How to Plan Your Machupicchu Full Day Tour
Are you planning a trip to Machupicchu and want to make the most out of it in just one day? The Machupicchu Full Day tour is the perfect option for you! This tour offers a comprehensive experience of Machupicchu in just one day, including a guided tour, transportation, and entrance fees to the archeological site. In this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to plan your Machupicchu Full Day tour to make it an unforgettable experience!
Booking Your Machupicchu Full Day Tour
Booking your tour in advance is always a smart choice. You can easily book your Machupicchu Full Day tour online through the Viator website or through a variety of other online booking platforms. The tour departs daily from Cusco or the Sacred Valley, so you’ll need to arrange transportation to arrive at the pick-up location on time.
Preparing for Your Tour
The Machupicchu Full Day tour is a long and strenuous day, so it’s essential to prepare correctly before you depart. Here are a few tips to ensure you’re ready for your adventure:
- Get plenty of rest: The tour starts early in the morning, so make sure to get a good night’s rest before you depart.
- Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable clothing and footwear that is suitable for long walks and varied terrain.
- Stay hydrated: Bring a refillable water bottle as it’s essential to stay hydrated throughout the day.
What to Expect on Your Machupicchu Full Day Tour
The Machupicchu Full Day tour starts with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. From there, you’ll travel by bus to the town of Ollantaytambo, where you’ll take the train to Aguas Calientes. Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you’ll take a bus to the entrance of Machupicchu.
Upon arrival in Machupicchu, your guide will lead you on a comprehensive tour of the site, where you’ll learn about the history and significance of Machupicchu, explore the breathtaking views from the lookout points, and see highlights such as the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the Plaza de Armas.
After completing the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore the site on your own. You can opt to hike Huayna Picchu, the mountain that overlooks Machupicchu, visit the Sun Gate, or explore the Inca Bridge.
In the late afternoon, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes by bus and take the train back to Ollantaytambo before returning to your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley.
Final Tips
Before you depart for your Machupicchu Full Day tour, here are a few final tips to make the most out of your experience:
- Take photos: Bring a camera or a smartphone to capture the stunning scenery!
- Bring snacks: Pack some light snacks to keep you energized throughout the day.
- Be mindful of the altitude: Machupicchu is located at a high elevation, so make sure to drink plenty of water and avoid overexertion to prevent altitude sickness.
In Conclusion
The Machupicchu Full Day tour is an excellent way to make the most of your limited time in Machupicchu. By following these tips and preparing appropriately, you can make your adventure to Machupicchu memorable and enjoyable. Book your tour in advance through the Viator website, and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Insider’s Guide to a Full Day Tour of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu, located in the Cusco region of Peru, is a 15th-century Inca citadel situated on a mountain ridge. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America, attracting nearly 1.5 million visitors each year. This guide will provide everything you need to know to plan your Machu Picchu full day tour, including local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.
Local Attractions
No visit to Machu Picchu is complete without exploring the ancient ruins. You can opt to take a guided or unguided tour of the site. If you choose to go on your own, make sure to get your ticket in advance to avoid long lines at the entrance. It’s open from 6 am to 5 pm, but if you really want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to get there early in the morning.
Aside from the ruins, there are other attractions to enjoy in Machu Picchu. For example, the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary offers several trails that let you explore the area’s natural beauty. The Intipunku Trail offers an impressive view of the citadel from above, while the Inca Bridge Trail takes you through the forest to a mysterious Inca bridge.
Dining Spots
When it comes to food, Machu Picchu has no shortage of dining options. If you’re looking for an authentic experience, try the local Andean cuisine. Picantería La Cusqueñita offers traditional dishes like Cuy al Horno (roasted guinea pig) and Lomo Saltado (stir-fried beef). El Indio Feliz is an elegant restaurant with a mix of Peruvian and international cuisine and a great view of the mountains. If you want something more casual, Café Inkaterra serves light meals, coffee, and smoothies.
Cultural Experiences
Machu Picchu is much more than just an archeological site – it’s a cultural experience. To learn more about the Inca culture, you can visit the Machu Picchu Museum, which displays a collection of artifacts found at the site, or the Manuel Chavez Ballon Site Museum, which houses exhibits relating to the site’s discovery and preservation.
Another cultural experience you shouldn’t miss is a visit to the nearby town of Aguas Calientes. Its outdoor market is a great place to see handmade textiles, ceramics, and other souvenirs made by local artisans.
Local History
Machu Picchu has a rich history that dates back to the Inca Empire. The site was abandoned after the Spanish conquest but rediscovered by American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911. To learn more about the history of Machu Picchu, you can visit Huayna Picchu, a neighboring peak that offers a bird’s-eye view of the citadel.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
If you have more than a day to spare, there are many other places to explore in the surrounding area. One of them is the Choquequirao ruins, which are often referred to as a “lost city of the Incas.” It requires a several day hike to reach, but it’s worth the effort as the ruins are located in a remote and peaceful location.
Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is Maras and Moray, two ancient Inca sites that are just a short distance from each other. Maras is famous for its salt mines, which have been used for centuries to extract salt from underground streams. Moray is a series of circular agricultural terraces that date back to the Inca Empire.
Conclusion
Machu Picchu is a must-visit destination with a rich history, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Whether you have a day or several days to explore, there are plenty of attractions, dining spots, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to keep you occupied. Start preparing your Machu Picchu full day tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
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