Machu Picchu is a world-renowned destination that attracts millions of visitors every year. To make the most of your trip, it’s essential to choose the right tour company. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know which company to choose. In this article, we’ll explore the top Machu Picchu tour companies, how to choose the best one, and essential safety tips to keep in mind.
Our team choice for Best Machu Picchu Tour Companies for 2023
- Best Overall Machu Picchu Tour Company: Llama Path
- Best Budget Machu Picchu Tour Company: Viator (you can find local tour operators)
- Best Luxury Machu Picchu Tour Company: Enigma
- Best Tour Company in Terms of Quality and Price: Andean Adventures Peru
- The Best Local Machu Picchu Tour Company: Xplore Cusco (New local travel agency)
How to Choose the Best Machu Picchu Tour Company
Choosing the right tour company is crucial to having an enjoyable and stress-free experience. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a Machu Picchu tour company:
- Professionalism: Look for a company that has a professional website, responsive customer service, and clear policies and procedures. A reliable company will also provide comprehensive pre-trip information, including a detailed itinerary and packing list.
- Inclusion: Check to see what is included in the tour package. A reputable company will offer all-inclusive packages that cover transportation, accommodations, meals, and entry fees to Machu Picchu and other attractions.
- Value: Consider the overall value of the tour package, including the quality of accommodations, meals, and activities. While a budget-friendly option may seem attractive, it’s important to ensure that you’re getting good value for your money.
- Experience: Choose a tour company that has a wealth of experience and knowledge of the local area. A company that has been operating for several years is likely to have established relationships with local guides and suppliers.
- Cost: Compare the cost of the tour package with other companies to ensure that you’re getting a competitive price. However, keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best choice.
Before continue, if you hiking to Machu Picchu, check out our article about Best Inca Trail Tour Operators.
Top 10 Best Machu Picchu Tour Companies
1. G Adventures
G Adventures is a well-known tour company that offers several different tour options to Machu Picchu. The company specializes in small group tours and focuses on sustainable tourism practices.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Focus on sustainable tourism | May not be suitable for travelers who prefer more luxurious accommodations |
| Small group tours | Tours can be more expensive than other options |
| Experienced and knowledgeable tour guides | Tour itineraries may be more rigid than other tour companies |
Reviews: G Adventures TripAdvisor.
2. Viator
Viator is a popular online tour booking platform that offers several different tour options to Machu Picchu. The platform partners with local tour companies to provide a variety of tour options.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy and convenient online booking | Tours may not be as personalized as other options |
| Wide range of tour options | May not offer the same level of service as other tour companies |
Website: Viator.com
3. TreXperience
TreXperience is a tour company that specializes in alternative treks to Machu Picchu. The company focuses on providing unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences for travelers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Alternative trek options for a more unique experience | Treks may be physically demanding and require a higher level of fitness |
| Small group tours for a more personalized experience | May not have as many tour options compared to more established companies |
| Experienced and knowledgeable tour guides | Tours can be more expensive than other options |
Reviews: TrekXperience TripAdvisor.
4. AB Expeditions
AB Expeditions is a locally-owned Cusco-based travel company with a focus on small group sizes and social responsibility.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Locally-owned and operated with experienced staff. | Limited itinerary options compared to larger tour companies. |
| Small group sizes for personalized experience. |
Reviews: AB Expeditions Tripadvisor.
5. Explorandes
Explorandes is a well-established tour company that specializes in adventure tours to Machu Picchu. The company offers several different tour options, including hiking, biking, and rafting tours.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Experienced guides with a focus on safety | Tours may be physically demanding |
| Opportunities for adventure and exploration | May not be suitable for travelers who prefer more relaxed tours |
Reviews: Explorandes Tripadvisor.
6. Inca Trail Reservations
Inca Trail Reservations is a tour company that specializes in Inca Trail tours to Machu Picchu. The company offers several different tour options, each with a focus on the history and culture of the region.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Focus on the history and culture of the region | Tours may be physically demanding |
| Experienced and knowledgeable tour guides | Tours can be more expensive than other options |
Reviews: Inca Trail Reservations Tripadvisor.
7. Llama Path
Llama Path is a tour company that offers several different tour options to Machu Picchu. The company specializes in small group tours and offers a focus on responsible tourism practices.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Focus on responsible tourism | Tours may be physically demanding |
| Small group tours | Tours can be more expensive than other options |
| Experienced and knowledgeable tour guides | Tours may be more rigid than other tour companies |
Reviews: Llama Path Tripadvisor.
8. Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a well-known tour company that offers several different tour options to Machu Picchu. The company specializes in small group tours and focuses on sustainable tourism practices.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Focus on sustainable tourism | May not be suitable for travelers who prefer more luxurious accommodations |
| Small group tours | Tours can be more expensive than other options |
| Experienced and knowledgeable tour guides | Tour itineraries may be more rigid than other tour companies |
Reviews: Intrepid Travel Tripadvisor.
