A Nanny-Level Travel Guide to Machu Picchu, Peru!

In the long river of time, there exists a dreamlike wonderland—Machu Picchu. Like a lost pearl ✨, it exudes endless charm, attracting countless people to explore it. And I, finally, set foot on this magical land, checking off the long-awaited Machu Picchu from my bucket list. This Inca city, carrying thousands of years of history, is so beautiful that it leaves me speechless 🥹. Every corner seems to tell an ancient story, making one lose oneself in its beauty. To help everyone better appreciate its charm, I've compiled this guide. Save it 📖, and I guarantee a smooth and amazing trip! 🗃️ Historical Background: The history of Machu Picchu is like a magnificent epic. In the 15th century, the Inca Empire devoted itself to building this magnificent city. It is an outstanding representative of Inca civilization, embodying the wisdom and sweat of countless craftsmen 💪. However, the wheels of fate were quietly turning. In the 16th century, the Spanish conquistadors set foot on this land, and the Inca Empire gradually declined. Machu Picchu was abandoned and gradually forgotten in the dust of time. It wasn't until 1911, when an American explorer rediscovered it by chance, that this long-dormant ancient city once again entered people's vision. In 1983, due to its unique historical and cultural value, it was listed as a World Cultural Heritage site, becoming a common treasure for all mankind 🌟. 📍 Location: It is quietly located about 75 km northwest of Cusco, Peru, at an altitude of 2,430 meters. When shrouded in clouds and mist, the entire ancient city seems to be in a fairyland ☁️, giving a dreamlike feeling. 🎫 Tickets: Tickets are essential to enter this mysterious ancient city. The ticket price for Machu Picchu is 152 soles. If you want to visit both Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, it costs 200 soles. To ensure smooth entry, it is recommended to book tickets in advance on the official website 📱. ✨ Must-See Highlights: 1️⃣ The exquisite stonework is unparalleled. During construction, the craftsmen were able to seamlessly join the stones together without any adhesive. This superb craftsmanship is breathtaking 👏, as if nature had given them magical powers. 2️⃣ The mysterious sun worship is vividly reflected here. Buildings such as the Inti Punku (Sun Gate) and the Temple of the Sun are scattered throughout the ancient city. They are not only masterpieces of architectural art but also symbols of the Incas' deep worship of the sun ☀️. Standing in front of these buildings, one can almost feel the ancient Incas' reverence for the sun. 3️⃣ The amazing water system demonstrates the extraordinary wisdom of the Incas. The terrace irrigation system is still in operation today. Like a lifeline, it nourishes this land and witnesses the glory of the Inca civilization 🚿. 🚇 Transportation: From Cusco to Aguas Calientes, you can take the train, which takes about 4 hours. I highly recommend choosing Perurail's Vistadome carriage. Sitting in the spacious and comfortable carriage, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way through the windows is an unparalleled experience 🚂. The ticket price is around $100. From Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, you can take a bus, which takes only 30 minutes, and a round-trip ticket costs $24. 🍱 Food Recommendations: 1️⃣ Indio Feliz is one of the most popular restaurants in Aguas Calientes. The average cost is about $30 per person. The Peruvian cuisine here is super authentic, and every dish is full of local flavor, allowing you to taste the most authentic Peruvian food 😋. 2️⃣ Tree House is a popular restaurant with a fantastic ambiance. For $25 per person, you can enjoy delicious food. I especially recommend their alpaca meat, which is tender, juicy, and has a unique taste, bringing a new experience to your taste buds 🦙. 3️⃣ Mapacho Craft Beer is a craft beer bar with a great atmosphere. Here, you can order a craft beer, savor it slowly, and enjoy the slightly tipsy feeling 🍺. The average cost is about $15 per person, perfect for a casual drink. 📸 Photo Tips: 1️⃣ 6:00 AM is the best time to enter the park. At this time, there are relatively few tourists, and the light is very soft, allowing you to take clearer and more beautiful photos 🌅. 2️⃣ Wearing bright-colored clothes will make your photos pop. Against the backdrop of the ancient city, bright clothes will make you the focus of attention, adding vitality to your photos 🌈. 3️⃣ The Inti Punku (Sun Gate) is recognized as the best photo spot. Standing in front of the Sun Gate, overlooking the entire ancient city, the spectacular view will make you want to press the shutter and record this unforgettable moment 📷. ⚠️ Important Notes: 1️⃣ Due to the high altitude of Machu Picchu, altitude sickness can be quite severe. So, if you are prone to altitude sickness, be sure to bring relevant medication, just in case 💊. 2️⃣ Sun protection and rain gear are also essential. Remember to bring sunscreen and an umbrella to protect your skin from UV rays and to cope with possible rain 🌂. 3️⃣ To better understand the history and culture of Machu Picchu, it is recommended to hire a guide. A guide's professional explanation will give you a deeper understanding of this ancient city, making your tour experience richer and more worthwhile 🧑‍🏫.