Machu Picchu in Peru

Machu Picchu, the stunning ancient city of the Incas in Peru, is a must-visit! The city, located at an altitude of 2,430 meters on a mountain, attracts millions of visitors each year. But what makes this world-famous ruin so fascinating?

Pictures can capture moments and provide impressions of a place. However, the true magic and historical atmosphere of a location can only be experienced in person. Machu Picchu is one of those places where you may have seen hundreds of pictures, yet none compare to the genuine experience of the centuries-old city of the Incas. Machu Picchu in Peru is one of the seven new wonders of the world and is one of the largest tourist attractions in South America. Up to 2,000 people visit this landmark in Peru daily. I will now tell you what the ruins city in the mountains is all about and how you can plan a day trip here during your travels.

In the 15th century, the Incas - a South American indigenous people comprising hundreds of ethnic groups - built a city in the Peruvian Andes at 2,430 meters above sea level. It was constructed on a ridge between the peaks of Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu, 75 kilometers northwest of the city of Cusco, located in southeastern Peru. The 216 buildings of the Inca city were interconnected through an extensive staircase system, consisting of approximately 3,000 steps, which are all still preserved today. The outer walls of the temples, some multi-story residential buildings, as well as the water basins and canal connections are still in good condition today. Some of the structures have been meticulously restored and reconstructed in recent years.

The Inca ruler Pachacútec Yupanqui, who reigned from 1438 to 1471, oversaw the construction of this city - which laid the foundation for the expansion of the mighty Inca Empire in South America. Research suggests that around 1,000 people lived there at that time, being self-sufficient. The reasons for establishing the city in the Andes remain unclear to this day. The original name of the site has also not been recorded. The city was named after the nearby mountain peak 'Machu Picchu'.

Guru Tip:

Machu Picchu is not Peru's only ruin site. Explore my Peru travel guide to discover lesser-known fortresses.

Fun Fact: Although there is only one correct spelling of Machu Picchu, many humorous variations of the name circulate. However, let it be known: Macchu Picchu, Mach Picchu, Machi Picu, Machu Picco, Machu Piccu, Machu Pichu, Machupichu, Macnhu Picchu, Matchu Pitchu, and Matchupichu are not alternative spellings but simply incorrect.

After the residents either died or were resettled, Machu Picchu remained undiscovered for many years. The official date of its rediscovery is considered to be 1911. However, there were numerous explorers who visited the city almost every century after its construction.

Machu Picchu became known worldwide when National Geographic magazine dedicated its entire April 1913 issue to the ruins city. In 1983, it was recognized as a World Heritage Site, and in 2007 it was designated as one of the seven new wonders of the world. Since then, Machu Picchu with its green rocks and stone walls has become one of the largest tourist attractions in South America. On average, 2,000 people from around the world visit the historic site every day.

For the hotel and restaurant industry, tourism is a reliable source of income. Numerous stalls, hotels, and restaurants have created a thriving business around the Inca city. However, the influx of tourists also brings many challenges.

Machu Picchu suffers from the heavy visitor traffic. Be sure to leave everything as you found it.

For years, UNESCO has called for a significant reduction to a maximum of 800 visitors per day to protect the cultural heritage and minimize environmental impact. Developments like railways and bus routes have already drastically altered the surroundings. A cable car from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is now being planned, which UNESCO strongly opposes. The easier access through the cable car would further increase tourist traffic.

The Peruvian government has now also responded to UNESCO's criticism and taken measures to better manage the flow of visitors. There are now limited accesses to certain attractions, and entry to the wonder is only allowed with a certified guide and for a limited time. You can choose to visit Machu Picchu either in the morning (6-12 PM) or in the afternoon (12-5:30 PM); the official maximum stay time varies. In the morning, it is four hours, while in the afternoon, it is slightly longer. If you also visit Huayna Picchu, the maximum stay is six hours; visiting Montaña Machu Picchu allows for seven hours. Additionally, the maximum group size is limited to 16 people.

For the Machu Picchu site and the peak of Huayna Picchu, registration and an entrance ticket are required. This prevents more than 2,500 visitors from flocking to the sacred site each day.

Guru Tip:

If you want to spend the entire day at Machu Picchu, you can purchase tickets for both shifts.

While you should have no trouble securing tickets during the quieter off-season, it's advisable to take care of this early for safety. You can purchase them online, for example, on the official website of the Ministry of Culture, or at almost every corner in Cusco. Admission to the ruins city costs adults 152 Soles ($40), and students pay half. However, you must present your original student ID personally at the Direccion Regional de Cultura in Cusco; online booking is not possible. It's also worth applying for the internationally recognized ISIC student card for your trip. By the way, adults pay 200 Soles ($53) for a ticket to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, while students pay 125 Soles (~$33).

Machu Picchu is located in the middle of the Peruvian Andes in a hard-to-reach area. There are no roads leading here. For this reason, a railway line from Cusco to Aguas Calientes was constructed. The journey on the panoramic train takes you through picturesque mountain backdrops and wild rivers, directly placing it on our list of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.

Upon arriving in the small village at the foot of the Machu Picchu mountain, you either take the bus that travels the eight-kilometer winding road up to the Machu Picchu citadel or walk the distance on foot. It's best to start early in the morning to avoid large crowds and perhaps be rewarded with a spectacular sunrise.

The most exciting and adventurous way to Machu Picchu is on the Inca Trail. For four days, you hike along the former trade route of the Incas from Cusco to Machu Picchu - 44 kilometers and a total of 8,670 steps. Pass by small, ancient ruins and ascend to 4,200 meters to the highest point of the trail, 'Dead Woman's Pass'. Continue on your way to the Sun Gate, from which you can finally catch your first glimpse of the picturesque Machu Picchu.

To embark on your journey along the Inca Trail, you need to take care of this early: Only 500 people are allowed on the path to Machu Picchu daily, so spots are usually booked months in advance.

Additionally, the trail is closed every February for cleaning work for tourists. Fortunately, there are still alternative routes that offer beautiful views and are far less crowded.

Embark on a four- to five-day hike on the Salkantay Trek, which rivals the Inca Trail. It takes you over 4,600 meters, offering views of the adjacent Salkantay mountain. Camp in tents or with local families, and enjoy the breathtaking, untouched landscape.

Guru Tip:

Be sure to pack sturdy footwear and warm clothing. Temperatures fluctuate greatly in the Andes, and it can get very cold in the mountains at night.

If you don't want to trek exclusively on foot, the Inca Jungle Trek offers exciting experiences. Ride a mountain bike through the Andes and navigate their rushing rivers while white water rafting. Zip-line through the air and enjoy the hot thermal springs in Aguas Calientes. The four-day trekking tour to Machu Picchu promises several adventures.

Make your way to South America and experience one of the new seven wonders of the world up close. Witness the magic of Machu Picchu for yourself, hike adventurous paths, and take a time travel back to the Inca Empire! Have you perhaps been to Machu Picchu yourself? Then feel free to leave a comment and tell me how you liked it.

Off to Machu Picchu!