We BARELY caught our tour group to Machu Picchu! Delayed flights are a real problem in Peru. The train ride was incredible–the glass roof felt like we were sitting in a moving fish tank. The way the scenery slowly turned from arid to rainy jungle was surprising and fascinating. We explored all over the little town of Aguas Calientes. It is an absolutely beautiful place–we loved looking for orchids and birds. Mostly we just enjoyed finally being there.
Tip: Take the nice train–the glass roofs were essential.
Traveling to Machu Picchu with Kids
Tip: Taxis are inexpensive in the city of Cusco and they take you right where you need to go. You can take public transportation for cheaper, but it’s worth the extra few dollars for a taxi.
Tip: The journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu is several different steps: a bus ride from Cusco to Ollantaytambo , a train ride to the town of Aguas Calientes, and another bus ride to the ruins. I recommend finding a tour agency. They organize everything for you and it was slick–they took care of us even though our flight was delayed. We went with a group called Viajes Cusco and they did a good job.
Tip: From Aguas Calientes, you can either hike or take a bus ($24 USD round trip per person). We decided to save the fifty bucks and hike it.
Walkabout 