One of the Seven Wonders of the World, can be a rewarding and enriching experience with a Private Tour Guide for Machu Picchu. A private Machu Picchu Guided tour allows you to explore the site at your own pace, get in-depth information about the historical and cultural significance of the site, and ask questions directly to your guide.
Private Machu Picchu Guided Tour
A private tour guide for Machu Picchu can provide a wealth of benefits. They can offer in-depth historical and cultural context, tailor the tour to your specific interests, answer all your questions, and help you avoid crowds. Your Machu Picchu Private Tour Guide will take you on a comprehensive tour of the site, giving you insight into this iconic Inca citadel's history, significance, and architecture. They will tailor the tour to your interests, whether they lie in history, archaeology, culture, or photography.
Tour Highlights:
- Explore Machu Picchu with a private guide.
- Tailor the tour to your specific interests.
- Flexible tour times to fit your schedule.
- Learn the history of the legendary Incas.
Itinerary:
Your private tour guide will meet you at the hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) and walk you to the bus station to drive for 30 minutes to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The tour guide, can you meet you at the Train station or any location in the town.
The meeting time depends on the schedule of your Machu Picchu tickets; we recommend departing the town around 45 minutes before the designated entry to arrive on time at the main entrance of Machu Picchu.
Once you meet with your tour guide, we will walk you to the bus station and travel for 30 minutes to the main checkpoint of Machu Picchu. You must show the original passport and the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu at the main gate.
After the checkpoint, you start the guided tour in Machu Picchu, exploring the best of the citadel and visiting the viewpoints, temples, palaces, and most remarkable buildings in Machu Picchu. The tour takes around 3 hours. Afterward, you can have some free time or hike the extra mountains (Montaña. Huayna Picchu. Huchu Picchu).
The guided tour can finish at Machu Picchu or take the bus down to Aguas Calientes with the tour guide and walk you back to the hotel or train station.
What's Included
- Private guide service in Machu Picchu
- 2-3 hours guided tour
- Pick up at your hotel or train station
What's Not Included
- Round-trip bus ticket to Machu Picchu
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Food and Drinks
Meeting and Pick up
- Meeting Point: Our Guide will meet you at Aguas Calientes Train Station or your Hotel
- Drop off Point: At the entrance of Machu Picchu
Before you book
- Entry ticket to Machu Picchu is not included ($55)
- Bus tickets to Machu Picchu are not included ($30)
- You can book with us the tickets and buses to Machu Picchu
Price for the Private Tour Guide for Machu Picchu
Price per group: US$ 90
- The group is made of 1 to a maximum of 8 people.
- Groups of 9 or more need to hire 2 tour guides.
Please note that this tour provides only private guide services. Tickets for trains, buses, and Machu Picchu are not included and must be purchased separately. If you wish to include Machu Picchu tickets in your booking, this option is available but subject to availability.
Machu Picchu Travel Information
What to Bring
When preparing for a guided tour of Machu Picchu, you'll want to pack light but also be prepared for various weather conditions and the physical nature of exploring the site. Here's a suggested list of what to pack:
- Passport: Required for entrance to Machu Picchu. Also, you can get a special Machu Picchu stamp in your passport at the site as a souvenir.
- Tickets: Don't forget your entrance ticket and any additional tickets for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if applicable.
- A small backpack or daypack is all you need – leave the big suitcase at the hotel.
- You'll also want to wear comfortable shoes and clothing that can handle a little dirt and grime.
- Sunscreen and hats: The sun is strong in the cloud forest, so pack sunscreen and a hat
- Water: Stay hydrated by packing a reusable water bottle.
- Snacks: Pack some snacks for energy boosts during your trek. Dried fruits, nuts, and chocolate are all good options.
- Rain jacket: Even if the forecast isn't calling for rain, it's always better to be prepared with a rain jacket or poncho.
- Camera: You'll want to document your trip with plenty of photos. But make sure your camera is lightweight and easy to carry
How to arrive to Machu Picchu?
Getting to Machu Picchu from your country involves several steps, as Machu Picchu is located high in the Andes mountains and is not directly accessible by public transportation. Here's a general guide:
Flying into Lima:
First, you will need to book your international flight to Lima. Your journey to Machu Picchu starts with an international flight to Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima, Peru's capital.
Lima to Cusco:
From Lima, you will need to take a domestic flight to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco. This is the nearest airport to Machu Picchu. The flight usually takes about 1.5 hours.
You can also take a bus from Lima to Cusco Via Abancay or Via Arequipa. However, the travel time is almost 24 hours.
