The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu is one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world. Nestled high in the Andes, this Incan citadel showcases incredible stonework, terraced landscapes, and panoramic mountain views that feel almost otherworldly. Walking through the ruins, you can sense the ingenuity of Incan architecture, from perfectly fitted stones to sophisticated agricultural terraces. Machu Picchu can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season, but the early morning or late afternoon visits offer a more serene experience. Guided tours are highly recommended to understand the history, symbolism, and purpose of the site. Hiking nearby trails like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain adds another layer of adventure and breathtaking views. Ideal for history buffs, photographers, and anyone seeking a mix of culture, nature, and adventure.

I visited Machu Picchu at the start of September, and honestly, it was absolutely breathtaking. Such an incredible experience. The views of the Andes and the Inca ruins would take your breath away - just stunning — when you are surrounded by misty mountains and ancient stonework, it feels almost magical. We hiked the Inca Trail to get there, and wow, it was tough! So many steps, but every single one was worth it. Our guide was incredible — his knowledge of Inca history and local culture brought the whole place to life. He shared stories and insights that you just wouldn’t get on your own, and it made the experience so much richer. Finally seeing Machu Picchu after the hike was unforgettable. Watching the ruins emerge through the clouds gave me goosebumps! Everything was really well-organised too, we got the bus down but if you dont feel like hiking, you can also take the bus up — the buses run smoothly, the entry process was simple, and even when it was busy, the staff kept everything moving efficiently. If you’re thinking of going, I’d say take your time, bring layers for the changing weather, suncream, plenty of snacks and water and just soak it all in. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience — I’ll never forget it!

Hi there An unforgettable journey through one of the world’s true wonders! Route 2 offers a perfect balance of panoramic views, ancient Inca architecture, and peaceful pathways. From the moment you enter, the trail takes you past terraces, temples, and hidden corners that reveal the genius of Inca engineering. The Temple of the Sun, Main Plaza, and Intihuatana stone were absolute highlights — breathtaking both in scale and mystery. The route is well-organized and flows naturally, giving you time to admire and take photos without feeling rushed. The climb involves a few steep sections, but the reward at the top is beyond words — the classic postcard view of Machu Picchu surrounded by clouds and mountains. Even after seeing countless photos online, nothing compares to standing there in person. Our guide was knowledgeable and patient, sharing stories about the Inca civilization, astronomy, and the site’s rediscovery. Everything ran smoothly: clear signage, timed entries, and professional coordination throughout. If you’re visiting Machu Picchu for the first time, Route 2 is ideal — not too short, not too long, with the best views and monuments included. Bring water, sunscreen, and a good camera… you’ll want to remember every step of it. Cheers

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!

Without a doubt one of the best places I've ever visited. One thing to keep in mind about Machu Picchu is that it's located high in the cloud forest. The weather changes quite fast and the area is know to be extra foggy. If you're unlucky, you might not get a chsmce to see anything. So be prepared for all scenarios.

Our guided tour was very well organized and our guide Olga is one of the best, well knowledged. As this is a once in a lifetime experience, I recommend you plan your trip very well in advance.

Amazing views and beautiful masonry. Took circuit 3. The main viewpoint was at the beginning which threw us off. We had to backtrack after the circuit to take the classic Machu Piccu photo.

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.

It is an interesting and peaceful place to visit away from the tourist mess that is Aguas Calientes. The tour was interesting and we were able to gently coax an owl butterfly onto our fingers. They also have orchids but we were there at the wrong time of year. The cafe is lovely, open to the river below with beautiful birds coming in to feed on fruit. The staff is terrific. Tours in Spanish and Englush.

We loved our visit to the Mariposario! 🌿 First, we stopped by the coffee place where we could spot so many different types of birds, their beautiful colors and songs made it such a magical start to the experience. Then, we had a very nice introduction and explanation about butterflies, which was both informative and easy to follow. We even got to intersect with some butterflies up close, which was truly wonderful. 🦋 Overall, it was a unique and memorable experience. ✨ Just a tip: if you pay by card, they do charge a 5% extra fee.

This is a small place, but it's very interactive. You can see the caterpillars munching on leaves outside of jars, and they have a huge variety of cocoons to see. In the butterfly house, many of them are rather friendly and will step on your hand. The tour only takes about 20 minutes but you may spend more time taking photos of butterflies.

A very good place to learn about local butterfly. For 20sol per person you get an English guide who will explain all about butterflies, took you to the labs and let yu enjoy the rainforest atmosphere where lots of butterflies.

