Peru & Bolivia Travel Blog: Expert Guides & Insider Tips 2026

The spectacled bear, the only bear in South America, is a rare sight these days. Not only is the animal notoriously shy, but it is also endangered. However, tourists visiting the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu were treated to a surprise last week as one young bear was spotted descending the stepped agricultural terraces of the site before retreating towards the high-altitude forest that surrounds the ruins.

Machu Picchu Sanctuary provides refuge to varied plant and animal life, including the endangered spectacled bear, the colorful Cock of the Rocks, and an astounding number of orchid and butterfly species. The area is under threat, however, by the 6.3 tons of waste left behind by hikers each month. Now, local government and travel agencies are banding together to cut the use of items such as plastic bags and batteries and to save Machu Picchu Sanctuary.

We've compiled some of the best tips for visiting Machu Picchu that we've culled from our decade of experience operating tours and treks in Cusco, Peru. (Including our favorite: Stop trying to beat everyone else there, that's the peak time, not the lull!)

Peru Rail offers various levels of service to Machu Picchu from Cusco (as well as to Lake Titicaca). Because there is no road access to Machu Picchu, one must arrive by train or by foot. Thanks to some recent changes by Peru Rail...

The rapids of the Apurímac River near Cusco attract many travelers looking for adventure, as they are considered some of the best in Peru. The river is fed by melted glacial water and, after passing through gorges twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, feeds into the Amazon River. It's rated as one of the 10 Best Rafting trips in the world, thanks to ideal temperatures and rapids, sandy beaches, and exciting scenery.

During renovations along the principal street leading into Cusco's main square, workers uncovered Incan walls, some small steps, and a water duct dating back to 1905. Among the telephone lines and water pipes, ceramic fragments were also found, along with scattered Incan stones that had been used in earlier versions of the street, under whose base runs the Saphy River. You might be surprised to know that the work will continue, and...