Peru Travel Tips: Machu Picchu
Once the secret jewel of the Incan Empire, Machu Picchu has long been a hotspot for tourists. Since its discovery in the mountains close to the city of Cusco it has been a mecca, offering culture and history to all who have the chance to witness it. The landscapes of highlands and hills that you find in this region are full of suprising remnants and archaeological remains, but there is no doubt that this world wonder is the most incredible. Read on to find out more about Machu Picchu and how to incorporate it in trips to Peru.
Machu Picchu
The Sights
Many scholars believe the Inca loved great views most of all and built their masterpieces on precarious ridge-tops for aesthetic as much as strategic purposes. Standing among the intricate stonework of Machu Picchu high in the cloud forest, where rainbows seem to appear more days than not, this argument rings true. Make sure that you're not in a rush beecause you need time to enjoy the complex, so cater in breaks and the vast exploration on offer. Thousands of residents once inhabited the buildings here, cultivated food on the endless terraces and served the needs of the Emperor and his elite society at this vacation palace and sacred temple. Their is so much ornate stonework and architecture on offer, and it is stunning for tourists to be able to see such a variety that is still in great condition today. If you wish to climb iconic Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain for a birds-eye view, you must purchase a special ticket along with your general entrance ticket and enter these sections only during certain morning hours. Current ticket prices: General entrance/ 128 Soles, Huayna Picchu,/ extra 24 Soles, Machu Picchu mountain/ extra 14 Soles.
The nearest town, Aguas Calientes, is the last place to buy an entrance ticket to Machu Picchu for those who have not purchased in advance online at www.machupicchu.gob.pe; no tickets are sold at the gate and spaces are limited. Aguas Calientes is uninteresting and overpriced but staying overnight will maximize time at Machu Picchu. There is a popular developed hot springs about 10 minutes on foot from the center of town. The archaeological complex can be reached by the small buses running roughly from 5am-5pm for $20 round trip. These tickets are available at a small office near the train tracks. There is also a steep foot trail up to the site but most choose to save their energy and time for exploring the ruins. There is limited expensive food available at the top but, despite stated policies, visitors are usually allowed to bring small bags with concealed water and snacks into the site.
Quite simple put, it is a stunning adventure and something you won't forget in your lifetime. The key is, though, to use a specialist in Peru adventure trips when booking to ensure that you find the best deal with the right spots included.
Getting There
Machu Picchu is located several hours over land from Cusco and there are a variety of ways to make the journey. Hiking the Inca Trail with a certified guide and porters is extremely popular. Packages run from $400 for the traditional 4-5 day trek. Book your spot through a tour agency up to 4 months in advance.
For those not hiking, no direct road exists so train travel is necessary for most. It is possible to go directly to Aguas Calientes from Cusco by train. Another option is to enjoy the Sacred Valley - and maybe save some cash - by heading to Ollantaytambo or Urubamba in car and then getting on a train for the bulk of the journey. From Cusco, cars and vans go to Urubamba (1 hour) and Ollantaytambo (1.5-2 hours) from taxi stands on Calle Pavitos. Private car: 50-70 Soles, colectivo: 10-12 Soles. Slower buses depart nearby on Avenida Grau for 2-3 Soles. There are a number of trains heading out from Ollantaytambo on a daily basis and you can get a return to Machu Picchu for anything from $60 to $150 depending on the class of travel.
The most adventurous way to reach Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu (and avoid the expensive train ticket) is to travel beyond Ollantaytambo in a local bus to the town of Santa Maria (15 Soles from Cusco). From there it is two hours in colectivo van to Santa Teresa (6 Soles). Finally, cross the river and hike on foot 2-3 hours along train tracks to Aguas Calientes. Ask around backpacker and adventure sports hang-outs in Cusco and Ollantaytambo for detailed info and tours on this route.
About the Author
Heard enough? Ready to get out there and try it for yourself? Peru is a huge place full of opportunity for the adventurous traveller. For suggestions, take a look at some of the exciting trips to Peru http://www.tucantravel.com/country/overview/peru/ offered by this specialist in Peru adventure tours http://www.tucantravel.com/country/overview/peru/
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