
Machu Picchu Orchid Garden
A tranquil botanical haven showcasing native orchids and cloud forest flora, nestled near the iconic Machu Picchu citadel.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures

Machu Picchu Orchid Garden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil botanical haven showcasing native orchids and cloud forest flora, nestled near the iconic Machu Picchu citadel.
"A beautiful and clean garden, ideal for exploring, strolling, and relaxing after Machu Picchu."

🎟️ Book Combined Entry
Consider a combined ticket for the Machu Picchu Museum and Orchid Garden for a seamless experience.
🦟 Apply Insect Repellent
Essential for comfort in the humid cloud forest environment.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Orchid Collection
Machu Picchu National Sanctuary
Discover a stunning array of native orchids and diverse plant species in this beautiful botanical garden.

Cloud Forest Ambiance
Adjacent to Machu Picchu Museum
Wander through a serene cloud forest setting, a perfect complement to the ancient citadel.

Native Wildlife Spotting
Machu Picchu Orchid Garden
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including the occasional agouti, adding to the natural charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Prepare for the Climate
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Combined Entry
Consider a combined ticket for the Machu Picchu Museum and Orchid Garden for a seamless experience.
🦟 Apply Insect Repellent
Essential for comfort in the humid cloud forest environment.
🚶♀️ Short & Sweet Visit
The garden is small; perfect for a relaxing stroll after exploring Machu Picchu.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the beauty of diverse flora and the unique cloud forest scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Combined Entry
Consider a combined ticket for the Machu Picchu Museum and Orchid Garden for a seamless experience.
🦟 Apply Insect Repellent
Essential for comfort in the humid cloud forest environment.
🚶♀️ Short & Sweet Visit
The garden is small; perfect for a relaxing stroll after exploring Machu Picchu.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the beauty of diverse flora and the unique cloud forest scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Orchid Garden a beautiful and serene addition to the Machu Picchu experience, offering a glimpse into the region's rich plant life. It's praised for its variety of orchids and the peaceful cloud forest ambiance. Some note its small size and the need for insect repellent, but overall, it's considered a worthwhile and relaxing stop.
"beautiful garden next to the museum. i saw an animal i’ve never seen before. an agouti"
abu bana
"Really nice walk through the cloud forest, lots of species and varieties and a nice way to end the Manchu Picchu experience. Note it is small and can be done in a short amount of time."
Jeffery Dernbach
"Small garden with lots of orchids"
Iris vndrl
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Orchid Garden is located next to the Machu Picchu Museum, within the Machu Picchu National Sanctuary. Access typically requires an entrance ticket to Machu Picchu itself, or a combined ticket that includes the museum.
Most visitors arrive via train from Ollantaytambo or Cusco. PeruRail and Inca Rail are the main operators, offering various services like Vistadome. Alternatively, the 'Hidroelectrica' route is a cheaper but longer option involving buses and a walk.
From Aguas Calientes, you can take a shuttle bus up the Hiram Bingham Highway to the Machu Picchu entrance. Buses run frequently, or you can hike up the steep path.
Generally, the Orchid Garden is accessed as part of the Machu Picchu site or with a combined ticket that includes the museum. It's best to check the official ticketing website for current access policies.
There is no parking directly at the Machu Picchu site. Visitors typically arrive by train to Aguas Calientes and then take a bus or hike to the citadel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Orchid Garden is often included with the Machu Picchu Museum ticket, which costs approximately 22 soles. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing and package options.
Tickets should be purchased in advance from the official Peruvian Ministry of Culture website (tuboleto.cultura.pe). They can also be purchased in Aguas Calientes, but availability is not guaranteed.
Yes, there are various circuits and ticket types that may include access to different areas of the citadel, Huayna Picchu, or Machu Picchu Mountain. The Orchid Garden is usually associated with the museum ticket.
Tickets are released periodically and can sell out months in advance, especially during peak season. It's recommended to book as early as possible.
The Orchid Garden generally follows the operating hours of the Machu Picchu Museum and the citadel itself. It's best to verify current hours on the official ticketing platform.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The Orchid Garden is relatively small and can be explored in about 30-60 minutes, making it a pleasant addition to your Machu Picchu visit.
You'll find a diverse collection of native orchids, various tree species, ferns, and other unique flora characteristic of the cloud forest.
The garden has cobblestone paths, which can be uneven. While generally manageable, visitors with significant mobility challenges should exercise caution.
Guided tours of Machu Picchu often include a stop at the Orchid Garden, providing insights into the local plant life. You can also hire a guide at the entrance.
Expect a humid, cloud forest climate. Temperatures are generally mild, but rain is possible year-round.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for vibrant blooms against the lush green backdrop of the cloud forest. The winding paths also offer picturesque scenes.
Drone usage is generally prohibited within Machu Picchu and its surrounding areas to preserve the historical and natural environment.
Mornings can offer softer light, while afternoons might have fewer people, allowing for clearer shots.
Standard restrictions apply; avoid flash photography that could disturb wildlife or damage delicate plants.
A macro lens can be great for capturing the intricate details of the orchids. A wide-angle lens is useful for the overall forest scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your overall trip to Machu Picchu, remember that the journey itself can be long. Opting for the train to Aguas Calientes is generally more comfortable for families than the longer bus and walking routes. Ensure you book tickets well in advance, as popular slots can fill up quickly, which is crucial when traveling with children.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Look for local 'tren local' (local train) tickets from San Pedro or Wanchaq stations in Cusco if available, as these are significantly cheaper than tourist trains. However, these are often limited and require booking in advance. Planning your trip during the shoulder seasons can also help reduce costs for accommodation and transport.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Getting to Machu Picchu: The Journey
From Aguas Calientes, a frequent shuttle bus service takes visitors up the winding Hiram Bingham Highway to the entrance of Machu Picchu. This bus ride offers dramatic views as you ascend. Alternatively, a challenging but rewarding hike is available for those seeking a more active approach.
It's crucial to book train and Machu Picchu entrance tickets well in advance, as they often sell out, especially during peak season. Some travelers recommend booking train tickets towards the end of your trip to allow more flexibility.
Understanding Machu Picchu Tickets
There are different circuits within Machu Picchu, each offering a unique perspective and route through the ruins. Circuit 2 is often recommended for a comprehensive exploration of the citadel. Some tickets may also grant access to the Machu Picchu Museum and the adjacent Orchid Garden, providing a more complete cultural and natural experience.
Be aware that entry times are strictly enforced. Arriving late may result in denied access. For those who miss out on online tickets, there's a limited number of tickets sold daily in Aguas Calientes, but relying on this is risky.
Exploring Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)
Beyond its role as a transit hub, Aguas Calientes offers several activities for visitors with free time. You can visit the Manuel Chávez Ballón Museum, explore the Mariposario (Butterfly House), or simply relax in the hot springs. The town also features unique stone sculptures and a famous Paddington Bear statue, offering quirky photo opportunities.
While convenient, Aguas Calientes can be quite touristy and busy. Some travelers find it a charming base, while others prefer to spend minimal time there before heading to the main attraction.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit