Machu Picchu Travel
Located high in the Andes Mountains in Peru, Machu Picchu is the ruins of a 15th-century Incan city and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. The mystery around this 38,000-hectare ancient site nestling in the jungle has never been solved. Some people believe it was a university, whilst others think Machu Picchu was a royal retreat.
The 'Lost City of the Incas' is also the site of the Inca Trail, a pilgrimage route that attracts travellers from all over the world. Machu Picchu travel packages are very popular on a holiday in Peru, as this is the country’s main tourist attraction.
Why visit Machu Picchu
- Hike the Inca Trail and unravel the mystery of this ancient site, one of the most important citadels on earth.
- It’s a remarkable architectural and artistic masterpiece and considered the most spectacular urban creation of the Incan Empire.
- Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the most important in the world.
- This historic sanctuary is home to 401 species of birds and 309 different orchids.
- It’s considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Just 75km away is the city of Cusco, once the capital of the Incas and a great base from which to explore Machu Picchu. Let Thompsons Holidays take you on a Peru adventure to enjoy the magic of this mystical country on a Machu Picchu holiday package. It will be the adventure of a lifetime!
Things to do in Machu Picchu
Set atop a mountain in a tropical jungle, Machu Picchu is a well-preserved ancient Incan site that offers spectacular scenery, incredible flora and fauna and a variety of fascinating things to see. This UNESCO-listed Heritage Site is considered one of the most important in the world, with its temples, plazas, tombs, stone canals, stairways and platforms.
There are plenty of things to do, including hiking the Inca Trail, the 39km trail used as an Inca pilgrimage route, which offers dazzling scenery. Machu Picchu tour packages can include using the city of Cusco, 75km away, as your base from which to explore the surrounding area and see this remarkable ancient site.
Things to do in Machu Picchu
- Embark on the legendary 4-day Inca Trail.
- Explore the iconic Inca ruins with an experienced guide.
- Climb to the top of Huayna Picchu for an incomparable view.
- Discover the Sacred Valley between Cusco and Machu Picchu.
- Enjoy the incredible views from the Sun Gate, entrance to the Inca Citadel.
- Visit the Temple of the Sun, a sacred Inca temple built to honour the sun.
- Spend time at the Sacred Rock, where musical and poetry recitals took place.
- Discover Intihuatana, used by the Incas as a sundial.
- Explore Principal Temple, used for rituals and ceremonial offerings.
- See the iconic agricultural terraces.
- Visit the butterfly refuge, the Mariposarium.
- Spend time at the Machu Picchu Museum.
There are so many more things you can do in Machu Picchu, including watching the sunset from this legendary site, visiting the Citadel’s hidden gem, the Temple of the Moon, climbing Machu Picchu Mountain, discovering the Inca Drawbridge and much more. Thompsons Holidays can arrange a Peru adventure for you that includes everything from hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu to travel packages that include this mysterious destination.
Know before you go...
When is the best time to visit?
- The best time of the year to visit Machu Picchu or hike the Inca Trail is autumn (March, April, May) and spring (September, October, and early November).
- During these months, Machu Picchu and its hiking trails are less crowded with good weather conditions.
- Wet season (summer) is December to March.
- The easiest way to get to from Cusco to Machu Picchu is to take the train to Aguas Calientes (the town located a few miles from the site).
- This is a popular choice as the 3.5-hour scenic trip runs along the Urubamba River in the Sacred Valley, with dramatic canyon walls on either side.
- Another way to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu is to trek the multi-day Inca Trail.
What must I pack
- Be sure to bring sunblock and bug spray – the insects are relentless.
- It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable walking shoes, a raincoat and several layers of clothing, as it can be very chilly in the morning, very hot at midday and very rainy at any time.
- Having a small or regular-size backpack is allowed. Large bags and backpacks are not permitted and will need to be stored in lockers at the main entrance.
- Don't forget your passport. You'll need it to enter and exit the site to access the small bathroom and restaurant outside the gates. Plus, you can get your passport stamped with a novelty Machu Picchu stamp.
- Camera.
Safety tips
- Do not leave your items unattended.
- If planning to hike along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, bring along plenty of water and sunscreen.
- The hiking trail is quite exposed and is very strenuous in spots.
- Be aware that the high altitude may cause altitude sickness.
What can I do to be a responsible traveller
- Wherever possible, buy local food and souvenirs and support local artisans.
- Instead of using plastic bags, take fabric shopping bags with you.
- Respect each other's cultures and customs and avoid imposing your beliefs.
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