who to trek with:
Salkantay Trekking: If you’re looking to trek all the way to Machu Picchu from the city of Cusco, we absolutely recommend booking with Salkantay Trekking company. While you may have the famous Inca Trail in mind for your trip, we highly suggest taking the Salkantay trail to Machu Picchu for it’s varied scenery and less crowded trails. The trek begins at a higher elevation where the first night you camp next to large glaciers and ascend to heights of 15,000 ft. As the trail continues to the city of Aguas Calientes below Machu Picchu, you descend into the lush cloud forest with raging rivers and spectacular biodiversity. Salkantay Trekking offers professional and friendly guides, delicious food, and generous staff. Live Worldly recommends their 5 day/4 night Classic Trek (approx. $500 USD) here at http://www.salkantaytrekking.com/salkantay-trek-to-machu-picchu.html or visit them in their office in the city of Cusco. Read more about Live Worldly team member Katie’s experience with Salkantay Trekking at ______
how to get there:
Peru Rail: Another alternative to arriving at Machu Picchu is taking the quite reliable Peru Rail train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. Whether you’re not quite in physical shape to trek or are in a time crunch, Peru Rail offers multiple rides to multiple cities throughout Peru with daily departures. http://www.perurail.com/
where to stay:
Tierra Viva: Located in the city of Aguas Calientes, a 20 minute bus ride below the ruins of Machu Picchu, is the Tierra Viva Machu Picchu hotel. The city of Aguas Calientes is just a resting point for most tourists before they head to the ruins and most only stay 1-2 nights, that said it can be hard to find quality service at a reasonable price. Tierra Viva is known for being clean and offering a fresh breakfast to its guests. When making a reservation, ask for a room with a view of the river. Prices being at $125 USD/night, book now on www.tripadvisor.com through the end of March and recieve 20% off your reservation. http://tierravivahoteles.com/tierra-viva-machu-picchu/
Hotel Flower’s House: Hotel accommodations in Aguas Calientes are known for being overpriced, so if you’re backpacking on a budget we suggest you book with Hotel Flower’s House located near the train station. Clean rooms, peaceful quite, 24/7 free WiFi, complimentary breakfast, hair dryers, and suites with jacuzzi spas are offered. Room pricing begins at $40 USD/night/pp. http://www.hostelworld.com/hosteldetails.php/Hotel-Flower-s-House/Aguas-Calientes/87664?dateFrom=2015-02-12&dateTo=2015-02-13&sc_sau=avdc&sc_pos=1
where to eat:
The Tree House: You’ll find inexpensive, mediocre burgers and pizza all around Aguas Calientes. But if you’re dying for some good food after a long trek to Machu Picchu, the Tree House is a popular choice with consistently delicious traditional Peruvian and international cuisine. While it may be more expensive than most restaurants you’ll find, the dishes are made by experienced chefs and will not disappoint. Dishes range from $8-$25 USD. We recommend trying the Causita Achevichada (ceviche) as a starter and then the grilled alpaca with Andean potato pie as an entree. http://www.rupawasitreehouse.com/indexEN.html