How to Plan Your Fullday Machu Picchu Tour with Expedition Train
If you’re planning a trip to Peru, a visit to the magnificent Machu Picchu is a must. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the Inca civilization, with awe-inspiring views and breathtaking landscapes. While there are many ways to visit the site, a Full day Machu Picchu tour with Expedition train is an ideal way to experience the wonders of this ancient site. Here’s how to plan your tour:
Step 1: Book Your Tour in Advance
To make sure you get the most out of your visit, it’s important to book your Machu Picchu tour in advance. You can book online through various travel agencies, such as Viator, which offers a one-day tour of Machu Picchu with Expedition train. This tour includes round-trip train tickets in Touristic service, round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, and pickup and drop-off from your Cusco hotel.
Step 2: Prepare for Your Tour
Before you embark on your tour, it’s important to prepare for the journey. Make sure you have a valid passport and travel insurance, and bring comfortable clothing and footwear, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. You may also want to bring a small backpack to carry your water, snacks, and other essentials.
Step 3: Start Your Tour in the Early Morning
Your tour will start early, with pickup from your Cusco hotel at 3:30 AM. Make sure you confirm your accommodation details in Cusco at the time of booking to ensure a smooth pickup. You’ll then board the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes, the nearest town to Machu Picchu. The train ride takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, with breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains along the way.
Step 4: Explore Machu Picchu
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you’ll take a bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Once you arrive, a guide will take you through the site and explain the history and significance of the ancient Inca civilization. You’ll visit key sites of Incan interest, such as the Sun Gate, and have free time to explore the surrounding landscape at your own leisure.
Step 5: Return to Cusco
After your tour of Machu Picchu, you’ll take the bus back to Aguas Calientes and then board the train back to Cusco. The train ride back to Cusco takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, with stunning views of the mountains once again. You’ll arrive back at your Cusco hotel at around 10 PM, tired but fulfilled from the day’s adventure.
Conclusion
Visiting Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience, and a Full day Machu Picchu tour with Expedition train is a great way to make the most of your visit. By booking your tour in advance, preparing for your journey, and following the steps above, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable tour of one of the world’s most magical and mysterious sites. Book your tour today and experience the wonders of Machu Picchu for yourself!
An Insider’s Guide to Cusco, Peru
If you’re planning to visit Machu Picchu, Cusco is the city you’ll most likely arrive in. But Cusco is not just a gateway to Machu Picchu; it’s a beautiful city full of history, culture, and amazing food. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore the best local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make your trip to Cusco unforgettable.
Local Attractions in Cusco
Cusco is a city full of history, and there are many amazing historical sites to visit. Here are some must-see local attractions:
– Machu Picchu: No visit to Cusco is complete without a visit to Machu Picchu. Take the Expedition Train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, and then a bus up to the ruins. Be sure to book your tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.
– Sacsayhuaman: These ruins are located just outside of Cusco and are a must-see for anyone interested in Incan history. The site features massive stone walls and structures, and it’s an incredible testament to the Incas’ engineering and architectural prowess.
– Plaza de Armas: This is the main square in Cusco, and it’s a great place to people-watch, shop for souvenirs, or just relax on a bench and take in the beautiful architecture.
– Qorikancha: This Incan site was the main temple of the Inca Empire, and it’s a fascinating place to visit. Be sure to check out the intricate stonework and the impressive gold-plated walls.
Dining Spots in Cusco
Cusco has a vibrant dining scene, with many fantastic restaurants offering both traditional Peruvian cuisine and international dishes. Here are some of the best dining spots in Cusco:
– Chicha por Gastón Acurio: This is a top-notch Peruvian restaurant run by the famous chef Gastón Acurio. Be sure to try the ceviche and the lomo saltado.
– Kion Peruvian Chinese Kitchen: This restaurant offers a unique fusion of Peruvian and Chinese cuisine. The menu has something for everyone, from dumplings to ceviche to stir-fry dishes.
– El Mercado: This is a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner. The menu features Peruvian classics like causa and ceviche, and the prices are very reasonable.
Cultural Experiences in Cusco
Cusco is a city full of culture, and there are many great ways to experience it. Here are some of the best cultural experiences in Cusco:
– Qoyllurit’i Festival: This festival takes place in the town of Ocongate, about four hours from Cusco, in late May or early June. It’s an incredible spectacle that features traditional dancing, music, and a pilgrimage to the glacier shrine of Ausangate.
– Cusco Cathedral: This beautiful cathedral is located on the Plaza de Armas and is a great place to learn about the history of the city and the role of the Spanish in conquering the Incas.
– Museo de Arte Precolombino: This museum houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian art from Peru and other parts of South America. The exhibits are beautifully curated and offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region.
Local History in Cusco
Cusco is a city with a rich history, and there are many great ways to learn about it. Here are some of the best places to learn about the history of Cusco:
– Inca Museum: This museum houses an impressive collection of Incan artifacts and offers a detailed look at the history of the Inca Empire.
– San Pedro Market: This local market is a great place to get a sense of the everyday life in Cusco. Be sure to check out the stalls selling Andean textiles, herbal remedies, and traditional foods.
– Mechas de Plata: This jewelry store sells beautiful silver pieces, and the owners are happy to teach visitors about the history and symbolism of Andean jewelry.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions in Cusco
If you have some extra time in Cusco, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:
– Rainbow Mountain: This day trip takes you to an incredible mountain range that features colorful stripes of mineral deposits. It’s a strenuous hike, but the views are worth it.
– Chinchero: This town is located about an hour from Cusco and is a great place to learn about Andean weaving traditions. Be sure to check out the local market and pick up some textiles to take home.
– Tipón: This Incan site is located about 30 minutes from Cusco and features impressive terracing and a beautiful temple. It’s a great place to learn about Incan agriculture and engineering.
In conclusion, Cusco is a beautiful city full of history, culture, and amazing food. Whether you’re visiting as a gateway to Machu Picchu or just to explore the city, there’s plenty to see and do. Be sure to check out the local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make your trip to Cusco unforgettable.
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