Cusco to Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo):
Most visitors take a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The train journey provides stunning views of the Peruvian countryside and takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. There are two main train companies, PeruRail and Inca Rail, offering different service levels to suit various budgets.
You can also take a hiking tour to Mach Picchu, such as the Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu.
Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu:
From Aguas Calientes, a bus will take you up the winding road to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The bus to Machu Picchu starts running at 5:30 AM and continues throughout the day. The bus ride takes about 20-30 minutes.
Return from Machu Picchu
The fastest and best way to return to Cusco is by train to Ollantaytambo and then a bus back to your hotel in Cusco.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. The busiest months are July and August. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in the shoulder months of April, May, September, or October.
Tickets to Machu Picchu
There are several types of tickets to Machu Picchu, each allowing access to different parts of the site. You need to book the ticket that best fits your interest.
- General machu Picchu visitor:
We recommend buying regular Machu Picchu tickets (including circuits 2 or 3), or you can also buy the Inca Bridge + Circuit 1. This ticket gives you access to the main archaeological site of Machu Picchu.
- Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu:
This ticket includes access to the main Machu Picchu through Circuit 3 + Huayna Picchu mountain. Climbing Huayna Picchu offers breathtaking views, but it's a steep hike, and tickets are limited to 300 per day, split into two groups.
Keep in mind that Circuit 3 includes only the lower part of Machu picchu. If you wish to buy tickets to Machu Picchu Upper, you need to buy the Regular tickets or Circuit 2.
- Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain:
This ticket includes access to Machu Picchu Mountain (also called Montaña), which is a higher but less steep climb than Huayna Picchu. Tickets for Machu Picchu Mountain are also limited and are included in Circuit 1.
- Machu Picchu + Huchuy Picchu
This ticket gives you access to Machu picchu through Circuit 3 + a Short Hike of 30 minutes to Huchuy Picchu Mountain.
Where to buy the Machu Picchu tickets?
You can buy tickets directly from the official Machu Picchu government website (https://www.tuboleto.cultura.pe). This is the most affordable way to purchase tickets, but the process can be a bit complicated due to the website's structure and payment system.
TreXperience is authorized to sell Machu Picchu tickets. This option can be more convenient and often provides additional services, such as guided tours and transportation arrangements. However, these tickets might be slightly more expensive due to service fees.
Guided Tours
Hiring a private tour guide can enhance your experience. Guides can provide in-depth information about the site's history, architecture, and cultural significance.
Hiking Opportunities
There are four hiking opportunities around Machu Picchu. The two most popular ones are the hike to Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain. These hikes require an additional ticket and should be booked in advance.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: Huayna Picchu, also known as Wayna Picchu, is a tall mountain that looms behind the site of Machu Picchu. It's a popular hike for visitors because it offers an aerial view of the ancient city and the surrounding landscape.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: Also known as Montaña Machu Picchu, is the highest peak in the area and offers a different hiking experience and perspective compared to Huayna Picchu.
- Huchuy Picchu Mountain Hike: Also known as "Little Picchu", is another peak in the Machu Picchu archaeological site, offering its own unique trail and vantage point.
- The Inca Bridge hike: A shorter and less strenuous alternative to the more challenging hikes of Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu. The hike to the Inca Bridge is considered easy to moderate. The trail is mostly flat with a slight incline and doesn't involve any steep ascents.
How many days to spend in Machu Picchu?
The time you should spend visiting Machu Picchu depends on your travel schedule and how many days you have available. When you take a trekking tour to Machu Picchu, you will spend just a few hours there.
If you are travelling to Machu Picchu by train, we recommend to visit in a full day from Cusco or spend a maximum 2 days.
Machu Picchu Private guide service FAQs
Machu Picchu is an iconic site in Peru and a must-see for any traveler. But it's not just about admiring the ruins; it is best explored with a knowledgeable guide to appreciate all Machu Picchu offers. For those looking to hire a private guide for their trip, our blog post will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about hiring a private guide service for Machu Picchu. Learn about pricing, duration, availability, and more as you prepare for your journey.
What is a private guide service?
A private guide is a professional service provided by a local guide in Machu Picchu who accompanies travelers on tours to explore the best of the citadel. Machu Picchu Private guide services can be customized to the traveler's interests and needs and are often more intimate and personal than group tours.
A private guide can also tailor the tour to your interests, so if you have a particular interest in Inca history or architecture, the guide can focus on those aspects for you. Plus, with a private guide, you won't have to worry about keeping up with a large group - they'll go at your pace and make sure you have plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the experience.
