Top 7 Things You Need to Know Before Your Trip to Machu Picchu
Some places are so spectacular that every traveler dreams of going to them.
This ancient Incan city, located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, is full of mystery, beauty and history.
It’s the sort of destination that captivates you the instant you show up.
But, like a good bucket-list destination, there’s plenty to think about in planning a trip to Machu Picchu, especially if you want to make the most of your experience there.
To prepare you for your trip, I have compiled this guide on the essentials things to know before your adventure trip to Machu Picchu.
From timing and logistics to packing and hiking, here’s what you need to know to make your trip to Machu Picchu safe, enjoyable, and memorable.
1. You Have to Organize Well Ahead of Time
If there’s one thing you should know about visiting Machu Picchu, it’s that you’ll want to reserve your tickets in advance.
And with only a limited number of visitors permitted into the site each day to protect the ruins, tickets are often snapped up months in advance, especially during the high season from May to September.
If you want to hike the famed Inca Trail, it’s even more important to plan ahead. Permits for the trail are also limited and sell out six months in advance.
It’s important to choose which path you want to follow early on (I’ll talk more about that below) and to get your tickets as soon as you can.
And you have to make reservations for places to stay and train tickets in advance, because Aguas Calientes (the town at the foot of Machu Picchu) can fill up during peak seasons.
Availability can really wreck your trip if you aren’t careful!
2. Determine How You Want To Reach There: Train or Trek
There are two primary routes to arrive at Machu Picchu: hiking the Inca Trail or taking a train to Aguas Calientes.
Both have their merits, so it really comes down to what sort of experience you are looking for.
> Hiking the Inca Trail: Perhaps the most storied hike in the world, the Inca Trail takes you through dramatic Andean landscapes, ancient sites and cloud forests as you arrive at Machu Picchu’s Sun Gate.
It is a difficult experience but also a satisfying one.
The classic Inca Trail is a four-day trek, though for those with limited time or less hiking experience, there are shorter two-day options.
> Train: if hiking isn’t for you or you’re short on time, the train is an excellent option.
Trains from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, which is a spectacular and relaxing ride through the Sacred Valley.
From Aguas Calientes you’ll transfer to a shuttle bus up to Machu Picchu.
Whichever route you take, getting to Machu Picchu is an experience in its own right.
3. Acclimate to the Altitude
When visiting Machu Picchu, one of the larger challenges is the altitude.
The ruins occupy a height of about 7,970 feet above sea level, while Cusco, where most travelers begin their trek to Machu Picchu, rises even higher at 11,150 feet.
Altitude sickness can be a serious problem if you aren’t prepared.
To reduce the risk, it’s important to spend a couple of days adjusting to the altitude before going to Machu Picchu.
A lot of travelers spend a few days getting used to the altitude in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, which will help your body to acclimatize.
Just try to remember to drink water, and not booze, and take it slow for the first few days.
If you’re especially concerned about altitude sickness, you can also discuss with your doctor taking a medication such as acetazolamide, which can help ward off symptoms.
4. The Best Time to Visit
To visit Machu Picchu, timing is everything.
In the mountains of the Andes, the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s necessary to choose the right time of year for your trip.
> Dry Season (May to September): The dry season is high season for Machu Picchu.
The weather in these months is usually clear and dry, providing better hiking conditions and unobstructed views of the ruins.
But it’s also the most popular time of year, so expect bigger crowds and steeper prices.
> Rainy Season (November to March): Although the rainy season may not sound appealing, it can be an excellent time to go if you prefer no crowds and don’t fear a little rain.
The vegetation is green and lush, and you will have a quieter experience exploring the site.
One thing to know is that the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance in February, so you won’t be able to hike it during that month.
For pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, travel in April or October, the shoulder seasons.
5. What to Pack for Your Trip
Packing for Machu Picchu can be a challenge, since you’ll need to prepare for a variety of weather and activities.
Here’s a brief overview of the basics:
> Layers: The weather is variable in the Andes, so layers are key packing items.
A light, waterproof jacket is advisable; it can rain at any nomadic moment of the year, and even during the dry season.
You’ll also want a warm fleece or sweater at the top of cooler mornings and evenings.
> Comfortable Walking Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, whether you’re on the Inca Trail or simply wandering around the ruins.
Wear hardy, comfy shoes with some grip.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are important when hiking at high altitudes because the sun can be intense.
> Reusable Water Bottle: Altitude or no, you need to stay hydrated.
Bring a water bottle (and refill it whenever you can).
> Bug Spray: Machu Picchu does not have many bugs, but keep in mind having bug spray with you for your hand, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season.
6. Get Ready for the Crowds
Machu Picchu is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world and brings quite a few visitors.
Even with the daily limit, the site can be crowded, particularly during the high tourist season.
To avoid losing part of the experience, it’s worth getting an early start.
Many people say the best time to visit the site is early in the morning to avoid the midday crowds.
The first buses leave Aguas Calientes toward the ruins around 5:30 a.m., and while this means an early alarm, it’s a price to pay for the opportunity to visit the ruins in relative solitude.
Or you can time your visit for the afternoon, when many of the morning visitors have headed out.
It’s also a à calmer time to witness the magic of Machu Picchu.
7. Respect the Site’s Rules
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu carries a responsibility to preserve its natural beauty and history for the generations that come after us.
But as a visitor, you will be guided to respect the site’s rules and guidelines.”
Here are some of the main rules:`
Food or drink is not permitted inside the site (water is allowed).
Do not climb on or touch the ruins.
Professional photography equipment, such as tripods, is not allowed without a special permit.
Stay on the designated trails and do not venture into restricted areas.
Following these guidelines will not only help protect Machu Picchu but also make for a safer and more enjoyable experience for all.
Conclusion
Unfortunately, a trip to Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime event but it does take some planning and preparation.
With advice ranging from booking your tickets early to getting used to the altitude, learn these important tips to help avoid common pitfalls and get the most out of your trip.
Hiking the famed Inca Trail or riding the scenic train route, visiting Machu Picchu will be an adventure you won’t forget.
So book your bags and prepare for the altitude, and get ready to awarded by the ancient beauty and paradise views of Machu Picchu!
