Taking a Machu Picchu Tour

Panoramic view of Machu Picchu near exit and entry point

Machu Picchu is one of South America’s most popular tourist destinations, the ancient Inca ruins which has given rise to countless legends. It is also the most photographed tourist site in Peru, as thousands of travelers from around the globe come for the beautiful scenery and historical artifacts.

Machu Picchu is also the largest of several UNESCO World Heritage sites in Peru and is regarded as a remarkable monument. Its origins date back to the 15th century A.D., and it is one of the oldest known archaeological sites in the Western Hemisphere.

The amazing ruins of Machu Picchu are situated in the Yayo altitude in central Peru. They are located on the slopes of a large extinct volcano. The entire region has been declared a protected natural national monument.

Touring Machu Picchu

If you decide to scale the Inca Trail, you will probably need some help from another tourist group or a travel company that specializes in adventure treks. Trips to Machu Picchu can last from two days up to six days, depending on the weather and the time of day. The longer treks include hiking, camping, canoeing, Jeep tours, hiking, horseback rides, and climbing/ladder rides.

One of the most popular means of reaching the mountain temple is to take the long, arduous, and tiring journey via train, bus, or plane. But if you would rather cut the tour down to a more manageable length, you can organize a day-trip on a train or plane that leaves from the famous towns of Cusco or Huayna Picchu, which are located at the foothills of the Andean ranges.

First Day Tour

When you start your trip, you will be greeted by a tour guide who will offer information about the local history and cultures of Peru. They will also provide information on the popular Andean trails where you will be taking your treks.

Many tourists make their way to Machu Picchu through the Sacred Valley, but others choose to make their way through the lowlands of the Ecomorate (river valley). Regardless of which route you take, you will encounter breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and glorious panoramas. 

Second Day Tour

After receiving information from your guide, you will head for the town of Cusco and travel along the Inca Trail, which is the best way to reach the lost city of Machu Picchu. As you trek along the trail, you will encounter many spectacular scenery, including spectacular views of the southern rim of the Sacred Valley, beautiful farmhouses, and pueblos, colosseums, town square, winding roads, and ancient villages.

Along the way, you will pass through several breathtaking villages where you can view the exquisite art work made during the colonial era. Once you reach the town of Huayna Picchu, your next adventure will begin with the fun and exciting task of taking a trek across the incredible “treasure trail” to Machu Picchu.

Third Day Tour

The third day of your trip to visit Machu Picchu cover the incredible terraced fields and valleys where you will be given instructions on how to climb Huayna Picchu. The trail leads you through thick forests, where you will be given instructions on how to assemble your equipment and store it while climbing. Once you reach the top, you will enjoy a magnificent view of a sun setting over the mountains.

Fourth Day Tour

The fourth day of your trip to Machu Picchu, you will take a ride to Cusco where you can explore the Sacred Valley. This is the place where the Incas built their civilization.

In addition, you will be given the opportunity to walk through the Museum of Ancient Things or Moctez Picchu, where you can see many beautiful and amazing works of art. Cusco is a beautiful sightseeing destination and you are given many opportunities to tour different sights, including visiting the Inca citadel, the famous Cathedral, the mission church, and the terraced fields that you passed on your way to Machu Picchu.

Fifth Day Tour

On your fifth day to visit Machu Picchu, you will get back to Cusco and embark on an amazing train ride to Ollantaytambo. You will want to visit this region because the Incas used it for their spiritual and cultural practices.

After visiting the amazing and mysterious place of Ollantaytambo, you will return to the train station and catch a connecting flight to Cusco. Once there, you can make your way to Machu Picchu by train or by bus or rent a car and visit this incredible site all at your own pace.

Final Thoughts

No matter where you choose to travel in Peru, you will have a wonderful time exploring the ancient sites of this unique country. Peru is an incredible place and you will be able to see many of the wonders that are so commonly seen around the world. While you are here, you should also experience the beautiful Andean food, which is made using local ingredients.

Machu Picchu tours are an adventure that you will enjoy and remember for a long time. You can go back often and even make a return trip if you like.