bamba travel machu picchu

Bamba Travel

Private Trek 4D/3N Machu Picchu Jungle

Private Machu Picchu By Train Day Tour

2-Day Private Express Trek Through The Inca Trail

2 Days & 1 Night Private Machu Picchu by Train Tour

4 Days and 3 Nights Private Trekking through The Inca Trail

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Bamba Travel - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Machu Picchu Jungle Trek 4D/3N (Biking, Zip-Line & Rafting)

• Jungle Trekking
• Fully Guided
• Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 Cuzco, Peru
• Day 2 Santa Teresa Village, Peru
• Day 3 Aguas Calientes, Peru
• Day 4 Cuzco, Peru

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Operated by bamba travel.

The beginning... bamba started operating with a hop-on hop-off bus service. After trial and error, bamba realised that travellers were very interested in not only being around other backpackers and meeting them, but they also wanted to have the opportunity to travel in local transportation, and have many more interactions with local people. For this reason, bamba decided to create a new way of travelling, called the Flexible Travel Pass. Travellers still have the same flexibility to stay as long as they want in each destination, and create their own itinerary; while at the same time travelling not only in shuttle vans with other backpackers, but also with a mix of local transportation such as Public Buses, Boats, Trains and sometimes flights. The idea behind this is to make sure travellers have the opportunity to travel in exactly the same way as if they were travelling on their own, but much easier and with the reassurance that they make the most out of their travel experience. Today, bamba has grown in size from Paul and Arturo’s original vision to include buses, experiences, guides and support staff in more than 80 countries worldwide! What bamba is today... bamba is the one stop solution for independent travellers in Latin America and around the world. bamba’s purpose is to make independent travel very easy. We help travellers by giving them the opportunity to create their own schedules, choose the route they want to follow and let them stay for as long as they want in each destination. bamba’s objective is to remove language barriers and the bureaucracy of developing countries by acting as an office where travellers can easily contact us, speak in English, make bus bookings, changes to their bus trips, get information on bus schedules, departure points, book day and multi-day trips easily and get information about each destination. We are like a living guidebook, and respond to the real time necessities of the clients. With our help, travellers will spend more time travelling, and less time arranging and figuring out their trip. We are expert world travellers, and we love what we do!

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.9
• Itinerary Excellent 5.0
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 5.0
• Accommodation Excellent 4.8
• Food Excellent 4.8
• Tour Operator Bamba Travel 4.2
• Most Recent
• Most Popular
• Highest First
• Lowest First
• TF Tara · 15th March 2020 The tour in and of itself was excellent. Non-stop breath taking views for four days, a quite challenging hike and the Grand Finale, Machu Picchu. Our tour guide, Vicente Chacmana Barrientos was amazing. As I struggled with breathing in the high altitude... Show more Trip date: March 2020

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• Wednesday 22 May, 2024 Saturday 25 May, 2024 English Filling Fast Sharing a multi-bed room €671 Confirm Dates
• Saturday 25 May, 2024 Tuesday 28 May, 2024 English Filling Fast Sharing a multi-bed room €671 Confirm Dates
• Monday 27 May, 2024 Thursday 30 May, 2024 English Filling Fast Sharing a multi-bed room €671 Confirm Dates
• Wednesday 29 May, 2024 Saturday 1 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast Sharing a multi-bed room €671 Confirm Dates
• Saturday 1 Jun, 2024 Tuesday 4 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast Sharing a multi-bed room €671 Confirm Dates
• Monday 3 Jun, 2024 Thursday 6 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast Sharing a multi-bed room €671 Confirm Dates
• Wednesday 5 Jun, 2024 Saturday 8 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast Sharing a multi-bed room €671 Confirm Dates
• Saturday 8 Jun, 2024 Tuesday 11 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast Sharing a multi-bed room €671 Confirm Dates
• Monday 10 Jun, 2024 Thursday 13 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast Sharing a multi-bed room €671 Confirm Dates
• Wednesday 12 Jun, 2024 Saturday 15 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast Sharing a multi-bed room €671 Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

