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The Machu Picchu archaeological complex is located at 75 miles from Cuzco. The ruins are situated on the eastern slope of Machu Picchu in two separate areas: the agricultural and the urban. In addition to roaming the Machu Picchu Inca citadel, there are many activities available to the visitor such as trekking the Inca trail, bird-watching or bathing in the hot springs of the village of Aguas Calientes, located at the foot of the citadel.
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| ESSENCE OF THE AREA |
| Cuzco is one of the most fascinating cities anywhere in the world. The Spanish built their colonial churches and houses on top of the original Inca foundations, and this startling mix of architectural style is still much in evidence. Cuzco is the ideal base from which to explore the scenic highland villages that run the length of the beautiful Sacred Valley. The valley is dotted with singularly impressive Inca ruins, of which Machu Picchu is without doubt the star. Machu Picchu, the mystica , mist-shrouded Inca citadel, no matter how many times you have seen it remains the most spectacular site in the Americas. |
| RECOMMENDED STAY |
| To appreciate the magnitude and the magic of the area you need to stay for at least 4 nights: two nights in Cuzco, one night in Sacred Valley, and one night near the Machu Picchu citadel either at the Santuary Hotel or in Aguas Calientes. If you do not have time, then a stay of 3 nights in Cuzco will allow you to go to Machu Picchu for the day and see the most important sites of the area. In Cuzco, allow at least 2 nights to enjoy the surrounding ruins and the magical colonial city. As you walk, you will discover that this rare place has somehow preserved its unique character and appeal. In Sacred Valley, an overnight will allow you time to visit Pisac and Ollaytantambo. In Machu Picchu, you will need to overnight either by the citadel where the advantage is that you are a step away from the ruins , or overnight in Aguas Calientes, where you will have the flexibility of walking around town, soaking in the mineral baths, or just enjoying a nice meal at one of the small eateries. From both places you will be able to see the ruins at day break, when the sun rays slowly just light up the buildings one by one. Cuzco is the departure point for your visit to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. You can reach Machu Picchu from both of these places, either by train or hiking the Inca trail.
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| RECOMMENDED SIGHTSEEING & ACTIVITIES |
| Cuzco Walking Tour; hiking the Inka trail; Pisac river rafting; horseback riding; many colorful markets.
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| MUST SEE |
| West of Cuzco is Machu Picchu, the best-known and most spectacular site on the continent. The best time to visit is during the dry season months, June to September (also the most crowded time). The Incas chose this site for the immense power of its natural beauty, one of the most thrilling sights of the world. You can get here by riding the train or by hiking the Inca trail. Then you need to take a little bus that will bring you all the way to the Citadel. Please be aware that you need to travel light , so you can leave your luggage in your hotel in Cuzco and just bring a backpack and a small overnight bag.
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