How To Plan Your Trip to Machu Picchu by Train

How To Plan Your Trip to Machu Picchu by Train

Peru, south-america

Length

N/A

Elevation

N/A

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, picture this: you're cruising along the Million Dollar Highway in Colorado, and let me tell you, the name isn't just hype. This baby stretches for about 25 miles through the San Juan Mountains, connecting Ouray and Silverton.

The road climbs to over 11,000 feet, so be prepared for some serious altitude! But the real kicker? It's carved into the side of a mountain, and in some spots, there are absolutely no guardrails. That's right, just you, the road, and a seriously steep drop-off.

Now, if you're scared of heights, this might not be your cup of tea. Also, keep an eye out for sharp hairpin turns and the occasional rockslide, especially after bad weather. But if you're up for it, the views are absolutely breathtaking. Think towering peaks, lush forests, and maybe even a glimpse of some wildlife. It's a total sensory overload of natural beauty. Just remember to drive carefully, and maybe bring a friend to help you spot those hazards!

Where is it?

How To Plan Your Trip to Machu Picchu by Train is located in Peru (south-america). Coordinates: -7.8103, -75.1971

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Peru
Continent
south-america
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
-7.8103, -75.1971

Related Roads in south-america

An epic climb to Abra Anta Q'asa in the Andesextreme

An epic climb to Abra Anta Q'asa in the Andes

🇵🇪 Peru

Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for Abra Anta Q'asa, a high-altitude stunner in the Peruvian Andes! This pass straddles the border between the Junín and Lima regions, so you're getting a two-for-one scenic experience. Clocking in at a lung-busting 4,881m (16,013ft), Anta Q'asa—also called Antaccasa or Antajasa—is not for the faint of heart. The JU-116, a gravel road, winds its way over the pass and can get pretty busy. Expect some sandy sections and hairpin turns to keep you on your toes. Keep an eye out for those sneaky loose-gravel patches, and if it's been raining, prepare for some serious mud! The unpaved sections can become impassable, trust me. The climb is a beast, and the air is THIN. Altitude sickness is a real thing up here, so listen to your body. Oh, and did I mention the unpredictable snowstorms and blizzards? Yeah, those can make things... interesting. Once you hit the Carretera Central, be ready for heavy traffic – it’s known to be a bit wild! Located between Marcapomacocha (27km away) and Casapalca (16km away), this route is best left to experienced off-roaders. If unpaved mountain roads and heights aren't your thing, maybe skip this one. But if you're up for an epic challenge with incredible views, Abra Anta Q'asa is calling your name!

Driving the unpaved Illampu Circuit through Abra de la Calzada in the Andeshard

Driving the unpaved Illampu Circuit through Abra de la Calzada in the Andes

🇧🇴 Bolivia

Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Abra de la Calzada in Bolivia is calling your name. This epic mountain pass punches in at a staggering 5,062m (16,607ft) – seriously high! You'll find it nestled north of La Paz, right in the heart of the Andes. This isn't your Sunday drive, folks. The Illampu Circuit, as it's known, is a rough and rugged 140km (87 miles) unpaved track starting in Sorata. Think old mule trail meets modern mining road. The views? Absolutely breathtaking. But don't let that distract you. We're talking serious altitude here – constantly hovering between 4,000 and 5,000 meters. Expect steep climbs, four passes, and tracks that have seen better days. Acclimatization is KEY. Only tackle this one if you’re prepped, fit, and ready for a challenge. Oh, and heads up, this pass is usually snow-covered, so good weather is a must!

Road trip guide: Conquering Las Pailas peakhard

Road trip guide: Conquering Las Pailas peak

🌍 Venezuela

Alright, adventure seekers, buckle up for Pico Las Pailas! Deep in Venezuela's Sierra de La Culata range, nestled within the stunning La Culata National Park, lies what some say is the highest road in the country. We're talking a lung-busting 4,579 meters (15,022 feet) above sea level! This isn't your Sunday drive. The road, also called Mucutisís, is totally unpaved, so a trusty 4x4 is an absolute must. Prepare for a narrow, steep climb that will put your driving skills to the test. The scenery is breathtaking, but be warned: snowfall can happen between June and September, adding another layer of challenge. Get ready for an unforgettable Andean adventure!

Conquering Abra Yanama in Peruhard

Conquering Abra Yanama in Peru

🇵🇪 Peru

Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Ever dreamt of conquering a seriously epic mountain pass? Let me tell you about Abra Yanama in the Cusco Region of Peru. We're talking a staggering 4,654 meters (that's over 15,000 feet!) above sea level. Picture this: you're deep in the heart of the Área de Conservación Regional Choquequirao, tackling almost 40 kilometers (around 25 miles) of pure, unadulterated dirt road. This isn't your Sunday drive, folks. Get ready for a steep climb, because this route zigzags its way up with over 50 hairpin turns. The air is thin, the views are unreal, and the challenge is definitely on. You'll wind your way from Colcapampa to Yanama, soaking in the rugged beauty of the Peruvian Andes. Just remember to take it slow and steady – this high-altitude journey demands respect.