Machu Picchu is the world's most famous archaeological wonder and Peru's travel crown jewel. For most tourists, but not the most adventurous ones, it begins with Cusco, the Inca past capital. Either a luxurious train journey along the Sacred Valley or an arduous hike, your Machu Picchu vacation from Cusco requires advance trip planning. Here on our website, we're taking you through the whole process from arriving here with as little hassle as possible, to trails, to how to pick the best Machu Picchu Tour Operator, to insider tips from old-timers such as Qoricancha Expedition.
Why Start in Cusco?
Not only do you start your Machu Picchu trek in Cusco, but a city full of such history, with adventure and culture that is also inspiring. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cusco offers the visitor the opportunity to acclimatize at high altitude, stroll along picturesque Inca and colonial house-lined roads, and try dull Peruvian cuisine prior to starting a trekking tour from the city of Cusco. Being in the centre, it is a perfect starting point for either train travel to Aguas Calientes (the town at the foot of Machu Picchu) or one of the legendary Machu Picchu Hiking Tours.
Step 1: Decide Between a Train Ride or Hiking
The first major decision is how you’d like to reach Machu Picchu.
Train Ride from Cusco
If comfort and convenience are your priorities, the train journey is the most popular option. Trains depart from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, offering panoramic windows to admire the Sacred Valley’s lush landscapes. It’s a scenic and relaxing way to travel, and you’ll arrive in Aguas Calientes ready to explore.
Machu Picchu Trekking Tours
For those who desire adventure, trekking is the perfect means to arrive at the citadel. There are plenty of options, short and challenging, long and relatively challenging, but all with fantastic views and an overwhelming feeling of success.
Most highly recommended are:
- The Inca Trail: Four-day world-famous trek featuring ancient sites and stunning scenery.
- The Salkantay Trek: Altitude trek with traditional views.
- The Lares Trek: Culturally enriching trek to Andean communities.
Whatever it is, reserving with a reliable Machu Picchu Tour Operator ensures your travel is well-organized and trouble-free.
Step 2: Book with a Licensed Tour Operator
Machu Picchu reservation becomes complicated, with limited Machu Picchu entry tickets and regulations. That is where a seasoned Machu Picchu Tour Operator like Qoricancha Expedition enters the picture.
A seasoned operator will:
- Confirm your Machu Picchu entry ticket well ahead of time.
- Arrange transportation (train, bus, or hike).
- Offer experienced guides who enrich your history experience and understanding of the local communities.
- Arrange accommodation and feeding arrangements for trekking.
- Your Cusco city tour holiday with a reliable partner is a convenient holiday.
Step 3: Plan Your Time in Cusco
It is well worth spending two days in Cusco before Machu Picchu to acclimatize yourself to the high altitude (sea level 3,400 meters). Not only do you have your trek or tour at its best, but you also have time to dig around for treasures about the city.
Worth visiting are:
- Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun): Loveliest Inca temple of the Empire, now with pleasant Spanish and Inca stone construction combined.
- Plaza de Armas: Bustling central square, surrounded by restaurants, cathedrals, and boutiques.
- San Pedro Market: Colourful market selling local produce and crafts.
Staying in Cusco for this amount of time contributes to your entire experience and your Machu Picchu Hiking Tours to the activity.
Step 4: Purchase Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets Ahead of Time
Machu Picchu tickets are not quota and run out weeks in advance, particularly during peak season (May–September). There are various types of tickets:
General admission to Machu Picchu.
- Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu (busier summit of the mountain behind the city).
- Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain (longer, but less busy, trek).
- Booking with an official Machu Picchu Tour Operator will make sure you won't be left behind.
Step 5: The Essentials to Pack for the Journey
Light is the key in the mountains or on the train. Among the basics are:
- Good shoes or boots.
- Light, loose clothing and layering.
- Rain poncho or rain jacket (the weather cannot be promised).
- Reusable water bottle.
- Sunscreen, hat, and insect spray.
- Passport (to cross over).
Except in the case of Machu Picchu Hiking Tours for a day, your outfitter, i.e., Qoricancha Expedition, will provide customized packing recommendations and equipment support.
Step 6: Enjoy the Experience
It is stunning at Machu Picchu. To see the sun rise above the citadel, gaze upon the closely built Inca stone structures, and see those mountains is beyond words. On non-visual train or hike days, make sure to provide time to enjoy soaking in this sacred land's energy.
A guided tour deepens your appreciation, as you’ll learn about Inca engineering, spiritual practices, and the mysteries still surrounding the “Lost City of the Incas.” With an expert guide from a reputable Machu Picchu Tour Operator, you’ll gain insights that transform your visit into more than just sightseeing, it becomes a cultural journey.
Conclusion
Getting to Machu Picchu from Cusco is an adventure to look forward to, but one that must be properly prepared and choreographed. From rail or trekking access, to having an excellent operator like Qoricancha Expedition, whatever it takes makes your experience worthwhile, safe, and value for money.
Regardless of which tour you choose, our departure from Cusco city or one of our new Machu Picchu Hiking Tours, this is a trip about more than preserving Peru's heritage, something that will leave its mark on your life. Book now, and Machu Picchu magic will have you already planning your next escape.