How long does the guided service in Machu Picchu take?
Most visitors to Machu Picchu only have a short time to explore the site, so making the most of your time is important. A private guide can help you make the most of your visit and ensure you see this fantastic site's highlights.
So, how long does a guided tour of Machu Picchu take? It depends on your group size and what you want to see. A typical tour will last around 2-3 hours, but this can be extended if you prefer.
What is the best time of year to visit Machu Picchu?
The best time of year to visit Machu Picchu is from April to October. The weather is typically dry and sunny during this time, making it ideal for exploring the ancient site. However, remember that Machu Picchu can be crowded during the high season, so be sure to book your tickets in advance.
If you prefer to avoid crowds, you can visit Machu Picchu during the wet season from November to March, when fewer visitors are expected.
What circuit does the Machu Picchu guide service include?
Our private guide service includes the following circuit in Machu Picchu:
- Machu Picchu Circuit 2
If you have purchased an extra hike like Montaña or Huayna Picchu, the guided tour to this mountain is not included and is not necessary.
- Machu Picchu Mountain + Circuit 1: If you have purchased this ticket, you will only have access to the upper part of Machu Picchu. To have a guided tour of Machu Picchu, you will need to buy an additional ticket and explore the site after the hike to the mountain.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain + Circuit 3, we recommend having the guided tour before the hike; preferably, try to book the last shift.
Remember that the guided tour of Machu Picchu takes at least 2 hours. If you would like a tour guide for the extra hike in Machu Picchu, like Huayna Picchu or Montaña, don't hesitate to contact us for a customized quote.
How many people can our guide service accommodate?
On a private tour, we can accommodate up to 8 people. We will require a second tour guide if you are a party of 9 or more.
What is the average cost of a private Machu Picchu tour?
The average cost of a private Machu Picchu tour is $80 per person. This includes only the cost of the guide service. The traveler must pay entry fees, bus tickets, and meals.
Why hire a TreXperience Tour guide?
There are many local tour guides in Machu Picchu. However, most of them work around the clock. They will complete the two-hour guide service and finish the tour; some might even take shortcuts as they have another tour waiting.
TreXperience tour guides are experts in Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, Cusco, and other Peru regions. You will have a better experience with our knowledgeable tour guides. The best part of our tour guides is that they will travel from Cusco or Cusco to Ollantaytambo to provide you with the service. They will enter with you Machu Picchu and exit with you; they're not in a hurry as they only have one service.
What are the benefits of hiring a private guide service?
Here are some of the benefits of exploring Machu Picchu with a private guide:
- A private guide will give you undivided attention.
- Tailor the tour to your specific interests.
- Provide insights you would not get from a group tour or reading about the site.
- Ensure you see all the highlights of Machu Picchu and help you avoid any crowds or lines.
- Offers flexible tour times to fit your schedule.
- If needed, a private guide can provide transportation and accommodation to and from Machu Picchu.
- Can help you plan your trip so that you make the most of your time in Peru.
How to choose the right private guide service?
Remember a few things when selecting a private guide service for your Machu Picchu trip.
- It is better to book with a travel company; we hire highly qualified, responsible tour guides.
- Consider the size of your group. You might need a second tour guide if you have a large group.
- Advise the travel company if you travel with children or special needs
What to expect from a private guide service at Machu Picchu?
You can expect a highly personalized and informative experience with a private tour guide in Machu Picchu.
- Your tour guide will meet you at the hotel or Train station and accompany you to the main entrance of Machu Picchu.
- They will explain the history of Machu Picchu, the Incas, and the flora and fauna of the area.
- They can also answer questions about the Inca history and culture.
- He will also manage your time in case you have extra hikes or trains to catch
- With a private guide, you can explore at your own pace and ensure that you don't miss anything important.
How to make the most of your private guide service experience?
Remember a few things when choosing a private guide service for your Machu Picchu trip.
- Make sure you plan your times accordingly to have enough time for everything.
- Wear proper clothing, comfortable shoes, light jackets, sun protection, and rain gear.
- Advise the tour guide if you have any specific interests or topics to learn.
- Ask as many questions as you want.
- Tips are not mandatory but are highly appreciated.
Do you offer any other tours in addition to Machu Picchu?
Yes, we also offer tours of the Sacred Valley, city tours, Rainbow Mountain, and any other tour in Cusco. These tours can be customized to your interests and needs. Please contact us for more information.