How much time does it take to visit Machu Picchu?

One of the most frequent questions among travelers planning to visit Machu Picchu is how much time is needed to explore this iconic sanctuary. As a tour guide with years of experience in Machu Picchu, below are some alternatives to make the most of your visit, taking into account different travel styles and personal preferences:

Types of Visits to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary

Half-day basic visit

If you have limited time and want to focus solely on the ruins of Machu Picchu, a half-day visit might be enough. This option will allow you to tour the main points of interest of the archaeological site, such as the Guardian's House, the Temple of the Sun, the Main Square, and the Intihuatana. In this case, it is recommended to take the first bus from Aguas Calientes (around 5:30 a.m.) and plan at least 2-3 hours to explore the site. Keep in mind that this option does not include additional time for climbing nearby mountains or visiting other points of interest.

Full-day visit

For those who wish to immerse themselves in the Machu Picchu experience and have enough time to tour the site at a leisurely pace, it is recommended to plan a full day for the visit. This option will allow you to enjoy the ruins, as well as undertake some additional hikes, such as the Intipunku (Sun Gate) or the Inca Bridge. Additionally, you can take time to rest, take photographs, and simply soak up the energy and mysticism of the place.

Visit with Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain climb

If you want to add a trekking experience to your visit and enjoy spectacular panoramic views, you can choose to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. In this case, it is advisable to book a combined ticket and plan a full day for your visit. Climbing Huayna Picchu takes approximately 2 hours (round trip), while Machu Picchu Mountain can take between 3 and 4 hours in total. Keep in mind that spaces for these mountains are limited and must be booked in advance.

Visit with multi-day hike

For adventurous travelers who wish to combine their visit to Machu Picchu with an unforgettable trekking experience, there are several multi-day hike options, such as the classic 4-day, 3-night Inca Trail, the Salkantay trek, or the Lares route. These hikes will allow you to discover other archaeological sites, stunning landscapes, and rich Andean culture before arriving at Machu Picchu.

In summary, the time needed to visit Machu Picchu can vary depending on your personal preferences and the type of experience you want to have. From a basic half-day visit to a multi-day hike, there are alternatives for all tastes and levels of adventure at this incredible Inca sanctuary. And of course, always consider Casa del Sol Machu Picchu Hotel for unique and unbeatable accommodation.

Wonderful stay

The hotel is beautiful, elegant, and decorated very tastefully. The atmosphere very nice. Very comfortable, spacious room with terrace, jacuzzi, and river view !!Spectacular! The shower a delight. All the staff is very friendly and helpful. Congratulations on having such dedicated and cordial staff. The dinners were delicious, very thoughtful, and original dishes. Our stay at the hotel was memorable.

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1/5

Excellent

We stayed one night there and really the service has been exceptional. I have nothing but good words for the establishment. We stayed in a suite which was excellent! It had a jacuzzi. Breakfast very good. The staff is always attentive. And the restaurant is a luxury. We took the 4-step menu and it has been spectacular. I would definitely go back and recommend it.

Lola L

2/5

Beautiful hotel and wonderful breakfast!

We enjoyed our stay here while visiting Machu Picchu. The hotel was very clean, the staff very friendly and polite, and the breakfast was amazing! Seriously, the breakfast was really a beautiful spread of so many options. It is in a nice location and easy to explore from there.

Overall a really nice and would recommend it!

Martin

3/5

Unforgettable

I went to Machupicchu with family and stayed at the Casa Del Sol hotel again. The hotel is just beautiful. There have been renovations since I was last there, the dining room is beautiful and crisp! An absolute delight to dine in. But the best part of the hotel is the people. The staff really goes above and beyond to make sure we have every need attended to! The staff welcomed us back like old friends, and even helped us celebrate my mother's birthday with a bottle of wine! We stayed for 2 nights, but we could have stayed longer just to enjoy the rooms and the spa.

Chrissy

4/5

Beautiful Hotel in Aguascalientes

I loved staying at the hotel so much! As soon as we got off our bus we were greeted by very friendly staff and walked less than 100 meters to the hotel. Their food is amazing and staying in this hotel is so relaxing, especially after a day spent in Machu Picchu. Every single one of the staff is so friendly and makes sure you are as comfortable and happy as you can be. I especially loved how the hotel was just next to the river and the beautiful rooms they provided. I hope I can go back someday!

Mikenzie T

5/5