I recently went to Machu Picchu and learned a few things along the way that I would like to share with you. The tips I am giving are from my own personal experience. If you are considering traveling to Machu Picchu you should check out my last post (link below) where I wrote about the fastest way to get to Machu Picchu to avoid wasting time. https://carolyntravels.travel.blog/2019/09/27/fastest-way-to-get-to-machu-picchu-in-5-steps/
Passport
Bring your passport so you don’t miss the opportunity to stamp it in Machu Picchu (next to the bathrooms). How cool is to have a wonder of the world stamp on your passport? A warning though..is probably going to be a long line.
Food and Restrooms
There are no restrooms inside Machu Picchu. However there are restrooms available outside the main entrance for 1 sol. I highly suggest for you to use it before climbing up because you will be spending a few hours exploring Machu Picchu. There is also a small restaurant outside the entrance and some vending machines next to the restrooms in case you want to get some last minute snacks.
Weather
The weather in Peru is very unpredictable. For example, the day I went to Machu Picchu the weather went from poring cold rain to cloudy skies to fog to a beautiful hot sunny day all in matter of 4 hours. That’s how unpredictable the weather is in Machu Picchu. I suggest for you to layer up so you can adjust as the temperature changes.
Altitude
If you one of those certain individuals that has been affected by the altitude in Cusco you in luck. Machu Picchu has a lower altitude than Cusco so you wont get altitude sickness. That’s a relief because everyone can enjoy one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Time and Walking
Machu Picchu is huge and it will involve a lot of walking so be prepared to spend an entire morning there. Trust me time flies when you are having fun so I suggest not to plan anything else that morning if your time permits. Also prepare yourself for some climbing and walking on narrow and difficult paths. Also, pack light to avoid getting tired sooner.
Crowds
As you guess it! Machu Picchu is a top tourist attraction. Machu Picchu has 2,500 visitors a day therefore get there very early or late (past noon) to try and beat the crowds.
Hiking
The hike from Agua Caliente to Machu Picchu is about 1 hour. While the bus ride is 25 minutes. You will be hiking next to the road which can be very narrow, scary and tiring. Keep in mind that aside from the hike you will be walking an additional 2-3 hours exploring Machu Picchu therefore I don’t recommend hiking unless you absolutely have to.
Patience
And lastly be patient! I was really upset when I climbed Machu Picchu and couldn’t see a thing because it was completely covered in fog. I had literally flew across the world, didn’t sleep for about 3 days and now that? But a local told me to be patient. He said the fog will clear just give it time. So I did, and I’m glad I did because an hour later the fog cleared before my eyes and I got to see heaven on earth.
Machu Picchu mountains from the town of Agua Caliente 
The fog covering Machu Picchu 
Some of the fog lifting 
The sun and the fog lifted a few hours later to reveal this amazing sight.
Travel Addict 
Amazing
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