VISIT PERU

ALPHA VOYAGERS
Jul 12, 2024
5 min read

Machu Picchu, commonly known as the lost city of the Incas, holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Situated amidst the Andean mountains of Peru, this archaeological gem attracts millions of visitors annually. Renowned for its intricate dry stone architecture, the site features buildings crafted with precision, often aligning with celestial bodies, and offering sweeping panoramic vistas.

Peru, situated in western South America, is a country of remarkable diversity, boasting a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Here's a deeper dive into some aspects of Peru:

Must see attractions:

Ollantaytambo is not just a gateway to Machu Picchu. It’s a destination with its own set of attractions:

Ollantaytambo Fortress: A massive Inca fortress with large stone terraces on a hillside.

Temple of the Sun: A part of the fortress known for its six monoliths.

Old Town: Wander through the cobblestone streets and experience the inca architecture.

PRO TIP: Don’t miss the local markets for some unique souvenirs.

Here are some budget friendly tours in Ollantaytambo ( CLICK HERE )

Private Sacred Valley Tours ( CLICK HERE )

Getting there

Airport to land at : The Journey to Machu Picchu often begins with an international flight to Peru. The most common entry points are:

Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM): Located in Lima, this is the primary international gateway to Peru.

Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ): Situated in Cusco, this airport is closer to Machu Picchu but has fewer international connections.

recommendation: Most travelers opt for a flight to Lima followed by a domestic flight to Cusco. This often proves to be more economical and offers greater flexibility in terms of flight options.

Visa Requirements: Before you book your flight, it’s crucial to check visa requirements. Citizens from the USA do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. However, it’s advisable to check the most current visa policies to avoid any last minute complication.

Peruvian culture is a vibrant tapestry woven from indigenous, European, African, and Asian influences. The country celebrates a rich tapestry of traditions, languages, music, dance, and festivals, with each region offering its own unique cultural identity.

Peru is a stunning destination with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here's a guide to help you plan your trip:

Geography: Peru is incredibly diverse geographically, encompassing a variety of landscapes, from the arid coastal desert along the Pacific coast to the towering peaks of the Andes Mountains to the lush Amazon rainforest in the east. This diversity makes Peru a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

History and Culture: Peru has a fascinating history that predates the Inca Empire, with civilizations like the Norte Chico, Moche, and Nazca leaving behind impressive archaeological sites and artifacts. The Inca Empire, which flourished in the 15th and early 16th centuries, is perhaps the most well-known pre-Columbian civilization, with Machu Picchu being its most iconic legacy.

Minimum Days Required

A trip to Machu Picchu is not something to be rushed. At very least, you should plan for:

Two days in Ollantaytambo: One day for arrival/ acclimation, another for explorations of the different sites in the Sacred Valley.

One day at Machu Picchu: Take the 90 minute train and explore the site, then take a train to Ollantaytambo and either stay one more night or take a 2-hour taxi ride to Cusco.

One or two days in Cusco: Plenty to see here.

IDEAL ITINERARY:

For those who have more time, an ideal itinerary would look like this:

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco, and travel to Ollantaytambo for acclimatization. Take a short day tour in the Scared City.
Day 2: Explore Ollantaytambo and a full Sacred Valley tour.
Day 3: Trip to Machu Picchu.
Day 4: Additional exploration and city tour in Cusco.
Day 5 & 6: Explore other adventure tours in the surrounding areas.

IN MACHU PICCHU

Machu Picchu itself is a wonder, but within it, there are several key attractions:

The Sun Gate (Inti Punku): Offers a panoramic view of the entire ruin.

Temple of the Three Windows: Known for its trapazoidal windows that offer scenic views.

The Inihuatana Stone: Believed to have been an astronomical clock or calendar.

Recommendations: Hiring a local guide can enrich your experience, providing historical context to what you’re seeing.

Budget friendly tickets here

- Machu Picchu Entrance ( CLICK HERE )

- Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Private ( CLICK HERE )

- See other options ( CLICK HERE )

LAGUNA HUMANTAY

Check out those stunning views of Laguna Humantay! It's like Mother Nature showing off her best work.

The Lake: The main attraction is, of course, the lake itself. The vibrant blue-green color is almost surreal.

The Hike: The journey to the lake is just as rewarding as the destination. You’ll pass through beautiful landscapes, including valleys, streams, and possibly even some wildlife.

Duration: The hike usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours each way, depending on your pace and how well you handle the altitude.

Spiritual Significance: The lake is considered sacred by the local Quechua people. Many visitors leave offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth) at the lake’s edge.

SEE TOUR OPTIONS --->

VINICUNCA (RAINBOW MOUNTAIN)

Rainbow Mountain, or as the locals call it, Vinicunca. It's like Mother Nature decided to show off her painting skills. Here’s the lowdown:

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging. Not a walk in the park, but totally worth it.

Duration: The hike usually takes about3-4 hours round trip. Depends on how many selfies you take.

Scenic Views: The mountain is famous for its vibrant, multi-colored stripes, which are due to the mineral deposits. Think of it as nature’s rainbow cake.

Best Time to Visit: May to September. The dry season means clearer skies and better views.

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INCA TRAIL

The Inca Trail! It's like the ultimate pilgrimage for adventure junkies and history buffs alike. Here’s the scoop:

The Inca Trail is part of a larger network of trails called the Qhapaq Ñan, which once spanned over 30,000 kilometers (18,641 miles) across the Inca Empire. Talk about a road trip!

Scenic Views: From lush cloud forests to high alpine tundra, the trail offers a variety of landscapes. It’s like hiking through different worlds

Length: About 42 kilometers (26 miles). It’s like running a marathon, but with way better views.

Duration: Typically 4 days and 3 nights. You’ll be camping under the stars, so pack your marshmallows.

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging. It’s not a walk in the park, but hey, no pain, no gain, right?

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SALKANTAY MOUNTAIN

The Salkantay Trek! You’re in for a treat. This trek is like the rockstar sibling of the Inca Trail, but with fewer crowds and more jaw-dropping scenery. Here’s the lowdown:

Duration: Typically 5 days, but you can customize it.

Distance: Around 74 km (46 miles).- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging. You’ll need to be in decent shape..

Permits: No need for permits like the Inca Trail, but book in advance for guided tours.

Diverse Landscapes: From snow-capped peaks to lush jungles.

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