One of the most frequently asked questions that someone who has
visited Peru listens to is: how to go to Machu Picchu? There are essentially
two ways: by train or on foot. And the answer says a lot about the type of
traveler, whether more adventurous or more relaxed. But it can also have to do
with the time available and the need to maximize the trip itinerary. There is
no right or wrong, better or worse, they are just completely different
experiences.
As simple as the chosen class is, the train ride from Cusco to Águas
Calientes , the closest village to Machu Picchu, is very comfortable. It is the
best choice for those who have less time or fewer dispositions or in a group
with travelers of various profiles, such as families. The service is first
class, and the need to book (and pay, of course) in advance is not as great as
for the hikes.
Already walking it is possible to go in two ways. Don't fall for
pranks: the only route that ends inside the ruins of Machu Picchu is the Inca Trail,
which usually lasts 4 days and 3 nights. There are minor variations of the
route, such as the Inca Trail of 2 days and one night, which also arrives at
the lost citadel, but it is an option that has much less attractions.
The Salkantay trail is beautiful, but it does not end at Machu Picchu,
but close to Águas Calientes. The Lares route involves trails in much wilder
and less popular corners of the Andes, with the advantage of being alone in
breathtaking scenery. Some operators sell packages like Inca Jungle , which
mixes biking and hiking with other outdoor activities, such as zip lining and
rafting.
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Always remembering that, once touring at altitude with a trail or
without, abuse water and coca tea - no, it's not cheap, it's like Grandma's tea
but it leaves you with less discomfort and headache. Let's go to the details.
How to get to Machu Picchu by
train
The most practical and quick way to get to Machu Picchu is by train,
leaving from Poroy station, 18 km from Cusco, to Águas Calientes, a village
next to the ruins and accessible only on foot or by train. There are buses and
vans from all Cusco hotels going to the station, it is a normal route.
The Peru Rail has a monopoly on the operation of the trains but offers
3 different types of wagons with three different price ranges for return. All
trips take about 3h20, from Cusco to Águas Calientes. Keep an eye on the
company's website to hunt for promotions on the dates you have available.
The hotel has some perks such as access to the park in the early
morning and in the late afternoon, when many tourists are gone, but the prices
are quite salty, with daily rates that cost around U $ 700. Most travelers stay
in Aguas Calientes, in one of the city's many hotel options .
How to get to Machu Picchu via
the Inca Trail (4 days)
This is definitely the most “roots” and authentic way to go to Machu
Picchu, although it is not the cheapest. But if you arrived in Cusco and are in
good physical condition and up to date, you will be very happy in your choice.
They are “only” 43 kilometers, but the altitude plays against and increases the
challenge.
The classic Inca trail 4 days and 3-night tour that can only be done
with accredited operators, who provide everything from the tent to the food,
prepared by an army of helpers. Packages cost between US $ 380 and US $ 500 and
can be booked at various agencies such as Inca’s Peru Tours which took me and I
recommend. Attention: you MUST book a LOT before. This year there are only
vacancies in November, a month that is not recommended for walking, as it is
the beginning of the rainy season.
There is no point in playing the fearless and independent adventurer,
no matter how much mountain experience you have, you will be stopped at the
beginning of the trail, after crossing the bridge over the Urubamba River.
How to get to Machu Picchu via
the Inca Trail (2 days)
A more economical Inca Trail option in almost everything: less effort,
less expense, less unique landscapes, less archaeological sites along the way.
You will only do the last day of hiking the Inca Trail and on the second day,
early, a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
However, this option offered by many operators has a great advantage
comparable to the 4-day package: the arrival in Machu Picchu by Inti Puku, the
Porta do Sol, the entrance gate to the Sacred City of the Incas.
The only highlight of this shorter hike is the archeological site of
Wiñaywayna. Perhaps there is a great advantage included in this package: the
possibility of seeing Machu Picchu at dusk, on arrival, and at dawn, the next
day, in the company of a certified guide and owner of many explanations.
How to get to Machu Picchu on
the Salkantay Trail (4 or 5 days)
Only by praying to the Inca gods for a miracle will you disembark
directly from the trail in Machu Picchu. Joking aside, the fact is that the
trail ends at the Rio Urubamba hydroelectric plant, a few kilometers from Águas
Calientes. All packages include visits to Machu Picchu, of course.
There are hiking options of 4 and 5 days and the route is famous for
being beautiful, but proportionally hard. A great advantage is the availability
to book at any time and not in advance of the Inca Trail. Some agencies that
provide a good service are Andean Path Travel
and Machu Picchu Tours .
Usually agencies sell packages for values ranging from $ 300 to $
600, it has everything. The difference between services is usually proportional
to the amounts paid. Those who do not want to camp can stay in comfortable
accommodations in the Mountain Lodges of Peru with 7-day packages starting at
US $ 3,240.
How to get to Machu Picchu on
the Inka Jungle Route (4 days)
Younger and more varied option to go towards Machu Picchu (does not
end inside the ruins), Inka Jungle is a very rich route of landscapes and
activities that go beyond simple walks.
With cycling and hiking, there are stops at unusual points such as the
thermal baths of Santa Teresa and overnight at families. It ends with a 7:30
hike between Santa Teresa and Águas Calientes, passing the Rio Urubamba
hydroelectric power station. Mari and Marcella have already made Inka Jungle
and told the experience in this post .
On the last day, a walk up from Águas Calientes to the ruins of Machu
Picchu and guided tour of the entire citadel. It is not a light itinerary, but
it is an alternative for well-conditioned families and willing people.
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