While we’ve been confined to our own neighbourhoods for the guts of a year, plenty of us have been dreaming about epic future trips. And Machu Picchu is one of the best in the world. Now that the site is reopen after lockdown (and more alluring than ever) the time to start dreaming is now. If this trip is on your bucket list, you’re probably wondering how much it costs to trek to Machu Picchu. From entrance fees to bus tickets, here’s everything you need to know…
How much it costs to trek to Machu Picchu
There are a few different ways to get to Machu Picchu. Some people simply visit by train or bus. Others opt for adventure, and hike the Inca Trail. We take things one step further. Our incredible 16-day itinerary includes 9 days of trekking through the Peruvian Andes. While it may culminate in Machu Picchu, you also get to see the lesser-visited site of Choquequirao, and enjoy the stunning trails far off the beaten track.
When you’re choosing an expedition, it’s vital to know all the costs upfront. That way, you avoid any nasty surprises.
Our expedition currently costs €4,399*.
What does that include?
The Earth’s Edge expedition to Machu Picchu includes…
- International return flights from Dublin to Lima
- Internal flights in Peru
- Experienced Irish/UK expedition leader
- Experienced Irish/UK expedition doctor
- Entry fees into Machu Picchu and a full guided tour
- All transport throughout the expedition
- Training Weekend in Ireland
- Local English speaking guides, local cooks and support team
- All accommodation based on twin sharing in hotels in Lima, Cusco, Aguas Calientes and camping elsewhere
- All meals and drinking water are included except in Lima, Cusco and Aquas Calientes where accommodation is based on B&B
- A celebratory dinner at the end of the expedition
- All group gear consisting of first aid kits, mountaineering equipment, cooking equipment etc
- Use of state of the art tents and Thermarests
If you are joining the expedition to Machu Picchu from the UK, you can book our trip without flights, for €3,199*. Then you can organise your own flights from the UK. You’ll also have to book your internal flights, but we’ll tell you which ones to book. We can also organise your airport transfers, if you like.
What isn’t included?
The above might be a long and comprehensive list, but there are a couple of things that aren’t included. You’ll have to sort your own personal travel insurance, vaccinations and tourist visas, if applicable. Currently, Peru doesn’t require a tourist visa for visitors from the UK or Ireland.
We also don’t provide any personal kit, like sleeping bags or hiking gear. You’ll also want a bit of spending money (hello, Pisco Sours…) We recommend you bring $350 in small notes, to make life easier. There are ATMs around Peru, but the withdrawal fees can be high. Better to bring the cash with you from home.
How much do I need to tip?
At Earth’s Edge, we pride ourselves on our ethical responsibility to the local teams we work with. We recommend you tip $120 to the local guides, which is divided up by your expedition leader. This isn’t in addition to the $350 we suggest above, but included. So you’ll have $230 to play with.
Can I pay in instalments?
Of course! The initial payment is a deposit of €399. That secures your place. After that, you can pay as you please. The full amount is due three months before departure.
There you have it! A breakdown of how much it costs to trek to Machu Picchu. If you’re thinking about making the trip, read all about our expedition here.
*This blog post was written in Feb 2021. Prices may be subject to change after this.