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Good to Know

• Currency S/. Sol Peru

As a traveller from USA, Canada you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F. As a traveller from England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types A, B, C, E, F.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Tuberculosis - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 3 months before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Rabies - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Yellow fever - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 16th August 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 16th August 2024, a minimum payment of 10% is required to confirm your booking with Bamba Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 90 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Bamba Travel will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Bamba Travel" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Hiking to Machu Picchu with Kids: A Family Adventure

• Post author: Mark Ching
• Post published: 1 October 2023
• Post category: Inca Trail

Machu Picchu, nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru , is a bucket-list destination for many adventure seekers and history enthusiasts. The ancient Incan citadel is not only a marvel of engineering and architecture but also an educational and awe-inspiring experience for children. Hiking to Machu Picchu with your kids can be a rewarding and enriching adventure, creating lasting memories for the entire family.

Key Takeaways

• Several hiking trails lead to Machu Picchu , each with its own level of difficulty and duration
• Ensure you have enough food, water, and snacks to keep your children energized throughout the trek
• Reaching Machu Picchu as a family is a remarkable accomplishment

Preparing for the Journey

Before embarking on this journey, it’s important to ensure that both you and your children are physically and mentally prepared. Hiking to Machu Picchu involves trekking through varying terrains and altitudes, so a reasonable level of fitness is essential. Make sure your children are accustomed to hiking and walking for extended periods.

Additionally, acclimatization is key, especially since Machu Picchu sits at a high altitude of around 7,970 feet (2,430 meters). Spend a few days in Cusco or other high-altitude areas to help your family adjust to the reduced oxygen levels. Use a travel agency software to coordinate with local travel experts to help you prepare your children for the trip.

Choosing the Right Route

Several hiking trails lead to Machu Picchu, each with its own level of difficulty and duration. Considering the abilities and interests of your children is crucial in selecting the most suitable route. The Classic Inca Trail is a popular choice, but it requires a minimum age of 10 years due to its challenging nature.

Alternatively, the Short Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek may be better options for families with younger children or those seeking a less strenuous adventure. Research the routes in detail and choose the one that aligns with your family’s preferences and abilities.

Engaging and Educating Your Children

Make the hike a learning experience for your children by sharing information about the history, culture, and geography of the region. Explain the significance of Machu Picchu and the Incan civilization, sparking their curiosity and making the journey more enriching.

Encourage your kids to ask questions and engage in discussions about the flora, fauna, and the Incan ruins you encounter along the way. Point out unique plants and animals, fostering an appreciation for the natural world.

Packing Essentials

Packing appropriately is crucial for a successful hiking trip. Ensure you have enough food, water, and snacks to keep your children energized throughout the trek. Pack lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for varying weather conditions, as well as sturdy hiking shoes to ensure comfort and safety.

Other essentials include sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, insect repellent and a quality camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and memorable moments. Don’t forget to pack a first aid kit .

Safety and Well-being

Prioritize the safety and well-being of your children throughout the journey. Maintain a moderate pace, taking breaks to rest and admire the scenery. Hydration and proper nutrition are key to keeping energy levels high, so monitor your children’s water intake and provide healthy snacks regularly.

Additionally, encourage them to voice any discomfort or fatigue they may experience and address their concerns promptly. A positive and supportive attitude from parents goes a long way in motivating children to complete the hike.

Making Lasting Memories

Reaching Machu Picchu as a family is a remarkable accomplishment. Celebrate this achievement and relish the awe-inspiring views of the ancient citadel. Capture photos, create a scrapbook, or journal the adventure to preserve the memories for years to come.

Reflect on the experience as a family, discussing the highlights, challenges, and what everyone learned from this incredible journey. Not only will this hike create cherished memories, but it will also strengthen the bonds within your family.

Hiking to Machu Picchu with your children can be a life-changing adventure, providing not only an opportunity to witness one of the world’s wonders but also to foster a love for nature, history, and exploration. With proper preparation, the right route, and a focus on safety and education, this journey can become a transformative experience that your family will cherish forever.

Check out the  Inca Trail Express Trek to Machu Picchu 2D/1N itinerary from Bamba Travel.

