists traps and you can eat much better food for the same price in Paracas.

La mina is such beautiful beach!! The water is light blue and clean. The water is cold but so worth it! They have a snack shop upstairs and bathrooms. Would definitely recommend this beach to anyone who wants to be around natures beauty and a friendly crowd

Beautiful beach against a huge rock wall that is located 30 kilometers from the Panamericana Sur within the Paracas National Reserve. Crowdy if you go during holidays, otherwise is peaceful and enjoyable. Beautiful azure water. if you don't have your own car you have to hire a tour. I recommend going by car so you can manage your own time and enjoy the trip at your own pace

What an incredible adventure! We weren’t ready to see what was in store for us while we drove through this massive desert. Beautiful beaches, lots of history and majestic scenery.

Beautiful beach in the Paracas protected area. You can only arrive by car and the water is not warm but if you are lucky and there is sun it is beautiful.

Part of our tour - a pyramid/ "cathedral" shaped rock in the sea, near the coast. Unusual and beautiful. Views of the yellow sea- cliffs make for good photos too.

Lovely place. Other worldly in appearance in the desert. From the high places you can see both bays. Food in the fishing village is amazing... The sea tour from the Hacienda Hotel was well worth getting up early.

If you haven’t been to the moon yet, this might be very close! Epic sceneries where you could stage your version of mad max 👍 don’t rent a bike cause will eat dust all day long and the hills are steep and the temperature is killing! There are some restaurants in the park and the deliver great food...

La cattedrale itself isn't very stunning in my opinion, but the view of the coastline is quite something. Rent a taxi and tell the driver to bring you to the scenic spots, it's quite cheap and you can move at your own pace. Expect to be done in 2-3 hours.

It may simply be land, water and air, however, the vastness makes you feel insignificant. Interesting place to visit. I would have wanted to spend more time here. Travelled with Peru Hop. Apparently this area plays a significant role in stabilising the ecosystem. The area is also rich in lithium. Well done to the government for protecting it.

Caught by surprise by how beautiful this reserve is! Went by taxi from Huacachina in the afternoon instead of with the tours in the morning and it was a good decision. Less people and beautiful sunset.

Lots of birds and interesting landscapes, worth a visit. We did a bus tour for 25 soles. There's restaurants that serve fresh fish but it's more expensive than the town. The red beach is interesting. Unfortunately you can't get close enough to the flamingos for s decent photo but I suppose it is a nature reserve.

I come here every year and I love it! They take you far into the dunes and the sand boarding is awesome. I would definitely recommend to anyone coming to Peru its is a MUST have on your list.

Amazing experience, will definitely go again!

Their number won’t work. They don’t reply to any of your emails. And won’t refund your money as well. Don’t even book this! Go with the other option which has more reviews.

Not worth it

(Translated by Google) Unique experience! The driver I had was very rude, I thought the tubular was going to turn over. They had warned us but I didn't think it was a big deal, it made me lose my necklace. Despite all that, it is an excursion that I would do again. Beautiful sunset and fun with soundboarding (Original) Experiencia única! El chofer que me tocó fue muy bruto, pensé que se iba a dar vuelta el tubular. Nos habían avisado pero no pensé que era para tanto, me hizo perder mi collar. A pesar de todo eso es una excursión que volvería a hacer. Hermosa puesta al sol y diversión con el soandboarding

(Translated by Google) Great experience. Desert safari. Definitely try it (Original) Harika bir deneyim.Çölde safari.Mutlaka deneyin

This was AMAZING. I scuba dive and skydive but the thrill and the rush of those rides are like no other. Love it.

Beautiful and large winery! Drive in was a little sketchy on a tiny dirt road, all of the sudden you get to a big gate for the winery complex. We took the 1 hour tour, would’ve loved to do the full tour but they said they don’t have any English speaking guide for that, which is unfortunate, they should’ve specified this on their website. The complex and tour was nice, however the tour guide wasn’t very passionate at all.

