Machu Picchu, which means, “main mountain” in Quechua, is one of the most popular spots to visit in Peru. Furthermore, Machu Picchu is considered one of the most impressive sights in the world and has been considered for nomination to be one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. “The Lost City of the Incas” sits on a mountain range above the Urubamba Valley and Urubamba River in Peru. Today, not only is the site considered the largest symbol of the Incan empire, but it has almost become an obligatory visit if you are traveling, or backpacking through Peru.
To get to Machu Picchu, the San Pedro Train Station in Cuzco offers service by Peru Rail to the Machu Picchu Pueblo Train Station. From the train station, visitors can choose to take the bus, about a 20 minute ride, up to Machu Picchu or you can choose the hour and half hike up and walk it yourself. Diehard backpackers might choose to hike the Inca trail to reach the sacred city. Around 25,000 people annually decide to take this trail to the center of the Cuzco jungle, in Machu Picchu. The trail, which begins at Qorihuayrachina, is 45km long and usually takes about three or four days to hike. Most hikers return to Cusco by train, but some choose to hike back down again. The hike is strenuous and hikers must be acclimated and stay aware of the trek and terrain. If acclimatization is needed, visitors can take a couple of days to visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the town of Pisac. There, guests can visit the traditional market and the Incan fortress and Ollantaytambo.
Once in Aguas Calientes, a town of Machu Picchu, guests can visit the hot springs located to the east. At this resort, guests lounge in the mineral baths and visit the resort’s snack bar. Along the Inca trail, there are something like 18 archaeological sites all of which outline the importance as well as the existence of the Incan empire. This includes city walls, agriculture structures, houses, and irrigation canals. Visitors will not leave the thick jungle unimpressed. However, there is plenty more to see even if you do not choose to take the Inca trail. The sheer vegetation of the Cuzco forest is enough to require several days of study. More than 90 species of orchids alone have been discovered in the jungle. Because of this the Cuzco forest is considered a flora sanctuary. Furthermore, many visitors choose to study the various array of snakes, birds, and mammals. Whie it is one thing to see wildlife on its own, it is quite another to see both nature and Incan architecture blended into a truly breathtaking, unforgettable and flawless landscape.
Bird or animal watching will require a pair of binoculars. First and foremost, the most important thing to bring is a water bottle. Be aware that food is prohibited. If absolutely necessary, make sure not to leave any evidence and be conscious to avoid littering. A pair of good boots will surely be of help along the way. Also, a poncho or rain gear might come in handy as will sunscreen. The sun is much stronger because of the high altitude. Keep in mind that backpacks and hiking packs are not allowed in the ruins. Camping is prohibited and almost all tourists will be staying in Aguas Calientes and hiking to the site during the day.
Nearly everyone stays in Aguas Calientes during the night between visits to the ruins. However, the best place to stay is the Rupa Wasi Eco Lodge Hostel. Rupa Wasi is an eco aware hostel that is devoted to the preservation of the wildlife and ecosystem of Machu Picchu. They encourage alternative energy, composting, and reforestation of the mountains. Rupa Wasi also offers tours of the city and even cooking classes. To find out more about Rupa Wasi and the beautiful sites around Machu Picchu go to MiniHostels.