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

BAMBA TRAVEL (Machu Picchu) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Pisco Sours and Machu Picchu on Belmond’s Hiram Bingham Train

When my favorite travel friends and I booked seats in a carriage on Belmond’s Hiram Bingham, a sleek, elegant throwback train that runs from (near) Cusco, through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, we were most focused on getting to the storied 15th-century Incan citadel, poised high in the Andes Mountains in southern Peru , above the Urubamba River Valley. We’d take the train, then stay overnight at Belmond’s riveting Sanctuary Lodge, the closest hotel to the famous site — literally steps away. Guests at Sanctuary have the opportunity to enter the grounds at dawn, a coveted way to explore without the crowds — and to enter the ancient citadel again and again, if desired. Since many travelers only spend the morning or afternoon among the sacred landscape, we were keen to have that extra time to ramble amongst its nooks and crannies on guided tours or meditate solo in its energetic places. I also wished to hike up adjacent Huayna Picchu, once the haunt of Incan high priests — and a mountain that only allows a small number of walkers each day, so arriving at the trailhead early is mandatory. 

But, first we had to get there — in epic style. As it turns out, our transport to otherworldly Machu Picchu, the elegant Hiram Bingham train, was as soul satisfying as the citadel itself. As Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote in Self Reliance : “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.” And, indeed, our nearly four-hour ride took us through an array of verdant terrain alongside burbling creeks, on the edge of mountains, and through forests. As we chugged, we spied brightly dressed Peruvians, many with the tallest of hats, not to mention the occasional alpaca. The train, a nostalgic gem, with chassis crafted in South Africa and interiors by couture French train designers, was envisioned as a romantic Pullman, the Jazz Era’s quintessential luxuriant train car. Its stately symphony of polished brass, inviting bar stools, decorative nature motifs, sultry banquettes, and gleaming wood panels conjure drama — even fantasy — and nobody who rides Hiram Bingham escapes the allure. The one candid photo we have as passengers shows us sitting in our train car in various real-life poses, Pisco Sours in hand. Some of us seem lost in conversation, while others have their eyes glued to the train’s immense windows to capture the view. Timeless, in this photo, we appear as characters from a 1920s novel — perhaps soon-to-be murder suspects in an Agatha Christie story… or just travelers en route to Machu Picchu.  

More on the Train

Serving Andean cuisine on starched white tablecloths, with a full bar, the glamorous train was named for American adventurer Hiram Bingham, who first publicized his explorations and rediscovery of Machu Picchu in 1911, bringing the archeological site to the public’s attention. Feeling like an explorer yourself (if not a character from a film or book) when onboard, you’ll chug through stunning mountainous topography, be entertained by local musicians, eat a multi-course lunch, and arrive at the citadel sooner than you wish. Don’t miss time in the Observation Car, where you can breathe in the fresh mountain air while watching the landscape unfold.

More About the Cuisine

Be among the first to experience the cooking wizardry of Jorge Munoz, who took over the culinary helm for the Hiram Bingham Train, the Andean Explorer Train, and Cusco’s Monasteiro, a Belmond Hotel in early 2024.  One of the epicurean world’s rising stars, Munoz cut his gastronomic teeth at Pakta in Barcelona, where he was awarded a Michelin star for his delectable fusion of Peruvian and Japanese dishes. Later he reigned at Astrid & Gaston in Lima. Today, he brings contemporary coastal flavors created with classic local products to plates on the train’s lunches and dinners.  Imagine starters such as a mix of quinoa varieties with seasonal vegetables dressed with Andean mint vinaigrette or cured local trout to start followed by duck ravioli or freshly caught white fish with Sudado sauce, a tomato-rich Peruvian topping. 

The Bar Car

Of course, when in Peru, you’ll likely swill a Pisco Sour or two — and the Hiram Bingham does them up right. But, don’t limit yourself. The Hiram Bingham secured the talented Aaron Diaz, an award-winning expert in the art of conceptual cocktails to curate the train’s exhilarating and theatrical cocktail menu. Sip a Bellini-like Aguyamanto en route to Machu Picchu, which uses the local cape gooseberry, Prosecco, orange blossom drops, and matacuy, a beloved Andean digestif made from botanicals. On the way home, belly up to the bar for a Sankay, created especially for the Hiram Bingham train.  With its main ingredient the eponymous fruit, a treat said to give the chasquis (Inca messengers) their energetic powers, the vitamin-C packed libation also contains Vodka 14 Inkas, a Peruvian low-alcohol vodka. For mocktail lovers, the Tuna delivers in a base of prickly pear juice. 

