Destinations > South America > Peru > Peru
Machu Picchu
Shrouded in mist and mystery, this 15th-century Inca site is one of the most iconic and famous places in South America. Never found by the Spanish, and therefore left untouched, it was abandoned by the Incas shortly after the conquest and remained hidden for centuries before being brought to the world’s attention by American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911. Today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Much of the site’s drama and magnificence is due to its impossibly scenic location on a mountain plateau, high above the Urubamba Valley and surrounded by steep, green peaks. Machu Picchu means “Old Peak” in Quechua – the egg-shaped rock which rises dramatically behind the ruins is Huayna Picchu (New Peak). The exact purpose of the site is not fully understood, but most experts believe it was built around 1450 as an estate for the Inca emperor Pachacutec, as well as for religious ceremonies and astronomical observation. Agricultural terraces cut into the hillside may have been used for agricultural testing – the plateaus create a series of microclimates, where different varieties of crops could be grown.
The central buildings and walls are made from blocks of polished stone, fitted tightly together without mortar. This is the classic Inca style of construction, capable of withstanding earthquakes and the effects of time and weather. The complex is divided into three districts: a sacred sector, containing buildings devoted to the worship of Inti, the Sun God; a royal sector, containing spacious homes for the nobility; and a residential sector, containing simpler houses for the common people.
Intihuatana
The name of this ritual stone translates to the “Hitching Post of the Sun.” Its purpose is the subject of some debate, but most experts believe it was used to predict solstices and equinoxes.
Temple of the Sun
Notable for its semi-circular shape, this temple features two trapezoidal windows thought to align with the summer and winter solstices.
Temple of the Three Windows
Made from huge blocks of perfectly fitted stone, this temple is named for the large, trapezoidal windows offering sweeping views of the Sacred Plaza below.
Huayna Picchu
The hike to the top of this peak is steep, but not technical, and takes approximately an hour, rewarding you with a stunning overhead view of the ruins. Be sure to wear good hiking shoes in any weather, and use caution in wet weather, as the steps get very slick. (The path is closed entirely during the rainy season.) The last 60 feet involve climbing a stone slab using a ladder and rope. Plan to begin early, as the number of people who can do the hike each day is limited to 400 (in two groups of 200) and access is only allowed from 7am-1pm.
topHotel
Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge
Tel: +51 84 984 816 956 Reservations: +511 610 8300
An Orient-Express property, this is the only hotel directly adjacent to the ruins, allowing guests access to the site early and late in the day, without the presence of other visitors. Enjoy spectacular views from the terrace and Peruvian cuisine made with produce grown right on-site, as well as massages, aromatherapy treatments, and guided excursions.
topAguas Calientes
Also called Machu Picchu Pueblo, this village is the stopping place for trains coming from Cusco or the Sacred Valley. Consisting largely of inexpensive hotels and restaurants catering to Inca Trail backpackers, it also features a handful of luxury hotels, a sizeable craft market and a hot springs. Regular shuttles carry visitors on the 20-minute ride up to Machu Picchu.
topHotels
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
Tel: 1-800-442-5042
This is our top recommendation in Aguas Calientes. Just steps away from the train station, this intimate luxury hotel consists of 85 charming, one- or two-story whitewashed casitas, set within 12 acres of terraced hills. Full service spa.
Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel
Tel: + 51 (0)84 211 059
Five-star hotel on the banks of the Vilcanota River. 46 spacious rooms, 13 suites, luxurious spa. Very comfortable and pleasant, if somewhat generic. The restaurant serves Peruvian haute cuisine.
topLuxury Train
There are two ways to get to Machu Picchu - by train, or on foot. Train travelers arrive from Cusco on Perurail, which offers various classes of train service. We highly recommend the elegant Hiram Bingham, but the Vistadome (with its large panoramic windows) is a good option if the Hiram Bingham is booked up. On all trains, each passenger is limited to a single bag weighing no more than 11 lbs. You can arrange to leave the rest of your luggage with your tour operator or hotel.
The Hiram Bingham
Tel: +51 (0)84 581 414
Named for the Yale explorer who discovered the ancient ruins, this train makes the unforgettable 3-hour journey to Machu Picchu even more magical. An exclusive Orient Express service, the Hiram Bingham is elegantly decorated in the style of the 1920's Pullman trains, and surrounds you with luxury as you pass through the scenic Urubamba Valley.