I'm in Brazil, and I plan on doing some traveling while I'm down here. Macchu Picchu sounds like an awesome place to go, but I hate overtly touristy things.
For example, when I went to Christ the Redeemer (not nearly as interesting) it was overwhelmingly bland and obnoxious, due to the massive crowd and everyone trying to take the same picutre.
What is the optimal way to visit the ruins then? I don't care for travel guides telling me stuff, I'd rather just explore and take it in on my own. I'd also like to do the trail, maybe not the 4 day one, but I can handle the 2 day one, I'm pretty sure.
Any advice to maximize the experience?