Machu Picchu Travel Tips.

If you’re planning a trip to Peru, it’s helpful to know a bit about the country beforehand.  To travel to Cusco and Machu Picchu, it’s essential to understand the rules, how everything works, and what you’ll need to make your journey to Peru smooth and enjoyable.

If you’re planning a trip to Peru, the first thing you should do is book your hotel in advance. The most popular area for travelers is Miraflores, located in Lima, the capital of Peru  . This area is safe and popular with tourists; it’s where most travelers choose to stay to feel secure while visiting the capital, Lima.  I hope you have a wonderful stay in Lima, exploring important sites like the Plaza de Armas, as well as museums and Inca tombs.

• Your passport is essential in Peru, as it is required for entry to archaeological sites, hotels, trains, checkpoints, and more. Make sure to keep it with you at all times during your travels.
• It’s important to carry water with you to stay hydrated, as the high altitude in the Andes of Peru can have a noticeable effect. Water will be essential, especially if you’re heading to the Cusco region to visit Machu Picchu. Staying hydrated is highly recommended for any traveler exploring the land of the Incas.

1. Huacachina- lima. Sandboarding in Huacachina is one of the most exciting activities near Lima. Huacachina is a desert oasis located about 4-5 hours from Lima, near the city of Ica. Here, travelers can enjoy dune buggy rides and try sandboarding, which is similar to snowboarding but on sand instead of snow.Tours typically include equipment and a guide, and the dunes offer a variety of heights for all skill levels, from beginners to experts. In addition to sandboarding, you can enjoy beautiful views of the oasis and watch the sunset over the desert.
2. Las islas Ballestas.The Ballestas Islands, located near the city of Paracas on Peru’s southern coast, are often called the «poor man’s Galapagos» due to their impressive biodiversity. These islands are home to a wide variety of marine life, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, dolphins, and many species of birds such as pelicans, cormorants, and boobies.Visits to the islands are usually done via boat tours from Paracas, which last about two hours. During the journey, visitors can see the famous Paracas Candelabra, a mysterious figure etched into the desert sand that resembles a giant candelabra and remains an archaeological enigma.The Ballestas Islands offer an unforgettable experience for nature and photography enthusiasts, allowing them to observe unique species in their natural habitat. Additionally, this tour is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the beauty and biodiversity of the Peruvian coast.
3.  Nazca Peru.Nazca, located in Peru’s coastal desert, is world-famous for its enigmatic lines and geoglyphs, which date back over a thousand years. The UNESCO World Heritage Nazca Lines are massive geometric shapes and animal figures, including a hummingbird, monkey, condor, and spider. These lines, visible only from above, have puzzled scientists and archaeologists for decades, with theories ranging from astronomical purposes to religious rituals.Visitors can take small plane flights from Nazca to view the full scale and complexity of the geoglyphs from the sky. Beyond the lines, Nazca also has the Cantalloc aqueducts, an ancient system built by the Nazca culture to irrigate crops, which still functions today.Nazca offers a unique experience, blending the mysteries of ancient civilizations with the stark beauty of the desert—a perfect destination for those interested in history, archaeology, and Peru’s cultural legacy.

La Ciudad de Cusco.

The city of Cusco is world-renowned for its incredible wonders and serves as a safe haven in the heart of the Andes. This historic city is surrounded by stunning ancient architecture, showcasing the rich culture that shaped it, built entirely from stones sourced from the Andes.

Cusco is often described as a cradle of civilization, nestled amidst towering mountains that were revered as gods by the ancient Peruvians. For these people, the sky was like a book, as they lived in harmony with nature and drew inspiration from their environment.

As the former capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is not only a gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu but also a vibrant city filled with museums, markets, and cultural experiences that reflect its fascinating history and heritage. Visitors can explore its cobblestone streets, visit the iconic Sacsayhuamán fortress, and enjoy the unique blend of Inca and colonial architecture that defines this captivating destination.

Sacred Valley fo The Incas.

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a magical and beautiful place where you can immerse yourself in the customs and traditions of the local people. But why is it called the Sacred Valley? This valley is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and the giant white corn, known as choclo, that thrives in the fertile soil.

As you explore the Sacred Valley, you’ll encounter traditional markets, picturesque villages, and impressive archaeological sites, including Ollantaytambo and Pisac. The valley was of great importance to the Incas, serving as a vital agricultural hub and a route for trade and pilgrimage.

Visitors can enjoy authentic Peruvian cuisine in local restaurants, where dishes featuring choclo and other regional ingredients are prepared with care. The Sacred Valley offers a unique opportunity to connect with the Inca heritage while enjoying the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you.

Machu picchu Train.

The train provides transportation from the town of Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Most travelers take the train to reach the Machu Picchu archaeological park. There are two main companies that operate this route: Inca Rail and PeruRail.

Both companies offer various services tailored to tourists visiting Machu Picchu, with options ranging from standard to more luxurious experiences. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, and passengers can enjoy stunning views of the Sacred Valley and the surrounding mountains along the way.

Inca Rail offers different classes of service, including the comfortable “Executive” class, which features larger windows and complimentary snacks, while PeruRail has the «Vistadome» service, providing panoramic views and an on-board cultural show.

Travelers can book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure a smooth trip to one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. Taking the train is not just a means of transportation; it’s also part of the adventure, offering breathtaking scenery that adds to the overall experience of visiting Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu Bus From Aguas Calientes Town.

When you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you will need to take a bus to reach the Machu Picchu ruins directly. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes and costs $24 for a round trip. You have the option to take the bus or hike to the site. If you choose to walk, the hike takes approximately 1.5 hours, and the trail is uphill, leading you to the main entrance control point for Machu Picchu.

All travelers must have an entrance ticket and their passport to enter the site. The bus provides a convenient and quicker option, especially for those who may not be accustomed to hiking at high altitudes.

The journey to Machu Picchu is filled with breathtaking scenery, and whether you take the bus or hike, you’ll experience the beauty of the Andes mountains. Arriving at the entrance, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the ancient citadel, making the effort worthwhile as you explore this iconic World Heritage Site.

Options to visit machu picchu.

We offer various options for visiting Machu Picchu, depending on your preferred experience. You can choose a 4-day trek or a 2-day hike that takes you directly to the ancient city of Machu Picchu, passing through stunning landscapes along the way.

The 4-day Inca Trail trek is a classic journey that allows you to explore several significant archaeological sites, camp under the stars, and experience the diverse ecosystems of the Andes. On the final day, you’ll arrive at Machu Picchu at sunrise, witnessing the iconic site in the early morning light.

For those with less time, the 2-day hike provides a shorter route while still allowing you to enjoy breathtaking views and visit key landmarks. Both options culminate at the classic photo spots within Machu Picchu, ensuring you capture unforgettable memories of this extraordinary site.

Regardless of which trek you choose, both offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and beauty of the Inca civilization while experiencing the majestic scenery of the Peruvian Andes. Make sure to book in advance, as these treks are popular and spaces can fill up quickly.