The lost city in the clouds
The Inca citadel set high on a ridge above the Sacred Valley.
Machu Picchu crowns a forested ridge in the Andes, its terraces and temples wrapped in cloud above the Urubamba River. The journey through Cusco and the Sacred Valley builds toward the citadel itself.
Explore the stonework and terraces of the ridge-top city with a guide.
Discover the markets and ruins along the Urubamba on the way up.
Ride the vista-domed train through the river gorge to Aguas Calientes.
Best time to goMay to September
A starting point, not a package — every day is shaped around you.
Acclimatise in the Andean capital and explore its colonial core.
Descend to the valley's markets, ruins and gentler altitude.
Take the railway up and tour Machu Picchu with a private guide.
Journey back to Cusco for your onward connection.
The dry season from May to September brings the clearest skies and most reliable mountain views.
Spending a night in the lower Sacred Valley before the citadel helps most travellers acclimatise gently.
Yes; timed entry tickets are limited and should be arranged well ahead, which a private itinerary handles for you.