Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in !

Machu Picchu

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable wheelchair-accessible journey to the enigmatic Machu Picchu, a New World Wonder that captivates the spirit of adventure. Nestled in the cloud-shrouded Andes, this ancient Inca citadel remains a symbol of innovation and endurance.

Getting There

Begin your expedition in Cusco. The city itself is a gem, filled with colonial architecture and remnants of Inca history. From Cusco, take a scenic train ride that accommodates wheelchairs; options include PeruRail’s Vistadome or Inca Rail’s service, which offer breathtaking views of the Urubamba River and the surrounding mountains. Alight at Aguas Calientes, the nearest access point to Machu Picchu. Here, a bus, equipped to handle wheelchairs, will take you up the winding road to the site’s entrance.

Exploring Machu Picchu

Upon arrival, follow the designated wheelchair-friendly route, which covers the main urban sector of Machu Picchu, including the Intiwatana (sun dial), the Sacred Plaza, and the Main Temple. The path is mostly flat and paved, with occasional ramps, making it manageable for wheelchairs and scooters.

Interesting Facts

- Machu Picchu is considered a masterpiece of engineering, with its buildings constructed from precisely cut stones that have stood firm without mortar for centuries.

- The site was unknown to the outside world until it was brought to international attention by historian Hiram Bingham in 1911.

- UNESCO designated Machu Picchu a World Heritage Site in 1983, in recognition of its cultural and historical significance.

Tips

- Plan your visit during the dry season (May to October) for easier navigation.

- Book your tickets and permits well in advance, as visitor numbers are limited to protect the site.

This tailored tour not only explores the mystique of the Incas but does so ensuring accessibility, respect, and a deep connection with this age-old wonder.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Quechua Village

Why Visit?

Discover the Heart of the Andes: A Wheelchair-Friendly Guide to a Quechua Village

Embark on a memorable journey into the heart of Peru’s Quechua culture with this accessible and enriching tour of a traditional Quechua village. Nestled amidst the picturesque Andes mountains, this unique experience promises both comfort and adventure for wheelchair and mobile scooter users.

Getting There

Your journey begins in Cusco, a city well-equipped with facilities for travelers with disabilities. From here, you can rent an accessible vehicle or book a spot with a tour provider offering transportation services with wheelchair-friendly shuttires. The drive to the village is scenic and smooth, offering panoramic views of the stunning landscapes.

Village Exploration

Upon arrival, you"ll be greeted with a warm "Allillanchu" (hello in Quechua). The village paths have been recently renovated to accommodate wheelchairs, ensuring smooth mobility. Start at the local museum, which is equipped with ramps and offers insightful displays that showcase traditional Quechua textiles, tools, and historical artifacts.

Interactive Cultural Experience

Join a hands-on workshop where you can learn the ancient art of weaving from local artisans. These workshops are held in accessible areas and are a fantastic opportunity to engage directly with the villagers and understand their intricate craft.

Culinary Delights

For lunch, visit a nearby eatery renowned for its traditional cuisine and accessible dining area. Savor dishes like quinoa soup and alpaca steak, which provide a taste of authentic Andean flavors.

Nature’s Touch

Conclude your visit with a gentle stroll around the village’s medicinal herb garden. The paths here are flat and well-maintained, allowing you to enjoy the serene environment and learn about the natural remedies used by the Quechua people.

Throughout your visit, local guides, fluent in English and Quechua, will be available to assist, enriching your experience with fascinating stories and ensuring a safe and enjoyable tour. Rediscover the spirit of the Andes in a tour designed to cater to your accessibility needs.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Aguas Calientes

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Itinerary for Aguas Calientes

Day 1: Arrival & Aguas Calientes Stroll

Begin your adventure in the enchanting town of Aguas Calientes by boarding one of the accessible trains from either Ollantaytambo or Poroy station. Upon arrival, check into one of the wheelchair-friendly hotels near the station. Refresh yourself and head out to explore the vibrant Mercado de Artesanias. This local market, located directly adjacent to the train tracks, is easy to navigate in a wheelchair and offers a colorful array of handmade crafts and souvenirs.

