How to Get to Macchu Pichu Without the Incan Trail

The magical splendor of Macchu Pichu is the number one destination for many adventure travelers spending time touring the South American continent. Situated at a dizzying 7,875 feet above sea level, Macchu Pichu, also referred to a "The Lost City of the Incas," was built around 1450 and abandoned approximately 100 years later during the Spanish conquest. American historian Hiram Bingham brought worldwide attention to the Machu Picchu in 1911 and tourists have been flocking there since. Considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. As they say, “getting there is half the fun,” and for some the fun is doubled by not taking the Incan Trail, a two to three-day trek in the steep Andean mountains.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. 
   The town of Agua Caliente is the stop before Machu Picchu

   Shape up. Eat light meals, abstain from alcohol and avoid overexertion. Though absolutely stunning, the environment is rough. High altitudes, bone dry air, and varied temperatures wreak havoc with the body.

2. Follow the rules. The people and government of Peru are very generous in sharing their country's natural wonders. Good manners and good sense dictate you follow their rules. For example, don't take anything from the archaeological site.

3. 
   Machu Picchu denizens

   Acclimate to the altitude. Spend at least two to three days getting used to the thin air in Cuzco, the city from where most travelers begin the road to Machu Picchu. Cuzco is over 10,000 feet above sea level.

4. Plan how long you want to stay at Machu Picchu. You can’t spend the night there, but you can go back the next day. Alternatively, you could spend a few hours and then head out. Pack according to your plans.

5. 
   Scene from the train ride to Machu Picchu

   Reserve a train ticket. The train from Cuzco to Agua Caliente takes four hours and tickets must be purchased in advance. The trains leave early in the day. There are agents all over Cuzco who can help you with reservations.

6. Board a bus at Agua Caliente. The bus terminal is a short walk from the train station. You can’t miss it. From Agua Caliente the bus ride, under 30 minutes, is windy and twisty. Enter the site. From the bus, you’ll be left off at Machu Picchu’s entrance. Explore, enjoy and marvel.

Tips & Warnings

• After a day of climbing in high altitudes, consider a massage. There are plenty of massage therapists available in Agua Caliente.
• Altitude sickness (soroche) is serious business. Take special care to go slowly and consider some of the local remedies.
• Plan on the tickets and admissions being more expensive than you thought. Machu Picchu is a huge source of income for Peru.