To see Machu Picchu, one must travel to Peru and then make their way to the town of Aguas Calientes, which serves as the gateway to the ancient city. From Aguas Calientes, visitors can take a bus or hike up to Machu Picchu to explore its mesmerizing ruins.
So let us take a deeper look
To experience the incredible wonder of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, you must embark on a journey to the ancient ruins located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. The site offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the Inca civilization, showcasing its stunning architectural achievements and providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Here is a detailed guide on how to see Machu Picchu:
-
Plan your trip to Peru: Begin by arranging your travel to Peru, ensuring you have a valid passport and any necessary visas. Lima, the capital of Peru, serves as the primary international gateway to the country.
-
Arrival in Cusco: Once in Peru, you will need to travel to the historic city of Cusco, often referred to as the gateway to Machu Picchu. Cusco, a vibrant city with well-preserved Inca ruins, offers a fascinating cultural experience and also serves as the starting point for the journey to Machu Picchu.
-
Acclimatize to the altitude: Machu Picchu sits at an elevation of approximately 7,972 feet (2,430 meters) and Cusco at around 11,152 feet (3,399 meters). It is advisable to spend a few days in Cusco to acclimatize to the altitude before proceeding to Machu Picchu, as altitude sickness can affect some visitors.
-
Choose your route: There are two popular routes to reach Machu Picchu – the classic Inca Trail trek and the alternative routes such as the Salkantay, Lares, or the Inca Jungle trek. Each route offers unique experiences, stunning landscapes, and a chance to explore diverse ecosystems.
-
Secure permits: If you choose to hike the Inca Trail, securing permits in advance from the Ministry of Culture is essential due to a daily quota system. These permits are limited and sell out quickly, especially during the peak tourist season (April to October). However, if you decide on one of the alternative treks, permits are generally more readily available.
-
Arrive in Aguas Calientes: Regardless of the chosen route, your journey will lead you to the town of Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. This picturesque town nestled in the cloud forest serves as the base for visits to Machu Picchu. Here, you can find a range of accommodations, restaurants, and amenities for travelers.
-
Reach Machu Picchu: From Aguas Calientes, you have two transportation options to reach Machu Picchu. The most commonly used method is to take a 20-30 minute bus ride up the steep and winding road, offering spectacular views along the way. Alternatively, for those seeking an adventurous experience, you can opt to hike up to Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail or the shorter Huayna Picchu trail.
Once at Machu Picchu, you can explore the ruins, admire the intricate stonework, and appreciate the awe-inspiring panoramic views. It is recommended to hire an experienced guide to enhance your visit, uncover the historical significance, and gain insights into the Inca civilization. As the renowned architect Hiram Bingham, who rediscovered Machu Picchu in the early 20th century, once said:
“I have seen sights that surpass all the descriptions. This is something that must be seen and felt to be appreciated, admired, and loved.”
Interesting facts about Machu Picchu:
- Machu Picchu was built by the Inca civilization around the 15th century and abandoned approximately 100 years later, remaining hidden from the outside world until its rediscovery.
- The structures at Machu Picchu were built without mortar, using sophisticated stone-cutting techniques that allowed for precision fitting of the stones.
- The Intihuatana stone at Machu Picchu is believed to have served as an astronomical device and was used for ritual purposes.
- Machu Picchu is strategically located between two mountains, Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and the Urubamba River below.
- The site is divided into two main areas: the agricultural sector, featuring terraces for farming, and the urban sector, which includes temples, residences, and ceremonial sites.
Here is an example of a table showcasing the altitude of various locations in Peru:
| Location | Altitude (feet) | Altitude (meters) |
|---|---|---|
| Lima | 5,080 | 1,548 |
| Cusco | 11,152 | 3,399 |
| Machu Picchu | 7,972 | 2,430 |
| Huayna Picchu (peak) | 8,924 | 2,720 |
| Salkantay Mountain (peak) | 20,574 | 6,271 |
| Lake Titicaca | 12,507 | 3,812 |
Exploring Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience that immerses you in the rich history and natural beauty of Peru. As you marvel at the impressive ruins and contemplate the architectural marvels created by the Inca civilization, you can’t help but be captivated by the words of Pablo Neruda, a renowned Chilean poet and Nobel Laureate:
“Machu Picchu is a trip to the serenity of the soul, to the eternal fusion with the cosmos, where we feel our fragility. It is one of the greatest marvels of South America. A resting place of butterflies in the epicentre of the great circle of life.”
Related video
The video provides a comprehensive guide to visiting Machu Picchu, including how to get there and maximising your time at the lost city. After flying into Cusco, travellers can take a train to the town of Aguas Calientes and purchase tickets to Machu Picchu. Visitors are advised to purchase entrance and train tickets in advance and to spend at least one night in Aguas Calientes. The video also covers basic rules and recommendations, such as not bringing certain items and planning which walking paths to explore as they are one-way. Visitors should be mindful that their Machu Picchu ticket is valid for four hours and can hike or take a bus back down when leaving.
Other responses to your question
You can get to Machu Picchu by bus, train or walking. Traveling from Lima to Cusco by bus is the best way to discover Peru and avoid altitude sickness. Once in Cusco, you would have to make your way by train or bus to Aguas Calientes Town, where you finally can take a public bus to the Citadel.
People are also interested
What is the easiest way to see Machu Picchu? The easiest approach is by train from Cusco along the floor of the Urubamba Valley, then by bus up to the entrance of the ruins.
Can you see Machu Picchu without hiking? Response will be: During the time of the Incas, the only way to reach Machu Picchu was by the Inca Trail; but now, if you do not want to walk for 4 days to enter the Inca city of Machu Picchu. You can choose to arrive at Machu Picchu, by one of the most amazing short train routes that exist.
Besides, How do tourists visit Machu Picchu?
Answer: You Can Walk or Get a Bus to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes. Unless you’re hiking the Classic Inca Trail route, access to Machu Picchu is typically via the tourist town of Aguas Calientes. However, Aguas Calientes sits more than 1,000 feet (304 meters) below the main site at the base of the Sacred Valley.
Can you see Machu Picchu without a ticket? Article 17.1 To enter the Llaqta de Machupicchu, visitors must carry their entrance ticket and official identity document. It is recommended that they be accompanied by a tour guide to contribute to the conservation of Cultural Heritage and the organization of the tourist visit.
Beside above, Should you visit Machu Picchu?
Have you always wanted to visit Machu Picchu? The ancient Incan city is estimated to have been built in the 15th century under the reign of King Pachacutec, and then, the "Lost City" was rediscovered in 1911 by explorer Hiram Bingham. Today, the bucket-list destination attracts half a million visitors every year. But it’s not an easy trip to take.
Where is Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is a gem in the Andes mountains Are you asking yourself, “Where is Machu Picchu, anyways?” It’s situated smack dab in Peru’s Sacred Valley in the southern part of the country, about 50 miles from Cuzco.
Then, How do I get to Machu Picchu from Cusco? Multiple tour operators offer daytrips to Machu Picchu. The majority of these tours originate in Cusco and leave early in the morning (at or before 5 a.m.). You’ll be taken via bus to the town of Ollantaytambo, where groups board trains to Aguas Calientes. From Aguas Calientes, groups board a bus to Machu Picchu.
How to acclimatize to Machu Picchu?
Response to this: Avoid alcohol and physical exertion while acclimatizing and drink as much water or coca tea as you can stand to help your body slowly adjust to the thinner air. If Machu Picchu is your goal, you will have to fly into the capital of Lima and then catch a connecting flight to Cusco.