9. Condor Travel
Condor Travel is a well-established tour company that offers several different tour options to Machu Picchu. The company specializes in luxury tours and focuses on personalized service.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Focus on personalized service | Expensive compared to other tour options |
| Luxurious accommodations | May not be suitable for travelers on a budget |
Reviews: Condor Travel Tripadvisor.
10. Xplore Cusco
Xplore Cusco is a new travel agency that focuses on small group tours, custom tours, and providing an authentic experience of the local culture. The company offers a variety of tour options to Machu Picchu, including classic Inca Trail treks, alternative treks, and day trips. They also offer tours that include visits to local markets, cooking classes, and opportunities to interact with local communities.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Small group tours for a more personalized experience | As a new company, they may not have the same level of experience as more established tour companies |
| Customizable tour options to fit travelers’ interests and schedules | May not offer as much luxury as other tour companies |
| Focus on providing an authentic experience of the local culture | Tours may be more expensive than other budget-friendly tour options |
Website: Xplore Cusco.
More Machu Picchu Tour Companies to consider
Alpaca Expeditions
Alpaca Expeditions is a tour company that specializes in treks to Machu Picchu, including the classic Inca Trail and alternative treks. They prioritize sustainable tourism practices and support local communities.
Valencia Travel Cusco
Valencia Travel Cusco is a tour company that offers a variety of tours to Machu Picchu and other destinations in Peru. They prioritize sustainable tourism practices and provide personalized service for a unique and authentic experience.
Kuoda Travel
Kuoda Travel is a tour company that specializes in custom tours to Machu Picchu and other destinations in Peru. They prioritize sustainable tourism practices and offer personalized service to create a unique and authentic experience.
Inkayni Peru Tours
Inkayni Peru Tours is a tour company that offers a variety of tours to Machu Picchu and other destinations in Peru. They prioritize sustainable tourism practices and provide personalized service to create a unique and authentic experience.
Salkantay Trekking
Salkantay Trekking is a tour company that specializes in treks to Machu Picchu, including the Salkantay Trek and alternative treks. They prioritize sustainable tourism practices and support local communities.
Comparison of Top 10 Machu Picchu Tour Companies
This table provides a summary of the top 10 Machu Picchu tour companies, including their specialties, pros, and cons. Use this information to help you choose the best company for your needs, whether you’re looking for a luxury experience, a budget-friendly option, or an authentic cultural adventure.
| Company Name | Specialty | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intrepid Travel | Responsible tourism | Emphasis on sustainability, cultural immersion | Some tours may be more expensive |
| G Adventures | Budget-friendly tours | Affordable options, experienced guides | Limited luxury options |
| Viator | Wide range of tour options | Variety of tour options, easy booking process | Tours may be more expensive |
| TreXperience | Alternative treks | Alternative trek options | Tours may be more expensive |
| Explorandes | Luxury tours | High-end accommodations, experienced guides | Tours may be more expensive |
| Condor Travel | Established tour company | Wide range of tour options, experienced guides | Tours may be more rigid |
| Inca Trail Reservations | Inca Trail tours | Affordable prices, experienced guides | May not offer as much luxury as other tour companies |
| Enigma | Luxury Inca Trail tours | High-end accommodations, personalized service | Tours may be more expensive |
| Alpaca Expeditions | Sustainable tourism | Emphasis on responsible tourism, experienced guides | Some tours may be more expensive |
| Xplore Cusco | Small group tours, custom tours | Personalized experience, focus on local culture | May not offer as much luxury as other tour companies, higher cost for some tours |
FAQs
Using a tour company can make your experience much smoother and more enjoyable. They can take care of transportation, accommodations, and tickets, so you don’t have to worry about planning all the details yourself. Additionally, tour guides can provide valuable insights and information about the site and the surrounding culture.
When choosing a tour company, consider factors such as their level of professionalism, what is included in the tour, their level of experience, and the cost. Look for a company that offers the amenities and level of service that you are looking for, within your budget.
You should look for a tour company that is professional and experienced, and provides a high level of customer service. You may also want to consider their sustainability practices and commitment to responsible tourism, as well as the types of tours and activities they offer.
Conclusion
When it comes to visiting Machu Picchu, choosing the right tour company can make a huge difference in the quality of your experience. By considering factors such as professionalism, inclusion, value, experience, and cost, you can choose a tour company that best fits your needs and preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a luxury tour, a budget-friendly option, a small group experience, or a focus on responsible tourism, there is a tour company out there that can provide you with the trip of a lifetime to one of the world’s most fascinating destinations.
