Shrouded in mist and centuries-old mysteries, Machu Picchu has long intrigued travellers. And it’s not surprising, really: once a thriving Inca city, this sprawling 32,592ha archaeological wonder is a proud symbol of ancient ingenuity and spiritual significance, with its sun-drenched temples and terraces rising over the Peruvian Andes. Here, we step behind the picturesque scenes of this World Heritage icon to explore what makes Machu Picchu so special, uncovering some of its mysterious must-sees, and sharing all the travel essentials for your ultimate, once-in-a-lifetime Machu Picchu and Peru adventure.
1. Machu Picchu is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
Built around 1450 AD during the reign of Inca emperor Pachacuti, Machu Picchu was not only a royal estate but also a spiritual sanctuary, reflecting the Inca’s deep connection to nature, the cosmos, and governance. The citadel likely housed between 300 and 1,000 people before it was abandoned in the 16th century, possibly due to the Spanish conquest or internal factors. Although local farmers and Indigenous people were aware of its existence, it wasn’t until 1911 that American explorer Hiram Bingham brought the complex to international attention. Since then, Machu Picchu – sometimes referred to as Hanan P’iqch’u in the Quechua language – has continued to captivate visitors, with around 1.5 million people visiting the site annually. The Peruvian icon is so beloved worldwide that, in 2007, a global poll organised by the New7Wonders Foundation saw Machu Picchu join the ranks of the New Seven Wonders of the World, alongside landmarks like the Great Wall of China, Petra (Jordan), Christ the Redeemer (Brazil), Chichen Itza (Mexico), the Roman Colosseum (Italy), and India’s Taj Mahal.
2. Machu Picchu is the legacy of the Inca Civilisation
The Incas were an influential people who had their heartland in the Andean region around modern-day Peru, with their Empire expanding into parts of Ecuador, Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, and Colombia throughout the 15th Century. Renowned for their remarkable engineering skills, the Incas built enduring stone structures and developed sophisticated agricultural techniques like terracing and irrigation to thrive in the challenging Andean landscape. They also created a highly organised social and political system, headed up by the Sapa Inca who was believed to be a direct descendant of the Sun God. The Incas’ ability to integrate diverse cultures, maintain efficient communication with an expansive road network, and preserve a rich spiritual worldview saw them leave a lasting imprint on their world. Although the Inca Empire fell to Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, its impact continues to shape Andean culture, seen in language, art, and agricultural practices that remain to this day, and, of course, in the enduring legacy of Machu Picchu.
3. Machu Picchu is a feat of ancient architecture
With its precision stonework, advanced water systems, and seamless integration with the natural landscape, Machu Picchu showcases the Incas’ extraordinary designing, building and engineering skills. As no wheels were used in the citadel’s construction, it’s believed its large building blocks and stones were hauled up the mountains via a combination of levers, pulleys, ramps and human labour. Once there, the Incas employed ashlar masonry, a technique where stones were cut with extreme precision to fit together without mortar, making structures both durable and earthquake-proof. Machu Picchu’s complex water management system showcases the Incas’ expertise in hydraulic engineering, featuring a network of aqueducts supplying water to fountains, baths, and agricultural terraces from nearby springs. Those terraces, in turn, feature intricate drainage systems that prevent erosion in the steep Andean terrain. The complex also shows a thoughtful approach to urban planning, with areas designated for residential, ceremonial, and agricultural purposes, all aligned with the surrounding mountains and celestial bodies.
4. Machu Picchu has a sacred atmosphere like nowhere else on Earth
Machu Picchu’s many consecrated spaces reflect the Incas’ deep spiritual connection to their natural environment, and centuries on they still exude an otherworldly ambience. The Intihuatana (Hitching Post of the Sun) was crucial during the winter solstice, believed to ‘tie’ the sun to the earth, ensuring its return as the days began to lengthen. The Temple of the Sun, with its strategically placed windows, allowed sunlight to illuminate sacred areas during solstices, symbolising the sun’s vital role in sustaining life and guiding the agricultural cycles. The Temple of the Three Windows offered panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, while the Sacred Plaza and Main Plaza hosted significant ceremonies. The Inca Bridge and Royal Tombs likely held spiritual importance, and the Water Temple and fountains played an essential role in rituals. Ceremonies would have honoured Inti (the sun god), Pachamama (Mother Earth), and Viracocha (the creator god), involving offerings, sacrifices, prayers, and astronomical observations to ensure divine favour for the emperor, agricultural prosperity, and the health of the empire.
