Summer Escapes at Machu Picchu

If you are willing to spend a great holiday in Peru, away from the hustle-bustle of the world, then Machu Picchu is the site that you must visit. This wonderful site is situated at the top of the mountain and is one of the most beautiful examples of ancient Inca architecture.

This ancient city is an engineering marvel that has water canals and great buildings that have survived the test of time. This magnificent and mysterious land can be visited only by 500 visitors per day due to government regulations. The Inca Trail and the beautiful city of Machu Picchu is the ultimate destination for spending a great time in summer while being in awe of the Incan empire that existed thousands of years ago.

Visiting Machu Picchu would not be a one-day trip. In fact, it is a 4-day extravaganza where you pass through the Inca Trail, a 27-mile uphill trek that would lead you to the Sacred Valley and finally to Machu Picchu. Day tours are also available for tourists who do not have much time on-board. These day-tours can be completed via bus or trains. If you have more time on board to explore the Incan region, then go on a hiking tour that lasts multiple days and travel through Choquequirao, Salkantav and Lares, a few lesser known but beautiful locations of the region. You can stay at Cuncani, in a small village called Andean village. This village has been developed to provide sustainable eco-tourism to this region and preserve the sanctity of the ancient ruins.

Train to Machu Picchu

Guinea pigs, known as cuy are very popular in this region and you would find many specialty restaurants selling wonderful dishes made with cuy. However, to get a true Incan experience, try some corn on the cob along with potato side dishes. You can buy locally made textiles from this region as well. However, if you are planning a trip to Machu Picchu in the summer, we advise you to keep yourself adequately hydrated. The site is located at the height of 11,000 feet above the sea level. Therefore, altitude sickness is common. It would be better to spend a couple of days in the Andean village and accommodating yourself with the climate before going to Machu Picchu.

Did you know that Machu Picchu is actually a part of Qhapaq Nan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Spend a summer exploring the lives of the Incan people and their engineering victories over the complex and harsh environment of Cusco. Don’t forget to plan a trip!