Machu Picchu is Peru’s attraction par excellence. Every year more and more visitors are encouraged to make a trip to the wonder of the world. In addition, thanks to its geographical location, it can be visited by hiking routes. One of the most popular routes and also regulated by the Ministry of Culture of Peru is the Inca Trail which lasts 4 days and 3 nights. This route allows you to know the mythical roads and trails of the Inca urbanists. In this blog we want to talk about the differences of doing the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or the classic route. Let’s know the main reasons why you can choose one of these two options.
- Machu Picchu and the options to reach the Inca site
- The classic trip to Machu Picchu
- An adventure to Machu Picchu
- The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- What does the service of a travel agency include?
- Main differences between the Inca Trail and the visit to Machu Picchu
- Recommendations to take into account in both cases
- Frequently asked questions
Machu Picchu and the options to reach the Inca site
The place that all tourists want to visit is the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. This Inca construction is located in the high jungle of Cusco, so getting to that point is varied and can be done in multiple ways. Here is more information about it:
Where is Machu Picchu located?
Machu Picchu is located in the high jungle, so if you are thinking of trekking or hiking there, it is one of the best options you will have.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu goes through the cloud forests, but first the cold mountains of the Cusco Andes. The journey and walking route takes you through Cusco, passes through Ollantaytambo and enters the high mountains that connect with the provinces of Urubamba and La Convención.
Machu Picchu is located in the district of Machu Picchu Pueblo, also known as Aguas Calientes, which belongs to the province of La Convención. This district is located about 100 kilometers away from Cusco.
- Altitude: 2 430 meters above sea level.
- Type of climate: The climate is semitropical, so it can rain, even during the dry season.
- Altitude sickness: Unlikely; however, you should consult a physician for clearance to hike the trail.
How to get to Machu Picchu?
Today it is possible to get to Machu Picchu very easily and effortlessly. There are several transportation services and options that allow you to make this route in a short time. That is why people choose to make the Full Day trips to Machu Picchu.
To reach Machu Picchu, at first it was complicated, since it could only be reached by hiking routes of several days. Nowadays, the most spectacular trekking route in South America, the Inca Trail, is also available. Let’s learn more about the ways to get to Machu Picchu and then make the respective comparison.
- The train trip to Machu Picchu – Today is the classic alternative to get to Machu Picchu. There are several train options and also the bimodal travel option. Currently, it is the most common way to travel, this because it allows you to make the trip to Machu Picchu in only one day.
- The trekking routes to Machu Picchu – Now there are several trekking routes to Machu Picchu. The main of these and also the one that is regulated by the Ministry of Culture is the Inca Trail in its two variations. However, there are other routes:
- Salkantay Trek Route – This is one of the most epic treks. The route follows the snow-capped Salkantay and connects to Machu Picchu via Hidroelectrica. It has 4 and 5 day options.
- Lares Trek Route – It is a cultural route, the first days you can do experiential tourism in communities near the district of Lares. There are options of 3 and 4 days, both routes begin with a visit to the thermal baths of Lares.
- Choquequirao Route – It is an extraordinary and quite demanding route. The way to get to Machu Picchu by this route is by trekking for a minimum of 7 days and other options of 8 and 9 days. It receives this name because it effectively enters and knows the archaeological site of Choquequirao, the sacred sister of Machu Picchu.
- An economical trip to Machu Picchu – This option also requires a hike. The hike starts from Hidroeléctrica, but first you have to make the trip to that point by minivan or car. This option requires 2 days to visit Machu Picchu comfortably.
This route to Machu Picchu has several names. Among them stands out the Economic Route or Amazon Route, these are an excellent option for those looking for another way to reach the wonder of the world. It can also represent a new way to get there. For those who decide to make this trip, it is recommended to visit the Mandor Gardens, where you can appreciate in better detail the flora and fauna of the place.
Train to Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu village
The classic trip to Machu Picchu
As we mentioned above, this is the train trip to Machu Picchu. This trip unlike the Inca Trail is much simpler and even much cheaper. It is for this reason that many people choose to make this trip. Below, we explain some of the details of this trip.
- Travel to Ollantaytambo – The trips to Machu Picchu have as main point the district of Ollantaytambo. This is because there you can find the train station. The train ride is essential to get there in less than 2 hours.
- Bimodal Service – The bimodal trip is the option that most of the trains offer. This service consists of making a first stretch to Ollantaytambo in the buses that the same agencies provide. Of course it can also be for a particular trip since it can be booked by only buying the train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
- Trains to Machu Picchu – There are more than 10 types of trains. These trains are divided into two companies with very similar services. The companies are Inca Rail and PeruRail. Both companies are very similar and have economic trains and luxury trains. This service will also be useful for those who wish to do the Inca Trail, either in 2 or 4 days.
