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The Lost City Loved By The World
It has been 112 years since Machu Picchu was rediscovered in 1911. The world has been obsessed ever since and the traffic of tourists has made it clear that it’s going to be a long-term love affair.
As the saying goes, it’s just as much about the journey as it is about the destination. The present-day traveler has many more options for travel than we did in 1911. You can easily customize your experience of arriving at Machu Picchu, be it on foot, by train, by car, or by a combination of modes of travel.
Some ways of arriving at Machu Picchu can be expensive and require booking far in advance.
This quick article will help you make your trip to Peru more about wonder and less about worry. When you know how you want to make your trip to the Lost Incan City, be sure to contact TOUR IN PERU to arrange your affairs.
Ways of Getting There
We may not naturally think of walking as relaxing, but some of the most satisfying ways of getting to Machu Picchu involve hiking.
The Tried and True Inca Trail
The best-known hiking route is the Inca Trail, and its popularity is not without reason. Considered a sacred pilgrimage path to the citadel of Machu Picchu, this route passes through various places of historical and cultural importance. From the impressive ruins of Llactapata and Runkurakay to the fascinating ruined town of Sayacmarca, each step offers a unique and memorable experience.
The Inca Trail is a must-see adventure for travelers to Peru, an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history of the Inca Empire and explore spectacular landscapes as you head toward one of the wonders of the modern world. The Inca Trail also takes you directly to the top entrance of Machu Picchu, the Sun Gate.
You can get a real feeling of magic and mysticism walking the Inca Trail to the citadel but plan on booking the trek months in advance. Recent numbers show that there’s a cap of 500 people walking the Inca Trail per day, so spots sell out fast.
The Delightful Alternative of The Salkantay Trek
While not as popular as the Inca Trail, another route that is easier to book and just as beautiful is the Salkantay Trek.
Hear us out. Machu Picchu is one painting in an art gallery of sights to see in Peru. If you’re going to make the trip to Peru, take advantage of the opportunity to see many beautiful things.
The Salkantay Trek not only brings you to Machu Picchu but also brings you near several breathtaking locations such as kaleidoscopic Humantay Lake and Apu Salkantay.
Like Machu Picchu, Lake, or Laguna Humantay has strong spiritual connotations. It was held sacred by the ancient Incas and to this day spiritual travelers make it a point to visit the lake. It’s still a current practice to leave an offering for the Incan Mother Earth at the edge of the lake.
The apus are more than just mountains to see on the way. They are ancient, sacred, and hold much history and reverence in the area. Each apu was believed to have its own protective entity. Salkantay in particular was believed to be “The Protector of the Territory.” It’s the perfect additional holy place to include on your way to Machu Picchu.
When The Feet Just Aren’t Up To It
But walking isn’t for everyone, due to health, time constraints, or other factors
In that case, the good news is that there is always a train to catch. Trains run from Cusco all the way to Aguas Calientes, which brings required walking to a bare minimum.
However you choose to get to Aguas Calientes, we recommend taking time to rest there. You’ll want your strength for your great adventure ahead.
Booking treks and trains and discovering all your options can be done through TOUR IN PERU so you won’t have anything to worry about other than just showing up.
