How to Visit MACHU PICCHU 2024 | The Complete Travel Guide

Summary

Join Backpack Gringo as they guide you through the ultimate travel experience to Machu Picchu, Peru. From transportation tips to budget-friendly accommodations, they cover everything you need to know, including how to navigate the Incan citadel's circuits and the importance of hiring a local guide for an immersive historical experience.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Visiting Machu Picchu requires a trip to Cusco, which is a mandatory stop due to Machu Picchu's remote location.
• ✈️ Traveling to Cusco from Lima is more convenient by flight, which takes about an hour and costs between $30 and $70.
• 🏨 Affordable accommodations like Airbnbs and hostels are available in Cusco, with prices varying by the time of year.
• 📍 Staying near the Plaza de Armas in Cusco is recommended for its central location and proximity to the train station.
• 🏪 Having a grocery store nearby is important in Cusco to combat altitude sickness with hydration and safe drinking options.
• 🚕 Booking a taxi at the Cusco airport is suggested for convenience and to pre-schedule pickups during the stay.
• 🌿 Using coca leaf products is beneficial to prevent altitude sickness and is commonly used by locals.
• 🚂 To reach Machu Picchu, one must travel to Aguas Calientes, the 'gateway town,' either by hiking the Incan Trail or taking a train.
• 🎟️ Bus tickets to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes cost $24 per person and require a passport for purchase.
• 🏞️ Machu Picchu tickets should be bought in advance, with options for different circuits offering various experiences.
• 🗺️ Hiring a tour guide at Machu Picchu is highly recommended to fully understand the site's significance and history.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is a comprehensive guide on visiting Machu Picchu, including transportation, costs, and travel tips.

Why is it necessary to pass through Cusco to get to Machu Picchu?

Passing through Cusco is mandatory due to Machu Picchu's remote location.

What are the transportation options from Lima to Cusco?

The options from Lima to Cusco are either flying, which takes over an hour and costs between $30 and $70, or taking a bus that takes at least 21 hours and costs between $20 and $35.

What is the recommended area to stay in Cusco?

It is recommended to stay somewhere to the west of the airport and near the Plaza de Armas for its central location and proximity to the train station.

Why is it important to have a grocery store nearby when staying in Cusco?

A grocery store nearby is important to quickly pick up drinks to combat altitude sickness, as the tap water is not safe to consume.

What is the recommended method to get a taxi in Cusco?

The recommended method is to book a taxi at the taxi desk by the exit at the Cusco airport to get the driver's contact info and pre-schedule pickups.

Why are coca leaf products recommended for visitors to Cusco?

Coca leaf products help prevent and cure symptoms of altitude sickness, which is a common threat due to Cusco's high altitude.

How does one get to Aguas Calientes, also known as 'Machu Picchu Pueblo'?

One can get to Aguas Calientes by hiking the Incan Trail, which is a four-day trek, or by taking a train from Cusco.

What are the two train providers in Cusco that can take passengers to Machu Picchu Pueblo Station?

The two train providers are Peru Rail and Inca Rail.

What is the cost of a round trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?

The cost of a round trip bus ticket is $24 per person.

How far in advance should Machu Picchu tickets be purchased?

Machu Picchu tickets should be purchased months in advance to ensure availability for the preferred time slots.

What are the different types of circuits available at Machu Picchu and what do they include?

There are four circuits at Machu Picchu: Circuit 1 is a 2-hour trek for the above Vantage Point photos, Circuit 2 is a 3-hour trek visiting everything with all three vantage points, Circuit 3 is a 1.5-hour trek on ground level for easier access, and Circuit 4 is a longer version of Circuit 3 that can be paired with Huayna Pichu Mountain tickets for additional views.

Why is it recommended to have a tour guide at Machu Picchu?

A tour guide is recommended to ensure visitors do not overlook significant aspects of the site and to understand its history and significance.

How can viewers find more information after watching the video?

Viewers can find more information and links in the video description below.