If you’re planning a trip to Peru, visiting Machu Picchu is undoubtedly at the top of your bucket list. Starting your journey from the charming city of Cusco, you’ll find yourself on an adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and a touch of mystery. So, grab your hiking boots and your sense of adventure.
The journey begins in Cusco, the historical capital of the Inca Empire. Nestled high in the Andes Mountains, Cusco is a city that beautifully blends ancient history with modern charm. Spend a day or two here to acclimate to the altitude and soak in the vibrant culture. Wander through the cobblestone streets, explore the bustling markets, and marvel at the stunning architecture that tells tales of a bygone era.
Choosing Your Path: Train, Trail, or Both?
From Cusco, there are a couple of options to reach Machu Picchu. Each offers its own unique experience, so let’s break it down:
- The Scenic Train Ride: For those who prefer a leisurely journey, the train ride from Cusco to Aguas Calientes (the town at the base of Machu Picchu) is perfect. Hop aboard the PeruRail or IncaRail and enjoy a scenic ride through the Sacred Valley. The panoramic windows provide breathtaking views of the lush landscapes, towering mountains, and rushing rivers. We decided to take a train, but from Ollantaytambo. This option tends to start super early in the morning, our pick up time in Cusco was shortly after 4 a.m. We were then taken to a meeting spot where we hopped into a van to Ollantaytambo. That is quite the bumpy 2 hour ride through the Andes. So don’t be banking to catch up on sleep. There’s also a number of different level train options, which vary in cost. Make sure to look those up so you get the experience you want. We chose the 360 train, which had open air cars to allow for full panoramic viewing. And believe us, it was worth it. This train gets you visually ready to see the wonders you will experience later in the day. Our tour company
- The Inca Trail: If you’re up for a challenge and want to immerse yourself in history, hiking the Inca Trail is an unforgettable option. This 4-day trek takes you through diverse terrains, from cloud forests to alpine tundra, and past ancient Incan ruins. It’s a physically demanding journey, but the reward of reaching the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise and catching your first glimpse of Machu Picchu is indescribable.
Arriving in Aguas Calientes
No matter which route you choose, you’ll eventually arrive in Aguas Calientes. This quaint town is the gateway to Machu Picchu and offers plenty of amenities for travelers. Take some time to relax, grab a bite at a local café, and prepare for the main event. Pro tip: Visit the thermal baths for a soothing soak after your journey. You can also choose to stay here and skip the sleep deprivation of an extremely early van or train from Cusco.
The Reason you’re Here: Machu Picchu
Finally, the moment you’ve been waiting for – visiting Machu Picchu! You can hike up or take the bus. If you have fear of heights issues, don’t sit by the bus windows as you’ll be heading up switchbacks with no guardrails. That gets you to the entrance where you’ll arrive with your guide or meet one there. Guides are required to enter this special place. So don’t forget to make sure you take care of that in advance.
Once you’re Inside
Once inside you will explore the terraces, temples, and plazas, you’ll feel a deep connection to the past. Don’t miss iconic spots like the Temple of the Sun, the Room of the Three Windows, and the Intihuatana stone. There is definitely a chance for clouds or fog, so be patient if you want that iconic photo. We waited an extra hour for skies to clear, which Jeremy never thought they would. The wait was well worth it. Also, this is a hike. If you have difficulty walking, you will not be able to do most of it. We had a couple with us unable to take part in much of it.
The best time to visit is in the dry season, which typically runs late April or early May thru October.
Also, depending on how long you’re staying in town, you can choose an extra dose of adventure. It’s possible to hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views of the site and the surrounding landscapes.
Tips for a Smooth Adventure
- Book in Advance: Tickets for Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, and the train ride sell out quickly, so make sure to book well in advance. There are a number of tour companies that will take care of everything for you as far as transportation and entry. Just know when booking, these are often non-refundable.
- Pack Smart: Bring comfortable walking shoes, a rain jacket, sun protection, and plenty of water. Insect repellant is also important. Sean wore shorts and forgot his repellent and was eaten alive. It could’ve been worse, but the mosquitoes were annoying.
- Stay Hydrated: Altitude sickness is common, so drink lots of water and consider chewing coca leaves or drinking coca tea.
- Respect the Site: Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage site, so be mindful of the rules and preserve its beauty for future generations. During our visit, we had a group og guys try to wear Pikachu costumes to get a “Machu Pikachu” pic. They were asked to remove them before entry, however, one did sneak his costume in and take his coveted picture.
Visiting Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience, but it’s essential to be aware of the regulations and restrictions to ensure the preservation of this ancient site. Here are some items you cannot bring into Machu Picchu:
- Large Backpacks and Bags: Only small bags (maximum 20 liters) are allowed. Larger backpacks must be stored at the entrance.
- Food and Beverages: Bringing in food and beverages is prohibited to prevent littering and preserve the site’s cleanliness. Water is allowed, but it should be carried in reusable bottles.
- Walking Sticks and Tripods: Walking sticks are only permitted for elderly visitors or those with physical disabilities. Tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are not allowed unless you have a special permit for professional photography.
- Drones: The use of drones is strictly prohibited within the Machu Picchu complex.
- Umbrellas and Strollers: These items are not allowed inside the citadel. Instead, bring a raincoat if you visit during the rainy season.
- Animals: Pets and other animals are not permitted, except for guide dogs for visitors with disabilities.
- Musical Instruments and Speakers: To maintain the site’s tranquility, musical instruments and portable speakers are not allowed.
- Sharp Objects and Weapons: Any form of weapon or sharp object is strictly forbidden.
- Signs and Banners: Carrying signs, banners, or any kind of advertising material is not allowed.
- Shoes with Hard Soles: To prevent damage to the stone surfaces, shoes with hard soles, especially those with metal tips, are not permitted.
By following these regulations, you contribute to the preservation of Machu Picchu, ensuring that future generations can also enjoy this remarkable site. Make sure to check for any updates on regulations before your visit, as they can change over time. We will do our best to update this blog as things change. To link to the park’s page click here