Machu Picchu: difficulties that may arise during your adventure

Every day, thousands of travelers from around the world arrive at Machu Picchu with the hope of seeing one of the most admired jewels on the planet. Most of them have an unforgettable experience; however, a small group may encounter unforeseen events that overshadow the trip. The most common cause: lack of information and poor planning. Here we share the most frequent complications when visiting Machu Picchu and how to avoid them to fully enjoy your trip to Cusco, Peru.

1. Not Getting Available Tickets in Time

Machu Picchu receives a limited number of visitors per day, and entrance tickets sell out quickly, especially during high season. Many tourists try to get their tickets just a few days in advance and face the unpleasant surprise that there is no availability.

• Alternative solution: You can look for one of the tickets sold in person in Aguas Calientes, although the quantity is limited and they tend to sell out fast.
• Preventive recommendation: Book your ticket online at least 2 to 3 months in advance. You can also opt for the 2-day Inca Trail, which includes entrance to the citadel.

2. Choosing the Wrong Circuit

Since 2024, there are ten types of entrance tickets, each with different routes through Machu Picchu. Some visitors, by not checking in advance, purchase a ticket that does not include the most emblematic sectors such as the Main Plaza or the Intihuatana, resulting in a partial experience.

• Recommendation: The most complete circuits are those that cover Circuit 2, ideal for taking the famous panoramic photo.
• For the more adventurous: It is recommended to purchase tickets that include the ascent to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, accessible only to those over 18 years old.

3. Visiting Without a Professional Guide

Although highly recommended, not all visitors hire a tour guide. This can detract from the experience, as there are no informative panels or detailed signage in Machu Picchu. A guide not only provides historical context but also enriches the experience and ensures compliance with rules.

• Solution: You can find guides at the entrance or book one in advance through agencies. Organized tours already include this service.
• Tip: A group guide is more economical and allows you to share the experience with other travelers.

4. Not Finding Available Train Tickets

The trip to Machu Picchu usually includes a train journey from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. If you don’t book in advance, you might run out of options or end up buying more expensive tickets or tickets at inconvenient times.

• In case of emergency: Peruvian tourists can opt for the local train, although this is only sold in person and on limited dates.
• Recommendation: Buy train tickets at least a month in advance, after confirming your Machu Picchu entrance ticket.

5. Walking Up from Aguas Calientes Without Being Prepared

From Aguas Calientes, you can get to Machu Picchu by bus or walking. The free walk might seem tempting, but it involves an ascent of almost 2 hours via stone steps, which requires good physical condition.

• Risk: If you arrive exhausted, you will not fully enjoy the tour of the citadel, which also requires physical effort.
• Recommended alternative: If you are not in shape, take the tourist bus, which drops you at the archaeological site’s entrance in 30 minutes.

6. Choosing a Hike Without Being Well Informed

Some tickets include trekking routes such as Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, Gran Caverna, Huchuy Picchu, Intipunku, or the Inca Bridge. Each has a different difficulty, but many tourists choose without knowing the details, which leads to bad experiences.

• Best option: For stunning views and a challenging hike, Huayna Picchu is the favorite.
• Avoid mistakes: Check distances, duration, and difficulty level before choosing. These tickets must be purchased 2 or 3 months in advance.

7. Arriving Outside the Assigned Schedule

Each Machu Picchu ticket indicates an exact entry time. There is a tolerance margin of 30 minutes (45 in high season). If you arrive outside that time, you could lose your visit.

• Plan well: Coordinate your trains and transfers with time. If your entry is for 7 a.m., it is ideal to sleep the night before in Aguas Calientes.
• Useful tip: In case of delays for justified reasons (such as transportation failures), you can request special access from the site authorities.

8. Bringing Prohibited Items

Machu Picchu is a historical and spiritual sanctuary, so there are strict rules. Some common items are prohibited, such as:

• Umbrellas (use a rain poncho instead)
• Strollers (better to use baby carriers)
• High heels or walking sticks with metal tips
• Drones, flags, professional cameras, or banners

Breaking these rules can lead to anything from a warning to legal sanctions if the heritage is damaged.

• Practical solution: Travel with a guide who can orient you and make sure to read the official rules before entering.
• Final tip: Follow the instructions of the staff at the site to avoid inconvenience.

What to Do if There Are Unexpected Closures Due to Protests?

While it is not common, temporary closures sometimes occur due to social protests. In such cases, Peruvian authorities allow date changes or free refunds for both entrance tickets and train tickets. The priority is to protect the safety of travelers.