The Ultimate Guide to Trekking to Machu Picchu with Happy Gringo Tours

Introduction

Whether you are an adventure lover or a history buff, at Happy Gringo Tours we have everything covered. We specialize in offering guided visits to Machu Picchu that are well planned to ensure a good blend of comfort and challenge. We strive to make your visit richly enjoyable by providing stunning views, diverse cultural locations, and magnificent ancient Inca paths. If you are looking for the best tips on how to get to Machu Picchu, then you have just found the right place.

Why Choose Happy Gringo Tours for Your Trek to Machu Picchu?

By offering great service for many years, Happy Gringo Tours has established itself as the top agency in Peru for Machu Picchu travel. We offer all types of treks, including classic ones like the Inca Trail, as well as lesser known ones such as Lares Trek and Choquequirao Trek. Our dedication to responsible tourism, combined with our professional guides, small groups, and our overall service, guarantee satisfaction for travelers to Machu Picchu. 

Reasons to Visit Machu Picchu

Due to its exceptional location, Incan construction, and rich history, Machu Picchu is not only an archaeological site but a world-famous landmark as well. Because of its stunning peaks and beautiful cloud forest, it stands as one of the most sought after locations among many travelers around the globe. For those looking to make the most out of their traveling experience, Machu Picchu promises culture, adventure, and jaw-dropping views.

Best Time to Travel to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is open all year round, but the best time to visit depends on weather and crowd levels:

• Dry Season (May-September): It is considered the peak trekking period due to it having the clearest skies. This, however, leads to the greatest number of tourists.  
• Shoulder Seasons (April and October): These months have a delightful balance in relation to weather patterns and crowds which result in fantastic experiences trips to Machu Picchu.
• Wet Season (November-March): During these months one should expect a cozy level of tourism despite the heavy rains.

How to Get to Machu Picchu

By Train

Taking a train is the most comfortable way to travel to Machu Picchu. Options include:

• Luxury Train Services: Offering gourmet meals and panoramic views.
• Scenic Tourist Trains: With large windows and comfortable seating.
• Budget-Friendly Trains: Ideal for those looking to save while still enjoying stunning views. Trains depart from Cusco, Ollantaytambo, and the Sacred Valley, taking you to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.

By Bus and Hiking

For a less expensive, yet adventurous option, tourists might choose the Hydroelectric Route: 

• Take a bus from Cusco to the Hydroelectric station.  
• Hike along the railway tracks to Aguas Calientes.  
• Stay overnight and take an early morning bus to Machu Picchu. This set of movements is perfect for landscape lovers and adventure hikers.  

Hiking Trails to Machu Picchu

Various hiking trails lead to Machu Picchu with amazing views and unique things to experience:  

• Inca trail (4 days): A amazing traditional route filled with ancient ruins.  
• Short Inca Trail (2 days): For rush travelers.  
• Lares Trek: A trek through Andean Villages filled with culture.  
• Salkantay Trek: High altitude trek with mind blowing views of mountains.  
• Choquequirao Trek: Treks onto Incan site considered Machu Picchu’s “sister city”.

Top Trekking Options to Machu Picchu

1 The 4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

The Lares Trek stands out as a charming substitute for the Inca Trail, boasting captivating views while traversing remote Andean settlements. It’s breathtaking in every aspect! Important Takeaways:

• The trails are not as congested.
• There is a chance to engage with the indigenous Quechua communities.
• They offer outstanding views of snow covered mountain peaks and snow.

2. Classic Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

This trek is well suited for travelers looking to experience some level of culture together with tourism. Important Takeaways:

• Natural hot springs around Lares.
• Striking views of Sacred Valley.
• Opportunity to spot llamas and alpacas in the wild.

3. Two-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The Inca Trail is more famous than her sister trails. Time is short? The Inca Trail in two days is designed just for you! It highlights:

• Visit to Wiñay Wayna ruins which are simply stunning.
• Walking through the cloud forest.
• Never to be forgotten early morning view of Machu Picchu.

4. Choquequirao Trek: The Hidden Gem

The Choquequirao Trek is often neglected, but this trek is perfect for people who appreciate the less distinct marvels of the world and the focus is not solely on sightseeing. This trail is very strenuous but extremely scenic, containing:

• Machu Picchu’s lesser known “sister city” named Choquequirao along it’s stunning Andean riviera.
• Extraordinary landscapes from the Andes.
• A vigorous and remote experience that is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Places to Stay Near Machu Picchu

When heading to Machu Picchu, one can choose the kind of accommodation they want from the following:

• Luxury Hotels – Beautiful views with premium services.
• Mid-range Hotels – Great service and comfortable accommodation.
• Budget Hostels – Great lodging options for backpackers. Aguas Calientes has options for all types of travelers.

Packing List for Your Trip to Machu Picchu

In order to have a great trip to Machu Picchu, it is necessary to pack:

• Good quality hiking boots.
• Clothes that are lightweight and can wick moisture.
• Rain clothing (especially for wet season).
• Bug spray and sunscreen.
• Water bottle and water purification tablets.
• Good camera to take pictures of the amazing views.
• Some cash for local spending money (ATM’s are scarce in Aguas Calientes).