Day 2: Machu Picchu

Today’s highlight is the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Book a wheelchair-accessible bus at the Aguas Calientes bus station that takes you directly to the entrance of this ancient Incan citadel. The site offers limited access for wheelchairs, but significant viewpoints like the Guardian"s House provide breathtaking vistas of the ruins and Huayna Picchu. Consider arranging a guided tour that specializes in accessibility to enhance your experience with fascinating insights into the rich history of the Incas.

Day 3: Mandor Gardens

Spend your last day visiting the serene Mandor Gardens, located a flat and manageable 3 km walk from Aguas Calientes. The path leading to the gardens is mostly even and navigable by wheelchair. Enjoy the lush greenery and the peaceful ambiance, and don"t miss the spectacular waterfall at the end of the garden. The area is a haven for bird watchers, so keep an eye out for the striking cock-of-the-rock and other exotic species.

Departure

Conclude your trip by heading back to the train station for an accessible ride to your next destination or back home, filled with memorable experiences from the heart of the Incan empire.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Choquequirao

Why Visit?

### Wheelchair Accessible Tour to Choquequirao, Peru

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

Begin your adventure in Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire. This city offers several wheelchair-accessible accommodations and amenities. Spend your day acclimatizing and exploring the charming streets, with sights like the Plaza de Armas and the Cusco Cathedral, which are fairly accessible if you have a strong power wheelchair or a mobile scooter.

Day 2: Journey to Capuliyoc and Trek Start

From Cusco, take a private, accessible van equipped with a lift to Capuliyoc (approximately a 4-hour drive). Here, gaze over the Apurimac River canyon, which offers stunning vistas that set the stage for your trek. The path from Capuliyoc to Choquequirao is not fully wheelchair accessible due to its rugged nature, but specialized trekking wheelchairs can be arranged through local adventure companies that provide such equipment and assistance.

Day 3: Choquequirao Exploration

Wake up early and start your guided tour of the Choquequirao ruins. These ruins are less crowded than Machu Picchu, providing a more serene experience. The site has some accessible paths that your guide can help navigate. Learn about the rich history of the Incas and the significance of this less-explored archaeological site.

Day 4: Return to Cusco

Travel back to Cusco in your accessible van. Reflect on the majestic views and cultural insights gained during your journey.

Interesting Facts

- Choquequirao means "Cradle of Gold" in Quechua.

- This site is often referred to as Machu Picchu"s sister city but is much less accessible and therefore less frequented by tourists.

- Specialized trekking wheelchair services offer the chance for all travelers to explore these remote Inca trails and ruins.

Tips

- Book services that specialize in accessible travel to ensure a smooth experience.

- Always check the weather and trail conditions before embarking on your trek to Choquequirao.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Mt. Putucusi

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the mystic heights of Mt. Putucusi, nestled near the renowned Machu Picchu in Peru. This unique journey caters specifically to travelers using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, ensuring a comfortable and accessible experience amidst breathtaking Andean landscapes.

Starting Point: Aguas Calientes

Your journey begins in the small town of Aguas Calientes, accessible by train from Cusco. The town is well-equipped to cater to travelers with mobility needs, featuring ramped sidewalks and accessible accommodations.

Travel to Base of Mt. Putucusi

From Aguas Calientes, head towards the base of Mt. Putucusi. Due to the challenging nature of the traditional hiking trail, which includes steep stairs and ladders not suited for wheelchairs, a specialized tour operator offering an alternative route for mobility scooters and wheelchair users is recommended. These tours utilize accessible paths that maintain a close view of the lush vegetation and offer glimpses of local wildlife.

Viewing Platform

The highlight of your Mt. Putucusi trip will be the specially designed viewing platform. Here, you can soak in the panoramic vistas of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountain ranges. The platform is equipped with ramp access and safety railings, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Interesting Facts

Mt. Putucusi, meaning "Happy Mountain" in Quechua, stands as a silent guardian across from Machu Picchu. While it doesn"t boast the same fame as its illustrious neighbor, it offers a unique perspective of the Inca citadel, rarely seen by the typical tourist.

Return Trip

After a day of awe-inspiring views, return to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy the local cuisine at one of the accessible restaurants before taking the train back to Cusco.

This wheelchair-friendly tour of Mt. Putucusi promises not only ease of access but also a deep connection with one of the world’s most enchanting landscapes.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.