5. Machu Picchu has unique wildlife and biodiversity
The Incas’ sacred citadel sits 2,430m (7,970ft) above sea level in southern Peru’s Andes Mountains, near the town of Aguas Calientes and about 80km from the city of Cusco – the former capital of the Inca Empire. Here, the ecosystems of the Andes and the Amazon Basin intersect, creating microclimates including high-altitude mountain habitats, riparian environments along the mighty Urubamba River and cloud forests. The unique ecology, safeguarded by the 32,000-hectare Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary, supports more than 1,200 plant species, many of them endemic, including medicinal shrubs, 400 types of orchids and key Inca agricultural crops like potatoes, maize, and coca. The sanctuary is also a haven for rare and endangered wildlife including the spectacled bear, Andean mountain cats, pumas and vicuñas, and offers great birdwatching thanks to the presence of Andean condors, the striking cock-of-the-rock and more than 30 species of hummingbirds.
6. Machu Picchu is an important UNESCO World Heritage-listed site
Machu Picchu was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 due to its outstanding universal value as a cultural, historical, and architectural masterpiece of the Inca Empire. Its combination of advanced engineering, integration with the natural landscape, astronomical and religious importance, and biodiversity make it one of the most significant heritage sites in the world. One of the key reasons for Machu Picchu’s World Heritage status is its remarkable preservation: unlike many other Inca sites, Machu Picchu was never discovered and destroyed by the Spanish conquistadors. As a result, much of the site’s original architecture and landscape remain intact, offering a unique glimpse into Inca life. While some restoration work has been done, the site still retains much of its original form and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of pre-Columbian architecture in the Americas. UNESCO’s recognition helps preserve its cultural heritage and ensures it’s protected against tourism pressure and environmental degradation.
7. Machu Picchu has trails to suit most abilities and mobilities
Inside Machu Picchu, there are several walking routes to choose from:
- Classic (main) Circuit: Easy, 1.5-2 hours, 2km.
Highlights: Main Plaza, Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana Stone, Inca Bridge, Royal Sector, terraces.
- Short Circuit: Easy, 1-1.5 hours, 1.5km.
Highlights: Key areas of Machu Picchu.
- Temple of the Sun Circuit: Easy, 1 hour, 1km.
Highlight: The semi-circular Temple of the Sun
- Agricultural Sector: Easy to Moderate, 1-1.5 hours, 2km.
Highlights: Agricultural terraces, showcasing the Inca’s farming techniques.
- Royal Sector Circuit: Easy to Moderate, 1 hour, 1.5km.
Highlights: Noble residences of the elite and the House of the High Priest.
- Long Circuit: Moderate, 5-3 hours, 3km.
Highlights: Key areas of Machu Picchu, agricultural terraces and royal sector.
- Sun Gate Circuit (Inti Punku): Moderate, 1-1.5 hours, 2km.
Highlight: The Sun Gate is the traditional entrance for Inca Trail trekkers.
- Inca Bridge Trail: Moderate, 30-45 minutes, 1km.
Highlight: The Inca Bridge, built into the cliffside.
While much of the complex has undulating paths, steep inclines and staircases, a limited number of areas are wheelchair accessible. Contact Adventure World’s Destination Experts if you’d like to know more about Machu Picchu’s options for those with limited mobility.
8. You can hike into Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail or another epic trek
The Inca Trail is the most iconic route to Machu Picchu, covering 43km over 4 days, with a difficulty level ranging from moderate to challenging. Highlights include Inca ruins like Wiñay Wayna, stunning vistas, and a sunrise arrival at Machu Picchu via the Inti Punku (Sun Gate). Due to permit limitations, reservations must be made well in advance. Other multi-day trekking options include the Lares Trek (33km, 3 days, moderate), the Choquequirao Trek (62km, 5 days, challenging), and the Inca Jungle Trail (70km, 4 days, moderate). For those seeking a one-day, challenging trek with spectacular views, the Huayna Picchu Trail takes you to the top of the iconic peak at 2,720m, with steep paths, stairs, and the Temple of the Moon. The Machu Picchu Mountain Trail (5.5km, 4 hours, difficult) offers expansive views of the archaeological site and surrounding mountains.
