Private 3-Hour Machu Picchu Guided Tour from Aguas Calientes
Explore Machu Picchu with a private guide on a focused three-hour circuit that highlights Inca architecture, terraces and viewpoints. Includes pickup in Aguas Calientes and shuttle to the Sanctuary; park admission is required separately.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring your Machu Picchu ticket
This tour does not include the national park entrance—book your timed entry in advance to match your guide’s schedule.
Acclimatize before the visit
Spend at least a day in Cusco or Aguas Calientes to reduce altitude effects—hydrate and take it slow on arrival.
Wear grippy footwear
Expect uneven stone steps and short steep sections—sturdy hiking shoes improve comfort and safety.
Early start for best light
Morning visits often have clearer skies and softer light for photos; afternoons bring more clouds and crowds.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sun Gate (Inti Punku) viewpoint for a panoramic exit view
- •The Inca Bridge and lower terraces—less crowded and great for spotting stonework details
Wildlife
- •Andean cock-of-the-rock (colorful lekking bird)
- •Various hummingbird species flitting among terraces
Conservation Note
Visitor numbers are regulated through timed tickets and circuit routes to limit wear; stay on paths, avoid touching masonry and carry out all waste to protect fragile flora and archaeology.
Built in the mid-1400s under Inca leadership (often attributed to Pachacuti), Machu Picchu served administrative, agricultural and ceremonial roles before abandonment in the 16th century.
What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Good traction and ankle support for uneven Inca steps and wet stone surfaces.
Reusable water bottle (1–1.5 L)Essential
Staying hydrated reduces altitude effects; refill in Aguas Calientes before the shuttle.
Light rain jacket
Afternoon downpours are common in the rainy season (Dec–Feb); pack a waterproof layer.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Sun intensity at altitude is strong—protect skin and eyes during exposed viewpoints.
Common Questions
Is Machu Picchu admission included with this private tour?
No. The guided tour and pickup are included, but you must purchase your Machu Picchu entry ticket separately and bring it at the scheduled time.
Where does pickup occur and how do I reach the meeting point?
Pickup is offered from accommodations or the train station in Aguas Calientes; the service includes the shuttle bus ride (about 30 minutes) up to the sanctuary entrance.
Is the site accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
Machu Picchu has many uneven stone steps, narrow passages and no comprehensive wheelchair access—this tour is not recommended for those requiring full accessibility support.
When is the best time of year to visit to avoid rain?
The driest months are May through September, with June–August offering the clearest conditions; expect more rain and humid trails December–March.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), Cusco Region
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Able to walk 2–4 miles (3–6 km) on uneven stone steps and short steep sections; reasonable cardiovascular fitness helpful at ~2,430 m elevation.
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