- Machu Picchu Circuits – As for the visit to Machu Picchu there was an update. Now you can only do 3 different circuits. The routes that can be done will depend on the tickets. Now each ticket has a particular route.
- Entrance fees to Machu Picchu – The new entrances to Machu Picchu are the ones we will see below in this box:
| Circuit 1 or Panoramic | Circuit 2 or Classic Circuit | Circuit 3 or Royal Route |
|---|---|---|
| It allows you to appreciate the upper platform and other destinations that allow you to see a panoramic view of Machu Picchu. It does not allow the tour of the Inca citadel itself. | It allows to make the classic circuit of Machu Picchu, that is to say, the entrance to the Inca citadel and to have a better approach to the temples and other constructions. | It is one of the new circuits and allows a tour of the lower sector of Machu Picchu. It is possible to appreciate the wide esplanades and some of the temples. |
Entrance tickets are:
| Entrance tickets are:
| Entrance tickets are:
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(*) Tickets only valid during high season (01 June to 15 October).
An adventure to Machu Picchu
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu has two variations. One of them is 4 days and the second option is only 2 days. Reaching Machu Picchu following the traces of the Inca urban planners allows you to better appreciate all the Inca engineering. Also the extensive knowledge in topography and especially the movement of the Sun. The arrival to Inti Punku allows almost always to have a beautiful view. The best views can be appreciated at sunrise and sunset. Let’s know a little more about the Inca Trail route.
What is the Inca Trail? – The Inca roads are the urban traces made probably long before the Inca domination of this territory. There are records of roads traced by ancient cultures. However, as the Incas expanded territorially, they managed to unify all the communities and other destinations.
The Inca Roads, also known as Qhapac Ñam or Camino Real, reached a really extensive network of roads and all of them in perfect condition, that is, they were constantly undergoing maintenance. There are records that indicate that it was possible to get from the north of Colombia to the north of Chile and Argentina without much problem.
In addition, during the trek they could find tambos, or enclosures where they could stay and even take some food to continue on the road. There are also clear signs that the Inca trails also led to sacred sectors, such as shrines in the mountains and even huacas considered sacred. Today, many of these roads were reused and are still preserved. They were reused to lay out roads and were also preserved by the populations or communities. The same can be seen on the route to Machu Picchu.
Tourist observing the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
It is one of the highest rated trekking routes by trekking experts. The hike not only represents a challenge, but also a perfect opportunity to learn more about the urban distribution of the Incas and how they used their roads.
On the route to Machu Picchu you can find different attractions or archaeological sites where they will stand out for the construction of terraces, stone walls and the presence of some temples. The archaeological sites that can be visited are: Llaqtapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Corihuayrachina, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, Wiñayhuayna and Intipunku.
All the archaeological sites mentioned can be appreciated only during the 4-day trekking route. It is also important to mention that the route through the sites will depend on the campsites where you will spend the night. That is to say, you will have more time to visit an archaeological site compared to others. But, yes, you will be able to learn more about each of the Inca constructions that we mentioned.
- Route to Piscacucho or Chachabamba – To start any of the routes to Machu Picchu, you have to buy a train ticket and get off at Piscacucho or Chachabamba. The trains make a brief stop in both places for those who have to get off.
- Inca Trail 2 days – During the 2 day Inca Trail route you only have to hike during the first day. The hike will start at 9:00 am on average. It will be an arduous hike, lunch and the main rest will be at the nearby Wiñahuayna camp. After that it is estimated to reach Intipunku around 15:00 hours and Machu Picchu between 16:00 and 16:30 hours. There you will reach the upper platform from where you can appreciate the sunset.
- About the hike – The hike is quite demanding and those who do it are expected to be at least in good physical condition. In the Inca Trails you can find long stretches of stairs that will put your legs to the test. On the other hand, by hiring an authorized agency, you will be provided with all the equipment for the trek.
- The route that is followed – When doing the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu you can see different archaeological sites in addition to the roads that in themselves, are an attraction in itself. The archaeological sites that are known during the Inca Trail are Willkarakay – Llaqtapata – Wayllabamba – Llullupampa – Runkurakay – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñayhuayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu.
Tourists climbing the stone stairs
What does the service of a travel agency include?
Something important to keep in mind is that any interest in doing the Inca Trail route to Machu Picchu in any of its two options, requires contacting a travel agency authorized to sell this service.
This is because only authorized travel agencies on the route can perform this service and somehow operate it. They will be in charge of providing all the necessary equipment. However, it will be important to highlight what they must offer you.