9. You can easily access Machu Picchu by train (if you don’t want to hike)
Not up for a strenuous hike? Luckily one of the world’s most scenic train journeys will take you right to Machu Picchu’s scenic doorstep. The train ride from Ollantaytambo or Poroy to Aguas Calientes offers stunning views of the Sacred Valley, with options like Inca Rail’s Voyager Class (comfortable seating and panoramic windows) or more luxurious services like the 360° Class or First Class levelling up the experience. The journey takes 1.5 to 2 hours from Ollantaytambo and around 3.5 hours from Poroy. Upon arriving in the town of Aguas Calientes, a short bus transfer takes you to the citadel’s entrance. Aguas Calientes is well worth exploring too, with handicrafts stalls and restaurants to explore.
10. Machu Picchu is a photographer’s dream
With its spectacular natural setting, dramatic architecture and ever-changing light, it’s no surprise Machu Picchu makes even the most disciplined of photographers trigger happy! You’re spoilt for choice of vantage points inside the complex, but to avoid crowds and capture the best light (especially at sunrise), arrive as early as possible. While it’s tempting to fill a large pack with all your camera gear, the complex has specific rules that limit what you can bring in: you can carry one small backpack (40cm x 35cm x 20cm or 5kg), and there are security checks at the entrance. Selfie sticks, drones, and tripods are prohibited. Visit www.machupicchu.gob.pe for the most up to date regulations.
11. Ollantaytambo is an excellent starting point for a Machu Picchu day trip
This historic town and archaeological site formed a strategically important military, religious, and agricultural hub that guarded the entrance to the Sacred Valley during the Inca Empire, making it a key stop on the way to Machu Picchu. Today it’s one of the most important and well-preserved examples of Inca urban planning and architecture, with its archaeological complex featuring extensive agricultural terraces, Inca Baths, a Temple of the Sun and a Sun Gate: a large stone gateway offering incredible views of the surrounding landscape. The modern town of Ollantaytambo retains the traditional urban planning layout, with narrow streets and rectangular city blocks arranged along the ancient Inca grid, home to restaurants, hotels, and markets filled with traditional Andean products and souvenirs.
12. You can MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® across the Sacred Valley
Opportunities for outdoor adventure abound around Machu Picchu. It’s possible to mountain bike from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu; kayak the Urubamba River and go rock-climbing or ziplining. But the most memorable experiences in this region reveal the local culture while giving back to the community. On Adventure World’s Authentic Peru itinerary, for example, you’ll not only explore Machu Pichu, the Amazon, Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley and more of Peru’s hidden gems, you’ll enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Chinchero’s Centre for Traditional Textiles, where artisans showcase their ancestral designs by demonstrating traditional Inca dyeing methods and weaving techniques. In Urubamba, a meal at AMA gives back to the community, with the restaurant empowering marginalised communities through job opportunities and training. The feelgood experiences continue in Cusco at Mama Seledonia, where founder and executive chef Seledonia Montalvo crafts exquisite dishes while offering employment to talented single mothers from underserved communities.
13. Nearby Cusco is Peru’s most colourful city
Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire around 1200AD, is the perfect base for exploring Machu Picchu. The city is home to several impressive archaeological sites, such as Sacsayhuamán, a massive complex of precision-engineered stone terraces overlooking the city. Nearby, Qorikancha, or the Temple of the Sun, was once covered in sheets of gold and was the most important temple in the Inca Empire. Other notable sacred sites include Tambomachay, an Inca water temple, and Puka Pukara, a fortress complex used by the Inca military. The historic city centre features an intriguing blend of Inca and colonial architecture. The main square, the Plaza de Armas, is surrounded by colonial churches like the Catedral del Cusco and Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, both masterpieces of Spanish Baroque architecture. The San Blas neighbourhood, with its narrow cobblestone streets, is known for its artisans and handcrafted goods, including textiles, jewellery, and pottery while San Pedro Market, is a great place to sample local delicacies like cuy (guinea pig) chuño (freeze-dried potatoes), empanadas (filled pastry pockets) sopa de quinua (quinoa soup) and the Pisco Sour – a moreish cocktail made with pisco (a local brandy), lime juice, egg white, and bitters.
