Why hire a Machu Picchu guide?

Booking an official Machu Picchu guide is the best way to truly understand the history, culture, and hidden details of the Inca citadel. A guided tour lasts about 2 ½ hours and transforms your visit into an enriching experience.

Only professional, authorized guides are allowed to operate inside Machu Picchu. Each Machu Picchu guide must have a university degree in tourism, hold a valid certificate from the National College of Tourism, and be certified in first aid. They also carry an official photo ID at all times.

Private Machu Picchu guides vs group tours

Hiring a Machu Picchu guide with us

Cost of hiring a Machu Picchu guide

Prices for a Machu Picchu guide are based on language and are for a 2 ½ hour private tour (up to 6 persons). Remember that guides are independent contractors who cover their own transport and entry tickets, so tipping is greatly appreciated.

• $90 – English or Spanish (up to 6 persons)
• $150 – French (up to 6 persons)
• $130 – Italian (up to 6 persons)
• $110 – Portuguese (up to 6 persons)
• $160 – German (up to 6 persons)
• $160 – Japanese (up to 6 persons)

Languages spoken by Machu Picchu guides

Our Machu Picchu guides are fluent in multiple languages to serve international travelers. You can request a guide in:

• English
• Spanish
• French
• Italian
• Portuguese
• German
• Japanese

Hiring a Machu Picchu guide at the entrance

While you can hire a Machu Picchu guide at the entrance, it is not recommended. The guides stationed at the gate are typically beginners who gain access through a daily lottery—only four per day are allowed to solicit there. Experienced, highly rated guides do not rely on this system; they work directly with agencies that provide them steady assignments. Although entrance guides may cost you a few dollars less, the difference is minimal compared to the overall cost of your trip. Why take the risk of getting a subpar experience at one of the world’s most important archaeological sites? Booking a professional, pre-arranged guide ensures you get the depth, knowledge, and storytelling that make Machu Picchu truly unforgettable.

Machu Picchu Circuits and Recommended Guide Duration

When you hire a Machu Picchu guide, the ideal length of your guided tour depends on which official Machu Picchu circuit your ticket includes.

Circuits suitable for a 2.5-hour guided tour

• Circuit 1B – Terraza Superior
• Circuit 1D – Inca Bridge
• Circuit 2A – Classic Circuit
• Circuit 2B – Terraza Inferior
• Circuit 3B – Realeza Diseñada

Circuits suitable for a 5-hour guided tour

• Circuit 1A – Montaña Machu Picchu
• Circuit 1C – Portada Intipunku (Sun Gate)
• Circuit 3A – Huayna Picchu
• Circuit 3C – Gran Caverna
• Circuit 3D – Huchuy Picchu

Machu Picchu Circuits – Quick Comparison Table

Tipping your Machu Picchu guide

Tipping is optional but customary. A typical tip is US$3-5 per person depending on the quality of service. Consider it a way of showing appreciation for the knowledge and dedication of your guide.