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How to Book a Trip to Machu Picchu

How to · Travel

How to Book a Trip to Machu Picchu

See Machu Picchu during the dry season without drowning in upfront costs.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $4,000 before anything else
Across the 0% window $222.22/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $4,000 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Standing above the clouds at Machu Picchu at sunrise is the kind of travel moment that stays with you forever. You want to aim for the dry season between May and September to actually see the ruins without them being socked in by rain and fog.

A typical trip runs about $4000 once you factor in flights, trains, and entry permits. Spreading that out over time helps keep the cash flow steady while you lock in your dates.

The 0% intro window is a deadline, not free money. If you still have a balance left when those 18 months are up, standard interest kicks in on what is left over.

The steps

  1. 01

    Pick your dry season dates

    Aim for May through September for clear skies at the ruins. Book your Inca Trail permits or train tickets months in advance because they sell out fast.

  2. 02

    Add up your actual costs

    Expect to spend around $4000 for a standard two-week trip including flights, hotels, and guides. Write down the exact number before you book anything.

  3. 03

    Set up your payment timeline

    Using the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card gives you 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening to spread out the cost.

  4. 04

    Pay the monthly target

    If you are spreading that $4000 across the 18-month window, you need to pay $222.22 per month to clear it before time runs out.

  5. 05

    Book flights and stays

    Lock in your international flights and Cusco hotels early. Prices only go up the longer you wait during peak season.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

May to September is the dry season with the best weather. July and August are the busiest months, so shoulder months like May or September offer a good balance.

How much does a trip to Peru cost?

A typical US traveler spends around $4000 for a comprehensive trip. This covers flights, internal transport, permits, hotels, and food.

How long is the 0% intro period?

You get 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening with the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card.

What happens if I don't finish paying in 18 months?

Any remaining balance will start accruing standard interest. Make sure you map out your payments so you beat the deadline.