Casa Concha Machu Picchu Museum
Discover returned Machu Picchu artifacts and historical context in this charming colonial house museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quiet and lovely atmosphere
Casa Concha Machu Picchu Museum
Best Time
Quiet and lovely atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover returned Machu Picchu artifacts and historical context in this charming colonial house museum.
"A must-visit for context before or after Machu Picchu, housing returned artifacts and fascinating films."
🎯 Cash Only Admission
Remember to bring cash (20 soles for foreigners) as the museum is cash only. :moneybag:
📅 Weekday Visits Only
The museum is closed on weekends, so plan your visit for a weekday. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Returned Artifacts
See the significant collection of artifacts repatriated from Yale University, offering a direct link to Machu Picchu's past.
Diorama of Machu Picchu
A detailed diorama provides a visual representation of the ancient city, aiding in understanding its layout and scale.
Excavation Footage
Watch films in Spanish and English showcasing the discovery, structure, and daily life at Machu Picchu.
Colonial Architecture
Explore the beautiful colonial house itself, built on Inca foundations, adding historical depth to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Hours & Tickets
Context is Key: Enhance Your Machu Picchu Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Cash Only Admission
Remember to bring cash (20 soles for foreigners) as the museum is cash only. :moneybag:
📅 Weekday Visits Only
The museum is closed on weekends, so plan your visit for a weekday. :calendar:
🧻 Bring Your Own TP
Restrooms may not have running water or toilet paper, so come prepared. :toilet_paper:
⏳ One Hour Visit
Allow about an hour to explore the exhibits and films. :stopwatch:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Cash Only Admission
Remember to bring cash (20 soles for foreigners) as the museum is cash only. :moneybag:
📅 Weekday Visits Only
The museum is closed on weekends, so plan your visit for a weekday. :calendar:
🧻 Bring Your Own TP
Restrooms may not have running water or toilet paper, so come prepared. :toilet_paper:
⏳ One Hour Visit
Allow about an hour to explore the exhibits and films. :stopwatch:
📍 Easy to Find
The museum is conveniently located near the main square. :round_pushpin:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Casa Concha Museum to be a valuable and enriching stop, particularly for its collection of artifacts returned from Yale and its informative films that provide context for Machu Picchu. The quiet atmosphere and historical building are also appreciated, though practicalities like cash-only entry and limited restroom facilities are noted drawbacks.
"Very much worth a visit if you are interested in the findings of and in Machu Picchu. We visited right when it opened and it was quiet and lovely. Be aware that unfortunately its closed on weekends."
Catarina
"Very nice museum on the recent history of Machu Pichu after the 1912 scientific expedition. Many artifacts and a very well made diorama."
Samuel Hall
"Small museum and collection, but its THE Machu Picchu collection returned to Peru from Yale in 2011 and some additional materials. Very low volume of visitors so no waiting to see anything. I would highly recommend visiting to give some context to your visit to Machu Picchu. The building is an interesting historical building as well with original features, built over a previous Inca building. Negatives: entrance is cash only, no running water in the bathroom. Bring your own tp too."
Regan Gill
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Casa Concha Museum is located in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. It's easily accessible on foot from the main square, making it a convenient stop before or after your visit to the citadel.
The museum is in Aguas Calientes, not directly at the Machu Picchu entrance. You'll need to take a bus or hike up to the citadel from Aguas Calientes. The museum provides context for your visit to the ruins.
The most common ways to reach Aguas Calientes are by train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, or by a combination of bus and a short hike from Hidroeléctrica.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for foreigners is 20 soles. It's important to note that admission is cash only.
Tickets are typically purchased at the museum upon arrival. However, it's always a good idea to check their official website or inquire locally for any changes in policy.
Casa Concha Museum is open on weekdays but is closed on weekends. It's best to confirm exact opening hours before your visit, as they can vary.
Information on discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth asking at the ticket counter. The standard foreigner price is 20 soles.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum displays artifacts returned from Yale, excavation photos, videos about Machu Picchu's discovery and daily life, a diorama of the citadel, and a small art gallery featuring local artists.
The museum offers visual exhibits and films that can be engaging for older children interested in history and archaeology.
Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the museum's exhibits and watching the informational films.
Restrooms are available, but visitors have noted that there may not be running water or toilet paper, so it's advisable to bring your own.
Information on wheelchair accessibility is limited. Given it's a historical building, accessibility may be challenging. It's recommended to inquire directly with the museum.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, photos for personal use are allowed, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the artifacts. It's best to check for signage or ask staff.
The colonial architecture of the building itself, the detailed diorama, and the displays of returned artifacts offer good photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum is relatively small, it offers a focused look at the artifacts and history. It's advisable to manage expectations regarding interactive exhibits, as it's more of a traditional museum setting. Remember to bring snacks and water, and be prepared for the cash-only admission and potentially limited restroom facilities.
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the architectural details of the colonial house itself, which is built upon original Inca foundations, offering a dual historical perspective.
🚶 Day-Trippers to Machu Picchu
Remember the practicalities: cash for entry and potential need for your own toilet paper.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Casa Concha
The museum offers a unique opportunity to see these historical treasures up close, providing a tangible connection to the Inca civilization. Beyond the artifacts, the museum also features photographs and videos documenting the discovery of Machu Picchu and the early expeditions. This visual content offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and the challenges faced by early explorers.
Visiting Casa Concha is highly recommended to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Machu Picchu before or after your visit to the citadel itself. It provides essential context and background information that can significantly enhance your overall experience of this wonder of the world. The museum's location in Aguas Calientes makes it a convenient and enriching stop for any traveler.
Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
Another important tip shared by visitors is to bring your own toilet paper as the restrooms may not always be stocked or have running water.
For those interested in photography, the colonial architecture and the detailed diorama are particularly photogenic. While general photography is usually permitted, it's always wise to check for any restrictions on flash usage to protect the delicate artifacts.
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