The Inca citadel perched on a mountain ridge above the Urubamba Valley is occasionally visible from flights approaching Cusco. The surrounding Andean peaks and cloud forest are consistently spectacular from the air.
Routes that pass it28
Tip: Visibility depends on cloud cover, time of day, and how close the flight path comes. Sit on the listed side for the best chance of a view. Morning and evening flights often offer the best lighting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see Machu Picchu from a plane?
Yes — 28 flight routes pass within 80 km of Machu Picchu. The closest routes include Denver to Buenos Aires, Bogota to Santiago, Santiago to Bogota. Sit on the Right side, with the landmark passing about 3 km away.
Which side of the plane is best for viewing Machu Picchu?
The best side varies by route. For the most common routes near Machu Picchu: on a Denver to Buenos Aires flight, sit on the Right side; on a Bogota to Santiago flight, sit on the Left side; on a Santiago to Bogota flight, sit on the Right side.