Visit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is an incredible site. This ancient Inca citadel is renowned the world over for its majestic setting, architectural excellence and sacred overtones. For those arriving at sunrise via the Inca Trail, the experience of gazing through the Inca Sun Gate above the ruins is mystical.

The rock-hewn ruins, terraces and stairways of the site straddle a high mountain range flanked by sheer drops to the Urumbamba Valley below. The scene is overlooked by the peak of Huayna Picchu and surrounding green jungle summits.

The nearby town of Aguas Calientes is the staging post for the final push to Machu Picchu for those arriving by train from Cusco and a fitting place to recover for those who brave the Inca Trail.

Highlights of Peru by Rail

10-day tailor-made rail & stay journey from £7,730 pp incl. flights

Travel in style across the Peruvian Andes, linking Machu Picchu, Cusco and Lake Titicaca by rail, including an unforgettable journey, and overnight stay, on the Belmond Andean Explorer.

The Best of Peru: Colca Canyon, Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca

14-day tailor-made holiday from £5,945 pp incl. flights

Explore the very best of Peru, from Lima to Arequipa, the Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca. Then, head to the Andes to explore the ancient sites of Cusco, Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.

Luxury Peru by Rail with Belmond

13-day tailor-made rail journey from £10,185 pp incl. flights

With luxurious accommodation, exclusive tours and a trip aboard the continent’s most luxurious train, this itinerary showcases the very best of Peru, from its Incan treasures to its spectacular natural world.

Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica, Puerto Maldonado

Discover the Amazon, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

12-day tailor-made holiday from £4,700 pp incl. flights

Between stays in the depths of the world’s largest rainforest and trips to ancient cities you’ll experience the very best of Peru.

See all itinerary ideas

Top places to stay in Machu Picchu

Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, Machu Picchu

Contemporary lodge

Belmond Sanctuary Lodge holds the unique and highly privileged honour of being the only hotel located adjacent to the iconic ancient ruins of Machu Picchu.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Aguas Calientes/Machu Picchu

Contemporary resort

This member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges and the Small Luxury Hotels of the World brings you back to nature with luxury cottages set among animated verdure.

Machu Picchu articles

Just back from: Chile and Peru

Our travel specialist Emma recently returned from a nine-day tour of Chile and Peru. Read her in-depth review for an insight into her spectacular trip as well as advice if you're planning your own tailor-made holiday.

Vintage travel posters that have stood the test of time

We take a look at the spectacularly bold travel advertisements of the 1930s and their promise of golden temples in India, lakeside retreats in Italy and deers grazing outside of Japanese temples. You'll be surprised at how much holds true to this day.