Machu Picchu 1-Day Trip: A Helpful Review Including Lunch

Machu Picchu, that incredible lost city of the Incas, really stands as a top spot on loads of peoples’ travel lists, so it’s not surprising you’re checking it out. For those that are short on time, doing a one-day visit can be the only real way to see this ancient place. I took one of these tours myself, so I’m sharing all the details from what you might see to if the food included is actually any good. Get comfy and let’s get into this!

Getting There & the Early Start

The adventure very typically kicks off super early. I mean, we are talking way before sunrise. Usually, you’ll begin in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, hopping onto a bus or van that goes on to Ollantaytambo. From there, that’s where the train trip to Aguas Calientes starts— Aguas Calientes being the town closest to Machu Picchu. So, it’s almost worth preparing for a really long travel day and bringing a travel pillow may be helpful!

That train trip is an experience on its own, by the way. I mean, it’s more or less like winding through gorgeous landscapes, with huge mountains all around and the Urubamba River gurgling along beside you. Is that right, though? You’ll pass through changing scenery from valleys to getting near that cloud forest near Machu Picchu. I have to say, it was definitely worth getting up before dawn for the views. When I arrived, it felt that something magical was really close by!

Once you get to Aguas Calientes, usually your tour people will be there to meet you. Usually, they help you get on a bus up a seriously zigzagging road. That’s where you go right up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The ride doesn’t take super long, maybe thirty minutes-ish, but, in a way, it’s good to sit back after you’ve travelled for hours. The anticipation totally builds while you drive. Plus, seeing some of those views gives a small sample of that grand landscape.

Exploring the Lost City

I feel like getting into Machu Picchu itself is similar to stepping into this other world. Anyway, having a guide that gives facts is worth it, really. That’s how you understand what you are seeing. I found it more amazing hearing facts and seeing what everything meant, which really made everything more memorable.

When I wandered through places, the guide showed significant spots, like the Intihuatana stone and the Temple of the Sun, plus, the cool farming terraces. You can see for yourself how the Inca people were good at building stuff by how all the stones are cut so well and stacked together. Still, the guide told us how all the buildings had some connection to astronomy, how farming worked, and even things about how the Incas used to live their daily lives. To be honest, without all the background info, it is just an old ruin.

Take enough time, like your tour allows, to walk around yourself too. It can be great wandering at your own speed, sitting somewhere to really take it all in. I sat for some time just to enjoy the views. They are really spectacular! That is correct, I thought of the mountains that go on forever. It was calm and made me consider stuff, just a perfect part of that trip. That place is almost good for recharging and connecting with nature!

Lunchtime: What to Expect

Lots of one-day tours to Machu Picchu say that lunch is included, that’s something you wanna check. To be honest, what they offer could change how you like the trip! Usually, you eat in Aguas Calientes after seeing Machu Picchu. Often, your tour guide will walk with you to a restaurant already booked, and the food is set.

At the place where I went, that lunch had both some classic Peruvian meals and other things you might like. There might be choices like soup, chicken or beef, and sometimes some veggie options too. So, you know, I wasn’t super sure what to expect but I liked what they had. I ate some great flavors and a mix of familiar stuff which helped to enjoy all of it without being too odd for my taste.

Drinks usually aren’t included, very, very important if you’re trying to save some money. If not, ordering some local drinks could totally add something good to the lunch! Is that what I thought, though? The atmosphere in Aguas Calientes is cool. The town’s in a valley, all close to the mountains. Plenty of places feel calm which can allow you to relax, think back on your travel up at Machu Picchu, and get yourself ready to go back.

What to Bring & Tips for the Day

Alright, when going on your one-day trip, pack smartly. Here’s what you can do for yourself: Clothes you can layer – in the mountains, the temps change easily; it is almost essential. Rain gear – is that correct, it might rain there a bit. Good shoes – You’re gonna walk a lot, is that really a surprise? Sunscreen and a hat – to keep that sun away when it shines. Bug spray – pests are more lively there then you might believe. That means, bring anything vital for the travel will affect how the adventure turns out; it is like preparing makes it smoother and more happy.

Then, think of these tips too: Get ready for being high up, that means walking a bit slow. Drink lots of water, altitude makes your body get dried up fast, very fast in fact. Take small money in local currency, that is correct, for any extras or souvenirs you want to purchase. More or less important, follow everything that your tour manager says to stay good, because it may be hectic, but they are good at being responsible and making everything stay relaxing.

Is a 1-Day Trip Worth It?

Well, for me, visiting Machu Picchu just for a day definitely felt worthwhile, or that is what I felt, that I did something I will consider. Do you want all the experiences and to feel more culturally involved? I would say think of visiting for a lengthier period. I have to say, If time is an issue or your vacation plan only had a day or two, a trip in one day does still let you see the famous highlights and have some of those essential experiences from seeing such a historic area. Remember, a visit in any amount of time can bring those significant memories, as it shows you how grand past civilizations are, how pretty nature can be and reminds people of those things that inspire exploration.