Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas, was built in the 15th century and abandoned soon after. It’s now one of the most-visited tourist destinations in South America, drawing thousands of people to Cusco and Machu Picchu every year. With so many different ways to explore this historic location, how can you ensure you’re getting the most out of your visit?
What Is Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage area. Machu Picchu which is the archaeological ruin of the Inca is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is located in the Cusco Region of Peru, about 80 kilometers northwest of Cusco city. The site is situated on a mountain ridge above the Urubamba River valley in southern Peru. It is assumed that Machu Picchu was created as an estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti (1438–1472). The name Machu Picchu implies old pinnacle or old mountain.
Machu Picchu was underlying the traditional Inca style, with cleaned dry-stone walls. The Inti Watana, the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of the Three Windows are the three primary structures of Machu Picchu.
Discovery of Machu Picchu
In 1911, Hiram Bingham III made one of the most incredible discoveries of all time when he came across the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu. Nestled atop a mountain in Peru, this 15th-century city was shrouded in mystery. For centuries, it remained undiscovered by the outside world. But when Bingham stumbled upon it, he opened up a whole new world for archaeologists and historians to explore. The majority of buildings on the site are connected with stone steps that form ramps or walkways among them. They are built from local granite stones that have been carefully cut and sculpted without mortar to fit together perfectly without being sealed together. The quality of these stones is so fine that not even a razor blade can be inserted between them! These finely cut stones have been called the work of angels.
Where Is it Located?
Machu Picchu is situated about 50 miles northwest of the city of Cusco, in the Cusco Region of Peru. It sits atop a mountain ridge at an elevation of over 7,000 feet, with stunning views of the Andes Mountains and the Urubamba River below. The site is incredibly well-preserved and was only rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru, with over 1 million visitors each year.
The citadel of Machu Picchu is located 2,430 meters (7,970 ft) above sea level. It was built around 1450 AD, at the height of the Inca Empire.
What Are the Visiting Hours?
Machu Picchu is open whole year. The hours are from 6 am to 5 pm, and the entrance closes at 4 pm. Machu Picchu has proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. More than 10 lac visitors came here every year. If you want to hike to the top of Huayna Picchu, you must buy a ticket in advance as there is a limit of 400 people per day.
How Long Should You Spend at Machu Picchu?
If you’re only spending a day at Machu Picchu, you should plan to arrive early in the morning and spend at least four hours exploring the site. If you want to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you’ll need to book your tickets in advance as these are prevalent activities. However, even if you don’t have time for one of the hikes, there is still plenty to see and do at Machu Picchu. Be sure to wander through all the different areas, including the Temple of the Sun, the Royal tombs, and the House of the Priests.
What To Bring With You
Machu Picchu is located in the Cusco Region of Peru, about 80 kilometers (50 miles) northwest of the city of Cusco. The weather is dry and mild from April to October so these months are best for visiting Machu Picchu. December to March is the rainy season, so the trails can be slippery and dangerous.
- It’s important to wear comfortable shoes and clothing that you can layer, as the temperature can vary throughout the day.
- Remember to pack sunscreen, caps, and shades to safeguard yourself from the sun.
- If you want to hike to Machu Picchu but are not a very experienced hiker, opt for one of the guided tours offered by numerous tour operators in Cusco or Aguas Calientes.
- You will also need tickets for your guided tour; these tickets will not only allow access to the site but also provide you with an included entrance fee.
- Tickets can be purchased at the site or through a reputable tour before arriving in Peru.
When Should I Go?
No matter what time of year you visit Machu Picchu, the experience is sure to be incredible. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when deciding when to go. For example, the Inca Trail is only open from April to November, so if that’s something you’re interested in, you’ll need to plan your trip accordingly. December through March is the rainy season in Peru, so if you’re not a fan of hiking in the rain, you might want to avoid this time of year. However, Machu Picchu is located in the Andes Mountains, so even during the rainy season, there are bound to be some clear days where you can explore the ruins.
How Do I Get There?
Machu Picchu is about 50 miles northwest of the city of Cusco, Peru. The best way to get there is by taking a train from either Poroy or Ollantaytambo. The journey takes about 3 hours and costs around $70. You can also hike the Inca Trail, which takes 4 days, but you need to book these months in advance as it is very popular. Machu Picchu is open all year round, but the best time to visit is between April and October when the weather is dryer.
How Much Does It Cost?
Machu Picchu from Lima can cost as little as $150 if you take the bus. The Inca Trail hike will set you back about $500, but it’s an experience unlike any other. If you want to see Machu Picchu in all its glory, it’s best to visit between November and January when the weather is dry and clear. Keep in mind that Machu Picchu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, so expect large crowds no matter when you go.
Is It Worth Visiting?
If you’re considering a trip to Machu Picchu, you may be wondering if it’s worth all the hype. And we’re here to reveal to you that it absolutely is! This ancient Inca site is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru for good reason. Here’s what you can expect on a visit to Machu Picchu.
Why Visit Peru in General?
There are many reasons to visit Peru, but some of the most popular include Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, and Lake Titicaca. Situated on the western coast of South America, Peru is a country rich in culture and history. From the Inca Empire to the Spanish conquest, there is much to learn about Peru’s past. In addition to its ancient ruins, Peru is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world. From the Andes Mountains to the Amazon rainforest, there is no shortage of natural beauty to explore. Plus, with its delicious food and friendly people, Peru is a great place to visit for any traveler.
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