Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail have become top bucket list destinations to visit in 2025. It is a global trend to travel to the best destinations in the world. Escaping from the busy and bustling life to relax and rejuvenate is one of the best decisions you can make.
In 2025, Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are waiting for you to fulfill your dream of hiking the Inca route and walking inside the Inca citadel. These places attract high traveler traffic throughout the year. If you choose to travel to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail in 2025, it is very important to know the essential bucket list for your trip and the 5 reasons to book in advance before visiting these enigmatic destinations.
Below, we have prepared a list of reasons to book in advance and why Machu Picchu is on the bucket list for all travelers:
Machu Picchu is nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. As you plan your trip for 2025, make sure you have the ultimate bucket list to ensure you don't miss any of the incredible experiences this historic site and its surroundings have to offer.
The Inca Trail is the most famous trek to Machu Picchu, offering a journey through stunning landscapes, cloud forests, and ancient ruins. This multi-day hike culminates in a sunrise view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate, a truly magical experience. Remember to book your permits well in advance, as they sell out quickly.
Explore the Machu Picchu Inca citadel. Visit the Temple of the Sun, the Room of the Three Windows, and the Intihuatana stone. Each corner of this ancient city holds a piece of history and a story waiting to be discovered.
For a different perspective, hike up Huayna Picchu, the mountain that towers over Machu Picchu. The climb is steep and challenging, but the panoramic views from the top are worth every step. Make sure to secure a separate permit for this hike as spots are limited.
If you’re not up for the Inca Trail but still want to experience a breathtaking view, hike to the Sun Gate. It’s the traditional entrance to Machu Picchu used by the Incas and offers an incredible vantage point over the ruins. Get your circuit 1 Machu Picchu ticket, where is included the Intipunko, book in advance.
Extend your trip to explore the Sacred Valley, a region rich with Incan history, vibrant markets, and stunning landscapes. Visit the towns of Ollantaytambo and Pisac, and take in the terraced salt mines of Maras and the circular agricultural terraces of Moray.
Spend some time in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. Relax in the hot springs, visit the local markets, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere before or after your visit to the citadel.
Before heading to Machu Picchu, immerse yourself in the history and culture of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. Explore the historic center, visit the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress, and enjoy the lively San Pedro Market.
Take the opportunity to learn more about the rich history of the Incas. Guided tours, museums, and local stories will enrich your understanding and appreciation of this ancient civilization.
Bring your camera and capture the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu. Whether it’s the iconic view from the classic postcard spot or a hidden corner of the ruins, these photos will be cherished memories of your adventure.
Indulge in the flavors of Peru with traditional dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and alpaca steak. Don’t forget to try a refreshing pisco sour, Peru’s famous cocktail.
Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are bucket-list adventures that promise an unforgettable journey through ancient history and breathtaking landscapes.As we look forward to 2025, it's essential to start planning early your trip. Here are five compelling reasons to book your Machu Picchu Inca Trail adventure in advance:
Every year, the Ministry of Culture opens the system for obtaining Inca Trail permits for 2025. Every tour operator secures your spots on the Inca Trail.
The Machu Picchu Inca Trail is one of the most sought-after trekking routes in the world. Due to its popularity, the Peruvian government limits the number of daily permits to preserve the trail and the Inca citadel. These permits sell out quickly, often months in advance. By booking early, you guarantee your place on the Inca Trail.
April, June, July, and August are the high tourist seasons, and usually, these permits sell out by mid-October 2024.
Every year, obtaining an entry ticket to Machu Picchu is complicated, with the changing booking system and limited availability making getting tickets an odyssey.
In mid-October, the Peruvian government opens the system to get Machu Picchu tickets for 2025. Remember, there are only 4,650 tickets available during the low season and, during the high tourist season, the citadel operates at 100% capacity with 6,540 tickets available.
Booking in advance gives you a wider selection of accommodation options, both in Cusco and along the trail. Whether you prefer a cozy hotel in Cusco or a comfortable camping experience, early reservations ensure you get the best choices available, making your journey more enjoyable and stress-free.
Inca Trail tour operators offer early bird discounts for travelers who book their trips well in advance. These discounts can save you a significant amount of money, which you can then use for other aspects of your adventure, such as exploring more of Peru or indulging in local cuisine.
The Inca Trail is a challenging trek that requires physical preparation and the right gear. Booking your trip early gives you ample time to get in shape, gather necessary equipment, and plan your itinerary. This preparation ensures that you are ready to tackle the trail and fully enjoy the experience.
The two words that are synonymous with Peru evoke images of centuries-old Inca emperors and rituals. Yet no one knows for certain what purpose this mountain to citadel served or why it was abandoned. Machu Picchu is an easy day trip from Cuzco, but an overnight in Aguas Calientes or Ollantaytambo gives you more time to explore and devise your own theories.
A 50 km (31 mi) sector of the original Inca supply route between Cusco and Machu Picchu has become one of the world's signature treks. No question: you need to be in good shape, and the four day excursion can be rough going at times, but it's guaranteed to generate bragging rights and immense satisfaction upon completion.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days
Inca Trail & Machu Picchu 5 days
Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail 7 days
This is the most popular alternative trek due to its wide range of flora diversity, various ecosystems, remote Andean villages, view of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain as well as for its Incan site laid on the top of the mountain, just in front of the back side of the Machu Picchu Mountain.
For travelers who plan to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu in their holidays, the plan includes the Inti Raymi or Sun Gate. Live essence in the capital of the Incas, includes the visit to the Sun Inti Raymi 2025 and overnight in Machu picchu town to appreciate the sunrise in the Inca City of Machu Picchu.
