Picture this: You and your partner standing on an ancient Incan terrace, mist curling around you as the first rays of sunrise illuminate Machu Picchu. A shaman chants blessings, a llama wanders into the frame, and—wait, is that a tourist taking a selfie behind you?!
Welcome to the ultimate adventure wedding. If you’re dreaming of exchanging vows in one of the most breathtaking locations on Earth, keep reading. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about planning a wedding at Machu Picchu, from legalities to llama photobombs.
Can You Actually Get Married in Machu Picchu?
Let’s clear this up right away: official wedding ceremonies are not allowed within the actual ruins of Machu Picchu. It’s a UNESCO-protected site, and they’re pretty strict about what you can and can’t do there.
But don’t worry! You have some fantastic options:
1. Symbolic Ceremonies with Machu Picchu as a Backdrop
Many couples opt for a spiritual Andean wedding led by a local shaman. These ceremonies include traditional blessings, offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth), and an unforgettable connection to the ancient land.
2. Legal Weddings in Nearby Locations
If you want a legally recognized wedding in Peru, consider these stunning spots nearby:
- Belmond Sanctuary Lodge – The closest luxury hotel to Machu Picchu, offering breathtaking views and private spaces for ceremonies. Website here.
- Sacred Valley – A magical place filled with Incan ruins, lush landscapes, and boutique hotels perfect for a wedding. Check out Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba here.
- Cusco – This colonial city (about 3.5 hours from Machu Picchu) is where most international couples handle their legal paperwork.
Best Time to Get Married at Machu Picchu
Peru has two main seasons:
☀️ May to October (Dry Season) – Best weather, clear skies, and stunning visibility. Perfect for photos.
🌧 November to April (Rainy Season) – Romantic mist and lush landscapes, but expect rain and mud. If you don’t mind an adventure (and a wet wedding dress), it could be magical!
💡 Pro Tip: Sunrise ceremonies are ideal to avoid crowds and capture the golden light hitting the ruins.
Machu Picchu Wedding Costs – What to Expect
Let’s talk money. A wedding in Machu Picchu isn’t cheap, but it’s not as expensive as, say, a Parisian château either. Here’s a rough breakdown:
✈️ Flights to Peru – $500–$1,200 per person (depending on your location).
🏨 Accommodation – Luxury hotels near Machu Picchu range from $200–$1,000 per night. Budget stays start at $50.
🚆 Train to Machu Picchu – Around $60–$400 per person (depends on class).
💍 Wedding Ceremony & Photographer – $2,000–$7,000 (includes officiant, permits, and photography).
📜 Legal Paperwork – Around $500 if you’re having an official Peruvian wedding.
Total estimated cost: $5,000–$15,000, depending on your preferences.
How to Avoid Wedding Day Surprises (Altitude, Llamas & Logistics)
🚀 Altitude Sickness is No Joke
Machu Picchu is at 2,430 meters (7,970 feet). Spend a few days acclimating in Cusco (3,400m) before heading up. Drink coca tea, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol before the ceremony (save the Pisco Sours for later!).
🦙 Llamas Will Crash Your Wedding
They’re cute, they’re curious, and they have no respect for personal space. Embrace the photobombs.
👟 Pack Smart
- Comfy hiking shoes (heels = disaster).
- A lightweight wedding dress (it gets hot!).
- Layers! Weather can change in minutes.
- A small bottle of oxygen (altitude headaches are real).
FAQ: Your Machu Picchu Wedding Questions Answered
❓ Can foreigners legally marry in Peru?
Yes! You’ll need your passport, birth certificate, proof of single status, and a sworn statement (translated into Spanish). Paperwork must be done in Cusco.
❓ How do we get wedding photos without tourists in the background?
Book a private sunrise tour or head to alternative viewpoints like Huayna Picchu.
❓ Is a Machu Picchu wedding worth it?
If you love adventure, history, and a bit of challenge—YES. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Ready to Capture Your Machu Picchu Wedding?
Planning a wedding at Machu Picchu isn’t just about logistics—it’s about telling an epic love story. And capturing that story? That’s where I come in.
I specialize in destination wedding photography that blends adventure, romance, and breathtaking landscapes. Let’s turn your dream into stunning, timeless photos.
📸 Check out my wedding portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
💰 Explore wedding photography packages: Investment
📩 Ready to plan? Contact me here
Because love is an adventure—why not start yours at the top of the world? ❤️