I visited Tacama Winery with my parents and we had a very pleasant experience. The wine tasting with their sommelier was excellent with a good variety of wines which were all very good. The sommelier was friendly and explained a lot about the different types of wines and the tasting process in general. The stay in their restaurant was great aswell, with good food and good service. Also the tour around the winery itself, the guide and another small tasting were very enjoyable experiences and I personally learned a lot about wine making, the assortments of grapes and the history of Tacama Winery. Overall the personal is very well organised, the place is beautiful and the service is excellent. Of course their wines are just as good. Thanks for the amazing time

I had the best red wine I’ve had in my life here- el gran tinto. The causas were literally *chefs kiss*. There are different types of tours, and the traditional takes you through the wine making process as well as 3 cups of wine and one of pisco.

Amazing experience! We celebrated the 30th birthday of one of us here during our stay in Perù. Not only the food was amazing, but the wine as well (both the White and Red wines were superb, comparable in taste and uniqueness to our Italians wines). We also received an unexpected present for the birthday! We would like to thank especially Raphael who was super expert in explaining all the different wines and food and made us appreciate 100% the lunch. We really would like to buy wines online to Italy from this winery.

Beautiful winery. The food was overly abundant and excellent. Ordering a bottle of wine with dinner came with custom explanation of aeration and decanting. The tour was insightful but wished the choice of wines for tasting ranged better across the dry to sweets.

A very nice experience of some wine tasting and learning about the wine making. Our guide wasn't the most passionate and could have been more engaging. The wine wasn't to my liking, but each to their own! Come here for a lovely day out and I hope you find a wine that takes your breathe away!

Splendid place to visit in Ica, one of the very first winery in South America. Love the place, which I could share more photos. I was stunningly attached to the guide and histories 😂 without realizing that none of any photo has taken. Food was ok but love the place so 5 star is for “la hacienda” ❤️❤️❤️

It's a 7-hour drive from Lima to Nazca and even longer by bus. Nice views from the airplane to see the lines below, but pictures will not come out on phone camera. In other words, you have to be there to appreciate as you won't be able to share the details with others through pix. In addition to the flight fare, there are also local taxes you must pay.

We took a flight with AeroNazca and was very impressed. We got picked up from our hostel and dropped back after the flight. We were advised to take an early flight as the weather is generally worst/windy in the afternoon and this was good advice as the wind did indeed pick up in the afternoon..

Loved seeing this! We did not take the plane to get a view of all of the lines, however we felt that the view from the observation tower gave a fantastic idea and impression of the sheet size of the lines. Perfect!

First, i am impressed with how the lines were made. Next, do watch the video at the airport while you wait (and you will have to wait). Third, be very prepared for a bumpy ride. I do not get air or seasick but this made me feel a little queasy. If you have a UV and polarised filter for your camera lenses, do consider using them. Once the sun is high and strong enough, the pictures do not come out well.

Extraordinary views from above. The only downside was a very long waiting time and nk clear order of who is boarding the plane

Nazca lines are something special. Visit it by plane and enjoy the view. Be aware, planes are small and bumpy but worth it.

We take airplane from Pisco to see the mysterious Nasca lines from the air. It is truly amazing. What an experience!

It's an observation deck that looks out across some of the nascar lines. It's a very solid construction. There are toilets here and a few vendors.

A perfect pit stop if you’re rolling through on the PeruHop bus—quick, free, and actually worth it. You climb up, snap some photos, marvel at the ancient lines etched into the desert, and you’re back on the road before your legs even start to ache. No overpriced tickets, no tourist gimmicks—just pure, unfiltered history. Easy peasy.

In my opinion: it's more interesting to hear and read about the lines than visiting them in person. If you really want to have a look at them - book the flight, from the tower it is not spectacular at all.

Nice stop off on the way seeing some of the lines up close. I'm shocked they built a road over the one of the Nazca Lines and didn't realise its significance. No fee. Has facilities 🚻 Also a little tourist shop.

Nice view, you can see 3 of the Nazca line figures

Nazca lines their selves are very interesting sight, but as for this lookout... Yes, there are 2 towers for view. But you won't see there much, unfortunately. To see Nazca lines you have to be MUCH higher, than these towers. Drone flights are prohibited there (had to land my one after security notice) and don't allow you to see all terraglifes if you don't know the exact place. That's why I believe the real way to enjoy Nazca lines is excursion with a plane only.

I literally cried being, here it was a place I dreamt going to for many years, wanted to see this world heritage site. Totally recommended, there are tornados all around it's just spectacular.

To get the best experience you probably need a guide who can explain about the design and purpose etc. if you just visit this on your own without any prior knowledge you will not really take in much apart from a few semi restored walls as there are no written instructions to indicate what you are looking at. There are toilets nearby but no shade. You can't go inside the grounds for the most part.

The guide made this place interesting with all insights and stories. It’ll take probably 30 min on-site plus time to get there from Nazca. If you have some spare time, you’ll be happy to visit it and learn about Cahuachi!

The grandfather caretaker is a very humble, kind, old man. Spend some time talking to him. He is devoting the last years of his life to protecting this place. A wonderful powerful site in the middle of nowhere.

We didn’t have much information about the side but our host recommended it. We drove with our own car and had a bit of a difficulty because google maps wanted to take us a road that was closed but with a bypass we made it. It’s easier to take the second entrance when you come from Nazcas. It’s a bit longer but the road is better. The side is really impressive and will give you and additional view about the Nazcas culture.

Amazing history at this place. Very interesting how the time of flourishing and greatest prosperity was 100ad to 300ad and then destruction cataclysmically around 400ad. Fascinating correlation with the history and timeframes documented in the Book of Mormon. Very large pyramids partially restored. Long dirt road to get there

Well worth the visit. I found it peaceful, calm, not too many people... almost a private feeling and peaceful. Very photogenic I found. Scenic. Well preserved. Gives more appreciation for Nazca.

Beautiful place in the desert. Interesting story. Long, hard drive but Worth it.

I like this low key gem. I would add some benches to enable read the information book with a peace in mind and without pain in my legs.

Nice museum with a great collection of textiles and ceramics. Well organised and displayed. Worth a visit.

Fascinating museum with a good range of artefacts. A little tired and in need of maintenance and updating but still well worth a visit.

Worth a visit if you have spare time in Nasca or if you're really interested in culture and history.

Nice museum, it has 2 parts one in the inside and the other on the outside were you can see representations of the Nazca lines. 20 soles the entrance.

Uninterested staff. The entrance is uninviting (since the door is closed). No places to sit to read the extensive map with information in English. If you do sit on a stair (when there is literally no one in the museum), it's not allowed. That's ridiculous, how do you expect us to read the map with information? Some of the pieces in the museum are interesting, if you like artifacts. Overall a very disappointing experience.

Great exhibition with a lot of dated artifacts, a bit pricy (20 soles), the numerous explanations were only in Spanish

Gotta hand it to the Nazca people—building something that still works 1,500 years later is no small feat. These ancient aqueducts are an engineering flex, and yeah, that’s pretty damn cool. But let’s be real: once you’ve seen one perfectly spiraled well in the desert, you’ve seen them all. The tour is quick, the history is fascinating, and if your itinerary has some breathing room, it’s worth a stop. Just don’t expect an Indiana Jones adventure—this one’s more of a casual nod to human ingenuity.

Interesting site to admire technical skills of Inca. You can do a visit in 30 minutes. Taxi drive from city centre cots 10 Soles.

Fascinating and beautiful place. Incredible that it was made so long ago and still in use. The water was so fresh, and cool to be able to touch it - and the fish!

Interesting place to visit, with impressive ancient aqueducts. The only downside is that there’s very little information on-site, so you don’t fully understand the history unless you look it up before. Still worth a quick stop!

It is quite amazing how the ancient people manage this . Most of acueductos are dry. But I like the idea they made. 10 soles for visiting (included other places)

A fantastic piece of archaeology. Unfortunately not celebrated as a touristic destination, with no real notices describing the history etc. we hired a local guide, who was able to explain the structures

Aside from the 17 spiralling holes and the 11km long aquaduct, you can also see a geoglyph in the shape of a puma’s head in the distance and prickly pear cacti with cochineals. As always, a good guide goes a long way.

Incredible place to see intact mummies from the Nazca culture. The cemetery is out in the desert and the feeling of desolation and emptiness is strong. Well worth a visit. Take water.

