Flipping through my history book in elementary school, I’d stop on the page with photos of Machu Picchu thinking, “I HAVE to see this with my own eyes one day,” without even knowing exactly where “this” was. Peru’s Machu Picchu stands as one of the most renowned New Wonders of the World—an architectural marvel and cultural enigma. A true (though I cringe at that term.
.. it’s also pretty darn fitting).
Embodying my preferred travel style, I opted to get to Machu Picchu sans tour group. It’s not that I can’t appreciate the of a tour operator — like I did on homestay in Peru — I just love the accomplished feeling of DIY travel experiences. And I mean.
.. the Incas sought refuge from Spanish invaders at Machu Picchu because they knew they wouldn’t be found.
Meaning it’s not an easy to get to. But for solo travelers like myself, empowering ourselves through self-planning is half the joy of travel. Below is your guide for organizing an independent expedition to Machu Picchu — from securing your park, train, and bus tickets (trust me, it’s not as simple as it seems) to our top accommodation suggestion, all tailored with Uproxx flair.
My advice? Ditch the rushed day trip from Cusco and spend a night in charming Machu Picchu Pueblo — it’s totally worth it! Machu Picchu Admission Ticket I snagged my Machu Picchu ticket online just 48 hours before my visit – risky business during peak season (June, July, and August), but this was in January, so ticke.