- Transportation to the start of the hike. I.e. transportation to the train station and the train ticket.
- A travel guide, it is important to make the route with a person who is an expert in the route and also in the archaeological sites that we will visit.
- Safety equipment, the agencies are in charge of hiring porters who will have a first aid kit ready to use.
- Camp and food, the same porters will be in charge of having everything ready to spend the night. We talk about the camp and food for each of the days.
Finishing the Inca Trail
Main differences between the Inca Trail and the visit to Machu Picchu
Know the main differences between the Inca Trail and the classic visit to Machu Picchu, i.e. the route of a single day and making the trip by train. Although we already talked about some details that differentiate them, but here we will deepen some details.
| Detail | Inca Trail to Machu Picchu | One day trip to Machu Picchu |
|---|---|---|
| Duration of the experience | 4 days and 3 nights. | Only one day. |
| Experience | Long hikes, sleeping in camps and a strong contact with nature for at least 4 days. | Comfortable trips with beautiful views of the Vilcanota River and landscapes. All views from the train and upon arrival at Machu Picchu. |
| Difficulty | The difficulty has a high degree. It requires effort in many sections and you end up walking 45 kilometers. | Difficulty, very low. It can be made much easier by taking the ecological buses. The tour of Machu Picchu will depend on the chosen ticket. The travel time can last from 1 hour to 6 hours. |
| Landscapes | During the hike you can appreciate the contact and transformation of the mountains in the high jungle. That is to say, little by little you can appreciate the abundant vegetation of the place. | Views during the trip. All of them will be appreciated from a vehicle. However, when you arrive at Machu Picchu you will be able to choose between the tickets that suit you best. |
| Cost | This route has a higher cost due to the number of days and services required. The price varies between 250 to 700 USD. | The price of this trip will depend a lot on the ticket purchased to enter Machu Picchu and also on the train service purchased. Prices can vary from 220 to 1000 USD. This is because you can find luxury trains. |
| Cultural Immersion | The tourist who does this experience enjoys and experiences firsthand everything he or she hears from the guides. It is a good way to feel and connect with friends, other travelers and with nature itself. | There is an average immersion. However, this may depend on the tourist. Unfortunately, the trip will end very soon and it is normal for tourists to leave wanting more. |
| Availability | Like all entrance tickets to Machu Picchu has a limited capacity. In addition, during the month of February the gates are closed. This is due to the rainy season and to take advantage of the rainy season to maintain the roads. | Compared to the Inca Trail, there is more availability. Of course, you will have to pay attention to the availability of the ticket or route you want to do in Machu Picchu. Each of these has a different availability. |
Recommendations to take into account in both cases
- On any trip to Machu Picchu always carry a mosquito repellent.
- Dress according to the recommendations you receive from your travel agency.
- Carry only what is necessary, it is possible that carrying too much weight or extra clothing may be inconvenient.
- Before and during the trip be sure to hydrate yourself adequately.
- It is also recommended to use sunscreen.
- In rainy season (November to April) bring a waterproof poncho.
- In the dry season you can skip the previous point and have a waterproof jacket or similar.
- In rainy season (November to April) take a waterproof poncho.
- The trekking routes near Machu Picchu are only valid for people over 18 years old.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to buy my ticket in advance?
In the case of entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and access to the Inca Trail in any of its variants, you will need to do it in advance. Otherwise, it is possible that you will be left without the entrance ticket. Also, it is important to take advantage of the fact that the tickets, in both cases, can be purchased virtually and with secure digital payments.
How far in advance should I buy my admission tickets?
Much will depend on the type of ticket. It is advisable to do it at least 2 months in advance. In the case of the Classic Inca Trail or 4-day Inca Trail, it is recommended to do it 3 months or 4 months in advance. This is because they sell out very quickly, as do the tickets for Circuit 2 and the route to Huayna Picchu.
Can I only enter with the 10 entrance tickets?
No, in the case of the tickets you purchase for the Inca Trail, you can enter Machu Picchu with that ticket. In this sense, if you do not purchase one of the tickets, you can do the Inca Trail route for two days and have the possibility to enter Machu Picchu.
Are there any restrictions for minors?
So far there is no restriction as such. Children and older adults can still hike the trekking route without any problem. In the case of the latter, it is recommended that they have their doctor’s authorization. It also requires a good acclimatization before starting the hike.
Can I do any of these services privately?
Of course you can, especially the Inca Trail. In our web page, you can make the reservation of this service so that you can travel only with your family or friends. In this way, you will be able to better control the times and routes of the different attractions that you will visit.
By Inca Trail Machu Picchu - Last updated, 31-10-2024
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