This blog is intended to provide travelers with a realistic idea of what it actually costs to visit Machu Picchu. From train tickets to entrance fees, guided tours to surprise costs, we’re providing all you need to know about traveling to one of the world’s most famous sites.
Key Takeaways
- The entrance fees for Machu Picchu start at around $55-$75 USD per person depending on the route chosen.
- The most popular way of reaching Aguas Calientes is by train.
- The cost of a full-day tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco starts at around $150-$350 USD all inclusive.
- Advance bookings are a must as Machu Picchu has a limit on the number of visitors per day.
- Additional expenses such as buses and tips may amount to an additional $30-$60 USD.
Dreaming of standing at the Sun Gate with misty mountains stretching endlessly before you? Well, Machu Picchu is definitely bucket list magic, but magic always comes with a price tag. So, whether you’re a budget-conscious backpacker or a comfort-oriented tourist, knowing what to expect in terms of cost is the first step to making your dream a reality. A full-day Machu Picchu tour is the ultimate experience, and knowing the costs upfront is not only helpful, it can actually help you save money.
What Does the Machu Picchu Entrance Fee Really Cover?
The Machu Picchu entrance fee is essentially the ticket to the citadel itself. At present, as of the last update, the entrance fee costs anywhere between $55 to $75 per individual tourist. This is based on the circuit you choose to take Circuit 1, 2, 3, or 4. Each of them provides a unique experience through the ruins, which may vary in difficulty and length.
Children below the age of 8 years are permitted to visit for free. Students and residents of Peru and Andean countries also get a discounted rate for the ticket. It is important to note that you should only purchase the ticket through the official government portal to avoid being exploited by ticket vendors.
How Do You Get to Machu Picchu, and What Does It Cost?
The journey to Machu Picchu is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself.
By Train:
The most popular way to get to Machu Picchu is to book a Machu Picchu full-day tour by train, which departs from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Train options are as follows:
- Inca Rail – Budget options start at $35 USD one way; premium options can cost as much as $150+ USD.
- Peru Rail – Vistadome options start at approximately $70 USD one way; Hiram Bingham luxury train options cost $450+ USD return.
- Round trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu – approximately $24 USD per person.
By Trekking:
If hiking is more your speed than sitting on a bus, then there are several options, including the Classic Inca Trail, which can cost between $550-900 USD, depending on whether it’s a 4-day trek including permits, guides, and camping gear.
Is an Affordable Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour Actually Possible?
Of course, an affordable Machu Picchu full-day tour is definitely doable.
Here’s a more realistic breakdown of expenses that a mid-range traveler can expect to incur:
- Entrance fee: $65 USD
- Train ticket (round trip economy): $70-$100 USD
- Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu: $24 USD
- Tour guide: $20-$40 USD
- Meals: $15-$25 USD
- Tips and other incidentals: $10-$15 USD
What’s Included in a Full-Day Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco?
A full-day tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco includes:
- Round trip train ticket to Machu Picchu from Cusco or Ollantaytambo
- Return bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu citadel entrance
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Professional bilingual tour guide for 2-3 hours inside Machu Picchu
- Some tour operators also offer hotel pick-up/drop-off in Cusco
What’s Not Included:
- Personal meals/drinks
- Travel insurance
- Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu Mountain add-on tickets (~$20-$25 USD extra)
- Gratuities to tour guides/drivers
Please note that a full-day tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco that’s surprisingly inexpensive may also mean that it’s lacking important components such as an entrance ticket to Machu Picchu or a tour guide.
Are There Any Hidden Costs You Should Know About?
Yes, and smart travelers always factor these costs into their budget:
- Aguas Calientes town tax: A small town tax is sometimes levied at the entrance.
- Luggage storage: $3–$5 USD at the entrance of the site (no large luggage is allowed inside).
- Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) hotel: If you’re planning to stay overnight, you’ll need to budget $40–$200+ USD per night.
- Altitude sickness medication: If you’re not used to high altitudes, Cusco is 11,000+ feet up you may want to budget $10–$20 USD for coca tea, etc.
Plan Your Visit Right
While it is true that Machu Picchu is not the least expensive travel destination in the world but the final costs are very much worth every penny. With proper planning, a well-researched full-day Machu Picchu tour is definitely possible on a moderate travel budget.
For a seamless, expertly guided, full day tour of the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu from Cusco, there is nowhere better to turn than Machu Picchu Explorers. With years of local knowledge, transparent pricing, and tours that are simply out of this world, we are the perfect choice for your travel needs. Visit Machupicchu Explorers today to peruse our selection of expertly crafted tour packages and book your spot on one of the world’s greatest wonders before they sell out!
FAQs:
1. What is the average price of a Machu Picchu full-day tour?
The price is between $200 and $350 per person, depending on the train and the type of tour.
2. Is it possible to take a full-day Machu Picchu tour from Cusco all year round?
Yes, it is. However, the dry season (May to October) is the most popular and the one that sells out the quickest.
3. Can I take an affordable Machu Picchu full-day tour without a guide?
Yes, it is. However, a guide is highly recommended, as it will greatly enhance your experience.
4. Is the Machu Picchu full-day train tour the only option?
No, there is also the option of the Inca Trail, but it is more expensive and requires a permit in advance.
5. Do children have a reduced price for the Machu Picchu tour?
Yes, children under the age of 8 go free. Students with a student ID card will also have a reduced price. Sonnet 4.6.
