How to Plan Your Visit to Machu Picchu by Car in Cusco
Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic destinations in the world, located in Peru’s Cusco region high in the Andes Mountains. Exploring this ancient Incan city is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. If you’re planning to visit Machu Picchu and want to enjoy the scenic journey to the ruins, a 2-day tour by car is an excellent option. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your trip to Machu Picchu by car from Cusco.
Overview of the Tour
The tour to Machu Picchu by car is a 2-day adventure that will take you from Cusco to the Aguas Calientes village, followed by a visit to the ancient ruins. On the first day, you’ll start your journey from Cusco and take a car to Ollantaytambo, a Peruvian village that’s almost 1.5 hours away from Cusco. You’ll then continue your journey by car to the picturesque Hidroeléctrica station through the beautiful Andean landscapes for another 2 hours.
From this station, you’ll start hiking for 3 hours through the lush jungle to reach Aguas Calientes. After arriving at the village, you’ll have time to explore the town and visit the hot springs. On the second day, you’ll start your journey to the ancient city of Machu Picchu, where you’ll be greeted by the magnificent site.
What’s Included in the Tour
The Machu Picchu tour by car includes the following:
- Transportation by car.
- Professional English and Spanish speaking guide to explain the Inca history and everything related to Machu Picchu.
- One night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes with breakfast included.
- Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and the bus to the entrance gate.
- Lunch, dinner, and breakfast are included.
Extra Activities and Costs
To make the most of your visit to Machu Picchu, there are extra activities you may want to consider. Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu mountain are two popular hikes that offer stunning views of the ruins and the surrounding landscape. If you’re interested in either of these hikes, you’ll need to purchase an extra ticket in advance.
There’s also an optional visit to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes, which costs 10 PEN. The bus to Machu Picchu is another additional expense, costing around USD $12 each way.
Pickup Points and Times
The tour will start at 7 am from Cusco, and you’ll be picked up from your accommodation. The tour operator will provide a list of well-known accommodations that have easy access for their transport team.
Why Choose a Car Tour
If you’re wondering why you’d choose to take a car tour instead of the popular train journey, there are a few reasons. First and foremost, the car tour is more affordable than the train tour. This option also allows you to enjoy more of the scenic Andean landscapes, as you’ll travel through breath-taking mountains and valleys.
Another benefit of taking the car tour is that you’ll have an experienced guide who will take you through the hike, provide you with historical insights, and explain everything related to Machu Picchu when you arrive at the site.
Tips for Planning Your Tour
Here are some useful tips to help you plan your Machu Picchu car tour:
- Book your tour well in advance to guarantee your spot.
- Be prepared for long and bumpy car rides – bring suitable clothing, comfortable shoes, and snacks.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport and other essential documents with you, as you’ll need them to enter Machu Picchu.
- Don’t forget to pack your camera to capture the unforgettable sights and landscapes along the way.
- Stay hydrated and bring plenty of water.
Conclusion
Machu Picchu is a remarkable site that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. The Machu Picchu car tour is an excellent option for those looking for a more affordable and scenic journey to the ancient Incan ruins. The tour by car allows for more exploration and flexibility, and includes a knowledgeable guide to enrich your experience. To book the tour, book here and have an unforgettable adventure exploring one of the most iconic destinations on the planet.
The Ultimate Guide to Cusco: Answering Your Most Frequently Asked Questions
Cusco is known as the historic capital of the Incan Empire and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru. It is a city rich in culture and history, with countless things to see and do. If you are planning a trip to Cusco, you may have some questions about what to expect. In this post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Cusco, including its history, attractions, culture, and more.
1. What is the History of Cusco?
Cusco was once the capital of the Incan Empire, which was one of the largest and most powerful empires in pre-Columbian America. The Incan civilization thrived in the Andean Mountains of South America between the 15th and 16th centuries. Cusco was at the heart of this empire, serving as the political, religious, and cultural center.
The city was built with exquisite architectural designs and had impressive engineering feats, such as the construction of Machu Picchu, a historical icon that attracts millions of visitors every year.
2. What are the Best Attractions in Cusco?
Cusco has many attractions that tourists will love, including:
- Machu Picchu
- The Sacred Valley
- The Cusco Cathedral
- The Plaza de Armas
- The Qorikancha
Machu Picchu is undoubtedly the most popular attraction in Cusco, and for good reason. It is an ancient Incan city, discovered in 1911, that sits atop a mountain and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Sacred Valley, located near Cusco, is also a must-visit destination, offering a glimpse into the Andean way of life and stunning landscapes.
The Cusco Cathedral is another attraction not to be missed. It is a prime example of Baroque architecture, built on the site of an Incan palace. The Plaza de Armas is a public square containing the monument to the Inca Pachacutec, the founder of the Incan Empire. The Qorikancha, a temple that is now part of the Santo Domingo Monastery, is a fascinating visit as it reveals the melding of Incan and Spanish cultures.
3. What is the Climate Like in Cusco?
Cusco has a subtropical highland climate with two distinct seasons – dry and rainy. The dry season runs from May to October, with clear blue skies and pleasantly warm days. This is the most popular time for tourists to visit Cusco as the weather is perfect for exploring the outdoors.
The rainy season runs from November to April, with frequent afternoon showers and cooler temperatures. Nonetheless, there is an undeniable beauty to the landscape during these months as the surrounding hillsides are draped in lush green vegetation.
4. What is the Culture in Cusco Like?
Cusco has a rich cultural heritage that is a mixture of Andean and Spanish influences. These influences are evident in the city’s architecture, music, food, and language. The Quechua language, spoken by the indigenous people of the Andes, is still commonly used in Cusco, alongside Spanish. Quechua culture is especially prominent in the surrounding rural areas outside of the city.
Cusco is also well known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations throughout the year, such as the Inti Raymi festival in June, which celebrates the winter solstice, and the Fiesta de la Candelaria in February, which is the biggest festival in Peru.
5. How is the Food in Cusco?
Cusco has a diverse food scene that reflects its cultural mix. The city offers everything from traditional Andean dishes such as ceviche and lomo saltado to international cuisines such as Italian and Chinese. A must-try dish in Cusco is cuy, which is guinea pig served in various forms.
Cusco is also known for its traditional drink, chicha. It is a fermented drink made from maize and can be either sweet or sour.
6. How is the Accommodation in Cusco?
Cusco offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from hostels to luxury hotels. The majority of the accommodation is located in and around the city center, making it easy to access the main attractions.
7. How Can I Get to Cusco?
Cusco is home to an international airport, Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, which receives flights from major cities such as Lima, Bogota, and La Paz. There are also several bus companies that offer long-distance travel to and from Cusco. The most popular option for tourists is the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Final Thoughts
Cusco is a fascinating and unique city that is well worth a visit. Its history, architecture, food, and culture are a must-see for any traveler interested in exploring South America. We hope this guide has answered some of your questions about Cusco and has inspired you to visit this incredible destination soon!
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