Marvelous learning opportunity and visual delight via the English and Spanish language tours. You'll see living caterpillars and butterflies in all stages of their life cycle plus see them flying around and eating.

A rather idyllic place meant to raise awareness for preservation of life in the neighbourhood. It has a nice little cafe where you can watch birds and read about them (or orchids).

A quick 15-minute tour for 20 soles will be totally worth it. You see live specimens in all of their stages. Most of them are indigenous to the machu picchu area and the peruvian jungle. It's a 20-minute walk (only way to get there) from aguas calientes.

We visited Mandor as part of our stay in Aguas Calientes, and it was a wonderful experience. From our hotel near the train station, we walked along the railway tracks to reach the entrance. While it might sound unusual, it actually feels quite safe. The trains are loud enough to hear well in advance, and along the way there are small cafés and stalls where you can grab snacks or drinks. The entrance ticket costs 20 soles per person. At the ticket booth, we enjoyed a nice coffee, and Erwin, who works there, kindly shared the story of how his mother created the place. Inside, you can easily spend 2.5 to 3 hours exploring. There are two main trails: one leading to the waterfalls, and another to a viewpoint where you get to see a completely different face of Machu Picchu. The view is absolutely stunning and not to be missed! On top of that, the wildlife made the visit even more special. We spotted different kinds of butterflies 🦋, a variety of birds, and even a black tayra 🥹. Overall, Mandor is peaceful, scenic, and full of natural beauty a perfect complement to the bustle of Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu itself. Highly recommended.

This was a lovely hike near the town of Auguas Caliente. Once you walk out of town, follow the path that’ll lead you on a train track. There are loads of signs so you can’t miss it. The train track is safe as you’ll hear the trains far before you can see it. Plus they are moving very slowly. It’s about a 30-40 min walk (approximately 1.5 miles) to get to the destination itself. Once you get there, there’ll be a cafe who will provide you with information and grant access to the trail. It is 20 soles pp. the hike has 2 trails, one that is mainly uphill to a viewpoint where you can see Machu Picchu. This trail is bit extensive but nothing too hard. A lot of woods and trees so bring some bug spray. If you forget, the store has small packets you can purchase. It’ll take about an hour or so to do this path. The second path is to the waterfall. The waterfall is amazing. It’s about another 20-30 min but very easy walk. PS. If you’re lucky, you might get a guide dog who’ll pop out of nowhere to join your hike. They’re super friendly and cute.

We had a wonderful time on this scenic hike. Having a mixup with our Machu Picchu tickets, we were stuck in Aguas Calientes for a few days, and we wanted to make the most of it. On our second day we decided to hike to Mandor to see the falls The hike is about 1.5hr outside of Aguas Calientes. You will follow the river out of town. Be careful as there are many buses racing by. And then the majority of the hike is along an active railway, so again, be careful The views are stunning and you can actually see part of the Machu Picchu citadel on the walk You will pay about 20s per person at Mandor. You will need to fill out a log, and you will need your passport information for this. There’s a little cafe, and you will be escorted to the gate of the trailhead Once through the gate it’s only about a mile to the falls. And there is a fork in the hike where you can actually go up into the jungle to get a view of Machu Picchu. This is a little less than a mile of a hike, but it is straight up and through a humid jungle. The views at the end of both hikes are spectacular If you get the chance, stop at either the Empanada cafe (Quinoa Snack Bar), or the Refugio. The Snack Bar has fresh delicious empanadas, and the Refugio is a vibe. The owner is a lot of fun, there’s great views, tasty food, cold drinks, great music, and a relaxing ambiance

We visited May 24th, the gardens and waterfall are open and well worth a visit. The tourist info shop in Aguas Calientes said they were closed but is definitely open and the family that runs the place is great and could use all the support from tourism. They were closed for a few months in late 2024, early 2025 due to landslides but are now 100% open. Enjoy!

Hiking along the train tracks to Mandor was so much fun. There were restaurants along the way, right by the tracks. When we arrived in Mandor, it cost S/20 to access the waterfalls.

I loved this place, it was so peaceful and relaxing and I could connect with the nature around

If you have a spare day then I highly recommend this walk along the railway, lovely hike through the rainforest to a spectacular view of Machu Picchu. The waterfall nothing spectacular but good for a dip to cool off. Delicious food and watch the hummingbird when you eat. Walking home around 4 pm, so much bird song and even saw a cock of the rock bird near the pizza bar about half way home. Had a beer and lovely cheesy fried bread at one of the shacks on the way back.

