Machu Picchu — the name alone stirs up images of misty mountain ruins, mysterious ancient structures, and sweeping views of the Andes. Tucked away in the Peruvian highlands, this iconic site is a must-see for travelers seeking a mix of history, adventure, and breathtaking natural beauty. If you’re planning a trip to Peru, you simply can’t miss Machu Picchu.
One of our amazing teacher leaders, Kilty, who has recently joined the TTY team on the backend of travel and has visited Machu Picchu herself, says the only way to describe it is “breathtaking.”
“Machu Picchu always looked beautiful, but for some reason, I never added it to my must-see list. When I had the opportunity to go in April 2024, I quickly understood why it should have been. C’mon, it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World, after all.”
Kilty shared with us everything you need to know to make your visit unforgettable. From the best time to explore the ancient ruins and the culture behind it, we’ve got all the details.
Machu Picchu and… Hawaii??
Let’s start with a bit of history (stick with us… it’s short!). Machu Picchu was built by the Incas in the 15th century. It is believed to have been constructed as an estate for the Incan emperor Pachacuti.
Perched 7,970 feet above sea level, the site remained hidden from the wider world until American explorer Hiram Bingham “rediscovered” it in 1911. Since then, it’s become one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Bingham was an American explorer and politician born in Hawai’i who secured funding from President William Taft to explore the Incan region. Kilty is part Hawaiian, Okinawan, and Cherokee and was born, raised, and still resides, in Hawai’i. When she visited, she was immediately intrigued by Machu Picchu’s connection to Hawai’i and impressed by its incredible architecture.
“I studied engineering in school, so I was naturally drawn toward the architecture and engineering of the Inca ruins. Peru sits on tectonic fault lines, making it prone to earthquakes. Yet, the Inca knew how to build earthquake-resistant buildings. The Incas used a building technique that involved fitting stones together without mortar, kind of like an ancient form of Legos,” Kilty said. “Ultimately, with all of the places I have visited, I continue to be amazed and reassured by the knowledge of indigenous peoples.”
While its original purpose is still debated, Machu Picchu is thought to have been a royal retreat, an astronomical observatory, and a sacred site. One thing’s for sure: walking among the ruins feels like stepping back in time to a world shrouded in mystery.
How to Get to Machu Picchu
Ok, history lesson is over (you made it!), now for the fun stuff…Let’s talk ‘getting there’. Machu Picchu isn’t the kind of place you can casually drive up to — and that’s part of what makes it so magical.
One option is to take the train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the small town at the base of Machu Picchu, which most travelers opt for, and then finish the journey with a short bus ride up to the ruins.
If you’re up for a challenge, the Inca Trail is the most famous route to Machu Picchu. Kilty decided to hike, included on all Peru trips with The Travel Yogi ,the last quarter of the Inca Trail with her group. She says arriving at Machu Picchu after their eight-mile hike was the most special part of her trip.
“One of my most memorable moments of the journey was arriving at the Sun Gate, or Inti Punku, near the end of our trek. After a long day of hiking with some stunning scenery you can only see on foot, we got our first view of the glorious Machu Picchu. And as we arrived at this viewing point, the weather started to drizzle the sweetest, gentlest rain on us — it was like a reward and a blessing,” Kilty said.
The full trek takes four days and guides you through cloud forests, past ancient Inca ruins, and over mountain passes as high as 13,800 feet (it’s tough, but worth it).
Permits are required for the Inca Trail, and they sell out quickly, so plan well in advance. Traveling with us on our Peru Yoga Adventure ensures you’ll get a pass and some buddies to trek up with (or train up if you’d rather chill out). But if you’re looking for a similar experience without the permit hassle, there are other multi-day treks like the Salkantay Trek, which also offer stunning views and an epic adventure.
When to Visit: Choosing the Best Time
The best time to visit Machu Picchu depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Peru has two main seasons: the dry season (May to September) and the rainy season (November to March). Each has its pros and cons, so let’s break it down:
Dry Season (May to September)
This is the most popular time to visit Machu Picchu, and for good reason. The skies are generally clear, the trails are dry, and you’ll have fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. However, with great weather comes larger crowds. If you visit during the dry season, especially June through August, expect to share the experience with many other travelers.
If you want to travel with a group to help you navigate the crowds, The Travel Yogi will be heading to Peru in May. Join us!
Rainy Season (November to March)
While the rainy season might sound like a bad time to visit, it’s actually a fantastic option for those who prefer fewer crowds. Yes, there’s a chance you’ll encounter rain and clouds, but Machu Picchu often looks even more mystical when it’s enveloped in mist.
Plus, the surrounding landscape is lush and green, making the views even more dramatic. Just bring a rain jacket and some waterproof gear, and you’ll be good to go.
Shoulder Seasons (April and October)
For a balance between fewer crowds and decent weather, April and October are great times to visit. You’ll dodge the peak-season crowds while still enjoying relatively clear skies. Join our waitlist for a chance to come with us in October.
No matter when you go, going with a local guide is essential.
“I can see how it’s easy to think that having a guide is an unnecessary expense, and that reading about the place is sufficient. (As a budget traveler, that would be my mindset). But, having our guide made my experience so much more memorable, and I was able to appreciate the sacred place on a significantly deeper level. It felt like an old friend was showing me their culture and heritage,” Kilty said.
Exploring Machu Picchu: What to See
Once you’ve made it to Machu Picchu, it’s time to explore the ancient city. The site is much larger than you might expect, so give yourself plenty of time to wander around and soak in the atmosphere. Here are some of the must-see spots within the ruins:
The Temple of the Sun
One of the most important structures in Machu Picchu, the Temple of the Sun was likely used by the Incas for religious ceremonies related to the sun. Its curved stone walls and alignment with the solstices demonstrate the Incas’ deep connection to astronomy. Don’t miss this spot — it’s one of the most fascinating parts of the site.
The Intihuatana Stone
This carved stone structure is thought to have been an astronomical clock or calendar. The name Intihuatana means. “hitching post of the sun,” and it was believed to tether the sun to the earth, ensuring a good harvest. The stone is located. on a high terrace with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
The Room of the Three Windows
Located in the Sacred Plaza, the Room of the Three Windows is another key site within Machu Picchu. It’s three perfectly aligned windows are believed to represent the three realms of Incan mythology: the heavens, the earth, and the underworld. The symmetry and craftsmanship of this structure are incredible, so be sure to spend some time admiring it.
The Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
The Sun Gate is an entrance point to Machu Picchu and is positioned to align with the sunrise during the winter solstice, which is a significant event for the Incan calendar.
The views are worth the effort, and Kilty will attest. It’s about a 45-minute hike from the main ruins, but the panoramic views of the city and the surrounding valley make it a highlight of the visit.
Final Thoughts: Connecting with History
Visiting Machu Picchu isn’t just about seeing ancient ruins — it’s about connecting with a culture that built an empire in harmony with nature. The Incas’ deep understanding of their environment, their reverence for the sun, and their architectural genius all come together in this one awe-inspiring place.
Whether you’re marveling at the precision of the stonework or just enjoying the serenity of the mountains, Machu Picchu is an experience like no other. Kilty said although she’s been once, she is sure she’ll be going back…. Not bad for a location that wasn’t originally on her ‘must see’ list!…
So, pack your hiking boots, get ready for some altitude, and embrace the journey to one of the world’s most magical places. Just remember to take it all in.
Happy travels!