Step 1. You have to get to Aguas Calientes and take a bus from there. There's no direct flight.
To get to Aguas Calientes you have to take a train from Cusco and I recommend doing it over several days not one day. It’s possible to do it in one day, but that’s 7 hours of traveel. Both of those little towns are worth visiting for a day. Take the time, and don't rush it.
Bring a couple big 1 liter bottles.
Don’t buy food at Machu Picchu, It’s super expensive, buy it all in Aguas Caliente and pack it in with you
The views are beautiful, and there are no time limits. Plan for a whole day there.
You can buy a ticket to Machu Picchu anytime, but there are several mountains in the area that you can’t get into without pre buying. They limit the visitors to 400 a day. So if you want the whole experience, get online and buy the ticket before you arrive.
You don’t need a guide. Again the site says, a guide is mandatory. This is a lie. If you want a guide, go for it. But it wasn't necessary for when I went.
Also the internet says, no selfie sticks. Not true. i saw a bunch of people with them. And if you're a solo traveler, it's easier to capture a great pic with one. I don't use one, but, I don't mind asking other people to help getting photos.
Total cost of a trip to Machu Picchu will cost about $300 not including housing for the time you are spending in the smaller towns. It's pricey but worth it.
Remember to give yourself time to enjoy it. Don't rush. I'm not sure how busy it will be after Covid. But the sooner you get there, the less other tourists you'll see. Really enjoy yourself. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity.