Very nice archeological site! Had to pay 8 soles per person for the entry and got some interesting knowledge while chatting with the ticket man

This place is amazing and needs to be saved. Already torn to pieces by graverobbers, who threw the mummified remains of the Nasca peoples into the desert. Some have been recreated but all grahe sites have been robbed of the pottery, jewlery, and other "valuables". This is a rare site where the mummies are kept on-site. Please go see this site and promote its protection and welfare. Be respectful and stay in the paths. Only 8 soles to get in and was one of our most memorable places we visited in Perú.

Very interesting place unique in its kind. Jeffrey was a great, friendly guide.

A Nazca cemetery. Great to see how this civilization used to bury their loved ones. Unfortunately all the graves have been looted so there's little left of the pottery and utensils

Remote desert area with around a dozen excavated, and sadly looted burial sites. Mummies are in various states of decay, but definitely worth checking out. There is even still some skin on one of them. Pots and bone fragments are in many of the graves. However, due to local corruption, none of the entrance money is used to preserve the mummies, with only an adobe wall to protect from the wind and a skimpy shade overhead. If nothing is done soon, these treasures will be lost forever and sadly no one in government seems to care.

Pretty interesting place. We went there a few days ago and it is suppose to closed during the pandemic, but you can still get there, park your car, walk around and see the graves. It's an open space in the middle of nowhere, no one was there, we found some trash inside of a few graves.

An amazing cultural site near Andahuaylas. Built by the Chanka and later used by the Incas, Sondor features impressive pyramidal structures, terraces, and ceremonial platforms. The views from above towards Lake Pacucha are stunning.

Beautiful place, recommend you to go there! There is parking free. Entrance fee is just 3 Soles.

Different from Inca and only cost 3 soles entrance. From Andahuaylas take collective taxi (5 soles) to panchaca laguna (very large laguna). wait in drop-off point for 10-15 min to Another collective car-van or see if you can gather 6 people in total (5 soles each for a total of 30 soles) to hail a taxi. Ask him to wait (he may because it is worth it for him) for 1 hr. return to panchaca and take collective to Andahuayles but you may ask him to stop you at intersection street leading to the grafity stones archeological ruines (free) and worth it.

Such an underrated place! beautiful landscapes, entrance free less than 1 dollar! really special and cheap to get there.

A very interesting and well taking care of archaelogical site. Not only a mirador and site for the inca but many children sacrifices took place there. Located north from Andahuaylas, it's about half an hour by collectivo, which surrounds half Laguna Pacucha on the way. At the detour from the highway it takes only 10 to 15 minutes on foot to the main entrance.

Beautiful place with beautiful view. Not lot of people there.

Great views and not too touristy. Well worth a visit.

Hike is not for the faint-hearted. Plenty of sections with super steep stairs without railings. Otherwise the hike and view is more than worth it. Be careful of the people coming up and down, take your time! I took around 50 mins to hike up, moderately fit.