A pirate-themed restaurant in Agua Caliente? Why, yes. And much to my surprise, it was excellent. This was our first meal after nearly a week of trekking, so even a mediocre place would have been great, but the food here was delicious... on par with other casual restaurants in Lima and Cusco. And the desserts? Amazing. We arrived in a large group, but the drinks and food were served promptly and reasonably together. Great job. This place appears a bit unusual from the entrance, but don't let that deceive you. It's a truly good spot.

Such an amazing place with great decor (in some details as in a museum), a unique atmosphere and a courteous service. All dishes are top notch. Everything is fresh, the meat is so tender and juicy. Portions are large and generous. A superb gastronomy experiment combining Peruvian and European cuisine. The prices are fare. It is a real gem with 5-star food. Highly recommend to visit.

What a fantastic spot! From the moment you walk in, the place feels special. beautifully decorated with so much character and a really welcoming vibe. The team here is just amazing friendly, professional. The food was outstanding, and the beer hit the spot perfectly. Everything tasted fresh and full of flavor, and the portions were generous too. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to come back before you’ve even left. A perfect mix of great food, great people, and great atmosphere. Highly recommend! 🍻✨

Wow! Excellent food and great atmosphere! We had the mango salmon and it was absolutely delicious! The sides were also amazing and abundant! Best meal during out trip to Peru!

Very good experience at this restaurant. When you enter you directly feel the personal atmosphere of the place. The main course, salmon mango, was served with a lot of different sides. Although it looks big on the picture, I did not get any digestion issue which supports the food quality.

Amazing food and very friendly staff - we can absolutely recommend trout ceviche, mango chicken and the lemonade (it's huge!). Also they serve it with little side dishes :)

We loved our meal at Indio Feliz. We had their delicious Pepper Chicken, tasty Mango Chicken, and their kick-ass Limeade with mint! It’s a must-eat place with tons of fun on every wall. Plus, service was excellent!

Great meal and many options for different diets. Jaime provided great service and made sure the food was gluten free for one in our group and vegetarian for another. He provided great advice. The food was all fresh and delicious. We had a great view of the street below and got to people watch with our lunch. Would love to come back again.

Delicious food! Plenty of vegetarian / vegan options available! Nice and fast service! Only thing is the dessert that was dry, I think in all the town there is one company who prepares the desserts and for sure that they are not prepared freshly in the restaurants.

We ducked into this spot to get out of the rain and for a cheeky afternoon bev and a snack. We got the causa with trout ceviche and exotic salad with pisco sours. The food was GREAT! We were impressed with the presentation and taste. The service is great. If you’re looking for a spot and you’re not sure -don’t pass this up. While we don’t have dietary restrictions, the staff was thoughtful to ask and the menu offers a wide array of vegetarian and likely gluten free options.

We went twice! It's a great, cozy spot with amazing food and lots of clearly marked gluten free options. The first time we had some chicken and trout in aji sauce, both delicious, great veggies, then some beef and alpaca. Both meals were amazing and I felt very safe as a gf person.

This is our favorite meal in Aguas Calientes. We loved the quinoa risotto, exotic salad, and bean soup. Plus, everything was beautifully presented. Edy and Jaime were extremely attentive and kind. Our alpaca friend loved it too <3

Its a great place! The whole organic concept realy works out and you can taste the fresh, local ingredients. The fish was on Point and the Pisco Sour was a dream on its own. Highly recommend this place when in Aguas Calientes!

A true food explosion. One of the best meals during Peru. For anyone vegetarian, don’t think twice, just go here. Your taste buds will thank you, big time! These plates were licked clean by the time we were done.

Fantastic! The food was good and the mornings hosts were attentive and caring. Alan and staff were great. We had the breakfast as part of the hotel and were extremely happy with the entire establishment. Fantastic view of river and mountains.

Better buffet options at Machupichu pueblo, very crowded and not much variety.

Charging 14 soles for the shittiest espresso in all of peru is borderline criminal

Enjoyed a warm and tasty dinner here after a wonderful afternoon at Machu Picchu. Dinner was buffet style for our tour group, there was plenty of good tasting choices and the service was excellent from the staff. Exactly what was needed after an exhausting day of travel and wonder.

The food is amazing here! Angelo, the manager, and the staff are so professional and make the dining experience 5 stars. If you want traditional food of Peru that is fresh and full of flavor, this is the place to eat. The hotel Tierra Viva and Ayasqa restaurant were both a great enhancement to Machu Picchu!

Manager was helpful..Resturant was clean, provided various selections between vegetable and meat. Highly recommend. From Colorado usa.

