PERÚ TRAVEL PACKAGES
10 February, 2024
Preparing for an unforgettable experience is key, and our Peru tours are designed to ensure just that. Here, you’ll find everything you need to know to make your journey an epic adventure. From detailed itineraries that take you to explore every corner of this ancient sanctuary, to practical tips to make the most of your visit. Immerse yourself in this adventure and let a Machu Picchu tour reveal its ancient secrets.
Before embarking on the adventure of exploring one of the wonders of the world, there are some important details you should keep in mind. Properly preparing for your Machu Picchu tour can make the difference between a good experience and an absolutely unforgettable one.
Don’t wait until you arrive at Machu Picchu to buy your ticket. Spaces are limited and sell out fast, especially during high season, from May to September. Ensure your access by booking your ticket months in advance. This is vital to guarantee your spot on the Machu Picchu tour, as without a ticket, there is no access to the sanctuary.
While Machu Picchu is impressive year-round, the dry season (from April to October) offers sunnier days and less chance of rain, allowing you to enjoy clear views of the ruins and the landscape. However, these months are also the busiest. If you prefer to avoid large crowds, consider visiting during the rainy season (from November to March), when the place is less crowded, although you run the risk of encountering rain.
Machu Picchu is at 2,430 meters above sea level, and many tours include visits to Cusco, which is even higher. To avoid altitude sickness, consider arriving a few days before your Machu Picchu tour to acclimatize. Drinking plenty of water and coca tea can help you adjust more easily.
There are several ways to get to Machu Picchu, from the classic Inca Trail, which requires booking months in advance and offers an unforgettable hiking experience, to the train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo for those who prefer a more direct and less physically demanding access. Evaluate your options and choose the one that best fits your expectations and physical condition.
During your Machu Picchu tour, it’s essential to bring water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, a sun hat, and suitable clothing for sudden temperature changes. Also, don’t forget your camera to capture the impressive landscapes and ancient ruins.
Immersing yourself in the magic of Machu Picchu is a unique experience that begins long before setting foot in the ancient ruins.
Before your trip, make sure you have everything you need: Machu Picchu tickets, train reservations (if applicable), and accommodation in Cusco or Aguas Calientes. Pack considering the weather changes and physical activity you will engage in. Preparation is key to enjoying your Machu Picchu tour to the fullest.
Cusco is usually the starting point for tours to Machu Picchu. We recommend arriving at least a couple of days before your tour to acclimate to the altitude. Take advantage of this time to explore this city full of history, culture, and impressive architecture.
Aguas Calientes is the gateway to Machu Picchu. Most tours include a train journey from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to this small town. The train journey offers spectacular views of the Andes and the Urubamba River. Some Machu Picchu tour options also include hikes like the Inca Trail or the Salkantay route, for adventurers.
From Aguas Calientes, you can take an early morning bus to Machu Picchu. This short but steep route takes you directly to the entrance of the ruins. Here, your adventure truly begins. Take a deep breath and prepare to be amazed.
Inside Machu Picchu, an expert guide will take you through the main sites, such as the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, and the Intihuatana. You’ll learn about the history, architecture, and theories surrounding this mystical place. Take your time to absorb the energy, contemplate the panoramic views, and capture unforgettable photos.
After a day of exploration, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes to take the train back to Cusco. This moment is perfect for reflecting on the experience and the wonders you have discovered.
Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel, is a place of majesty and mystery. Planning your Machu Picchu tour with knowledge of the unmissable routes and sectors will enrich your experience, allowing you to capture the essence of this ancestral site. Here, we guide you through the paths that will take you to the most impressive and significant corners of Machu Picchu.
If you are doing the Inca Trail, your Machu Picchu tour will culminate with the breathtaking view from the Sun Gate, an ancient controlled access to the citadel that offers panoramic views of Machu Picchu at sunrise. There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the majesty of this place than by watching the first rays of sunlight illuminate the citadel.
One of the most sacred and architecturally impressive buildings of Machu Picchu. The Temple of the Sun was a key ceremonial center, and its unique circular construction and the window oriented to capture the sun’s rays during the winter solstice are evidence of the Incas’ advanced astronomical understanding.
Located near the main entrance, the Sacred Rock is a spiritual landmark for the Incas. It is believed that this rock formation was used in rituals and as a point of celestial orientation. It’s a perfect place to reflect on the Inca culture’s connection with nature and the cosmos.
The heart of Machu Picchu, where the inhabitants of the citadel gathered. This spacious area is surrounded by important residential and religious structures, offering a glimpse into Inca daily life. Walking through the Main Plaza allows you to imagine the city at its peak.
