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ADVENTURES

RUINS OF MACHU PICCHU

Take the opportunity to experience the incredible ruins of Machu Picchu. The easiest way to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu is to take the train to Aguas Calientes. For a placed called the lost city, it is a great place to be.

Machu Picchu Ruins

What is so special about the Ancient Ruins of Machu Picchu Machu Picchu is recognisable to people all over the world. One of the great iconic travel destinations of our time, Machu Picchu is incredible to see.

There are many theories as to the origins behind Machu Picchu but three of the most popular ideas include a temple to the sun, a fortress against the jungle inhabitants or a sanctuary for the Incas. This fabulous city has houses, temples, warehouses, a large central square, all connected by narrow roads and steps, and is surrounded by terraces cut into the mountain side which were used for agriculture. The complex is situated on a ridge high above the Sacred Valley and survives to this day as relic of Inca civilization. Commonly referred to as the Lost City of the Incas, it is accessible by train and road, or by walking the 4 day Inca Trail.

There are many great ruins within the complex, such as Intihuatana, which means “hitching post of the sun.” Researchers believe the Inca used it as an astrologic clock or calendar. The Inca considered the sun a deity, and another temple, the Temple of the Sun is believed to be one of Machu Picchu’s most sacred structures. Consisting of a circular wall enclosing a large ceremonial stone, the temple is linked to the winter solstice  

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Machu Picchu Tour Overview

Day-1. Lima 
Day-2. Lima - Cuzco (B) 
Day-3: Cuzco (B) 
Day-4: Sacred Valley - Ollyantaytambo (BL) 
Day-5: Cuzco to Machu Picchu (B) 
Day-6: Aguas Calientes - Cuzco (B) 
Day-7: Cuzco - Lima 
               
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RUINS OF MACHU PICCHU ITINERARY

Day-1. Lima

Arrival in Lima, and transfer to hotel.

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Day-2. Lima - Cuzco (B)

Flight and arrival in Cuzco, reception and transfer to Hotel. Remainder of the day at leisure.

Day-3: Cuzco (B)

Afternoon guided visit of the four ruins nearby; the Sacsayhuaman Fortress, Kenko, Fortress of Puca-Pucara and Tambomachay, the Main Square, the Cathedral and the Koricancha or Temple of the Sun.

Day-4: Sacred Valley - Ollyantaytambo (BL)

Full-day excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Inca and then a visit to Pisac markets and Ollantaytambo

Day-5: Cuzco to Machu Picchu (B)

Transfer to the railway station for the 06.00 departure to Aguas Calientes by train and then bus to Machu Picchu ruins. Guided visit of Machu Picchu . This fabulous city has houses, temples, warehouses, a large central square, all connected by narrow roads and steps, and is surrounded by terraces cut into the mountain side which were used for agriculture. Later, free time to enjoy this magical and spiritual wonder. Accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

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Day-6: Aguas Calientes - Cuzco (B)

Morning at leisure or option to return to the magnificent Machu Picchu. Return to Cuzco with the 1530 train. Arrival and transfer to hotel.

Day-7: Cuzco - Lima

After an early breakfast we will fly back to Lima. 

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Peru Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time of year to go to Peru?

The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, between May and October, which sees sunny days, bright blue skies in the Andes, and chilly nights. It is a wonderful time to be in Peru, especially if you plan to go on a trek, but being the peak season, early booking is crucial.

Can I get to Machu Picchu without trekking?

You most certainly can. You have a couple other options in which you can arrive at this ancient citadel in the clouds.

The first and most common method of getting to Macchu Picchu from Cusco is to take a train. Unfortunately, the trains don't leave from within the city itself, so you will have to travel by car or bus to the terminal. Most people depart from the train station in Ollantaytambo, in Peru's Sacred Valley, a couple hours northwest of Cusco. You can also take the train from the town of Poroy, located about 25 minutes outside of Cusco. 

How do we get from the town to the Machu Picchu ruins?

There are two options. One is that you take the bus which runs from 05h30 until 15h00 each day, or you can walk up.  The walk will be around 90 minutes and the climb is about 400m

Do we need to purchase tickets for the Inca ruins far in advance?

Yes you do and there is also a limit to how many are available each day.  There are 4 Types of Tickets to Machu Picchu; 

Machu Picchu Only, Machu Picchu & Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu & Mountain, and Machu Picchu & Huchuy Picchu.

The ‘Machu Picchu & Huayna Picchu’ Ticket is the most requested by visitors. In addition, due to the limited availability for 200 people a day, the purchase of the ticket must be made 3 or 4 months in advance. The visit to this mountain is only allowed for people over 12 years old.

Do I need to acclimatize to Cusco's altitude?

Yes you should as the city sits at nearly 11,000 feet altitude, or 3 399 m  For the first couple days of your stay keep your walking tours to a minimum—just around the main sites in central Cusco. It is advisable to drink plenty of liquid and avoid as much as possible heavy meals and physical effort, especially while in Cusco.

What is the best time to go to the Amazon rainforest?

May and early June are the best time to visit the Amazon. During these months, the river levels are still high enough for exploration by boat

Do we need travel insurance?

Yes you do. We do not recommend travelling without it and require it for our tours. Accidents, medical emergencies, travel delays or other problems can occur in any country and the resulting costs can be significant. Here is  a link if you do not already have your own preferred provider. 


What plug converters do I need in Peru?

Peru uses 220 volt, 60 cycle electricity. Travelers will require a voltage converter for 110 volt devices. Plugs are typically the 2 pronged flat type found in the US, though some facilities have been noted to use the 2 rounded prongs instead.

Is the water safe to drink?

The tap water is generally not safe to drink in Peru. Bottled water is readily available at tourist sites, hotels, and restaurants. Don't forget to use bottled water when brushing your teeth as well! Ice is not always made with boiled/ bottled water. Order your beverages without ice.

What are the current entry requirements for Peru given COVID?
  • The Government of Peru announced the extension of the current regional alert levels and movement restrictions through March 31, 2022. The Government of Peru indicated it will reevaluate and adjust these public health measures every two weeks. Under these measures, all regions of Peru are categorized as Moderate, High, Very High, or Extreme, with corresponding levels of restrictions.  U.S. Citizens are advised to follow all Peruvian lockdown measures.
  • Peruvians, resident foreigners, and non-resident foreigners 12 years of age or older must present proof of being fully vaccinated 14 days prior to boarding at their point of origin. Peruvians, resident foreigners, and non-resident foreigners 12 years of age or older who are not fully vaccinated must present a molecular test with a negative result (within 48 hours) prior to boarding an incoming flight to Peru, in accordance with current health regulations.  Children under 12 years of age must only be asymptomatic prior to boarding an incoming flight to Peru.

From February 28, 2022, all passengers older than 12 years of age using commercial transportation to travel domestically via air must present proof of vaccination to travel.  If they are not fully vaccinated, they must present a molecular test with a negative result (within 48 hours)  prior to boarding their domestic flight (as of January 27, 2022, individuals 40 and older must have received their booster).

https://pe.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/