{"id":6702,"date":"2019-05-24T14:30:50","date_gmt":"2019-05-24T14:30:50","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.local\/visiting-machu-picchu\/"},"modified":"2019-05-24T14:30:50","modified_gmt":"2019-05-24T14:30:50","slug":"visiting-machu-picchu","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.expedia.ca\/stories\/visiting-machu-picchu\/","title":{"rendered":"Machu Picchu Travel Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

Machu Picchu<\/a>, the “lost city of the Incas,” has been one of the world’s most intriguing sights since it first became a popular destination in the early 1910s. Recently voted as one of the seven new wonders of the world, it\u2019s a must-visit on the avid traveller\u2019s bucket list. Here\u2019s your ultimate Machu Picchu travel guide.<\/p>\n

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Entering Machu Picchu<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Getting to Machu Picchu<\/h2>\n

Your Machu Picchu journey begins by flying to Peru. You\u2019ll most likely have to book a flight to Lima<\/a>, although the airport in Cusco is closer. Cusco has limited traffic capacity, so it\u2019s harder to book direct flights.<\/p>\n

As long as you prepare yourself for additional transportation when you get to Lima, you\u2019ll be all set. Don\u2019t worry, there are tons of add-on options to get you to Cusco, including affordable flights from Lima<\/a>.<\/p>\n

From Cusco, you\u2019ll take the train to majestic Machu Picchu. You\u2019ll have to book months in advance as this is a high-demand tourist attraction. Inca Rail<\/a> offers a safe and comfortable trip with unparalleled views of the mountainous journey.<\/p>\n

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Cusco, Peru<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

You\u2019ll arrive at the Aguas Calientes station and then board a bus to reach Machu Picchu. Although a bus ride might sound less exciting, the views just keep coming. Expect spectacular sights, including the Urubamba River and its canyon.<\/p>\n

Machu Picchu is open year-round, but the time of year you travel will affect your experience. Trekkers and sun worshippers will prefer June, July, and August. There\u2019s less rain, but more people. If you hate crowds but don\u2019t mind rain, January and March are best, but brace yourself for the chance of landslides. Finally, if you want to avoid the heat, April, May, September, and October offer pleasant, cooler weather and the bonus of slightly fewer crowds.<\/p>\n

Where to Stay at Machu Picchu<\/h2>\n

When considering where to stay at Machu Picchu, your accommodations will depend on your plans. If your entire trip revolves around Machu Picchu, you can book your stay in Cusco. There\u2019s no shortage of accommodations available here. Your options range from budget-friendly hotels<\/a> to highly luxurious vacation rentals<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The Hotel Retama Inn Machupicchu<\/a> offers humble yet comfortable accommodations that are ideal for families. If you\u2019re splurging, Belmond Sanctuary Lodge<\/a> offers a luxurious hideaway with lovely gardens, views of the distant mountains, and unrivalled comfort and service.<\/p>\n

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Incan art work<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If you plan to travel throughout Peru<\/a>, Lima offers world-class hotels<\/a>, as well as a selection of inviting, quirky boutique hotels<\/a> and bed and breakfasts<\/a>.<\/p>\n

If Machu Picchu is just one of many stops on your South American<\/a> tour, you\u2019ll find ample accommodations in the heart of the many vibrant cities from Buenos Aires<\/a> to Santiago<\/a>.<\/p>\n

From the history of Ecuador<\/a> and Columbia<\/a>, to the wines of Chile<\/a> and Argentina<\/a>, and the vibrant lifestyle of Brazil<\/a>‘s Rio De Janeiro, there\u2019s something in South America sure to satisfy the wanderlust of any traveller.<\/p>\n

What to See at Machu Picchu<\/h2>\n

You\u2019re looking at a good three to four hours to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco. If you plan it right, you\u2019ll arrive before sunrise just as the site opens at 6:00 a.m.<\/p>\n

You can purchase your Machu Picchu entrance ticket in Aguas Calientes before you take the bus or hike up the mountain. To make the most of your trip, you should plan to climb Huayna Picchu<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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Ruins of Machu Picchu<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Although it\u2019s a towering mountain, it makes for a pretty straightforward climb, so most people who are mobile will have no trouble with the trek. Just remember, these special tickets can only be booked through the government website for Machu Picchu.<\/p>\n

The climb is worth it if you enjoy a good hike, as the area surrounding Machu Picchu is not only stunning but also home to a diverse variety of flora and fauna.<\/p>\n

The expansive lost city itself spans 325.8 square kilometres. Thought to be built around 1450, it was uncovered in 1911, revealing the stunning terraced citadel and its ruins.<\/p>\n

Built by the Incas 2,430 metres (7,970 feet) above sea level, the city is located in the Sacred Valley<\/a> northwest of Cusco. It has elicited many unanswered questions, including what is its purpose, and why was it abandoned?<\/p>\n

You\u2019ll have to pace yourself when touring the city as the air and humidity can be hard on your system. Be prepared to \u201crough it\u201d because when it comes to facilities, there aren\u2019t many on the mountain. You\u2019ll also want to pack a lunch and plenty of water.<\/p>\n

As you travel throughout the ancient giant walls, terraces, roads, and buildings, you\u2019ll puzzle over the intricate planning and workmanship involved in its construction. The polished flat stone technique was accomplished without using mortar.<\/p>\n

The temples include the semicircular Temple of the Sun, Palace of the Princess, and Temple of the Three Windows. Some other features of note include:<\/p>\n