How to Visit Machu Picchu from Cusco?

Cusco, Peru is a high-altitude city situated in the Cusco Region. Located in the Andes Mountains, Cusco is known for its history and cultural significance. As the former capital of the ancient Incan Empire, the city is well conected to Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most popular wonders.

When visiting Cusco, you may want to make the trip to Machu Picchu as well. Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to do this without having to plan an extensive day trip. Here we’ll discuss the best ways to make the journey from Cusco to reach Machu Picchu and back, so you can visit one of the world’s greatest wonders with ease.

Taking Public Transportation

The easiest way to reach Machu Picchu is to take public transportation. The closest train station to Cusco is Ollantaytambo, located just 70 km from the city. There are multiple bus companies that offer regular services from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, and from there you can take a train to Aguas Calientes. You will need to book your tickets ahead of time for both the bus and train; ticket prices vary depending on the company and the class of ticket you’re purchasing.

From Aguas Calientes, you can catch a shuttle to the Machu Picchu entrance. Entrance to Machu Picchu also requires advanced tickets, which you can purchase online or at kiosks in the city. Once you’re at the entrance, you can then proceed to explore Machu Picchu yourself or with a guided tour.

Hiring A Private Vehicle

If you want a quicker and more comfortable journey, you can hire a private vehicle. You can book a car or van that will pick you up from your hotel or elsewhere in Cusco and take you straight to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Hiring a private vehicle will generally cost more than taking the bus or train but can be worth the expense if you’re pressed for time.

Taking The Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is also an option for reaching Machu Picchu from Cusco. The trail is only open from May to September each year, and it’s recommended that you book your tour at least four months in advance due to high demand. There are also plenty of tour operators in the city offering different types of tours at various prices.

The Inca Trail is a multi-day trek that takes you through some of Cusco’s finest scenery before reaching Machu Picchu. It takes four days and three nights, although there are some companies offering shorter two-day packages. The trail provides stunning views and gives hikers an immersive experience that no other means of travel can match.

Conclusion

You can easily make your way from Cusco to Machu Picchu as long as you plan ahead and book tickets in advance. Taking public transportation is the most affordable option, while hiring your own private vehicle is more convenient but costly. Additionally, the Inca Trail trek is considered one of the world’s greatest hikes, offering a unique experience of its own.

No matter which means of travel you choose, Cusco is a great starting point for a visit to Machu Picchu. To make sure that you get the most out of your trip, be sure to check out resources like MachuPicchu.org, which provides information on attractions, hotels, tours, and other activities for visitors to Machu Picchu.

The Insider’s Guide to Visiting Cusco

If you are planning a trip to Peru, be sure to include Cusco on your itinerary. Cusco is a beautiful and historic city located in the Andes Mountains and it is the gateway to the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu. Here’s our insider’s guide to the best things to do, eat and see in Cusco.

Attractions in Cusco

Cusco is a UNESCO World Heritage site with many fascinating things to see and do. The ancient Incan city is famous for its stone walls, elegant terraces, and complex irrigation systems. Visit the following attractions:

– Machu Picchu: No trip to Cusco is complete without visiting Machu Picchu. Take a train to Aguas Calientes and then a bus or hike to the mountaintop ruins. It’s a breathtaking experience.
– Sacsayhuaman: A massive fortress built during the Incan empire. This impressive site features walls made out of enormous stones that fit perfectly together.
– Qorikancha: A temple of the sun that was once covered in gold. Today, only the foundation remains, but it’s still an impressive sight.
– Plaza de Armas: The main square in Cusco with impressive colonial architecture and a great place to people watch.

Dining spots in Cusco

Peruvian cuisine is a unique and flavorful fusion of Spanish, indigenous, and other international influences. Be sure to try some of the following local dishes:

– Ceviche: Raw fish marinated in lime juice, chili, and herbs. It’s a refreshingly light dish and popular in coastal cities.
– Lomo Saltado: A stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and spices, served with rice and fries. It’s a flavorful comfort dish.
– Anticuchos: Grilled marinated beef hearts, served with potatoes or corn. It’s a traditional Peruvian street food.
– Cuy: Roasted guinea pig, served with potatoes or corn. It’s a delicacy in the Andean highlands.

Check out these restaurants for some of the best food in the city:

– Chicha: Chef Gaston Acurio’s restaurant, which combines local ingredients and traditional Peruvian cooking with a modern twist.
– Limo: A trendy restaurant with a great rooftop view of the city and an innovative menu.
– Pacha Papa: A cozy restaurant with live music and traditional Peruvian dishes.

Cultural experiences in Cusco

Cusco is a city rich in history and culture. Here are a few local experiences that you should not miss:

– Learn about weaving: Learn about traditional weaving techniques and the history behind the colorful textiles that are a hallmark of Andean art and culture.
– Attend a festival: Cusco has many festivals throughout the year, and they are a great way to experience the local customs and traditions.
– Visit a traditional market: Explore the local markets for fresh produce, artisanal products, and a glimpse into daily life.
– Take a cooking class: Learn to make classic Peruvian dishes under the guidance of a professional chef and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Local history in Cusco

Cusco has a rich and storied past. Here are a few places to visit to learn more about the city’s history:

– Museo de Arte Precolombino: Learn about the art and artifacts of the pre-Columbian cultures in the Andean region.
– Centro Historico de Cusco: A walking tour through the historic center of the city, highlighting the colonial and Incan architecture.
– Museo Inka: A museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the Incan Empire.
– Moray: An Inca construction of circular terraces that served as an agricultural laboratory.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

If you have extra time to explore, consider these off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Choquequirao: A remote Inca site that is only accessible by a multi-day trek through mountains and valleys.
– Vinicunca, Rainbow Mountain: A beautiful mountain range with vibrant colors that are visible during the dry season.
– Parque de la Papa: A high-altitude agricultural site where traditional farming methods are used and many varieties of Andean potatoes are cultivated.

Conclusion

Cusco is a fascinating destination with a rich history, fantastic cuisine, and friendly locals. Be sure to take the time to explore the city’s many attractions, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions when you visit.