Travel to Peru: Machu Picchu Tours

Why travel to Machu Picchu

A breathtaking 8,000 feet above sea level, veiled in cloud atop the mountainous columns of the Urubamba Valley, Machu Picchu is one of the most impressive historical sites in the Americas.

Spared by the conquistadores and their plundering that destroyed most other Inca sites, Machu Picchu is unique in its dramatic mountaintop setting and in its excellent state of preservation. Remaining hidden for centuries until it was rediscovered by an American explorer in 1911, the “lost” city of Machu Picchu was a secret local treasure for centuries.

The Incas began construction around 1430 but the city was soon abandoned as the empire began to crumble, immediately before the arrival of the conquistadores. Machu Picchu’s original purpose remains a topic of speculation; theories range from a high security prison to a sacred temple (due to its precise astronomical alignment).

The site is one of the best remaining examples of the outstanding Inca architecture and stonemasonry. The city was crafted from huge blocks of stone, carved with incredible skill to fit together without the need for mortar or cement.

There are few sights in the world that compare to the swirling mists parting at dawn as the sun rises over the mountaintops to illuminate this mystifying city, a lasting testament to the power and ultimate tragedy of the Inca empire.

What to do in Machu Picchu

Your tour to Machu Picchu will take you through the most important sites comprising the citadel, where you can learn more about the incredible Inca civilization. Within Machu Picchu there are a number of specific treasures that you can explore at your own pace. There are over 150 different palaces, temples, dwellings, and other structures within the citadel. Take time to get lost in its 75 acres of wonder and climb some of the citadel’s 10,000 steps.

Separated into three areas -- agricultural, urban, and religious -- the structures are arranged so that the function of the buildings matches the form of their surroundings. Famous Machu Picchu attractions include the Intihuatana stone, which points toward the sun at the winter solstice and may have acted as an astronomical calendar, and the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of Three Windows, both of which were devoted to the sun god Inti.

The central buildings of Machu Picchu use the classical Inca architectural style of polished dry-stone walls. The Incas were masters of this technique, called ashlar, in which blocks of stone are cut to fit together tightly without mortar. Many junctions in the central city are so perfect that it is said not even a blade of grass fits between the stones.

Don´t miss the Funerary Rock Hut, where the Inca trail starts and where you will enjoy the most dramatic view of the whole citadel. From here you can trek back down the stairs and enter the Royal Tomb, where Inca kings were mummified.

When to visit Machu Picchu

The best time to visit the stunning Machu Picchu citadel is during the dry season from April to October. Temperatures in Machu Picchu vary from the upper zone to the canyon bottom; generally speaking, however, the climate is mild. The mildest months in Machu Picchu are May and June. During your visit, try to visit during the early morning or late afternoon – crowds are smaller at these times.

If you are planning on hiking the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, be aware that the trail is closed for maintenance in February during the rainy season. You can still visit Machu Picchu of course, and other fantastic treks are available in the area, such as the Lares trek or Salkantay trek for those daring to face the rain.

If you are looking to avoid the crowds of tourists, make sure you visit the citadel very early in the morning. The first buses to Machu Picchu start at 5:30 a.m. so you can easily make it to enjoy the beautiful sunrise.

Travel Testimonials

Finally we made it to Macchu Picchu. One word, 'breathtaking'', describes the scene. The clouds that had hovered over us in the early morning gradually parted revealing the beautiful site and the ancient ruins were crystal clear. After arriving at Macchu Picchu we were able to take our time and stroll though the ruins.

Ita Tesla & Dave Tonna (Toronto, Canada) traveled to Machu Picchu in April 2011

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Our last full day finally took us to Machu Picchu. Even the train ride to Aguas Calientes was quite enthralling with the river at its highest. Machu Picchu is, to say the least, an amazing place. It leaves one in awe of the magnitude of the Incas and how they managed nature. We should take some lessons from them.

Derek & Yvonne Sandison (Toronto, Canada) traveled to Machu Picchu in February 2011

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The two days I spent traveling via the Vista Dome train and hiking the last portion of the Inca Trial to arrive at the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu were absolutely magical! Along the trail we arrived at Winaywayna (Forever Young), the last urban center before reaching the Sun Gate and the sacred city of Machu Picchu. This site was simply stunning and made the pending arrival at Inti Punku (Sun Gate) even more exciting.

Michelle Morgan (CA, USA) traveled to Machu Picchu in November 2010

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Top Pick Machu Picchu Hotel

Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel 5*

Kilometer 110 Via Ferrea, Aguas Calientes

The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is a naturalist's haven. Conveniently nestled in the verdant Andean cloud forest, this lovely hotel is the perfect place to catch a glimpse of the astonishing flora and fauna of the region. The eco-friendly hotel resembles an Andean village and is comprised of charming white-washed cottages decorated with modern indigenous art as well as authentic pre-Columbian artifacts. With a commitment to indulging the whims of its guests, this luxury hotel expertly combines nature and comfort to create a one-of-a-kind Machu Picchu experience. Try some regional dishes at the excellent restaurant overlooking the Urubamba River.

Restaurant Room Service Internet Laundry Service Parking

Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel Photos & Info »

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El Mapi Hotel 4*

Av. Pachacutec 109 - Aguas Calientes

Ideally located near Aguas Calientes train station and close to where the buses depart for the short ride to Machu Picchu, the recently renovated El Mapi Hotel is perfect for travelers who want to catch the sunrise over the ruins. The modern and stylish hotel aims to be the best in its category and offers great value services and décor. It also boasts beautifully landscaped gardens and a hot tub where guests can relax at night with a cocktail after a delicious dinner.

Restaurant Room Service Laundry ServiceInternet

El Mapi Hotel Photos & Info »

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Andina Luxury Hotel

Avenida Imperio de los Incas S/N, Aguas Calientes

Travelers looking for convenience and a touch of luxury during their Machu Picchu travels will be pleased with this excellent hotel. Situated just 200 meters from the train station this wonderfully appointed establishment boasts 31 fully-equipped and tastefully decorated rooms. Each accommodation features wooden furnishings, a large bed covered with comfortable bed linens, and some rooms even feature breathtaking views of the river. Three walls are an immaculate white, while one wall is left a natural exposed brick to give the room an elegant, but rustic appeal. Andean art adds the finishing touch to the room. All accommodations come with internet, an LCD screen cable television, and air-conditioning, while the hotel itself serves guests with a restaurant, bar, sauna, and gym. Guests cannot ask for more modern convenience and comfort during their Machu Picchu vacation.

Restaurant Room Service Internet Laundry Service Gym Parking Spa Swimming Pool

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