The Enchanting Mariposario of Machu Picchu
Discover the magical world of butterflies at the Mariposario of Machu Picchu, a vibrant sanctuary near the iconic ruins, perfect for nature lovers.
Nestled near the iconic Machu Picchu, the Mariposario offers a captivating glimpse into the world of butterflies. This serene attraction is a nature lover's paradise, featuring vibrant species that flutter amidst lush greenery. A visit here is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while learning about these fascinating creatures.
A brief summary to Mariposario of Machu Picchu
- Avenida Hermanos Ayar, PE
- +51977533740
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit in the morning when butterflies are most active and vibrant.
- Wear bright clothes to attract butterflies for better photo opportunities.
- Bring a camera with a good zoom lens to capture the beauty of butterflies up close.
- Take your time to explore the entire garden; each area features different species.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from the South Coast region (like Arequipa), take the Pan-American Highway (Route 1) heading northeast towards Cusco. After approximately 8 hours of driving, you will reach the town of Aguas Calientes, which is the closest town to Machu Picchu. From Aguas Calientes, follow signs to the Mariposario, located on Avenida Hermanos Ayar. It is a short 15-minute walk or a quick taxi ride from the town center.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Mariposario of Machu Picchu via public transportation, start by taking a bus from Arequipa to Cusco. The bus ride typically takes around 10-12 hours. Once you arrive in Cusco, take a train from the San Pedro station to Aguas Calientes. The train journey takes about 3-4 hours. From Aguas Calientes, you can walk or take a taxi to the Mariposario located on Avenida Hermanos Ayar, which is around a 15-minute distance.
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Taxi or Local Transport
Once in Aguas Calientes, you can use local taxis or tuk-tuks to reach the Mariposario. The cost for a taxi should be around 10-15 soles. Alternatively, you can simply walk along Avenida Hermanos Ayar, which will take about 15 minutes. Make sure to plan your visit within the Mariposario's working hours (8:30 AM to 5:30 PM) to fully enjoy the butterfly sanctuary.
Discover more about Mariposario of Machu Picchu
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Putucusi
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Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel, Machu Picchu
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Group of the Three Doorways
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PACHAMAMA
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Statue of Pachacutec - Condor - Puma - Anaconda
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Tao Dulce Salado
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Casa del Sol Machu Picchu Hotel Boutique
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Ponchos Machupicchu Restaurant
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Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer
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Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant
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Consettur Macchu Picchu
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Full House Peruvian cuisine &craft beer
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Cusco Tours
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Mercado Aguas Calientes
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Bus to Machu Picchu
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Unmissable attractions to see
Camping Municipal Machupicchu
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Camino peatonal a Machu Picchu
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Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum
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Carretera Hiram Bingham
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Phutuq K'usi
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Sun Gate
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Machu Picchu Hiking Trail
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Machu Picchu Center
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Intimachay
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Mirador Río Vilcanota Park
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El Templo del Sol
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House of the Guardian to the Funerary Rock at Machu Picchu
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Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
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Quarry Group
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Temple of the Three Windows
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Essential places to dine
Laurita Wasi Machu Picchu
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Tampu Restaurant at Sanctuary Lodge
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Snack Bar
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Restaurante Tinkuy Buffet Restaurant at Sanctuary Lodge
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Restaurante Chicha Grill Cuisine
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Restaurante AYASQA - Comida tradicional
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QUNUQ RESTAURANT | Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel
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INKA TAMBO restaurant
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Toto's House
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Rest. Centenario de Machu Picchu
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Restaurante Apu Salkantay
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Munaycha Restaurant
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Sami Restaurant
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Kcuychi Restaurant
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missky organic fusión
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Parada de buses Machu Picchu
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Gift Shop
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Inka Statue
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SE VENDE
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Bambú
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Artesanias Maki
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Mercado de Abastos
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Central market
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Aguas Calientes Market
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Rapid market
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PAYPAK
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collasuyo
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The best silver acce shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
North Village Bohemian
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RESTOBAR ALPAKITAY
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El duende feliz
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Restaurant Bistro Bar Indio Feliz
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Mapi bar
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19.18Club.
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Terraza Cósmica by Supertramp
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Machagchas resto bar
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Wayquis
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Modo Restobar
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Magguis Grill Craft Beer
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Inka Happiness Cultural Bar
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Big Brother's Bar
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Blues RestoBarCaffe
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