How to Travel to Machu Picchu

Most visitors to Machu Picchu choose to hike the historic Inca Trail to get there. In its 42 kilometers, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu  leads trekkers through verdant jungles, past breathtaking Inca ruins, and finally to the breathtaking Machu Picchu. This trip is a fantastic opportunity to learn about Inca history and culture while taking in some of Peru's most breathtaking landscapes. The average time to hike the Inca Trail is four to five days, and it is rated as a moderately tough trek. The track is well-marked, and there are camping areas along the way, but you should be in good shape and aware of the effects of the altitude.

It's worth noting that the Inca Trail is a permit-required, restricted trail. Permits are issued on a daily basis, and because of their scarcity, they often sell out rapidly. A professional guide, porters, and all the gear you'll need can be arranged for you by a reputable tour organization, which you should choose. Your trip will be lot safer and more relaxing as a result, and you can focus on having fun instead of worrying about the details.

The Lares Trail is an alternative route to Machu Picchu that isn't as well-known as the Inca Trail. The Lares trail to Machu Picchu is a three-day hike across the Andes Mountains, affording a rare glimpse into the traditional way of life of the local people as you pass through small Andean villages and rural communities. The trail travels via picturesque scenery, such as snowy mountains, verdant valleys, and steaming springs. This hike is intended for seasoned hikers only, as it is regarded to be of moderate to tough difficulty.

To get away from the throngs of tourists on the more popular Inca Trek and into a more genuine and cultural experience, take the Lares trail. Since it approaches the citadel from the north, this trail is less busy and provides a unique perspective of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary. The Lares Trail is less likely to be closed by bad weather and does not require a permit, thus it can be hiked at any time of year. However, unlike the Inca Trail, the Lares Trail does not terminate in Machu Picchu and instead requires hikers to take a bus from the town of Ollantaytambo to the Inca citadel.

In contrast to the more crowded Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu offers a more rewarding challenge and stunning views. The Salkantay journey is a five-day hike across the Andes Mountains, affording breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys as you travel by the majestic Salkantay mountain (6,271 meters/ 20,574 feet) and other summits. The trail is an excellent alternative for anyone interested in seeing the range of the Peruvian Andes, as it travels through a variety of environments, from high Andean scenery to tropical jungles. This hike is challenging and is best left to seasoned trekkers.

If you want a more strenuous and off-the-beaten-path adventure than the Inca route offers, but you don't want to deal with the crowds, the Salkantay trail is a terrific option. When approaching the citadel from the south, the trail is less congested and provides a unique perspective of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary. Moreover, the Salkantay trail is less likely to be closed due to bad weather and does not necessitate a permit, so it can be planned more freely. The Salkantay Trail, in contrast to the Inca Trail, is not only longer but also more physically demanding, necessitating more stamina and time to complete.

Traveling to Machu Picchu in luxury and style is possible on the Hiram Bingham train, also called the luxury train. There is no more stylish or relaxing way to go to Machu Picchu than by taking advantage of the luxury cabins, delicious meals, and open bar provided by this train. From Cusco's Poroy station, the train travels through the beautiful Andes, stopping at quaint towns and villages en route to the Machu Picchu station.

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind journey that combines luxury, culture, and adventure aboard the Hiram Bingham train. The train has an observation car and a bar car so that passengers may relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery as they travel through the Andes. There is a dining car on the train where you may eat a gourmet dinner cooked by trained chefs and listen to live performances of Andean music. Those in search of a refined and unique Machu Picchu experience can book a seat on the Hiram Bingham train.

Travelers who wish to arrive at Machu Picchu in style and comfort also have the option of taking the Vistadome train, popularly known as the luxury train. This first-class train offers a stylish and relaxing way to travel to Machu Picchu, with large picture windows, plush seats, and tasty meals. From Cusco's Poroy station, the train travels through the beautiful Andes, stopping at quaint towns and villages en route to the Machu Picchu station.

The Vistadome train provides a one-of-a-kind journey that combines elegance, exploration, and culture. You may take in the breathtaking scenery of the Andes Mountains from the comfort of the train's observation car or relax in the bar car. The railway features a dining car where passengers can dine on meals cooked by trained chefs while listening to performances of traditional Andean music. If you're looking for some added comfort and style on your trip to Machu Picchu, the Vistadome train is a great choice. If you want to see the stunning Andean vistas but don't feel like putting in the effort required for a hike, this is a fantastic alternative.

The Inca citadel of Machu Picchu sits in the Peruvian Andes, around 130 kilometers (80 miles) to the northwest of Cusco. The location is spectacular, perched on a ridge above the Urubamba Valley with panoramic views of the Andes in every direction. The city of Cusco serves as the region's primary entry point, making it the ideal starting point for a trip to Machu Picchu.

