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Cuzco & Machu Picchu
Once the capital of the Inca Empire and today the gateway to Machu Picchu, Cuzco is arguably Latin America's archaeological and colonial jewel, with stone streets, Inca walls and red-roofed buildings highlighting its beauty and history. In the heart of the city is the lively Plaza de Armas, surrounded by restaurants, bars and beautiful colonial churches. Machu Picchu, the fabled `Lost City of the Incas', retains its mystery, allure and spectacular beauty. The ruins' rediscovery in 1911 raised scores of questions, many of which remain unanswered to this day. There are various ways in which you can reach the site, but however you get there you are sure to leave Machu Picchu with more questions than answers and as awestruck as the visitors before you.
Cuzco & Machu Picchu Travel Tips
· Flying Time from Lima: Approx. 1 hr 15 minutes · Language: Spanish is the official language, but many hotels and tourist areas also speak English. Quechua is still spoken by many Andean Indians. · Altitude: Cuzco is situated at 3,400m above sea level, with Machu Picchu around 2,400m and the Sacred Valley around 2,750m, and it can take time to adjust to this altitude, especially if you are flying in from lower altitude destinations such as Lima. You should drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals and generally take it easy until you have become acclimatised. Coca tea is available at most hotels and restaurants, and is reputed to help relieve mild symptoms of altitude sickness, but for more information and advice, consult your doctor. · Festivals, Events & Busy Times: Cuzco celebrates the Inti Raymi festival (June 24), which is the greatest of all the Inca celebrations and attracts thousands of visitors, so please do book early. It culminates with a re-enactment of the winter solstice ceremonies, packed with colourful costumes and rich pageants.
Cuzco
3400m
Huayllabamba
2750m
Pacaymayu
3600m
Runcuraccay
3950m
Sayacmarca
3580m
Phuyupatamarca
Rio Urubamba
Choquesuysuy Urubamba Ollantaytambo Llactapata
2650m
3640m
Pisac
Sacred Valley Start of 5 day trek Start of 2 day trek
Sun Gate Machu Picchu
2400m
Aguas Calientes Inca Trail Train Road Ruins
The Sacred Valley
One of the most beautiful and atmospheric places in Peru, it's well worth spending time in the Sacred Valley to soak up its breathtaking scenery, and to explore the many interesting towns and villages along the Urubamba River. Pisac features superb Inca ruins and colourful morning markets where you can pick up locally-made handicrafts; pretty Urubamba has a peaceful river setting and offers good outdoor activities; and at the end of the Sacred Valley lies the imposing Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo.
The Inca Trail
Undoubtedly the most famous trek in all of South America, the beautiful but fragile Inca Trail is walked by thousands of backpackers each year. In order to preserve the future of the Inca Trail, it is no longer possible to complete the trek independently - all visits must be accompanied by a professional guide, who is licensed to escort only a maximum of 16 visitors. In addition, we recommend booking early to secure your place, as the overall daily number of trekkers allowed has now been restricted.
Machu Picchu & Aguas Calientes
The little village of Aguas Calientes is also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, and is nestled at the foot of the deep valley below the ruins of Machu Picchu. It's a popular little place, with a decent selection of dining and entertainment opportunities. An overnight stay here means you can catch an early morning bus up the mountain to Machu Picchu, and enjoy the relative solitude before the arrival of the daytrip crowds from Cuzco.
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