Travel to Machu Picchu, Peru – Episode 928

Hear about travel to Machi Picchu as the Amateur Traveler talks to Michael from Rochester about his bucket list visit to this famous Inca site and more in Peru.

Why should you visit Machu Picchu?

Michael says, “I’m going to tell you why I wanted to go to Machu Picchu. First, as I have to say, probably a fifth-grade student, it was just one of those iconic historical places that I remember from my childhood “Always saying, ‘I’m going to go there someday.'”

Michael recommends a carefully planned itinerary for visiting Machu Picchu and its surrounding areas, focusing on acclimatization, cultural immersion, and maximizing the experience. Here’s the itinerary he outlines:

Day 1: Arrival in Lima (Miraflores District)

• Objective : Relax after the flight and ease into the trip.
• Stay : Miraflores, a safe and upscale district with excellent dining options and boutique hotels.
• Activities :
  • Explore the Malecón (a scenic coastal walkway).
  • Visit nearby Barranco for its artsy vibe and street art.
  • Have dinner at Isolina , a restaurant known for authentic Peruvian food.
• Tip : Avoid visiting downtown Lima unless you have extra time, as the Spanish colonial architecture is similar to what you’ll see in Cusco.

Day 2: Fly to Cusco and Transfer to Ollantaytambo

• Objective : Begin acclimatizing to higher altitudes at Ollantaytambo (lower elevation than Cusco).
• Travel :
  • Morning flight from Lima to Cusco.
  • Direct transfer (via bus) to Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley.
• Stay : A boutique hotel, such as Hostel Iskay .
• Activities :
  • Explore Ollantaytambo, one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns in the Americas.
  • Visit the Ollantaytambo Fortress and enjoy the Inca stonework.
  • Walk through the village with its original stone roads and canals.
  • Dine at Inca’s Tower for views of the fortress and valley.

Day 3: Explore Ollantaytambo

• Objective : Immerse yourself in Incan culture and prepare for higher altitudes.
• Activities :
  • Morning: Visit the fortress early before tourist groups arrive.
  • Afternoon: Participate in a Llama Pack trek to learn about efforts to restore purebred llamas and enjoy a scenic hike in the Andes.
  • Evening: Relax and soak in the local atmosphere.

Day 4: Train to Aguas Calientes

• Objective : Arrive in the town near Machu Picchu.
• Travel :
  • Morning train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
• Activities :
  • Drop off luggage at your hotel.
  • Spend the afternoon visiting Machu Picchu with your pre-purchased ticket.
  • Focus on exploring the Citadel , the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu.
  • Take the last bus back to Aguas Calientes and dine at a local restaurant.
• Tip : Pre-book Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets at least six months in advance.

Day 5: Machu Picchu (Morning Visit)

• Objective : Explore more of Machu Picchu, including the Sun Gate.
• Activities :
  • Arrive early for your morning ticket slot.
  • Hike to the Sun Gate for panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.
  • Spend time soaking in the experience and taking photos.
• Afternoon : Return to Aguas Calientes, relax, and prepare for departure.

Day 6: Return to Cusco

• Objective : Travel to Cusco and start exploring the city.
• Travel :
  • Morning train from Aguas Calientes to Cusco.
• Stay : Boutique or mid-range hotels in the San Blas neighborhood or near Plaza de Armas.
• Activities :
  • Walk around the Plaza de Armas.
  • Visit local markets like San Pedro Market or San Blas Market for textiles, produces, and souvenirs.

Day 7: Explore Cusco

• Objective : Dive into the city’s rich history and culture.
• Activities :
  • Visit historic sites, including churches built on Inca foundations.
  • Hike to Cristo Blanco for panoramic views of Cusco.
  • Explore the San Blas neighborhood for its art and local character.
  • Enjoy local food at recommended restaurants.

Day 8: Departure

• Travel :
  • Morning or afternoon flight from Cusco to Lima.
  • Optional: Spend the night at an airport hotel if you have an early international flight.
• Tip : Use this day to shop for souvenirs or revisit favorite spots in Cusco.

General Tips:

1. Altitude Acclimatization : Gradually increase altitude by starting in Ollantaytambo before Cusco or Machu Picchu.
2. Book Early : Secure tickets for Machu Picchu and trains months in advance.
3. Packing : Bring layers, sunblock, bug spray, and comfortable walking shoes.
4. Hydration : Stay hydrated to combat altitude sickness; try coca tea.
5. Cultural Sensitivity : Learn a few Spanish phrases and respect local customs.

By following this itinerary, travelers can maximize their experience of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley while minimizing risks associated with high altitudes and tight schedules.

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Show Notes

Machu Picchu
Cusco
Lima
Miraflores District, Lima
Plaza Mayor de Lima
Miraflores Boardwalk
Barranco District
Isolina (Lima)
Ollantaytambo
Hostal Iskay
Quechua people
Acetazolamide
Inka’s Tower Cafe (Ollantaytambo)
Llama Pack Project
Aguas Calientes, Peru
Church of Santo Domingo
Mirador de San Cristobal
Cristo Blanco Viewpoint
Mercado Central de San Pedro
6 Practical Tips For Visiting the Best Cusco Markets

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