Taking a train to Aguas Calientes, the village at the foot of the citadel, is the most common means of accessing Machu Picchu. Travel time by train is around 4 hours, and numerous train companies and routes are available. From Aguas Calientes, visitors can take a bus or walk to the fortress. While the bus travel is quick (about 30 minutes) and frequent (about every 30 minutes), the hike is laborious (about 2 hours) and uphill the whole way.

It is also possible to reach Machu Picchu by hiking one of the Inca trails, which are ancient paths that lead to the citadel. These hikes can take anywhere from 4 to 7 days and are a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Andes and get a sense of what it would have been like to travel to Machu Picchu in Inca times. However, these hikes require to have a permit and also need to be properly prepared, physically and mentally. It's important to be aware that these hikes are not for everyone, and it's recommend to check with a tour operator about the difficulty level of the trail and to have a guide along the way.

Taking a luxury train to Machu Picchu is one of the more extravagant options for seeing the Inca site. These trains provide an interesting and relaxing alternative for visitors seeking a more luxurious means of reaching the citadel. Several different high-end trains travel to Machu Picchu, and each one has its own set of perks and services. 

The Hiram Bingham is widely regarded as one of the best luxury trains available. Belmond, the company that runs this train, provides a luxurious and genuine journey. The train has luxurious Pullman cars from the Roaring Twenties era, replete with a full bar, a dining car, and live entertainment. The breathtaking scenery of the Andes and the Urubamba River enhances the already magical experience of the trek to Machu Picchu. A gourmet picnic lunch and a guided tour of the fortress are also available for passengers. 

The Vistadome is an additional opulent train service. The Andean beauty rolls by in front of your eyes through the panoramic windows of this PeruRail train. On the way to Machu Picchu, guests can relax in the bar car or dine in the dining car. Additionally, there is a guide on board the train who provides interesting and educational commentary on the region's rich heritage. 

There is no better or more luxurious way to see Machu Picchu than on board one of these trains. Aside from providing a luxurious ride, they also give visitors an opportunity to learn about the rich history and culture of the Andes. It's important to plan ahead because luxury trains are more expensive than standard ones and tickets and reservations sell out quickly.

When people think of South American hiking trails, they often think of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Hikers on this route, which is largely composed of ancient Incan roads and walkways, get to explore some of the Andes' most breathtaking scenery and isolated corners. The journey, which takes around four days to complete, takes hikers through cloud forests, high-altitude mountains, and sub-tropical jungle surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. There is a first glimpse of Machu Picchu at the trail's end, the Sun Gate.

If you're searching for a real, in-depth adventure, the Inca Trail is where you should go. While the hike may be strenuous, the benefits are substantial. Hikers can enjoy the stunning Andean landscape, get insight into Inca history and culture, and feel a sense of satisfaction by making it to the summit. As only a set number of licenses are given out daily, this is also a fantastic method to beat the throng. However, keep in mind that the Inca Trail necessitates a permit and a high level of physical fitness. Permits sell out fast, especially during peak times, so make sure to reserve yours early. Since the terrain might be difficult, it is suggested that you hire a guide and bring a porter to make the journey easier and safer.

The Salkantay Trek is another popular alternative to the Inca Trail that leads trekkers through some of the Andes' most breathtaking scenery. The hike is around 70 kilometers long and takes about five days to complete. It travels through a variety of landscapes, including high-altitude passes, cloud forests, and sub-tropical rainforest, and it provides stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks and glaciers. Hikers get to see the spectacular Inca city of Machu Picchu from a new vantage point once they reach the trail's terminus at the citadel.

If you're seeking a more real and adventurous experience, but are willing to sacrifice a few days of comfort in exchange, the Salkantay journey is for you. By hiking it, you can take in the stunning scenery of the Andes, gain insight into the region's rich cultural heritage, and feel rewarded when achieving your goal. It's an excellent substitute for the more popular Inca Trail if you want solitude. Keep in mind that the Salkantay trip, like the Inca Trail, calls for a healthy dose of physical fitness, and that it's wise to plan ahead and hire a guide. One must also pack sensibly in anticipation of varying climates.

The Lares Trek is another alternate trail to Machu Picchu that provides hikers a unique and immersive experience. The journey takes place in the Lares Valley, located north of Cusco, and it normally takes 3 or 4 days to complete. The trail winds through gorgeous Andean communities, lonely high-altitude passes, and lush cloud forests, and offers stunning vistas of snowcapped peaks and glaciers. Hikers get to see the spectacular Inca city of Machu Picchu from a new vantage point once they reach the trail's terminus at the citadel.

The Lares Trek is recommended for individuals who are looking for a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience. It offers the possibility to discover the Andean culture and way of life, by visiting distant settlements and mingling with the local people. It's also a wonderful alternative if you're hoping to avoid the crowds, as the trek is less trafficked than the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek. Keep in mind that the Lares Trek needs a strong degree of fitness, and it's advisable to book in advance and employ a guide. Also, it's necessary to be prepared for different weather situations and to pack accordingly.