FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS BEFORE VISITING MACHU PICCHU

If your choice is first to do sacred valley you could opt for this tour: MACHU PICCHU TOUR + SACRED VALLEY 2 DAYS  (https://www.andesperuexpeditions.com/tour/machu-picchu-sacred-valley-tour-2-days/), this tour makes a connection of the Sacred Valley and Machupichu.

• The choice between going to the Sacred Valley or Machu Picchu first depends on your visiting itinerary and preferences. Some prefer to visit the Sacred Valley earlier to acclimatize to the altitude.

The shortest hike to Machu Picchu is Inca Trail 2 days from Km 104 to Puente Inca, which takes around 5 to 6 hours. https://www.andesperuexpeditions.com/tour/short-inca-trail-to-machu-picchu-2-days/

Day 1:

• It starts at kilometer 104 of the Cusco-Machu Picchu railway.
• The hike includes visits to the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna.
• It ends at the Inca Bridge, where you take the train to Aguas Calientes.

Day 2:

• Start early in the morning.
• Hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
• Visit to the citadel of Machu Picchu with a guide.
• Option to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, if tickets are booked in advance.

This two-day trek is shorter and less demanding than the four-day Inca Trail, but still provides the experience of hiking this historic Inca trail and the opportunity to reach Machu Picchu on foot.

Yes, a beginner can visit Machu Picchu, but there are several important considerations to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

• Access by Train and Bus: The most comfortable way for beginners to visit Machu Picchu is to take a train from the city of Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). From Aguas Calientes, you can take a bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu. This method avoids the need for long walks and is accessible to most people.
• Short Hike: For those who want a bit of activity, there is a short hike from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The trail is paved and takes about 1 hour. It is a moderate option and suitable for beginners.
• Inca Jungle Trek: For those with a slightly higher fitness level, the Inca Jungle Trek option is an alternative that combines short hikes with activities such as biking and ziplining. This option allows for a more active experience, but is still accessible to fitness beginners.
• Avoid Extensive Trekking Routes: For beginners, it is recommended to avoid extensive trekking routes such as the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek, as these can be more challenging and require better fitness.
• Acclimatization: Be aware of the altitude of Machu Picchu. Cusco and Machu Picchu are at high altitudes, so it’s important to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude-related issues.
• Ticket and Guide Reservation: Regardless of experience level, it is recommended to book entrance tickets in advance and consider hiring a guide to gain valuable insight into the history and culture of Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu is accessible to beginners, and there are options to suit different levels of physical activity. The key is to plan ahead, choose the right route, and respect your physical boundaries to ensure a positive experience.

The amount of fitness required to hike Machu Picchu can vary depending on the route chosen and the focus of the visit. Here are some general considerations:

• Access by Train and Bus: If you plan to get to Machu Picchu by train and bus from Aguas Calientes, no significant level of fitness is required. This method is suitable for people with various physical conditions.
• Short Hike from Aguas Calientes: If you choose to hike from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu, it is recommended to have a moderate level of fitness. The trail is paved and takes about 1 hour.
• Trekking Treks: If you plan to do one of the more extensive trekking routes, such as the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek, a higher level of fitness will be required. These routes involve sustained hikes over several days and high altitudes.
• Altitude Acclimatization: The altitude of Cusco and Machu Picchu can affect some people. It’s important to acclimatize properly before undertaking any hike, especially if you’re coming from lower altitudes.
• Avoiding Health Problems: Regardless of fitness level, it’s crucial to be in good health. Consult with a medical professional before planning your visit, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.
• Alternative Routes: There are easier and shorter options available, such as the Camino de la Hidroelectrica, which involves a walk of approximately 3 hours from the Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes.
• Time to Visit Site: Within Machu Picchu, the amount of hiking can vary depending on how much time you plan to spend exploring. Although there are steeper areas within the site, most of the main areas are accessible with relative ease.

The fitness required to visit Machu Picchu largely depends on the route chosen and the level of activity you plan to do. Proper planning, acclimatization to altitude, and respect for your physical limits are essential to ensure a positive experience.

The decision to do the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) before or after visiting Machu Picchu will depend on your personal preferences, travel itinerary, and time availability. Here are some considerations to help you make a decision:

• Do the Rainbow Mountain before Machu Picchu:
  • Altitude Acclimatization: Rainbow Mountain is at a considerable altitude, and doing it before Machu Picchu can be beneficial to gradually acclimatize to high altitudes before visiting the Inca citadel.
  • Avoid Crowds: Rainbow Mountain is a popular attraction, but visiting before Machu Picchu can help you avoid the crowds, as Machu Picchu attracts a higher number of visitors.
  • Time Availability: If you have enough time on your itinerary, doing the Rainbow Mountain first could allow you to enjoy both experiences without rushing.
• Doing the Rainbow Mountain after Machu Picchu:
  • Rest After Machu Picchu: Visiting the Rainbow Mountain after Machu Picchu gives you the opportunity to relax and enjoy a different experience after exploring the Inca citadel.
  • Decrease the Risk of Exhaustion: Machu Picchu can be an intense experience, and doing the Rainbow Mountain afterwards allows you to avoid the risk of physical and mental exhaustion before your visit to Machu Picchu.
  • Itinerary Adjustment: Depending on your itinerary and schedule availability, it might be more practical to do the Rainbow Mountain after Machu Picchu.

In short, both options are viable and can offer amazing experiences. Consider your personal preferences, the time available, and your energy level when making the decision. Enjoy both wonders!

