Machu Picchu is an extraordinary place! It was built by the first Inca emperor (Pachacutec) as a vacation retreat for the nobility. Its location, in the Urubamba valley, is priceless: warm, sunny weather, incredible landscapes, lush vegetation, strong, reviving natural energy flow. They all used to go there to take a break from Cusco’s cold weather and also to perform religious rituals.
The Machu Picchu site has a wonderful, world-famous architecture and design: constructions adapt to the mountain, its areas are divided by type of activity, there are special zones reserved for farming and so on. All of it while looking at the majestic valley around and the river below. Our Machu Picchu visits take around 2:30 hours, with a professional, experienced guide; optionally, visitors can do before the hike up to the top of the Huayna Picchu mountain, which is inside the citadel (not included).
So, we think that nothing should spoil your tour of one of the most renowned archaeological sites on the planet… you should have the chance to focus all the attention on the many wonders Machu Picchu has to offer. Next we’ll list 10 items any visitor cannot forget to bring to this unique tour.
Sun hat or cap: climate is very sunny and warm, because Machu Picchu stands on the border of the Peruvian Amazon.
Dark glasses: for the same reason include in the 10 items, for sunlight is really strong and you should not miss the unforgettable views of the citadel and the Urubamba valley.
Bug repellent: the closer we get to the Peruvian Amazon, the wilder it gets. Do not forget to bring a large bottle of insect repellent, because mosquitoes are in their habitat and the biting will become painful and itchy.
Sunscreen: mandatory also among the 10 items you have to take there. In Machu Picchu the Sun looks and shines wonderfully, but we all must be careful with the UV radiation.
Sneakers: also mandatory among the 10 items indeed. The Incas were great hikers, so they didn’t mind walking uphill or across rough terrain. Your tennis shoes should be comfortable and have a good grip on the ground. Now, if you will do the Huayna Picchu climb, hiking boots are obligatory. Don’t bring them new, give them some use before, so your feet get adjusted and won’t have blisters.
Photographic, filming camera or smartphone: no way you won’t record such a great occasion! The architecture of Machu Picchu is fascinating and the natural beauty of the valley mesmerizing… and don’t forget the llama selfie!
Passport: you should take this everywhere actually, is one of 10 items not only for Machu Picchu. The document will be required at the entrance of archaeological sites, hotel check-ins and so on. Passport is going to be like an ID card here in Peru.
Cash in soles: the Machu Picchu citadel has a modern village below, called Aguas Calientes. There you have restaurants, bars, souvenir shops, handicraft markets and similars. Those expenses are not included. Also, if you want to take the chance to enjoy the village’s famous hot springs, bring Peruvian currency for the entrance ticket and also bathing suit, towel and sandals.
Refillable bottles: TOUR IN PERU is an ecologically-friendly travel agency. Therefore, we do not use disposable items anymore. This is why we include reusable bottles in the 10 items. Please fill them at the hotel before the Machu Picchu excursion. Any waste you may take to the citadel, store it in the backpack and then dispose of it when you’re again at the hotel.
Hand sanitizer: for a variety of reasons, include in the 10 items, don’t forget the covid-19 pandemic is not over yet. Even if you’re vaccinated, symptoms may ruin a vacation. Use it before eating anything and every time before touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
So, keep in mind these 10 items visitors ought to bring to any Machu Picchu tour… it is certainly a quite helpful list. Finally, our staff is ready to answer any other inquiry you may have. Greetings and see you soon in Peru!