Machu Picchu is a name that invokes images of towering stone structures, lush green mountains, and a sense of mystery and wonder. It’s an ancient Incan citadel perched high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, and it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America.
But while most visitors take the traditional route of hiking or taking a train to reach Machu Picchu, there’s another, more adventurous way to explore this incredible site – by bike.
Yes, you read that right. Biking to Machu Picchu is a challenging yet rewarding experience that allows you to see the ruins in a whole new way. So buckle up (or should I say, pedal up?) and get ready to learn all about this epic adventure.
First things first, let’s talk logistics. To embark on this journey, you’ll need to book a guided tour or rent a bike from the town of Ollantaytambo, which is about 50 miles away from Machu Picchu. Depending on your level of fitness and experience, the ride can take anywhere from two to four days.
But don’t worry, you won’t be biking the entire 50 miles in one go. The route is broken up into segments, allowing for breaks and rest stops along the way. Trust us, you’ll need them.
The first segment takes you through the Sacred Valley, an area known for its stunning landscapes and ancient Incan ruins. You’ll ride through small villages and past fields of llamas and alpacas, getting a taste of Peruvian culture and agriculture.
Next up is the challenging climb to the town of Santa Teresa, which sits at 6,200 feet above sea level. This part of the journey is not for the faint of heart, as the road is steep and winding, but the views are absolutely breathtaking.
Once you reach Santa Teresa, you’ll have the option to relax in natural hot springs or take a zipline tour through the jungle. And if you’re feeling particularly brave, you can even bungee jump off a bridge into the Urubamba River below. Talk about an adrenaline rush!
The final stretch of the journey is a 12-mile ride to the town of Aguas Calientes, which serves as the base for visiting Machu Picchu. This part of the ride is relatively flat and allows for some much-needed rest before the big day of exploring the ruins.
And now, the moment you’ve been waiting for – biking through Machu Picchu. The entrance to the site is located about 1,000 feet above Aguas Calientes, so you can either take a bus or hike up to the entrance. But since you’ve already conquered a challenging bike ride, why not add on a little hike?
Once inside the ruins, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the stone structures, temples, and terraces that make up this ancient citadel. And because you arrived by bike, you’ll have a unique perspective and appreciation for the site.
After a full day of exploring, it’s time to head back to Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved rest. And let’s be honest, after all that biking and hiking, you’ll probably need a good massage too. Luckily, there are plenty of spa options in town to help soothe those sore muscles.
As your adventure comes to an end, take some time to reflect on this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Biking to Machu Picchu is not just a physical challenge, but also a mental and emotional one. It’s a chance to push yourself, embrace new experiences, and connect with one of the most iconic historic sites in the world.
So next time you’re planning a trip to Peru, consider ditching the traditional modes of transportation and opt for a bike instead. You won’t regret it, and your Instagram feed will thank you for the epic photos. Happy pedaling!