Good food. Great service. Would've been great if I had a menu for beverages.

Beautiful scenery with beautiful plenty of places to shop and dine. My son and I visited the Manco Capac Square while in town to hike Machu Picchu, everyone is super friendly and very helpful. Will definitely be visiting again.

There are friendly dogs and children hanging out at this square. There is a church beside where a lot of the locals gather. Lively square both in the day time and at night. Nice place to stroll or sit down and observe. The streets toward and from this square are well lit, and lined with shops and restaurants.

Aguas Caliente is underrated. People just go there as gateway to Machu Picchu but this village is just so cool and relaxing. You can chill a d unwind here for a few days and enjoy it. I've only spent 2 nights as I had bought the ticket back already before getting there. If I could I would have spent at least 2 more days to absorb the local vibes

Amazing Square center of the city. Excellent feeling to seat down and enjoy it!

The square lies in the heart of Aguas Calientes, in the Urubamba Province, Cusco Region. It is named after Manco Cápac, the mythic first Sapa Inca or founder figure of the Inca civilization. As the town’s central gathering point, it serves both locals and tourists — especially those visiting Machu Picchu. It's surrounded with lost of restaurants

Manco Capac Square, Peru: A Gem in the Heart of Cusco ✨ Nestled in the historic heart of Cusco, Manco Capac Square is a delightful spot that captures the essence of Peruvian culture. From the moment I stepped into the square, I was enveloped in the vibrant energy and rich history that this place exudes. The stunning statue of Manco Capac, the legendary founder of the Inca Empire, stands proudly in the center, serving as a perfect photo backdrop for tourists and history enthusiasts alike. 📸 🌸 The square is surrounded by charming colonial buildings that house quaint cafes, artisanal shops, and local eateries. I enjoyed a delicious cup of coca tea at a nearby café while watching the lively activities around me. The locals are incredibly friendly and welcoming, often sharing stories about the significance of the square and its place in Cusco's history. The atmosphere here is both relaxing and invigorating, making it an ideal spot for people-watching and soaking in the local culture. 🏛️ 🌄 What truly sets Manco Capac Square apart is its breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. As the sun sets, the square transforms into a magical scene with golden hues illuminating the landscape. Whether you're a history buff, a culture seeker, or simply looking for a picturesque spot to relax, Manco Capac Square is a must-visit. I highly recommend adding it to your Cusco itinerary! 🌞

Aguas Calientes is truly a remarkable destination, and Manco Capac Square adds to its charm! 🏞️ The square is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The well-preserved historical elements, coupled with the local hustle and bustle, create an authentic Peruvian experience. The square serves as a hub for exploring Aguas Calientes and its enchanting surroundings, making it a central point for travelers. Surrounded by local eateries and artisanal shops, Plaza Manco Capac provides an opportunity to savor Peruvian flavors and find unique souvenirs. The landscaping adds to the beauty, making it an inviting space to relax and soak in the ambiance. Whether you're here for the historical significance or to enjoy the local vibe, Manco Capac Square is a must-visit spot in Aguas Calientes. Embrace the culture, indulge in local treats, and capture memories against the stunning backdrop of this vibrant square! 🌄🛍️ #AguasCalientes #MancoCapacSquare #PeruAdventure

The ticketing system at the Machu Picchu Booking Office could definitely be improved. We had to queue twice, once just to get a coupon, and then again to exchange that for the actual tickets. This two-step process was confusing and time-consuming, especially for first-time visitors. A more streamlined or digital process would make things much easier and less frustrating. For such a world-renowned destination, the current setup leaves a lot to be desired.

Let me explain the ticket-buying process for Machu Picchu as of my visit in late May 2025. This information is not available in English elsewhere, so read carefully. Let’s say you want to visit Machu Picchu on day X. You need to arrive in Aguas Calientes on day X–2 and go to the ticket office as early as possible that day. You will receive a pre-pre-ticket, which includes a queue number and your passport number. With this pre-pre-ticket, return to the ticket office on day X–1 at 6:00 AM. Officials will call out numbers in Spanish and in order, so make sure you’re familiar with Spanish numbers. All visitors with pre-pre-tickets will eventually form a massive line inside the building that spans two floors. Depending on your number, you may be waiting for up to 3 hours. At the end of this queue, you’ll receive a pre-ticket. This ticket will have a specific time slot, usually between 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM the same day. Each hour is allocated for 150 people. Return to the office again at your assigned time to finally purchase the actual entrance ticket (cash only) for day X. If there are any tickets left by the end of the day, around 9:30 PM, officials will call out more numbers. If you have a pre-pre-ticket, you can try your luck at securing one of these leftover tickets. ⚠️ Important tips: - Do not line up at night (e.g., 10:00 PM or 3:00 AM) hoping to get ahead. When the office opens at 6:00 AM, they will prioritize all pre-pre-ticket holders first. If you line up without one, you’ll be at the back of the queue with a very high number (e.g., 500+). - Staff are not rude but speak only Spanish. There’s very limited English spoken. - The system is confusing if you’re unprepared, but if you understand how it works, you have a good chance of getting a ticket even if you didn't buy it online 3 months in advance.

