Cusco is the center of the Inca civilization, as well as the central starting point for a person visiting Machu Picchu. This beautiful mountain city, high in the Andes, offers everything you need before you travel, including hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, and transportation.
Cusco is the city where most of the travelers stop and spend a day or two to adapt to the altitude before they proceed with their journey. This is the base point on which you can take trains or participate in guided tours, or take adventure treks, which will get you to the great Inca citadel. It is all Cusco as far as you want to have a relaxing trip or an exciting adventure.
The initial time I was reminded of Machu Picchu is still so fresh. After several hours of journeying between Cusco and the excitement stirring in me, I was able to view the old citadel that was nestled between big green mountains. Although I did not take the long hike to the Inca Trail this time, the moment was equally magical. I had always wanted to have this type of experience in Machu Picchu, and being there since it was the beginning of my trip in the ancient city of Cusco made it even more unique.
Cusco and Trip preparations
My trip started in the city of Cusco, which immediately emanated with life in terms of culture, history, and energy. This is what the tight stone-covered streets, the vibrant fabrics, and the aroma of fresh coca tea all made me think that I had entered a different world. I spent two days here so as to get used to the altitude and also arrange how I would reach Machu Picchu in various ways. Cusco is truly the ideal point of entry. It all begins here: the trains, the guided tours, and the treks.
My first evening was spent in the Plaza de Armas dallying around and feeling excited and, to some extent, nervous. I then began to research my alternatives for getting to Machu Picchu.
Recreational view: Train, Sacred Valley, or Trekking
Each of the tourists I encountered in Cusco had his or her narrative and his plan. Others were using the popular Inca Trail, some were hiking far, such as the Salkantay trail, and most were using the easy way-by train. I wanted to know every possibility, and as such, I looked at each option.
Option 1: The Train Ride (Cozy and Scenic)
The train journey appeared such an adventure of serenity to experience the Andes. It passes by brilliant landscapes and gradually gets into the green cloud forest that encircles Aguas Calientes. Several tourists suggested that they should take a full package, such as Machu Picchu day tours, which takes care of everything, including Cusco transportation and a guided tour.
Option 2: Exploring the Sacred Valley First (Cultural and Relaxed)
Another thing that came to my mind was visiting the Sacred Valley and then moving on to Machu Picchu. During the trip, the names of such places as Pisac and Ollantaytambo sounded insane, being full of ruins and typical markets. The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu 2-Day Tour appeared to be an ideal choice so far, as one would like to enjoy a mixture of history, views, and comfort.
Option 3: The Adventure Treks
Although I did not make a long hike, spending several days in the area, I encountered hikers on their way to the Short Inca Trail 2 Days, which is a shorter version of the adventure, yet ending at the Sun Gate. Some people were thrilled about the Salkantay Trek 4 Days, which is a more complex path that crosses through glaciers and jungle. I admired them more after hearing their stories.
Starting My Personal Expedition to Machu Picchu
When I came there, I had woken up in the early morning, earlier than the sun started shining in Cusco, and my face felt cold in the morning mountain air. Early mornings in the Andes are just like that; there is something mystical about them, almost as though the mountains were also waking up.
The Machu Picchu road had a scenic ride in Cusco, starting its long way. The city faded behind me, and the mountains rose higher, and the valleys appeared. Despite the number of photos that I had already seen, real landscapes were more impressive.
I was excited as I eventually arrived at Ollantaytambo, where I took the train. The train windows were enormous, and each turn in the valley seemed to be viewed through a live nature documentary. The river clashed on our side, the clouds were almost floating over the peaks, and we were gradually getting farther into the forest, and we were going to Aguas Calientes.
Aguas Calientes: The Last Leg
Aguas Calientes was alive with tourists from all over the world. The buses keep ascending the winding road to Machu Picchu out of this small town. I entered the queue, boarded the plane, and saw the mountains growing higher and higher as we made our approach to the archaeological site.
As the bus finally arrived at the entrance, I was in a state of nervousness and excitement. This was the time I had been thinking about all the years.
Machu Picchu: The Moment that Stays With You
I was walking through the entrance and making my first steps, with the help of the stone path, and my heartbeat was increasing. And there was Machu Picchu as I saw it–between the mountains quietly seated, smooth morning clouds floating over the mountains.
It was all I had anticipated, but somehow greater. I have lingered there a long time and gazed in. I could see llamas grazing peacefully on the terraces, as though they were the owners of the same, which, quite frankly, they probably are. I was slowly strolling around the ruins, feeling the cold stones, and picturing the life of the people who had dwelled here in this lost city.
Although it was not a punishing 4-day hike as was the case on this occasion, I still got a profound feeling of satisfaction. This moment was significant in its own right due to the effort involved in traveling, planning, and getting up early. The further I go, the further I realize why Machu Picchu is among the great wonders of the world.
My Top 10 tips when visiting Machu Picchu in Cusco
In my experience, the most convenient and sure ways of visiting are:
✔ Take the train
Perfect if you want comfort. You may also reserve convenient packages such as Machu Picchu day tours to be able to spend stress-free on the trip.
✔ Add it to the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu 2-Day Tour is a combination of culture, history, and leisure.
✔ Try a short hike
The Short Inca Trail 2 Days provides you with the entrance of the magic Sun Gate with less duration and less effort.
✔ Go all-in with adventure
The trek is recommended to people who love nature and have traveled and hiked around before, especially the Salkantay Trek 4 Days.
✔ Book early
Train and Machu Picchu tickets are sold out quickly- particularly during the high season.
Concluding Remarks: A Travel I Can Never Forget
My visit to Machu Picchu, Cusco, was one of the best experiences of my life. It will be an adventure that you will always remember, whether you are on a train,a cultural tour, or a difficult trek. The mix of nature, history, and quiet magic makes this place unforgettable.
If you’re planning your own visit, start in Cusco, choose the route that suits your style, and get ready for one of the most inspiring adventures you’ll ever take.
