Machu Picchu: the best tours to visit it
Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca citadel nestled in the Peruvian Andes, is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site attracts travelers from all corners of the globe, eager to witness its breathtaking beauty and to delve into the mysteries of this lost city.
Visiting Machu Picchu offers more than just a glimpse of ancient history; it is a journey that combines culture, adventure, and nature in one of the most spectacular settings on earth.
Getting to Machu Picchu
The journey to Machu Picchu typically starts in the city of Cusco, which was once the capital of the Inca Empire. Cusco itself is a fascinating destination, brimming with historical landmarks, colonial architecture, and a vibrant blend of indigenous and Spanish cultures. Most visitors spend a couple of days in Cusco, both to explore its many attractions and to acclimatize to the high altitude before making the journey to Machu Picchu.
There are different ways to get there from Cusco. The most popular option is by train, which offers a scenic ride through the Sacred Valley. Trains to Machu Picchu depart from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, and the journey takes between one and a half to three hours, depending on the departure point. The train ride is a highlight in itself, as it winds through lush valleys, following the Urubamba River, and offering stunning views of the Andean landscape.
For those looking for more adventure, the classic Inca Trail is a multi-day trekking route that leads hikers through ancient Inca ruins, cloud forests, and high-altitude passes. The Inca Trail is a challenging but rewarding experience, and permits are limited, so it’s important to book well in advance. There are also alternative treks, such as the Salkantay and Lares treks, which offer different routes to Machu Picchu and are ideal for those who prefer less crowded trails.
Types of Machu Picchu Tours
There are a variety of tours available for visiting Machu Picchu, catering to different preferences, budgets, and levels of adventure. Day trips to Machu Picchu are popular for those with limited time, allowing visitors to explore the site and return to Cusco or the Sacred Valley on the same day. These tours typically include transportation by train and bus, as well as a guided tour of the ruins. While day trips provide a convenient way to see Machu Picchu, they can be quite rushed, as the time spent at the site is limited.
For a more immersive experience, multi-day tours are available, combining visits to Machu Picchu with other attractions in the Sacred Valley or Cusco. These tours often include additional stops at archaeological sites such as Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Chinchero, as well as visits to traditional markets and local communities. Spending the night in the nearby town of Aguas Calientes, located at the base of Machu Picchu, allows visitors to return to the site early in the morning.
Private tours are another option for those who prefer a more personalized experience. Private tours can be customized to include additional activities, such as hiking to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, both of which offer panoramic views of the citadel and surrounding landscape.
Highlights of Machu Picchu
Once at Machu Picchu, visitors are greeted with a sight that leaves many speechless. The citadel, perched on a mountain ridge and surrounded by dramatic peaks, is a marvel of ancient engineering. Its terraces, temples, and plazas were carefully constructed without the use of mortar, a testament to the advanced architectural skills of the Incas.
A guided tour of Machu Picchu typically lasts two to three hours and covers the main areas of the site. The Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and the Room of the Three Windows are some of the most significant structures, each with its own history and purpose.