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One Day Tour to Machu Picchu

Reading : 3 min February 7 2020

One of the must-see spots in Cusco is Machu Picchu, also considered one of the Seven World Wonders, a place you will be able to discover if you set your mind to it.

Due to its location, the Machu Picchu citadel used to be hidden from the Spaniards, this is the reason it was maintained intact until the American explorer Hiram Bingham made the decision of showing the world where “paradise” was (referring to the citadel) .

Currently, this ‘World Wonder’ is very busy with tourists and this is why we have prepared a guide so you can enjoy your stay and have a better idea of how to choose a tour to Machu Picchu. Are you ready?

Let’s begin.

Why Machu Picchu?

Journey to Machu Picchu

The entrance to Machu Picchu is unique. As soon as you arrive you feel the mysticism that encaptures the place. You will be surprised by the grandeur of its structure.

The construction goes back to the XV century; and its purpose, till this day, is an enigma to humanity. There are records that only nobles, priests, and the “aqllas” (also called Virgins of the Sun) lived here.

Outside of the citadel were the peasants that labored the fields. Machu Picchu was divided into three areas: two of them were inhabited and one was used as a farming space made of an ample agricultural system and irrigation channels.

Which tour should you choose for Machu Picchu?

Tour to Machu Picchu

Keep in mind that, if you choose to travel to Machu Picchu, the best option is to purchase an organized tour. There are two types of tours:

One Day Tour to Machu Picchu

  • Also known as a ‘Machu Picchu Full Day Tour’, a super adventure for 15 continuous hours.
  • This plan is especially for people who do not have the opportunity to be in the city of Cusco for long and wish to go on quick adventures.
  • There are many ways to purchase a good tour. You can do it on the Internet or when you arrive to Cusco City (always planning ahead).
  • In general, this type of tour guarantees a train and bus tickets, a tour guide, an entrance ticket and lunch. If you wish to hire one, remember these guidelines.

Two Day Tour to Machu Picchu

  • This type of tour is meant for traveleres who have enough time to explore Machu Picchu in depth. It is an excellent choice if you are traveling with family, friends, children, and senior citizens.
  • Like the one day tour, you may purchase it online or in Cusco City.
  • Regularly, this type of service includes transportation, train and bus tickets, a shared tour guide, 1 hotel night and meals. Keep this in mind if you are going to hire a two day tour.

Final Recommendations Before Choosing a Machu Picchu Tour

Before planning your trip to Machu Picchu, remember that what is most important is the date. You need to have information on how to get there, which hotel is best, and the activities you can partake in during your stay in Cusco.

It is true there are too many options to consider, but it is vital to have a good idea of what you want.

If you are still having doubts, a quick solution is to wake up in Machu Picchu Town and enjoy a delicious breakfast at the Aguas Calientes market. The rest will depend on you and how adventurous you are feeling.

Once you have made up your mind, keep the following aspects present when traveling on a tour to Machu Picchu:

  • Make sure the tour is being organized by authorized tourist agencies with legitimate and safe websites.
  • The tours to Machu Picchu include an entrance ticket to the citadel, train and bus transportation, and transfer to the train station.
  • If you choose a two day tour, remember the Aguas Calientes hotel must be included.
  • Finally, remember to take your personal identification documents like your passport, ID, and some money so you can purchase good quality handicrafts from Aguas Calientes.

What to See in Machu Picchu

Templo del Sol

Temple of the Sun

Did you know there are many interesting sites you can visit once you enter Machu Picchu? We have made a list you can include in your itinerary:

Main Temple

It is considered the most important temple of all of Machu Picchu since the major ceremonies and rituals of the city took place here.

Sacred Plaza

Surrounded by some of the most amazing buildings of all of Machu Picchu like the Temple of Three Windows or the Priest’s House, it is considered the main worship site of the city.

Real Tomb

Even though it is not located in the Sacred Plaza, it is considered important because it is located beneath it. According to studies, the structures that are inside prove it was a funeral wake for the dead that belonged to the city’s elite.

Temple of the Sun

Of all of the buildings you will see in Machu Picchu, the Temple of the Sun is the biggest and has the best location.

Huayna Picchu Mountain

The Huayna Picchu Mountain (Wayna Pikchu in Quechua) is one of the most impressive tourist attractions of Machu Picchu. Walking to the top is one of the most reassuring experiences you will have during the trip.

The Secret Door

Machu Picchu hides many mysteries, among them is The Secret Door. The French Engineer, David Crespy, made the discovery of the place located underneath the precinct of The Three Fronts.

After several investigations using infrared light and ultrasonic bounce, the conclusion was made that The Secret Door perhaps guides to a precinct with abundant gold, silver, and mummies.

If you have an idea of what you wish to do and see on a tour to Machu Picchu, it is indispensable to plan ahead.

Now is your opportunity to live face-to-face one of the most incredible experiences of all; explore part of our tradition and fall in love with the land and its one-of-a-kind beauty.

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