This is a review specifically for Huayna Picchu (also known as Wayna Pichhu) done in late August at the 7 am slot (toward end of peak season). Is it as dangerous as social media claims it to be? No. Is it worth it? Absolutely. Should you do it? If you are reasonably fit, acclimated and hydrated - yes. Think of it like climbing stairs for 1 hour. Is altitude a problem? Not if you have been in Cusco for at least 2 days and stayed in Aguas Calientes the night before. When should you do it? When it's dry and the early morning slot (7 am). At 11 am, it will get too warm and make it much more tiring, and the lighting will be harsh (for photography). Navigating the tourists & guides, and taking photos along the way, it took us 40-45 mins from the main entrance of Machu Picchu to the checkpost of Huayna Picchu. From there, the ascent to the top takes 50-60 mins at a moderate pace to 75 mins with frequent stops. Expect to spend around 20-30 mins at the top because it's a conjested area with footing that requires concentration + waiting for your turn to take photos. The descent takes ~45 mins. If you intend to explore the cavern and temple along the way, it will take longer. A bottle of water with a light snack (energy or protein bar, bananas) should be fine. You validate your ticket with your passport + sign a register at the checkpost. The initial section is a descent to the base of the mountain. From there, begins an hour long "Stairmaster" workout. Gradual pace is key. Take breaks as you need them . There are guard rails/ropes along the way for assistance. The final section - the infamous "Staircase of Death" is not "deadly". Just do what you will have been doing along the way and take it slow. By the way, you only take these stairs on the way up; separate route for the descent for this section. If you want to take photos here, take them on your way up. At the top, there is a natural "chair" rock formation where most people take their photos. For the best angle, the person taking the picture will need to climb the boulder facing it. Again, it's one way traffic so take your photos before you start the descent. It can get quite crowded there so be patient and even more careful with your footing. In the initial part of the descent, there is a tight rock squeeze requiring sideways maneuvering and crouching. You will be tempted to rush down after getting the high from the view and the eagerness to get down quickly...but, for the sake of your knees, I'd advise to just hold back a touch. Finally, you sign off on the register and take a different route back to the main entrance. If you have tickets for Route 2 or 1, you may be able to access them without having to leave the complex. We went down to Aguas Calientes for lunch and returned for the 3pm entry to Route 2 on the same day. Additional tips: book this at least 3 months in advance. Take the 7 am slot but line up at the bus station in Aguas Calientes at least an hour early. It took us around 2 hrs from joining the bus queue to the checkpost of Huayna Picchu. It will be chilly till you start hiking. You start warming up fast. Pack as light as you can. Be mindful of bugs at the top. Restrooms located at main entrance (2 soles) along with luggage storage (5 soles). Carry your physical passport with you at all times as it's required for ticket validation. Tickets' QR codes can be scanned from your phone.

Although the entrance is quite expensive l, it's worth it if you're an avid climber and an adrenaline junkie. The road is pretty steep and the stairs of death close to the top will sure give you a run for the money. If the weather is good, you'll have the best view of Machu Picchu.

Huayna Picchu was a very difficult climb for us. It took us more than two hours to reach the top, and some of the steps were quite slippery and narrow. We had to stop often to catch our breath, especially with the altitude, but we took it slow and steady. The view from the top made it worth the effort. You get a full view of Machu Picchu from above, with stunning mountains and valleys all around. It is not an easy walk and not for everyone, but if you can manage it, I would highly recommend it.

Throwback 2016. Started off at the base with a spring in my step. Hike was relatively easy, just enough incline to feel noble without triggering regret. The ancient Inca stairs added some drama, but nothing too wild unless your legs are made of noodles. Along the way, I even strolled beside an alpaca who looked like he was training for Machu Picchu’s next top model. At the top? A rock ledge barely big enough for a yoga mat, packed with humans rotating like rotisserie chickens trying to get that Machu Picchu shot. One wrong move and you’re part of the scenery.. permanently. Then came the real apex predators, prehistoric mosquitoes straight out of a sci-fi reboot. Massive, relentless, possibly descendants of the Incan gods themselves. They weren’t biting, they were harvesting. Still… the view? Worth every sting. A jaw-dropping panorama that made the mild chaos feel like part of the magic.

Wonderful view of Machu Picchu and solid hike. I did not use or need hiking poles.

Great hike but not for the faint of heart! Or anyone with neck or back issues as there are a lot of stairs to climb.

Oct25- hiking is for fit folk. 1 day or 4 day. Choices. Or take the scenic railway and bus and climb last 20mins to summit. Low season but busy. Time for pics and views. Magnificent place. Wonder of the world. Be kind. Allow pics. We all do not know if we'll be back. Qechwan phrase "Tupananchiskama": until we meet again!

Standing before Machu Picchu in person is genuinely unforgettable. As you take in the ancient stone terraces set against the misty mountain peaks, there's an overwhelming sense of peace that settles over you – a tranquility that no photograph can capture.

Beautiful, time travel, breathtaking 😍 Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, known for its sophisticated dry-stone architecture and stunning mountain setting. Abandoned around the time of the Spanish conquest, it is believed to have been a royal estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti and was brought to international attention by Hiram Bingham in 1911. Today, it is a major archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a popular tourist destination reached by train and bus, or by hiking the Inca Trail.

