Have you been to Machu Picchu? If not save this for a future trip! Going to Machu Picchu as a mid-range traveler was much different than a budget backpacker or a luxury traveler. Here are my tips for getting the most out of your experience! 1. Spend TWO nights in Aguas Calientes. Most people either do one night or just do it all in one day..spend two nights in the town. That is how we were able to get a super early start (4 am) and hike to Machu Picchu. Spending the 2nd night allows you not to feel rushed getting backed and allows you to actually enjoy the town! 2. Buy tickets EARLY! Honestly it is up to you how you purchase them but make sure you buy them as early as you can! Especially if you want to hike Huayna Picchu as these tickets are very limited. 3. We bought two different circuit tickets. There are several circuits you can buy.we bought circuit 1 to hike Huayna Picchu and circuit 2 for the traditional route. They have people stationed to make sure you are following the route of your ticket. So purchasing two can really help you see it all! 4. You can’t backtrack so take your time!There is no backtracking it is a one way system so take your time! 5. If you can, skip the bus ride up and take the path! I get terribly car sick and the bus ride is not only on a super windy road the line for the buses can be incredibly long. You can walk from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. I would rate the hike at. 7.5/10. Took us about an hour to go up and 30 minutes to go down! 6. Hire a guide! There is little to no signage to get the full experience hire a guide at the top of Machu Picchu there are plenty just waiting around! 7. The only bathroom is outside of a Machu Picchu so plan accordingly. The only way to go to the bathroom after you enter is to leave! Let me know if you have any questions!