The best time slot to visit Machu Picchu is usually considered early in the morning. Here are a few reasons:

• Less influx of visitors: In the early morning, the number of visitors is usually smaller, which provides a quieter experience and allows you to enjoy the serenity of the place without the crowds.
• Better lighting conditions: Morning light offers softer and warmer lighting conditions, which can be beneficial for photography. In addition, it allows you to better appreciate the architectural details of Machu Picchu.
• Cooler weather: Temperatures are usually cooler in the morning, which can make the visit more comfortable, especially on hot days. In addition, the chance of cloud cover is lower in the early hours of the day.
• Access to the mountains: If you have tickets to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, early morning entry will allow you to make the most of these experiences, as they have specific schedules.

When planning your visit, keep in mind that it is advisable to arrive early to make the most of Machu Picchu’s calm atmosphere and favorable lighting conditions in the morning.

There is no set age limit to visit Machu Picchu. People of all ages, including children and seniors, can enjoy this archaeological wonder. However, it is important to keep a few considerations in mind to ensure a comfortable and safe visit, especially for those at the younger or older ends:

• Physical Access: Areas within Machu Picchu may have steep stairs and uneven terrain. If you’re traveling with young children or older people, consider their mobility and physical stamina.
• Altitude: The altitude of Machu Picchu and the surrounding region can affect some people, especially those who are not used to high altitudes. It is recommended to acclimatize properly before visiting.
• Specific Tours: If you’re traveling with children or older adults, you might consider specific tours that suit their needs and pace.
• Heights Care: For young and old, it is important to take precautions at high altitudes, such as drinking enough water and avoiding overexertion.
• Safety: Machu Picchu is a historic and natural site, and safety is a priority. Caution should be exercised and the instructions of the site staff should be followed.

In short, there is no specific age restriction for visiting Machu Picchu, but it is essential to take into account individual needs and take extra precautions based on age and health conditions. Overall, Machu Picchu is accessible to visitors of all ages, and many children and seniors have enjoyed this historical wonder

Yes, it is possible to hike Machu Picchu without intensive training, but there are some important considerations you should keep in mind to ensure a comfortable and safe experience:

• Short Hike from Aguas Calientes: Even if you decide to hike from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu, the trail is paved and takes about 1 hour. No extensive training is required for this short hike.
• Inca Jungle Trek or Hydroelectric Trail: If you are looking for a more active experience, there are options such as the Inca Jungle Trail or the Hydroelectric Trail. These routes involve hiking, biking, or ziplining, but don’t require extensive training.
• Altitude Acclimatization: The altitude of Cusco and Machu Picchu can affect some people. Be sure to acclimatize properly before visiting these altitudes.
• Respect for Personal Boundaries: Listen to your body and don’t push yourself beyond your limits. If you feel fatigued or unwell, take breaks and hydrate properly.
• Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking, especially if you plan to explore the different levels and structures of Machu Picchu.

Remember that the key is to tailor your visit to your comfort level and preferences. While some visitors prefer more active options, others may opt for more comfortable and less physically demanding methods of transportation. Enjoy your visit to Machu Picchu!

The most difficult trek to Machu Picchu is generally considered to be the Salkantay Route. Although the difficulty can vary depending on individual perspective and experience, the Salkantay Route is known for offering considerable physical challenge due to several factors:

• Altitude: The Salkantay Trek reaches high altitudes, including the mountain pass, which exceeds 4,600 meters above sea level. Altitude can present challenges for acclimatization and affect physical endurance.
• Challenging Terrain: The terrain on the Salkantay Route can be steep and rocky in certain sections, requiring good fitness and hiking skills.
• Varied Climate: The hike traverses diverse ecosystems, from rainforests to alpine landscapes. This means that hikers may face variable weather conditions, such as rain, cold, and wind.
• Distance and Duration: Although the total distance is not the longest among the hiking options to Machu Picchu, the duration and accumulation of effort during the hiking days can be exhausting.

Importantly, the perception of difficulty can vary depending on physical preparation, hiking experience, and individual acclimatization. Other routes to Machu Picchu, such as the Inca Trail, also present challenges, but the Salkantay Trek is often noted for its level of difficulty. Before embarking on any trek to Machu Picchu, it is advisable to evaluate your skills and physical condition, in addition to properly preparing for the conditions of the trek.

The chance of a 70-year-old hiking the Inca Trail largely depends on their overall health, fitness level, and trekking experience. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

• General Health: It is critical that the person is in good health and does not have medical conditions that could affect their ability to take an extensive and challenging walk.
• Physical Condition: Age alone is not a determining factor. Some people in their 70s may be in excellent physical shape, while others may have limitations. Physical capacity and endurance are key factors.
• Trekking Experience: If the person has trekking experience and is used to challenging terrain, this could make it easier to adapt to the Inca Trail.
• Alternative Routes: While the classic Inca Trail can be challenging, there are shorter, less steep options available, such as the day hike to Machu Picchu or the Hydroelectric Trail.
• Altitude Acclimatization: Proper altitude acclimatization is essential, as the Inca Trail reaches considerable altitudes. It’s important to take the time to adjust before heading out on the hike.
• Guided Assistance: Joining a guided tour can be beneficial, as guides are trained to handle diverse situations and can provide additional support.
• Medical Consultation: Before embarking on the Inca Trail, a medical consultation is recommended to ensure that the person is physically fit for the trek.

It is recommended to do the 2-day road tour (https://www.andesperuexpeditions.com/tour/short-inca-trail-to-machu-picchu-2-days/), this tour is a moderate walk and a good enjoyment of landscapes and views

Age is not the only determining factor, but hiking the Inca Trail at age 70 can be challenging due to the altitude and overall physical demand, many seniors enjoy the Inca Trail with proper precautions and planning. However, it is important to assess the individual situation and make decisions based on health and physical ability. It is always advisable to speak with a medical professional before undertaking an extensive hike, especially at high altitudes.