The agricultural terraces showcase Inca engineering and their ability to adapt to the mountainous environment. This sector not only provided food to the citadel but also acted as an effective drainage system. Exploring this sector gives you an idea of the sustainability and innovation of the Inca civilization.
For adventurers, climbing Huayna Picchu offers spectacular views of Machu Picchu from a different perspective. This is a popular activity and spaces are limited, so ensure your spot in advance if you want to add this unique experience to your Machu Picchu tour.
Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas, is a dream destination for many travelers. Although it may seem like a remote and difficult-to-reach place, getting to this wonder of the world is easier than you think.
The most popular option for reaching Machu Picchu is taking the train to Aguas Calientes, the closest town to the ruins. There are two main train services: PeruRail and Inca Rail, both offering different categories of service, from economy to luxury. The journey from Cusco (Poroy station) or from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes offers spectacular landscapes and is an unforgettable experience in itself. Once in Aguas Calientes, a short bus ride will take you directly to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
For those who love adventure and nature, the Inca Trail is an incomparable experience offered by trips to Peru. This ancient four-day trail takes you through stunning landscapes and archaeological sites until you reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where a panoramic view of Machu Picchu is revealed. Due to its popularity, it is necessary to book this option months in advance, as spaces are limited to protect the trail.
In addition to the Inca Trail, there are alternative routes such as the Salkantay trek or the Inca Jungle, which combine hiking with activities such as mountain biking and rafting. These options offer a unique adventure through the diversity of the Peruvian landscape, culminating in a visit to Machu Picchu. These tours vary in duration and difficulty, but all require an adventurous spirit and adequate physical preparation.
An economical alternative is to take road transport to the hydroelectric plant and then walk approximately 2 to 3 hours to Aguas Calientes. This option is popular among younger travelers and those on a limited budget. Although it is less direct, it allows you to enjoy nature and a more authentic experience on the way to Machu Picchu.
Choosing the right time for your Machu Picchu tour can make a big difference in your experience. Machu Picchu is a wonder of the world that attracts visitors from all over, which means it can be quite crowded. However, with a little planning, you can enjoy this historic site with fewer people around, making your visit even more special. Here’s how and when to do it.
The rainy season, which runs from November to March, is less popular among tourists due to the weather. Although you may face rain during your visit, you will also have the advantage of seeing Machu Picchu with fewer crowds and more vibrant nature. Rain usually occurs in the afternoon, so if you plan your Machu Picchu tour for the morning, you can enjoy the majesty of the place with fewer interruptions.
Transition months like April and October are perfect if you’re looking for a balance between good weather and fewer tourists. During these months, rain is less frequent, and the influx of visitors is not as high as in the dry season. This may be your best chance to explore Machu Picchu peacefully, enjoying clear views without the hustle and bustle of crowds.
Regardless of the time of year, consider the time of your visit. Machu Picchu opens its doors at 6 a.m., and arriving early not only gives you the opportunity to see the sunrise over the ruins but also allows you to enjoy the site with fewer people. On the other hand, visiting Machu Picchu in the late afternoon, near closing time, can also be an effective strategy to avoid crowds.
For any Machu Picchu tour, especially if you plan to visit during the less crowded months, it is crucial to book in advance. This not only ensures your entry but also allows you to better plan your trip, selecting the tour options that best suit your preferences and needs.
Planning a tour to Machu Picchu is exciting, but it’s crucial not to forget the importance of safety and health during your adventure.
Before embarking on your Machu Picchu tour, it’s essential to spend a few days acclimatizing to the altitude in Cusco or a similar city. Altitude can affect each person differently, causing altitude sickness, which manifests with symptoms like headaches, nausea, and fatigue. Taking your time to acclimatize can make a big difference in how you feel during your visit.
Consult with your doctor about recommended vaccinations before traveling to Peru. Although there are no specific vaccination requirements for entering the country, vaccines like yellow fever may be recommended depending on your itinerary. Additionally, bring a small first aid kit with altitude sickness medication, pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and any personal medication.
Hydration is key, especially when you’re active and at high altitude. Drink plenty of water during your Machu Picchu tour. Additionally, the sun can be very strong, so use high SPF sunscreen, wear lightweight long-sleeved clothing, and use a hat to protect yourself.
Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has specific regulations to protect both visitors and the ruins. Always follow the guides’ instructions and respect barriers and signage. It’s not just a matter of personal safety but also of conserving this historic site.
If you decide to reach Machu Picchu through a hike, such as the Inca Trail, make sure to wear appropriate and comfortable hiking shoes. Trails can be slippery, especially during the rainy season. Maintain a comfortable pace and do not stray from your group.
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