* Note: En route to Machu Picchu, you can take the train from Poroy, the Cusco station or catch it in the Sacred Valley at Ollantaytambo, for a shorter ride.

Featured image courtesy of Hiram Bingham , A Belmond Train, Peru

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15 Interesting Facts About Machu Picchu and One About Llamas

T he charm of Machu Picchu has been appreciated by many for years, making it a well-known tourist destination in South America. Many know the destination simply by its most popular inhabitant, the llama. The cultural and historic importance of Machu Picchu is lesser known by its visitors but is of critical importance for the city to be fully appreciated. 

If you plan to visit Peru, these 16 interesting facts (listed from commonly known to least known) about Machu Picchu may increase the quality of your trip and even encourage you to make a few extra stops along the way. 

16. The Name and Meaning of Machu Picchu

The name Machu Picchu translates to ‘old mountain’ or ‘old peak’ in the Quechua language. Quechua was the language of the Inca Empire and is still spoken by about eight million people. It is also currently the most spoken indigenous language in the Americas.

15. The City in the Clouds

The city is located in a cloud forest in the mountains. Machu Picchu is located between the Andes mountains and the Amazon rainforest, so the weather is unique and produces a very lush and misty climate even though nearby areas are dry and plain. 

14. How Elevation Helped Preserve the Archaeological Site

The city is an incredibly important archaeological site that has been protected by its mountainous elevation. Machu Picchu was somewhat secluded due to its location and, as a result, evaded attention from traveling conquerors. There were conquistador attacks that sporadically occurred during the time, which the city would have evaded because of the high elevation.

13. Machu Picchu was a Huge Empire

The Inca Empire was one of the largest empires in pre-Columbian America and lasted from 1483 to 1533. In the 16th century it reigned as one of the largest empires in the world and remains the largest native state in the western hemisphere.

12. Transportation to the Ruins

There are only two ways to get to the mountainous ruins. Since the ruins are in a remote location, travelers either have to take a train from Cusco, which drops people off at the base of the mountain then take the bus, walk or hike the Inca trail . The 26 mile trail to Machu Picchu is lined with camp sites for visitors (government subsidized areas of land owned by local families) and local venders, so the trail can be leisurely hiked.

11. Machu Picchu is Internationally Protected

In 2007, Machu Picchu was declared one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. The selection process includes more than 100 million people from around the world voting online. On top of this recognition that was announced by the New Open World Corporation (NOWC), Machu Picchu has been a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) world heritage site since 1983. This means in the event of a natural disaster, war, pollution or funds deficiency that leads to a site’s deterioration, nations that signed the treaty are committed to assisting with emergency aid. 

10. Machu Picchu is the Lost City that was Never Lost

Although Machu Picchu is commonly referred to as the “Lost City of the Incas,” it had people living in the area, so it was well known.  It is also technically a citadel located on a mountain ridge, so its coined name is inaccurate.

9. The Construction of the Ruins is Seemingly Otherworldly

The Incas did not use any mortar to construct Machu Picchu. It was completed with the ashlar technique, which is the process of cutting stones with extreme precision so that they stack on one another with no room in between them. The ashlar technique and the carefully shaped doors, windows and walls of Machu Picchu buildings make it practically earthquake proof. Peru has high seismic activity so this was an impressive architectural technique for the time. Because of this innovation, many people think that extraterrestrial beings played a hand in its construction.

8. The Complex Architecture of the Ancient Ruins

Machu Picchu is made up of more than 150 buildings. The site, which was built around A.D. 1450, could maintain about 500 to 750 people. This was a relatively small build for the Incas. Two architecturally significant features of the ruins are the rectangular ground plots made for houses (which are an early representation of modern building techniques) and the drainage system, which still works today and carries heavy rainwater through little channels underneath the buildings.

7. Helicopters are Prohibited Near Machu Picchu

To protect wildlife, endangered species and to preserve the ruins, there is a no fly zone above Machu Picchu. As another conservation effort, there is a limit on the number of visitors per day (which is capped at 2,500) and a one-way walking system through the hiking trail. 

