The Machu Picchu Planning Guide
Everything we learned planning our family's trip — tickets, circuits, trains, and where to stay — in one beautiful, printable guide you can take offline.
A Peek Inside
Everything the guide walks you through, step by step — plus a taste of the advice waiting inside:
What to book 4–6 months out, one month out, and the week before.
Which of the three circuits to pick — and how to buy the right ticket.
PeruRail vs Inca Rail, luggage limits, and what to expect on board.
Cusco → the Sacred Valley → Aguas Calientes → the citadel, step by step.
Our favorite hotels in Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, and Cusco.
A printable, tick-it-off packing list so nothing's forgotten.
Who It's For
Frequently Asked Questions
Q How far in advance should I book Machu Picchu?
A Four to six months for the popular circuits, especially in the dry season (May–September).
Q PeruRail or Inca Rail?
A You can't really go wrong — both run between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes with big panoramic windows. We chose PeruRail; the guide compares them side by side.
Q Which circuit should first-timers choose?
A Circuit 2 for most people — you walk through the archaeological site and still get the classic Machu Picchu photo.
Q Do I need to visit by train?
A This guide covers the train route (not the Inca Trail hike) — the most comfortable, family-friendly way in.
It's free and yours to keep.
Download the printable PDF — tickets, circuits, trains, where to stay, and the packing checklist, all in one place. Want the full story? Read our Ultimate 14-Day Peru Itinerary — Machu Picchu, Cusco & the Amazon.