14. There’s outstanding accommodation close to Machu Picchu and beyond
The Sacred Valley and Cusco offer a wide variety of stays. The Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba is a contemporary hacienda style hotel in the heart of the valley, spanning some 100 acres of lush grounds, with each room offering spectacular views. The architecture and interior design draw from the region’s rich cultural heritage, with colonial-style furnishings, traditional Inca masks, and handcrafted woodwork enhancing its authentic charm. Nearby, the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo is set amongst tropical gardens and its architecture reflects traditional Andean village style, with terraced hills, stone pathways and whitewashed adobe casitas, while the interiors feature handwoven textiles and artisanal furniture, paying homage to the region’s cultural heritage and blending seamlessly with the natural beauty of the surrounding Andean cloud forest. And in the heart of lively Cusco, the Costa del Sol Hotel is a beautifully restored 17th century colonial-era mansion. It’s part of the Wyndham Green Certification Program and has implemented a sustainability policy to reduce single-use plastic, recycle, minimise water usage and improve energy efficiencies.
Your Machu Picchu questions answered
Expert travel tips and what you need to know before you go
Which month is best to visit Machu Picchu?
A: The best time to visit Machu Picchu depends on your priorities. The dry season (May to October) is high season as it’s considered the ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking the Inca Trail as the weather is mostly clear, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, and minimal rain. However, June, July, and August are peak tourist months, so expect larger crowds. If you prefer fewer people, plan for early morning or late afternoon visits. The shoulder months of April and November offer a balance of good weather and fewer visitors. While there may be light showers, the landscapes are lush, and temperatures are moderate (18°C to 24°C). The wet season (November to March) brings higher humidity and rain, particularly from December to February, making hiking and outdoor activities more challenging (in fact, the Inca Trail is closed each February for maintenance). But, on the flip side, the moody skies and lush scenery add an extra layer of drama to your experience, and there are fewer visitors.
What time of day should I visit Machu Picchu?
A: The best time to visit Machu Picchu depends on your preference for crowds and atmosphere. Early morning (from around 6am, when the site opens) is ideal for fewer visitors, cooler temperatures, and great light for photography. If you’re not an early riser, late afternoon (after 3pm) is a good alternative, offering a quieter experience with fewer crowds and a relaxing atmosphere before the site closes at 5.30pm. Midday (10am-2pm) is the peak period for visitors. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
Will I get altitude sickness in Machu Picchu?
Altitude sickness is rare, but it can affect anyone, and Cusco and Machu Picchu are both located at significant elevations. Symptoms include shortness of breath, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. Speak to your doctor before you travel and bring along any recommended medications as a precaution. And, when you arrive, give your body time to acclimatise. Arrive in Cusco at least 1-2 days before heading to Machu Picchu and take it easy during the first few days: avoid strenuous activities, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, as dehydration can worsen symptoms. Eating light, high-carb meals can also help your body adjust to the higher elevation. Most importantly, seek help if you need it: you may need to descend to a lower altitude or be treated with oxygen.
Is it better to do a guided tour of Machu Picchu or a self-guided walk instead?
It’s possible to explore the site independently or with an audio guide but visiting with a certified local expert will enhance the experience. Not only does this support the community, a local guide provides insightful commentary on the history, architecture, and significance of Machu Picchu, and tell you stories about its Inca origins, point out its mystical aspects and answer any questions. The guides also know how to best navigate the extensive complex in the time you have, ensuring you don’t miss key areas.
Do I need a permit to enter Machu Picchu?
Yes, you do – but it’s included in your ticket, which gives you access to the archaeological site for a specific time slot (entrance times are staggered throughout the day and you must enter the site within your assigned time slot). There are different ticket options based on which areas you wish to see, so it’s best to arrange this well ahead of time – speak to Adventure World’s Destination Experts for details.
What should I bring to Machu Picchu?
You must bring your passport to enter the site – if you don’t bring it, you’ll be denied entry. It’s also a good idea to carry a copy of your Machu Picchu entrance ticket. Wear supportive hiking shoes as you’ll be walking on uneven stone paths, and trekking poles are prohibited inside the complex. The site is very exposed to the elements, so dress in breathable layers, wear insect repellent, sunscreen and a hat, and carry a packable rain jacket or poncho in your backpack (noting that your bag must not exceed 40cm x 35cm x 20cm or 5kg). There are no water fountains inside the site, so fill up your water bottle before you enter. And don’t forget your camera or smartphone!