Visiting Machu Picchu: A Complete Guide to a Meaningful Journey
Visiting Machu Picchu had always been a dream of mine, but this trip turned into something far more meaningful than I could have ever imagined. What started as an adventure to see the legendary Incan ruins evolved into a mission to make a difference in the lives of underprivileged children in Casma, Peru.
Table of Contents
- The Story Behind Building a School in Casma
- The Itinerary: A 6-Day Adventure Visiting Machu Picchu
- Highlights of Lima
- Exploring Cusco
- Visiting Machu Picchu: Full-day trip
- Navigating Challenges
- Reflections and Takeaways
The Story Behind Building a School in Casma
The journey began when my co-worker, Janeline, shared the inspiring story of her cousin, Jackeline Paz. Jackeline was working tirelessly to help children in Casma, a coastal desert town about 330 km from Lima, Peru.
Many of these children’s parents didn’t believe in education, leaving them with little hope for a brighter future.
Together with a group of friends, we decided to send funds to provide these kids with backpacks and school supplies. Over time, our efforts grew.
We took on the ambitious project of building a small school to house over 25 children and even organized an outreach to give them toys for Christmas.
For two years, this initiative brought so much joy and purpose into my life.
Before we made the big commitment of helping the school, I took a trip to Lima, Peru to meet with Jackeline. We were able to visit Macchu Picchu, and I was surprised that many locals could not afford this place due to the prices. Throughout the 6 days, I was able to get the to know her & her passion for education.
Here are a few of my posts on Instagram capturing the moments.
- The 35 beautiful children of Peru received their brand new pair of shoes, winter jacket & pants, undergarments, & slippers.
- A successful mission in Casma, Peru!
The Itinerary: A 6-Day Adventure Visiting Machu Picchu
Day 1- Departed Atlanta
Day 2- Lima & Cusco
Day 3- Rainbow Mountain
Day 4- Visiting Machu Picchu
Day 5- Urubamba
Day 6- Returned to Atlanta
Highlights of Lima
Our stop in Lima was brief but memorable. We took a quick city tour, savoring traditional Peruvian dishes and enjoying time with Janeline’s family. The warmth of the locals made me feel at home, setting the tone for the journey ahead.
Exploring Cusco
Cusco is a must-visit destination in Peru. Once the capital of the Incan Empire, it sits at a high elevation, making acclimatization essential.
It is advised to spend a night in Cusco. Coca tea became my best friend—it’s said to help with altitude sickness.
A local driver, a friend of Jackeline, showed us around the city. Cusco’s charm lies in its history and vibrant culture, making it a perfect starting point for our trip to Machu Picchu.
Here are thousands that visit this wonder of the world daily so it’s important to book the tickets online early. We had a driver drive us around Cusco, he was a friend of Jackie.
Visiting Machu Picchu: Full-day trip
Getting to Machu Picchu
To reach Machu Picchu, we booked a train from Cusco and a bus to the entrance. The journey itself was an adventure, offering breathtaking views as we traveled through the Sacred Valley.
We booked the tour via Viator.
Accommodation at Tambo del Inka
For those seeking a more luxurious experience, I highly recommend staying at Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in Urubamba. The hotel, renowned for its exceptional service, offers a private train to Machu Picchu—though during our visit, this service was unavailable due to COVID restrictions.
Located about an hour and a half by car from Cusco, Tambo del Inka is a gated sanctuary of elegance. Upon arrival, our driver faced some challenges entering the premises, as the hotel maintains strict security protocols.
After providing my name, we were warmly welcomed into what turned out to be one of the most remarkable hotels I’ve ever stayed at, courtesy of my Marriott Bonvoy card.
The two nights we spent there were magical. My friends, who had never experienced a five-star hotel before, were awestruck. The hotel itself became part of the adventure, with its stunning architecture, luxurious amenities, and serene atmosphere.
While we were disappointed that the private train wasn’t operating, we managed to book first-class train tickets, which took us on an unforgettable three-hour journey to Machu Picchu.
Adapting to the Altitude
The high altitude was a challenge for some of my friends, leading us to rest and acclimate at the hotel before continuing. Janeline, in particular, struggled with the thinner air, making cocoa tea—a local remedy—a vital part of our stay.
It was during a quiet, starlit evening by the hotel pool that Janeline and I made a heartfelt wish. That moment felt truly magical, and in hindsight, it seems our wishes have come true.
The Machu Picchu Experience
Visiting Macchu Picchu was like a three plus hour hike. We took an hour and a half bus ride to Macchu Picchu & hundreds were already standing in line.
Remember to get your passport stamped at the entrance!
The view is breathtaking & enjoy the hike slowly as this is not a long hike like Petra. When we were at the top, we enjoyed the view for an hour but the views are so special all around during your hike .
Navigating Challenges
We had to detour our trip early as the political uprising in Peru was causing roadblocks & travel disruptions. Since Janeline was really sick & I was at the airport, I took the risk to have them get me on an earlier flight & it’s times like this that traveling with a backpack is so important.
I didn’t have a check in luggage with me so I was able to board the plane immediately & meet my friends in Lima. I couldn’t risk not being in Lima on time for my flight back to Atlanta the next day. Janeline was staying longer in Peru but I had to get back to work. I was able to check into the Sheraton once I landed in Lima.
I was grateful to be alone at the hotel as I needed time to journal & process the last 6 days of adventure & being part of building this school in Casma.
Reflections and Takeaways
Overall, this was an adventurous trip for me as Peru was in the middle of political turmoil. Though rainbow mountain was closed, we got to see Macchu Picchu. I would totally return again to venture to the other beautiful places.
The food was a delightful surprise, with dishes like guinea pig (yes, it tastes like chewy chicken!) and local donuts adding to the adventure. Despite the challenges, I left Peru with a full heart and a desire to return and explore more.
I learned during this trip to travel light & with a backpack only if you are in a country that has political crisis. It enables you to travel swiftly without the need to check in other bags.