I was worried when I couldn’t get tickets online, apparently you need to purchase it three months ahead, but at that time i couldn’t confirm my leave and flight tickets and itinerary. So I did a lot of research online, during high season and special festival days, you probably need to get to Aquas Calientes earlier to secure tickets. We arrived here last night(Sep 09), and queued at the office door at 05:00 am(Sep 10). The office actually opens from 06:00am to 10:00 pm now, not from 05:30am. There were only four people in front of us plus two dogs :) We waited for an hour, and the queue wasn’t long at all, maybe 20 people only by the time of 06:00. The office opened at 06:00am. And we got our tickets for Circuit 2A of 08:00am for the next day(Sep 11) without any hassle. Tickets cost 304 soles for two. Then we headed straight to the bus ticket office, no queue and easily got bus tickets for two, which is 84.53 soles per person(or USD24 per person) for round ticket. The bus ticket lasts for three days. I guess if you arrive early in the day at the office you could still secure tickets of your preferred time for the next day, no need to queue up so early in the wee hours of morning. This is not for the high season though. Hope this helps. :)

By far the most confusing, disorganised and chaotic ticketing system I’ve ever experienced. A local guide said the government/local businessman delay this process on purpose to force tourists to stay an extra night and spend more money in AC. Please step it up Peru, this place alone is bringing in well over $40 million in profit every year and this attraction is the no. 1 reason most tourists visit your country. Tourists will go elsewhere if these games continue. Many tourists had to leave AC without getting their MP tickets when I was there due to having flights and trains pre-booked. Current situation (May 2025): Day 1 - 3:45am, 7hrs in line to get a number Day 2 - 5:45am, 1hr in line to get another number Day 2 - 2:45pm, 1hr in line to get ticket Day 3 - visit MP Bear in mind we lined up for 9hrs over 2 days in the exact same line, in the exact same order of people, three times to buy our MP ticket. Whilst stuck in an overpriced tourist town with little else to do other than visit the dilapidated thermal pools.

In-person Machu Picchu Ticket: Coordination could be better (places like this don’t care because there are no competitors). Yesterday afternoon everything was sold out. Today I stood in line at 5:30. 2 hours later had ticket placeholder number 573 for the day. Inside, you have to wait again. In total, it took 3 hours until I finally had my ticket — Route 2 for tomorrow afternoon - only 30 tickets left. Bring your passport (my ID card was also accepted).

A little update and a review that I hope will help you all! So from 1 August 2025, the system has changed. There is no pre ticket system anymore. You turn up to the office and queue up. You then get a number like a ticket and then a lady directs you to the counter where you can buy whichever tickets are available. For context, I arrived at the office at about 1500. I queued up outside for about 20 minutes. I then went inside and waited to buy the ticket. They have screens showing how many tickets for each route are available. I got called to the desk and bought my ticket for 2 days later. It seems they are not doing tickets for the next day anymore, only for the next few days. Not a huge problem for me but if you are on a tight schedule then definitely plan ahead. The best thing you can do is book in advance, but it isn't impossible if you don't!

They could definitely improve the system for in person tickets by just selling tickets instead of giving pre-tickets but don't have a choice if you haven't pre-booked MP tickets. Don't forget to carry your passport/ID 1)We arrived in Aguas Calientes the night before 2) went to the office to queue outside at 5:30 am the next morning, got our pre-tickets (#235/6) 3) Were told to come back at 4 pm, got circuit 2 tickets. Lucky day for us!!

I came here as I only had little time to get on the train and mentioned that when I ordered. Super fast service and a great club sandwich! The egg was part of the bread in a way I never had it before and the meat was also prepared different to what I am used to - but in a good way!

Great little spot for eating before heading to Machu Picchu. Food was amazing. The service was actually prompt and accurate. Friendly people. We had Fidel helping us and Janet. We actually came back twice in one day cus our son loved the crepe with Nutella. Great experience. 10/10 recommend.