Machu Picchu, the breathtaking Inca citadel in the Andes, is a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its stunning architecture and surrounding natural beauty make it unforgettable. For those exploring the Sacred Valley, this awe-inspiring site deepens the connection to Inca culture and history.

Machu Picchu is one of those rare places that truly lives up to the hype. No matter how many photos you’ve seen, nothing compares to standing among the clouds with the Andes stretching endlessly around you. The ruins themselves are absolutely mind-blowing every stone tells a piece of Incan history, and the engineering is unbelievable. Walking through the temples, terraces, and hidden passageways feels like stepping back in time. I hiked around the site and took my time exploring, and every turn revealed a new breathtaking view. One moment you’re looking out over the terraces, the next you’re peeking through stone windows framed by mist-covered mountains. The famous llamas was a highlight. They roam freely and definitely aren’t shy! I recommend going early in the morning to beat the crowds and catch the magical fog as it lifts over the ruins. Bring water, a rain jacket, and good hiking shoes. The altitude can be a challenge, but it’s absolutely worth every step. This place isn’t just a bucket list destination it’s a soul check moment. One of the most beautiful and unforgettable places I’ve ever been. Highly recommend. #ruins #world wonder

There's a reason it's on the 7 natural wonders. From Cusco, took 5 hours from hotel to the time we entered the park. Van, to train, to bus ... 5 hours. The way they've broken the tours down into different segments seems to be helpful to keep it from being so overcrowded.

A true wonder of the world — absolutely unforgettable! After a 5-day trek, finally reaching Machu Picchu was an emotional and unforgettable experience. Every step of the journey was worth it. The view, the atmosphere, and the history of this sacred Inca site are simply breathtaking. You can feel the power and mystery of the place in every corner. It truly deserves its place among the Seven Wonders of the World — a magical and inspiring destination that I will never forget.

Probably the only disappointing site along the Inca trail. It's much smaller and less grand than you might imagine, a few terraces and a stone structure, and as all hikers stop here in the morning on the way to Machu Picchu it becomes very cramped. You may or may not see Machu Picchu, depending on the weather.

If you've made it this far, you've had an amazing hike along the trail! Enjoy the views! Remember to be patient as cloud cover can hover, but when they clear, you have a beautiful view of the sanctuary. There are no bathrooms, please be mindful of your littering and watch your step. There will be both groups of hikers from the inka trail and those who are hiking up from mp so take a seat and be prepared for the crowds, the view is worth the wait! Happy trekking!

Incredible. Tough hike, but WELL WORTH IT!

Intipunku (Quechua for “sun gate”) is an Inca archaeological site located along the final section of the Inca Trail, approximately 1-1/4 miles (2 km) from Machu Picchu, serving as an important checkpoint and main entrance to the royal estate from Cusco. Located along a ridge southeast of Machu Picchu, the rising sun would pass through Intipunku during summer solstice when viewed from Machu Picchu. It is where travelers along the Inca Trail from Cusco get their first view of Machu Picchu in all its glory.

The best way to see Machu Picchu. Whether you do the one day or the four day Inca Trail hike, seeing the world wonder the first time should be earned if at all possible

What a great place to visit. My brother has dreamt of coming here since he was a small skinny child. Sadly when we got here there was a strange whiff of what smelt of human plop. Luckily it didn't ruin the experience and we has a spiffing time. Hopefully on my next visit to a wonder there isn't a rough smell to deal with.

About an hour's hike from Machu Picchu - well worth it if you have the time! Fantastic views of the citadel, especially around sunrise or sunset. Be aware that it closes around 4pm though, so if you cannot start hiking by 230-3, it may not be worthwhile.

The town may be called Aguas Calientes (hot waters),  but the water is tepid at best. I might just be a little bitter because someone took my hat after I forgot it on a peg in one of the dressing rooms. The setting of the baths are second to none. Think towering, forest-covered mountains and an impressive view down the valley. I do feel, however, that the baths would have been way more appropriate for the setting if they used the plentiful natural stone to build a bath-complex that fits with the ruins everyone is so eager to see. That being said, the small pools are easier to clean. This is essential, since every night they drain and scrub the baths for the next day. It was not the the most hygienic setup by the time we arrived in the late afternoon. And it made me miss the meticulous, clean onsen culture in Japan.