6. Scholars Do not Know What Machu Picchu’s Purpose Was

Historians still debate what the purpose of the citadel was because Incas did not have written language and therefore it was not recorded. There are many theories regarding the use of Machu Picchu to this day. Some common theories include that it was a royal estate for an emperor, religious site (due to its high elevation) or served a multitude of purposes.

5. The 100 Year Dispute Between Yale University and The Peruvian Government

Yale professor Hiram Bingham made the western rediscovery of the ruins in 1911 with the help of local farmers. As a result of this discovery, there was a 100 year dispute about artifacts taken from Peru by professor Hiram and his excavation team. The artifacts were the cultural property of Peru and included objects like human remains, ceramics and jewelry. Finally, in 2012, after settling the contractual dispute, Yale returned the artifacts to the Peruvian government. 

4. There are No Information Posts on the Machu Picchu Hike

As an attempt not to clutter the site, there is virtually no information about Machu Picchu at the actual site. To get to the Museo de Sitio Manuel Chávez Ballón , which provides historical context about the ruins, visitors must take a 30 minute walk down a dirt road near the base of the mountain.  

3. The Incas’ Disappearing Act

The Incas mysteriously abandoned Machu Picchu around 1572, even though it would have been nearly inaccessible for conquerors due to its location. Although Spanish conquistadors eventually ended the Inca Empire, the site was abandoned before that time, so the people’s disappearance remains unclear to scholars.

2. The Foreign Grazers Of Machu Picchu

Llamas are large mammals (weighing anywhere from 290 to 440 pounds at full adult size) related to camels. They are often pictured photo bombing visitors in front of Machu Picchu. The Incas valued them for their wool and nutrient rich poop that was used as crop fertilizer. But, surprisingly, llamas aren’t native to this area in Peru, they were actually brought in specifically for tourism. The preferred habitat of llamas (and alpacas) is evident in their preferences for altitude. Generally, they prefer altitudes of 13,000 feet and above and Machu Picchu’s altitude is just under 8,000 feet.

1. Leonardo Da Vinci Could Have Visited Machu Picchu

Although the height of the Incan Empire may seem like an extremely old time period, it was actually not that long ago. Leonardo Da Vinci painted the Mona Lisa during the height of the Incan Empire, around 1503-1506, and Machu Picchu was built around 1450. This may surprise some, since not many historical reference points are provided when discussing the significant advancements of the Inca people. 

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Tickets Machu Picchu

Tickets to Machu Picchu: Everything you need to know!

Machu Picchu, a breathtaking Inca citadel, stands as a testament to the enigmatic past of our world. Nestled amidst the grandeur of the Peruvian Andes and the gateway to the …

Transportation

Road project to improve access to peru's machu picchu site.

Machu Picchu is the most popular tourist destination in South America receiving 955,741 million visitors in 2023, according to Peru’s Foreign Trade and Tourism Ministry. Photo by C.J. Schexnayder/ENR

Related Links: U.S. Temporary Spans Spread Throughout Peru – Nov. 20, 2013 Peru Ponders Machu Picchu Access Road – Oct. 27, 2010 Peru Proposes Elevator to Increase Access to Machu Picchu Site - March 19, 2009 ASCE Delegation Honors Machu Picchu For Engineering Excellence of Incas – Aug. 7, 2008

Reaching the Incan citadel of Machu Picchu is historically famous for its difficulty. The site’s remote location was a factor in the Spanish conquistadors overlooking it as they swept Peru for its riches. Archaeologist and politician Hiram Bingham had been seeking another “lost” Incan city when he happened across it in 1911.

Today, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest tourist draws on the South American continent. According to Peru’s Foreign Trade and Tourism Ministry, 955,741 visitors flocked to the historic site last year with almost 70% coming from outside the country. The vast majority of visitors arrive by train due to the lack of any paved roadway to its immediate vicinity.

Soon though, that problem will be remedied; a paved roadway leading the way to the doorstep of the historic ruin is now under construction.