Great scenic spot - Good coffee - Big croissants While waiting for our tour to begin, we made a pit stop to get an americano and sweets. We got the croissants to go which were huge! The americano was a good and rich coffee, we also got the Oreo cheesecake which was a dud but overall we liked the ambiance. It’s a great place to grab a coffee and wait. Very nice hostesses!

Arrived too early to check in at my hotel, this was just up the block. My waffle and latte were very good, and the menu was extensive. Fair price for the location.

Nestled in the charming town of Aguas Calientes, La Boulangerie de Paris is a delightful gem that every traveler should visit. This quaint coffee shop, conveniently located near the train station and just across the bridge, offers a perfect spot to relax and enjoy some of the best pastries and beverages. Upon entering, you're greeted by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked croissants and rich coffee. The croissants here are simply divine, with a perfect balance of flakiness and buttery goodness. The pain au chocolat, in particular, stands out as one of the best I've ever had – it's an absolute must-try. The coffee is equally impressive, providing a robust and smooth complement to the pastries. For those who prefer a lighter refreshment, the juice options are fresh and invigorating, offering a delightful burst of flavor. La Boulangerie de Paris's location is another highlight. Being so close to the train station makes it a convenient stop for both arriving and departing travelers. Despite Aguas Calientes being a small town, this café is easy to find and definitely worth the visit.

I ordered a crepe and chose “fudge” as a topping, expecting a small drizzle of chocolate across the crepe. Instead it looked like they dumped an entire bottle of Hershey’s syrup on the crepe. The crepe and fruits looked delicious, but Hershey’s syrup tastes so bad that the rest of the crepe was soggy and didn’t taste good.

Best cappuccino I've had in a while. The service is top-notch and the pastries are delicious. The atmosphere is cozy? Great views.

Good PRI es and óptimos for food and natural juices. They prepared a vegetarían option for me with lower price (egg instead of fish). Prices similar to Cusco

Probably the only place in Macho Picchu where you don’t get ripped off with high touristic prices! but yet the prices are still higher than the awesome one in Cusco! They have amazing food and juice court on the second floor. Unfortunately, not so many vegetarian options. But the juice is always great for ten soles and the coffee mug is 3 soles! 👌😉

Let's be real, almost all of Aguas Caliente restaurants are overpriced tourist food. If you really want to see what locals eat and drink, swing by the market on the second floor. There are several bar counters, each with its own kitchen, serving primarily fresh squeezed juices and local meals. We walked around to see what the locals are eating and eventually settled at a counter where we saw a lot of locals eating. While the quality of the food is not the highest, it is very authentic Peruvian. Best of all, it's only 8 soles! The juices are really cheap too and it is huge!

This place is not suitable for tourists to buy things. This is an absolutely local market for locals. You can get meat, fruits, vegetables a few shops selling shoes clothes and toys too.

Cheap vegan and vegetarian food in Aguas Calientes att Quinti stall, ask for Sheila. She saved my vegan lunches, diners and my economy during my stay in Aguas Calientes. The vegan dish consist in french fries, rice, salad and avocado. Just 6 soles!!! It is not a vegan stall but she cooked the fries separated. I was attended with kindness and respect. I could not add her stall in Happy cow but I hope people can find her by this recommendation in google maps. Aguas calientes is expensive but here in the market you can save money.

This is where locals shop and eat. Not exposed many tourists yet so you may be able to experience the living of locals in Aguas Calientes. On the 2nd fl there are many placed where sell local food. I had chiken with rice and fish over rice from one of the shops. They were delicious and price was cheap. Certainly worth to visit.

Never buy juice. I thought it was fruit juice, but it was a mixture of 2 fruits and 8 water. Then price is 7 soles. It's better to just buy fruit. It's the price of 2-3 mangoes.

(Translated by Google) Starting point to visit Machu Picchu. Little to see although they do have many services (restaurants, hotels...) (Original) Punto de partida para visitar el Machu Picchu. Poca cosa que ver aunque sí tienen muchos servicios (restaurantes, hoteles...)