The water is dirty. It looks grey. It’s a hike up for nothing. I don’t even want to get into the water. The hottest pool is 37 degree and has most people. The coldest is 14 degree. It has no people and the water is the clearest. They have changing room but no towel or hot water for shower. Wouldn’t want to come back again. 20 soles for international. Cash only.

This is the perfect spot to relax after a day of hiking around Machu Picchu. There are several pools at different temperatures, so you can move between them until you find your favorite. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly — it’s easy to chat with other travelers or even locals enjoying the soak. While the facilities are a little rustic, they have everything you need, including changing rooms and a reception where staff will help keep an eye on your belongings. Overall, it’s a unique and enjoyable experience that adds to the charm of visiting the town. Tip: bring sandals and a towel to make your visit more comfortable.

I love anything to do with water and I would not go back here. Felt really musty, and I could not get over the smell. Theres suspicious particles in the water. Bring your own towels of course. Changing rooms were clean!

Not recommended. A few pools that are warm at best due to the number of people - not hot at all. The warmer pools were completely packed with people. All pools were very dirty (brown and yellow colors). The locker rooms were very gross and I would hope that people scrub their feet to avoid athlete's foot after this experience. I don't really leave bad reviews, but even for the low price, I would not recommend it. Read other reviews and you will see a lot of people saying the same thing. I wish I had read them prior.

This is a nice place to visit if you have some free time. It's about a 15 minute walk from the city. Don't expect a Japanese or Nortic style hot springs. The water has minerals and has a smell. It's not unclean but it's natural water. A lot of water that comes directly from the earth has a tint to it. It only costs $5 to get in. Bring your swimsuit and a towel. There are changing rooms and a bag check. The water is in the 90s F. There are several pools of different temperatures. But really this place is about the view. It can't be beat. It started getting busy around 5pm.

It's very busy. Make sure to get your ticket at the gate. If there's nobody there, you gotta wait for them. If you miss the ticket lady, you have to go all the way back down to buy one. The Entrance lady was very considerate. She let us pay at the entrance to the pools instead of sending us back down.

I staid two days to acclimate to altitude before attending a festival in Cusco. It was my second trip. The first time I passed through going to Machu Picchu. I now had two days to explore. Early morning was exceptional without crowds. It is just as impressive as Machu Picchu in my mind. Lots to see, friendly people and nice small town feel. I enjoyed it very much.

Ollantaytambo is absolutely essential for understanding the Inca Empire. The fortress/temple ruins are stunning, especially the gigantic Sun Temple monoliths high on the hill. The climb is intense, but the panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the ancient granaries (Qolcas) on the opposite hill are worth every step. What makes this place special is that the town below is the only continuously inhabited Inca town. Take time to walk the narrow streets and see the original Inca water channels still in use. Highly recommend staying here for a night or two instead of just passing through!

This is my second best historical places to visit near Cusco Peru after Machu Picchu. I would recommend to come here first and stay for a night. Rentals are very affordable in this small town. There’s many cafes and restaurants you can eat. Then take a train and visit Machu Picchu

Love this site, one of the larger sites (and can visit by train if you want to from Cusco) with many interesting features. In the cliff side opposite the main ruins is a construction (which is possible to visit) that our guide told us was a cold store built by the Incas. Interestingly, when we visited 30 years ago we were told they were tombs! Tickets are part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket, and can be bought on site.

We visited the Ollantaytambo archaeological site at the end of the day, and wow, what a view! It’s quite a climb with lots of stairs, but every step is worth it. This ancient Inca fortress was strategically built to protect the Sacred Valley and later served as one of the last strongholds of the Inca resistance against the Spanish. The terraces, temples, and massive stone walls are truly impressive, and the view over the valley at sunset is just breathtaking.