The project—the Santa María-Santa Teresa-Machu Picchu Hydroelectric Bridge highway—involves asphalt-paving 22 miles of roadway running along the Urubamba River. The road originates in the town of Santa María—located on a national highway—and then passes through the town of Santa Theresa before ending at a hydroelectric plant near Machu Picchu.

“This work is very important for the integration and economic development of Cusco,” said Peru’s transport minister, Raúl Pérez Reyes Espejo, on a visit to the site in January. “This is part of a joint effort by the executive branch, through the [Ministry of Transportation and Communications, (MTC)], the regional government and local governments to build infrastructure in this very important region of Peru.”

The hydropower plant on the Urubamba Rivers to the southwest of Machu Picchu will be the terminus of the paved road. The railroad line coming from the other direction also ends at the location. Photo by C.J. Schexnayder/ENR

Run Through the Jungle

Map by Scott Hilling/ENR *Click on the map for greater detail

The project, one of the largest ever undertaken in the Department of Cusco, is being run by Provías Nacional, a branch of Peru’s Transportation Ministry. It is part of a wider initiative to improve transportation infrastructure across Peru’s rural highland areas.

The road will consist of two 11-ft-wide asphalt-paved lanes with shoulders and drainage. Six major bridges are being constructed at key crossings where they will replace decades-old Bailey-style pre-fabricated truss bridges . The uneven mountain terrain requires extensive retaining walls and gabions.

The route will eliminate the number of switchbacks and deviations the unpaved route followed. A separate project involves constructing a mile-long tunnel for the road using drill-and-blast. The tunnel will have two lanes and a center for its control and operation.

Officials say the route will be opened in 2025. When completed, a torturous journey of four to five hours should be reduced to just two.

The paving portion of the project was awarded to China Civil Engineering Construction Corp. Sucursal del Perú (CCECC) for $90 million in 2021. The construction of the tunnels and related work was awarded to the Carretera Cusco Consortium, made up of the China Railway Tunnel Group Co. Ltda. Sucursal del Perú and the Grupo Constructor & Consultor Asociados SAC, working under a $45-million contract.

The road was originally scheduled for completion in late 2023 but was delayed in 2022 when an audit revealed the contractors submitted improper documentation for certification. The MTC suspended the contract, but the contractor subsequently filed an appeal to prevent it being nullified. Both sides later agreed to resolve the issue through arbitration and work was resumed.

Other delays have beset the project as well. Heavy rains in January 2022 caused severe flooding that forced the evacuation of hundreds of tourists. Unusually dry conditions in April caused construction delays due to heavy airborne dust.

*Click on the red "+" to see the slideshow

Hall of the Mountain King

Machu Picchu is the linchpin of Peru’s tourism sector, which is still recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As of Jan. 1, the maximum number of tourists allowed to enter the sanctuary each day was increased to 4,500, with as many as 5,600 on specific dates such as holidays. Before the pandemic, a maximum of 5,800 visitors were permitted to visit the site each day—more than double the amount permitted a decade prior.

There is daily train service between Cusco and the town of Aguas Calientes, located on the Urubamba River about 5 miles northeast of Machu Picchu. Buses take tourists from the town to the sanctuary.

The citadel is also accessible by foot via routes such as the popular multiday “Inca Trail” hikes. With only 500 people permitted on the trail daily, including guides and porters, just a couple hundred trekkers enter Machu Picchu itself. Most of these visitors then lodge in Aguas Calientes afterward.

For years, intrepid visitors with an eye on their budget have taken the alternate route via the hydroelectric dam located southwest of the citadel and about six miles beyond Aguas Calientes on the rail line. These travelers could use road transport to reach the plant and then travel by train or by foot to Aguas Calientes.

When the road is completed next year, it will simplify access to Machu Picchu and improve transportation for residents of the area. Photo courtesy MTC

A road connecting Aguas Calientes to Santa Theresa was proposed in 2010 following a major flash flooding event on the Urubamba River that washed out portions of the train track. Thousands of tourist had to be evacuated by helicopter following the event. At the time, major concerns about Machu Picchu becoming inundated by tourists with the improved access.

The upgraded road will not create that direct connection as there is only a railroad bridge crossing the river at the hydroelectric plant limiting the access of vehicles. The upgraded route is intended to “improve the flow” of tourists to the tourist destination, officials said.