(Translated by Google) Small town with a lot of movement, a must stop to visit Machu Picchu, very entertaining and surrounded by incredible mountains (Original) Pequeño pueblo con muchísimo movimiento , parada obligada para visitar Machu picchu , muy entretenido y rodeado de montañas increíbles

(Translated by Google) The place is extremely touristic, a necessary destination for Machu Picchu as the train arrives here 🚆 and the buses depart from here. It has hotels and shops serving tourists, the prices are quite cheap (Original) Το μέρος είναι άκρα τουριστικό, αναγκαίος προορισμός για το Machu picchu καθώς εδω φτάνει το τρένο 🚆 και από εδώ ξεκινάνε τα λεωφορεία. Έχει ξενοδοχεία και καταστήματα εξυπηρέτησης των τουριστών,οι τιμές είναι αρκετά τσιμπημενες

(Translated by Google) The town of Aguascalientes at the foot of Machu Picchu mountain is where you arrive the night before to climb the mountain very early in the morning and contemplate one of the world's wonders, the archaeological citadel of Machu Picchu. (Original) El pueblo Aguascalientes al pie de Machu Picchu montaña aquí es donde se llega una noche antes para en la mañana muy de madrugada subir la montaña y contemplar una de las maravillas mundiales la ciudadela arqueológica Machu Picchu.

(Translated by Google) It is a beautiful place and a town with a lot of magic, the food is delicious and they sell many souvenirs and clothes at a very good price. (Original) Es un lugar hermoso y un pueblo con mucha magia, se come muy rico y venden muchas cosas de recuerdo y ropa a muy buen precio.

(Translated by Google) Unprecedented historic place to visit absolutely, on foot round trip to fully experience the reality of the Inkas of the time necessity of a guide for groups ranging from 1 to 10 people obligatory since the COVID crisis, reserve your tickets in advance tickets, sometimes a month of waiting depending on the season, respect the places be clean and disciplined on a site 2 thousand years old, to do ++++ (Original) Lieu historique sans précédent a visiter absolument, a pied aller retour pour bien vivre la réalité des Inkas de l'époque nécessité d'un guide pour des groupes allant de 1 a 10 personnes obligatoire depuis la crise COVID, bien réserver à l'avance ses billets, parfois un mois d'attente selon les saisons, respectez les lieux soyez propres et discipliné sur un site vieux de 2 milles ans, a faire ++++

(Translated by Google) The city of Aguas Calientes is beautiful, very clean and since it is small it is very easy to get around. (Original) Hermosa la ciudad de aguas calientes, muy limpia y como es pequeña es muy fácil de recorrerla.

Decent service. You can get American and Peruvian food here. I need a break from Peruvian food, so we eat here. Decent food. The Hawaiian pizza had more cheese than meat. The juice is very over prized.

The food was really good. We ended up eating there two nights in a row. I would recommend the tourist menu which is three courses for 40 soles. The waiting staff were really friendly and attentive. We were also able to pay by credit card.

I've been to the restaurant twice and had good food and service in both occasions. I had the Menu option with 3 courses included, with different combinations and all the food were tasty, well presented and with good portion size. The view to the river makes everything even cozier and good.

Melissa is the best server! Served up those Cuba Libres extra tall, like a pro! Guacamole on the Alpaca burger 🍔 was spot on!

Great service. Cozy atmosphere with a view of the river. Delicious food. My favourite cafe in the town.

Food was amazing, honestly nearly walked past it thank goodness we didn’t. The apps here are worth getting. Drinks are also delicious and the view you can’t beat. It’s just before you across the bridge to the artisanal market. I think presentation of the food speaks for itself and it was between 60-80 soles per person including app main and drink. Also staff are super nice and washrooms are clean.

Right by the river, the ají de gallina was delicious. Well located and delicious food

The restaurant's food and service were decent. What truly stands out is the beautiful view. If you're looking for a place with a nice atmosphere and a pleasant view to complement your meal, this restaurant is worth considering.

Ordered “nachos” for 28sol which literally just came out as some corn chips with a small amount of avocado (couldn’t even call it guacamole)and a sprinkling of cheese. No beans etc. Even after speaking to the waitress about my disappointment, they were unwilling to do anything about it so we sent it back and told them we wouldn’t pay. There is another review here with a picture of the same nachos for reference for other readers. Very poor form for a restaurant that is self proclaimed as Mexican. We had ceviche and a margarita pizza and I felt nauseous for the rest of the afternoon and both my partner and I had ongoing diarrhoea until the next morning. DO NOT GO HERE.

The steak here is so tender & surprisingly flavorful! Great service - fast!

Do not get the burger!! (Or maybe do not eat there at all, just to be safe) All 3 of us eating the burger got violent food poisoning - fever & chills, really bad stomach cramps and 24hr runs - the worse for all of us yet. Joke's on us eating a ground meat in such an area. So far the worse Peruvian experience.

Insisted we ordered nachos instead of tequeños... waited until the meal was over to let us know the credit card machine was broken. Staff yelling at each other and slamming things.