Ollantaytambo, located in the Sacred Valley, is a remarkable Incan town and archaeological site that feels like a step back in time. The fortress and terraced hillsides are impressively preserved, showcasing Incan engineering and strategic design. Visitors can explore the ruins, climb the terraces for panoramic views, and stroll through the cobbled streets of the town, which still retains much of its original layout. The site is also a key starting point for the train to Machu Picchu, making it both a cultural and practical stop. The combination of history, stunning mountain scenery, and lively local culture makes Ollantaytambo a must-visit destination in the Sacred Valley. Ideal for history enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers seeking authentic Andean village experiences.

This is one of our favorite places in Sacred Valley. The view is breathtaking from the top and it’s incredible to see the Inca’s stonework for the sun temple. The entire site is designed to look like a llama. Our guide Miguel was part of Exclusive Inca Tour. It was so much more enjoyable to have a great guide. We learned so much and got to enjoy the early morning view of Ollantaytambo.

About a 15-30 minute uphill hike with beautiful views. You just need to sign in to enter - no payment. Make sure to watch your step and be mindful of holding onto the railings since they’re not as stable. When you head back down, you can take a separate route to view other ruins (you eventually loop back to the entrance). Highly recommend!

Quick 1 hour round trip hike - but views are stunning both of the town and also the ruins! The best part - it is free. Can't leave Ollantaytambo without doing this.

This little site is incredible and free. It’s easy to miss the entrance because it doesn’t look like much. I was there at 7:30 and was the only visitor. It was absolutely stunning.

These often-overlooked stone structures, built high into the steep slope opposite the Ollantaytambo fortress, are vital for understanding the Inca Empire's logistics. The Qolcas (storehouses) were strategically located here to take advantage of the constant wind and cool altitude, creating a system of natural ventilation for food preservation. They stored crucial supplies like corn and potatoes, showcasing the Incas' advanced planning for food security. While you can't typically enter them, they are a fascinating sight best viewed and photographed from the main archaeological site. A true demonstration of ancient engineering and ingenious use of the environment!

A steep walk up to a free archaeological Inca site - the granaries. The sweeping views of the town and of Ollantaytambo Archaeological site are well worth the climb.

It’s worth climbing up there. A bit challenging, but the view from the top is amazing. Unfortunately, there are no safety measures, so bring good hiking shoes. Definitely recommended.

Free little mini hike! Some people told us it would take 2 hours (there’s 2 sections to it) but we took approx an hour (there and back with lots of breaks and lots of pictures) - we did not do both sections as we had to catch the train so didn’t want to risk it

Beautiful views interesting history. The use of the terraces and the accuracy is amazing the Incas were truly a master builder and intellectual community of Astrologers, mathematical genius!

Moray is a must-see in the Sacred Valley. The circular terraces are impressive both visually and historically, believed to have been an Incan agricultural laboratory. The surrounding scenery is spectacular, making the visit worthwhile.

The Moray Ruins near Cusco were fascinating to visit! I saw them during a two-hour mountain bike tour that included both the Moray and the Maras Salt Mines, and it was such an incredible experience. The ruins are made up of large circular terraces that the Incas used for agricultural experiments each level has its own microclimate, which helped them study how different crops grew at different altitudes. It’s amazing how advanced their understanding of agriculture was. The views of the Andes all around made it even more stunning. Riding through the countryside and ending up here felt like stepping back in time definitely worth the visit!

We visited the Moray archaeological site in the afternoon, and it was such a peaceful and fascinating experience. Moray is known for its impressive circular terraces, which were used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory to study how different crops grew at various altitudes and microclimates. Walking around this unique site surrounded by mountains was both relaxing and captivating, a perfect stop for anyone interested in Inca history and beautiful landscapes.

Very cool place. Guide told us that here is the agricultural laboratory site for Inca. The lower the level, the higher the temperature. They test different plants to see how well they grow in different temperatures.

Very cool to see this Incan agricultural laboratory. Beautiful surrounding scenery as well - we visited on an ATV tour which beat sitting in a tour van!

This is great to see—a good example of the terraced agricultural land the Incas created. It was abandoned when the Spaniards arrived and only rediscovered in the 20th century. It’s not as grand as Ollantaytambo and Pisac but still wonderful to see. We combined it with the salt mines which was one of our favourite things to see around Cusco.