Machu Picchu: Complete Guide to Fully Enjoy Your Trip
Reaching the most important tourist destination in Peru is not an easy task. Its special geographical location, added to the large number of people it receives daily, require some planning, and also, a a series of recommendations so that the experience is totally pleasant, without going over for any kind of setbacks.
The reason: this destination presents a wide variety of offers and packages that include all kinds of routes, accommodation and timetables, so a precise search is essential in order to choose the best option. To do this, we invite you to take a look this guide with useful tips so that you can enjoy this archaeological sanctuary to its fullest.
Photo: Machu Picchu, Cusco
When to visit?
Many tourists who arrive in Machu Picchu usually coincide with sudden rains and a cloudy climate that sometimes prevents them from enjoying the wonderful view that the valley presents. To avoid this happening to you, the ideal time to visit the Inca citadel is between April and October, given that during these months the Cusco region goes through a dry season full of sunny days with temperatures ranging from 20° C during the day and 10° C at night.
However, if you go between November and March, it doesn’t mean that you’ll have a negative experience. During these months you could take advantage of a smaller presence of visitors and also enjoy a great green landscape often accompanied by a shimmering rainbow.
How to get there?
There are two ways to get to Machu Picchu. The fastest and most comfortable is by train with an approximate travel time of three hours. The trains depart every morning from Ollantaytambo and arrives in Aguas Calientes (closest town to the citadel), offering all kinds of services and amenities. If you wish to acclimatize before leaving, Aguas Calientes has multiple lodgings and a craft market for those who choose to take a day of rest. Otherwise, there are minivans that would take you to Machu Picchu if you prefer to continue.
Another alternative is going on foot along the road. Many tourists reserve this route in advance for everything it represents. If you are a lover of trekking and adventure, this experience will undoubtedly leave you ecstatic. It’s about a three to five-day excursion that will demand your maximum effort but it will be worth it because of the beautiful landscapes you will enjoy.
Photo: Machu Picchu, Peru
How to hire a tour guide?
Due to the extension of Machu Picchu and in order to safeguard its integrity for visitors, it is mandatory to hire the service of a tour guide. This person not only will provide you with information you may did not know about the history of the Incas and the enigmatic origin of the citadel, but will assist you under any unforeseen event that may occur.
What to include in your backpack?
To enjoy a walk through the sanctuary, you need to take your passport or identity card with you and pack some comfortable items such as lightweight trekking shoes, a raincoat (in case of rain), sunscreen, a camera, repellent and a bottle of water that will help you cool down during and after the tour.
Be a responsible tourist
Finally, the most important recommendation for all visitors is to take care and preserve this complex. When visiting this sacred and historical place, try to comply with all the disposals and security measures without violating the warnings and prohibitions. Visitors must be aware of the cultural value that Machu Picchu represents so that future generations can enjoy and learn from its history.