Machu Picchu, Peru

📍 Address The Machu Picchu site is located: About 6 km northwest of Aguas Calientes (Hot Springs Town) on a mountain Country: Peru Region: Cusco Region Altitude: Approximately 2,430 meters ⸻ 🕒 Opening Hours • Open daily • 06:00–17:30 (Last entry: 15:00) ⚠️ Entry must be within the time slot specified on the ticket; late entry is not allowed. ⸻ 🚉 Transportation ✅ Recommended route for general tourists (safe and efficient): 1. Depart from Cusco → Take a train to "Aguas Calientes (Hot Springs Town)" • Use PeruRail or IncaRail (journey takes about 3.5–4 hours) • It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season (June–August) 2. Take a shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes to the base of Machu Picchu (about 30 minutes) • Buses depart approximately every 10 minutes; single-trip tickets should be purchased in advance • Alternatively, you can hike up (about 1.5–2 hours, requires physical stamina) 3. Walk into the Machu Picchu site (tickets must be purchased in advance; passport and ticket will be checked) ⸻ 🌟 Reasons to Visit • 🏛️ One of the New Seven Wonders of the World: The Lost Inca City, built in the 15th century, still shrouded in mystery • ⛰️ Incredible architectural techniques: Stone walls built to fit the mountain terrain with precision, enduring centuries without mortar • 📸 Stunning scenery and spiritual energy: The mountain city surrounded by mist is breathtaking, often regarded as a place for spiritual cleansing • 🐾 Blend of ecology and culture: Spot llamas, Andean plants, and enjoy a paradise for history buffs and nature lovers ⸻ 🗺️ Suggested Follow-Up Itinerary ✅ Explore Inca culture & Cusco surroundings: • Sacred Valley: Pisac Market, Ollantaytambo Ruins • Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): Trek through colorful mountain ranges (requires acclimatization to high altitude) • Moray & Maras Salt Mines: Ancient Inca agricultural experiment site and white salt mines in the mountains ✅ Return to Cusco city for exploration: • Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) • Cusco Cathedral and colonial-era architecture • San Pedro Market: Experience local food and crafts ⸻ 🎫 Important Tips • Machu Picchu tickets must be booked weeks to months in advance (daily visitor limit) • Ticket types: Main site ticket / Including Huayna Picchu hike / Including Machu Picchu Mountain hike • Don’t forget to prepare: Passport, tickets, lightweight waterproof clothing, sunscreen, water bottle, hiking shoes