The inconvenience of the trip meant only a handful of tourists would use it each day, limiting the ability of the communities along the route to take advantage of Machu Picchu’s international popularity.

The tourism boost is only one aim of the project, officials say. An estimated 19,000 people live in the towns and districts adjacent to the road. The improvements will provide the local communities more direct access to markets as well as improved transportation between localities.

Since the resumption of work last summer, several government officials have since visited the project to emphasize their commitment to seeing it finished.

“Without a doubt, this work is going to completely change the way the surrounding population travels and their quality of life,” said Peru’s Comptroller General Nelson Shack in 2022 as the government sought to resume work.

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C.J. Schexnayder is the Editor of ENR California and ENR Northwest. He has contributed to ENR's coverage of the construction industry for more than a decade. His work has focused on major projects, industry trends and emerging technology. He previously was the South America correspondent for the magazine based in Lima, Peru. During that time, he covered numerous large-scale infrastructure projects across the region including the Third Lane Expansion of the Panama Canal. In addition, CJ has been an award-winning newspaper reporter in Southern California, Texas and Louisiana.

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Cómo disfrutar de Machu Picchu sin sufrir por la altura

El mal de altura provoca molestias pasajeras para la mayoría de las personas, pero en casos extremos, puede llegar a ser mortal.

Por fin, ya se llegó a Cusco, Perú, y se está listo para la escalada a Machu Picchu con la que siempre se ha soñado. Pero hay un pequeño problema: apenas es posible respirar, se tiene el estómago revuelto y, en la mañana, la cabeza palpita.

¿La causa? El mal de montaña o, en términos médicos, mal de altura : los diversos síntomas ligados a la respuesta del cuerpo a una altitud mayor a la que está acostumbrado. A medida que aumenta la altura, la presión del aire disminuye, lo que significa que con cada respiración entra menos oxígeno al cuerpo . Para la mayoría de la gente es incómodo de manera temporal, pero en casos extremos, el mal de montaña grave podría llegar a ser letal.

Suena aterrador, pero Paul Nicolazzo, el presidente del Centro de Formación en Medicina de Áreas Silvestres , dice: “En realidad no hay por qué tener miedo de ir a grandes alturas, siempre y cuando se sepa a qué te estás enfrentando y obedezcas unas reglas muy básicas”.

Conocer los síntomas

El mal de altura tiene cuatro síntomas generales: dolor de cabeza , malestares gastrointestinales (náusea y falta de apetito), fatiga/debilidad y mareos/vértigo.

A mucha gente le da dolor de cabeza en la mañana a causa de la altitud, cuando “tu cráneo se siente muy pequeño para las palpitaciones que experimenta”, explica Steve House, fundador de Uphill Athlete , una compañía que ofrece capacitación para resistir altitudes elevadas.

También es común tener problemas para dormir a grandes alturas. Esto sucede parcialmente porque la parte del sistema nervioso responsable de mantenerlo a uno despierto ha entrado en juego para elevar la frecuencia respiratoria , explica Nicolazzo.

Prestar atención a la altura

Los dos factores principales del mal de altura son la elevación a la que uno se dirige y a qué velocidad llegará allí. La gente con una mayor sensibilidad a la altura podría empezar a sentirse incómoda alrededor de los 1524 metros sobre el nivel del mar , que es la altura de lugares como Denver y Johannesburgo. Según los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades , cualquier persona que viaje por encima de los 2400 metros sobre el nivel del mar puede correr el riesgo de sufrir mal de altura.

Los aventureros de verdad —como, digamos, los que escalan el Himalaya o el monte Kilimanjaro— generalmente saben que se están dirigiendo a altitudes elevadas. Pero la altura de destinos como Ciudad de México (unos 2400 metros), la cima de Haleakala en Maui (3000 metros), Cusco (unos 3500 metros) o incluso Santa Fe, Nuevo México (2100 metros) podría ser una sorpresa para los viajeros. Para saber qué esperar, se sugiere revisar de antemano la altura del destino en Google Earth o el visor de mapas nacionales del Servicio Geológico de Estados Unidos.