The food is very basic and simple and does not justify the price. Service was nice.

Restaurant and service were good. I had an avocado salad, i can recommend it, nice size and tasty.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Excellent Experience! Ask for Giovanni My wife and I had a wonderful time at this restaurant. The service was warm and attentive, and the atmosphere made our evening feel special. The highlight of our meal was definitely the Lomo Saltado perfectly seasoned, tender, and full of authentic flavor. It was one of the best versions we’ve ever tried! We left very satisfied and would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for delicious Peruvian food and a memorable dining experience.

The alpaca with gnocchi was delicious! Service by a lady who was extremely enthusiastic is amazing. Restaurant ambience was surprisingly pleasant for the price point. Highly recommended!

Delicious food and great service! We had a trout ceviche, limo saltado and Chaufa de alpaca, all very tasty! Our waiter Roger was very nice!

What a great place with so much history. From Cusco to Machu Picchu by bus, train and bus again. Best to find a good travel agency when booking. It seems chaotic, as so many people visit every day, but this chaos has finess. Some patience is needed, but the view and the place itself is magnificent! Dare to go- you will not regret it!

My favorite restaurant in Peru! Authentic and delicious dishes with amazing presentation. Service was epic too (Ally was so sweet and funny and Giovanni was great!) Live music from local artists was also great!! Ate here both days I was here.

Had a fabulous Vegetarian Ceviche here. The bread rolls with onion were delicious too. Service was great - Sergio was very friendly and patient with my rubbish español!

Food is decent, the “pollo pollada” dish was the best. That’s a flavorful and well grilled chicken. Also had a ceviche and dessert, which were both decent. The pisco sours were great as well.

Horrible experience. Offered us a deal of 4x1, then when they presented the bill the price was roughly 3 times higher. When we mentioned it they just said “but you had 4 drinks.” Got treated pretty rude. Don’t go here, and if you do, look closely at your bill! ;-)

Poor food quality and quite bad service. Be careful with the price and menu they offer ,the lady on the street will attract you with good prices but then the reality is much more. They try to avoid preparing the dessert when they has offered it on the menu. They do not have all what is included in the menu.

This was the worst meal I've had in Peru. It took 40 minutes to get my appetizer, papas a la huancaina. This despite the fact that there was only one other table at the time. The potatoes were undercooked and the sauce was bland. The dish should come with eggs and olives, but only had one olive and no eggs. The main dish thankfully arrived but was completely inedible. The beans were so salty that I felt myself drying up and the meat was bland and too tough to chew. They offered to replace the dish with something else, which I agreed to. This one came out with only 1 oz (28g) of meat. When I pointed this out, the server acted as if that was fine. So I got another employee who decided they would get me another plate of something else that they would pick out for me. Instead I demanded the check, which was not discounted. I ended up paying the price of a full meal at another restaurant in town for 2 coffees and 1 lame appetizer. All of which took over an hour and barely got an insincere apology. Esta fue la peor comida que he tenido en perú. Tardé 40 minutos en coger mi aperitivo, papas a la huancaina. Esto a pesar de que había una sola mesa en ese momento. Las patatas estaban infectadas y la salsa era sosa. El plato debe venir con huevos y aceitunas, pero sólo tiene una aceituna y no huevos. El plato principal llegó por suerte pero era completamente incomestible. Los frijoles eran tan salados que me sentí desenterrado y la carne era sosa y era demasiado difícil de masticar. Se ofrecieron a reemplazar el plato con otra cosa, que yo acepté. Este salió con sólo 1 oz (28g) de carne. Cuando lo señalé, el servidor actuó como si estuviera bien. Así que tengo otro empleado que decidió que me traerían otro plato de otra cosa que ellos me escogerían. En lugar de eso pedí el cheque, que no era descontable. Terminé pagando el precio de una comida completa en otro restaurante en la ciudad para 2 coffeas y 1 aperitivo de aperitivos. Todo eso tomó más de una hora y apenas recibió una disculpa insincera.

Don't go here. There is better places close to the soccer field. These guys say one price and when you're going to pay they add you % of service (Derecho de Tenedor) and that is ilegal in Perú. Skip thus place.

Nice music and friendly waiter. But otherwise left a lot to be desired. The food was not very good, and we were charged 20% extra in service charge! Better go somewhere else.

Ok food, ok service, nothing special. They mixed up my order, and I am skeptical that they gave us beed yet called it alpaca meat. If you need food, you can come here, but do not get your hopes up for anything special

They charged double my credit card and the manager was very rude. Poor quality in food and overpriced