Machu Picchu has long been a destination of wonder and surprise, a symbol of the Inca Empire’s might and engineering, and a place of exquisite beauty. Visitors flock to this mysterious “Lost City,” situated some 8,000 feet above sea level and shrouded in the mist of the Peruvian Andes Mountains.
But, where is the closest city to Machu Picchu? While it is not a large metropolis, Cuzco is one of the closest cities to Machu Picchu and only some 30 miles away. First founded in the 11th century, this was once the capital of the Inca Empire and today serves as the gateway for tourists to Machu Picchu. Indeed, Cuzco is Peru’s oldest continuously inhabited city and is considered its “cultural capital.”
Although it is a small city, Cuzco nevertheless attracts major tourism as an international hub for adventure and exploration. A great deal of the recent tourism to Peru, and in particular Machu Picchu, can be attributed to the stabilizing of the previously tumultuous security situation in the country. Tourism numbers have more than tripled since 2002.
Recognizing the importance of such development, the government of Peru has undertaken a massive rebranding project to promote the country as a safe and desirable tourist destination. As such, Peru has allocated greater resources to tourism, bringing thousands of visitors flocking to both Cuzco and Machu Picchu. This, in turn, has provided new opportunities in terms of employment, as well as a great boon to both the local and national economies.
Despite its newfound popularity, Machu Picchu still presents a challenge to visitors due to its remote location and the unique weather and terrain of the Andes range. However, this difficulty only serves to add to the mystique and grandeur of the destination. Non-stop flights and plenty of high-speed trains departing from Cuzco, along with a myriad of tour and trekking packages, have made Machu Picchu more accessible than ever before.
Of course, in order to make the most of your visit to Machu Picchu, it is highly recommended that visitors stay in nearby Cuzco for a few days to get a feel for the culture of the region. Moreover, visitors can also take advantage of many other activities that can be organized in and around the city, including visits to the nearby Sacred Valley and Sacred Lake, both of which are well-known for their incredible natural beauty.
In addition, the city of Cuzco is home to a rich and vibrant local culture, marked by colonial churches, traditional art and craft markets, and famous archaeological sites such as Saksaywaman and Coricancha. All of these add to the unique charm of the town and can make a perfect compliment to a Machu Picchu adventure.
Adventurist Activities in Cuzco
Cuzco itself is also a great place for adventure activities, particularly whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and canyoning. Visitors eager to feel the adrenaline rush can easily find a tour guide and book a tour, or if more daring, explore the action-packed landscape on their own.
The area around Cuzco serves up some really unique opportunities. It has great trails for biking lovers, perfect beach spots for surfers, and an abundance of birds, wild flowers, butterflies and plants that are just waiting to be discovered. It is easy to see why Cuzco has become such a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Safety Measures And Precautions
Nonetheless, as with all adventures, safety must be taken seriously when visiting Cuzco and Machu Picchu. As always, contact a local guide or tour operator prior to your visit and be aware of your environment. High-altitude sickness, for example, can be a serious risk for travellers, so ensure that you are aware of the symptoms and take precautions.
It is also important to be up to date on any potential safety issues in the region by checking with your nation’s foreign ministry or local Consulate in Peru. As long as you are cautious and informed, your trip to Cuzco and Machu Picchu should be a safe and exciting one.
Accommodation Options and Cost
Accommodations in Cuzco range from cheap hostels and mid-range hotels to luxurious resorts and private apartments. The price range depends on the location and type of accommodation, but the cost of living in the area is quite moderate and within most people’s budget.
Alternatively, if you are more adventurous and looking for some alone time in the natural environment, there are plenty of inexpensive camping sites and outdoor activities for you to explore. This is a great way to get truly off the beaten track and explore the natural landscape around Machu Picchu.
Sustainable Tourism
In the present day, tourism to Machu Picchu, and indeed to any location, is all about sustainability. We must be respectful of the environment, the culture and the people that call this place home. As such, it is essential that all visitors consider the impact they can have in the event of their visit.
This means that any tour or adventurer should be conscious of the environment and use only eco-friendly practices to reduce their impact on the local community and the surrounding environment. Thankfully, this can be achieved relatively easily and is becoming much more common with the increasingly accessible and affordable options for visitors.
Transport Options
Visitors traveling to Machu Picchu from Cuzco can choose from a variety of transport options. Besides the well-known Peru Rail, there are regular buses and mini-vans that depart daily from the Plaza de Armas station in Cuzco, both to nearby and more distant destinations. Taxis are also readily available and relatively affordable.
For a truly awe-inspiring view of Machu Picchu, travelers can take the quick flight on a helicopter from Cuzco. This will give you a bird’s eye view of the beautiful ruins, but such flights must be organized in advance and are a bit more expensive.
Things to Do In Cuzco
Cuzco is also home to an array of attractions and activities. In addition to its museums and colonial architecture, the city is filled with vibrant bars and cafes as well as numerous shops and markets for shopping. Tourists could take the time to explore the narrow cobblestone streets, experience the colorful festivals and traditional dances in the surrounding villages, or simply lounge around the local parks.
Furthermore, if you find yourself with a few extra days, then it is definitely worth taking the time to check out Cuzco’s several Incan archaeological sites, such as the Sacsayhuaman fortress or Ollantaytambo archeological complex. These offer a fascinating glimpse into the ancient empire and its intriguing history.
