Honeymoon at Machu Picchu: a Guide for Couples
Honeymoon at Machu Picchu: a Guide for Couples
Every year more couples choose Machu Picchu over a traditional beach for their honeymoon — and we get it: few places combine romance, history and scenery like this.
Why it works as a honeymoon destination
- It's a shared, memorable experience, not just relaxation — it builds a story together.
- The scenery (mist, mountains, the citadel emerging from the clouds) carries strong emotional weight.
- It can be combined with a beach or city trip in the same journey (see our 10-14 day Peru itinerary).
How to make it extra special
- Upgraded train service: carriages with more comfort tend to have panoramic windows and onboard service, ideal for the occasion.
- Staying overnight in Aguas Calientes: choosing a night there (instead of a same-day round trip) allows a relaxed pace and the chance for a special dinner the night before.
- A less crowded date: low season (October, April) gives more privacy for photos and quiet moments.
What to consider about altitude as a couple
If one of you reacts differently to altitude than the other, plan 1-2 days of acclimatization together before any demanding activity. See our altitude sickness guide — nothing's less romantic than altitude sickness ruining the big day.
Inca Trail or direct train?
For fit couples, doing the 4-day Inca Trail together and arriving on foot at Machu Picchu is one of the most intense, shared experiences out there. If you'd rather keep it relaxed, the direct train delivers the same destination with far less physical effort.
Planning your honeymoon? Contact us and we'll build a romantic itinerary at your pace.
A 6-day romantic itinerary
A pace designed for couples, without unnecessary early mornings:
- Day 1 — Arrival in Cusco. A free afternoon to rest and a quiet dinner in San Blas, overlooking the city lights.
- Day 2 — Afternoon City Tour (US$15 per person). The view from Sacsayhuamán, with Cusco at your feet, is one of the most beautiful moments of the trip.
- Day 3 — Sacred Valley VIP (US$32): Chinchero, Moray, the Maras Salt Mines and Ollantaytambo.
- Days 4 and 5 — Machu Picchu 2D/1N (US$380): tourist train, a night in Aguas Calientes and an early climb to the citadel as the mist lifts.
- Day 6 — Humantay Lake (US$35) or a free day for shopping and a spa before heading home.
Details that make the difference
- A night in the Sacred Valley: staying at a hotel in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo, among the mountains and at lower altitude, is calmer than the city.
- The Pachamama ceremony: some tours, such as Humantay Lake, include an optional Andean ceremony of thanks to Mother Earth. For many couples it's a very special moment.
- Dinner in Aguas Calientes: the night before Machu Picchu, with the sound of the Urubamba river.
- Couple photos: the first entry slots at the citadel have fewer people. Ideas in the best photo spots at Machu Picchu.
Budget for two
With the itinerary above, tours add up to US$462 per person (US$924 per couple), including Machu Picchu with a hotel night. On top of that come flights, your hotel in Cusco, dinners and the Cusco Tourist Ticket. If you'd like a special hotel or a higher-class train, we'll quote the full package to suit you.
Keepsakes to take home
Instead of generic souvenirs, many couples choose something with a story: a hand-woven blanket, silver jewelry or a quality alpaca piece. We explain how to spot real alpaca in our Cusco shopping guide.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best season for a honeymoon there?
Low season (October or April) offers good weather with fewer crowds than June-August.
Is it worth staying overnight in Aguas Calientes?
Yes, especially for couples — it allows a relaxed pace and avoids the rush of a same-day round trip.
Can it be combined with a beach in the same trip?
Yes, many couples combine Cusco/Machu Picchu with Lima or even northern Peru beach destinations in the same honeymoon.