Escuchar al cuerpo

Si se tiene una enfermedad como alguna cardiopatía, insuficiencia cardíaca, hipertensión , colesterol alto, fibrilación auricular, enfermedad pulmonar, EPOC, asma o apnea del sueño , se debe empezar a prestar mucha atención a cómo se está sintiendo el cuerpo incluso estando a unos 1500 metros sobre el nivel del mar.

Si se tiene un padecimiento preexistente o si ya se han tenido dificultades antes con altitudes elevadas —o si se irá a un lugar con una altitud mayor a los 3000 metros— se aconseja visitar a un especialista que ayude a prepararse y aconseje sobre los principales medicamentos que se usan para prevenir el mal de altura, como Diamox (acetazolamide) y dexametasona.

Pasar una noche en una altura menor

Viajar a altitudes elevadas se parece un poco a correr una maratón: saldrá mejor si se lo va haciendo progresivamente.

Digamos que uno va a ir a esquiar en un complejo turístico que está en un lugar de gran altitud. Podría considerar la posibilidad de ir durmiendo en una altitud más elevada poco a poco, dado que el factor esencial —para efectos de altitud— es dónde se pasará la noche.

@ems.whitts the best way to see machu picchu! first up the mountain ⛰️ #machupicchu #machupicchumountain #mountains #mountain #peru #travel #travellife #adventure #hiking ♬ som original - .

Si se viaja desde el nivel del mar a Breckenridge, una estación de esquí en Colorado a unos 2900 metros de altura, puede ser útil pasar primero una noche en Denver, a 1700 metros, aconseja Peter Hackett, fundador del Proyecto de Investigación Médica Denali y especialista en alturas. Al hacerlo, explica, “se reduce casi a la mitad la incidencia del dolor de cabeza. Así que ese poco de tiempo extra que se tarda en llegar a los 2700 metros para dormir puede ser de gran ayuda”.

No comer ese bife grasoso

Nicolazzo recuerda que cuando trabajaba como vigilante en un área de esquí, veía un comportamiento tan común —y que sin duda empeora el mal de altura— que las cabañas locales ponían advertencias sobre ello. Había gente que viajaba desde el nivel del mar, conducía a las áreas de esquí cerca de Taos, Nuevo México (que tiene unos 2100 metros de altura), “se comía un bife, unas papas al horno con crema agria, mucha manteca y uno que otro coctel”. Luego, al día siguiente se sentían fatal.

Para que no pase eso, hay que cambiar el bife y la manteca por más carbohidratos, ya que las grasas y proteínas requieren más oxígeno del cuerpo para metabolizarse.

Y si uno tomará un coctel, que solo sea uno: el alcohol y otros depresores pueden reducir el nivel de oxígeno, y más al dormir, comenta Hackett.

Sobre todo, se debe tomar mucha agua. Mantenerse hidratado ayudará a que los riñones funcionen mejor, explica Nicolazzo, lo cual puede ayudar a aclimatarse a la altura y así, con suerte, evitar un dolor de cabeza.

Estar atento a las advertencias

Un caso leve de mal de altura se puede volver moderado o severo si alguien asciende muy alto o muy rápido. La mayoría de la gente, pero no toda, experimenta los síntomas más leves antes de empeorar, por ejemplo, con mareos, confusión, náuseas intensas y dificultad respiratoria extrema.

A fin de evitar el mal de altura severo, hay que estar atento a cómo se siente uno y, si se tiene un dolor de cabeza persistente, dificultades para dormir u otros síntomas del padecimiento, hay que informarlo a los acompañantes y no subir más.

En el extremo más grave, si no se trata, el mal de altura puede derivar en un edema pulmonar por gran altitud , en el que se acumula líquido en los pulmones, o, más raramente, en un edema cerebral por gran altitud , en el que se acumula líquido en el cerebro. Ambas afecciones pueden ser mortales.

“Hay tres curas para el mal de altura: bajar, bajar, bajar” , dice House. Quien se vea desorientado o parezca tener dificultades para respirar o caminar —síntomas de enfermedades graves como edema pulmonar o cerebral de altitud— tiene que bajar de inmediato, afirma Hackett. “Solo necesitan bajar unos miles de metros. Y eso puede salvar su vida”.

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