Things to Do in and Around Machu Picchu
Peru doesn’t make you choose. You can weave together history, adventure, spirituality, and culture into one custom-made journey. From the ruins of Machu Picchu to the multifaceted Sacred Valley, here’s your guide to navigating this world of wonders—without ever feeling like you’re leaving the present behind. There are so many things to do here, it’s unlikely you’ll leave without finding something that captivates you.
Machu Picchu: A Timeless Adventure in Stone and Sky
For most people, stepping foot on Machu Picchu is a must-do. Once you're there, it's easy to see why.
- History enthusiasts will be drawn to the ancient terraces and enigmatic temples.
- Adventurers will find the Inca Trail to be more than just a hike—it’s a pilgrimage, each step bringing you closer to something profound.
- The Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu trails are perfect for those who want a bit more challenge—strenuous yet rewarding, with panoramic views that make it all worth it.
The Sacred Valley: Where Nature and Culture Go Hand in Hand
A mere stone’s throw from Machu Picchu lies the Sacred Valley. But don’t be fooled by its proximity—it’s a whole other world waiting to be discovered. The valley is where the Andes meet the sky, where color bursts from every corner, and where Inca history lives in every step. If you’re asking yourself what things to do here, the possibilities are vast.
- Nature lovers will feel at home among the towering cliffs, lush forests, and wildlife, including hummingbirds, passerines, owls, and falcons.
- The Sacred Valley is a cradle of culture—Ollantaytambo and Pisac are ancient ruins that offer a glimpse into the past.
- For a deeper experience, connect with local shamans or simply pause for quiet reflection in a place where Inca energy still lingers.
Are You a Foodie?
Andean cuisine doesn’t waste time with pretensions. Here, the flavors speak for themselves: a hearty quinoa soup, a ceviche that tastes like the earth itself, or a bowl of pachamanca so simple yet so perfect, you wonder why you’ve never tasted anything like it before. One of the best things to do while you’re in the Sacred Valley is enjoy the local food—choose a high-quality restaurant, and you won’t regret it.
Of course, the people of the valley—whether Quechua-speaking locals, mestizos, expats, or travelers like yourself—are the true heartbeat of this place. You’ll find warmth in their smiles, but don’t expect instant familiarity. To truly understand the essence of this place, you’ll need time. It will be rewarding in the end.
Beyond the Valley: Cusco and the Amazon
There’s, of course, so much more to the Cusco region than just Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. There’s the wild and humid Amazon jungle, brimming with untold life. There’s the high-altitude majesty of Cusco itself, a city where history is woven into every cobbled street and ancient wall. The list of things to do in and around Machu Picchu would require an entirely separate guide—which we will definitely write for you.
