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Machu Picchu Guide

Machu Picchu, the breathtaking Lost City of the Incas, is located on a natural saddle between high mountains. Terraced slopes fall away to the Urubamba River, which rushes around a hairpin bend far below the citadel. Since its fortuitous discovery by Hiram Bingham in 1911, a whole host of theories as to its historical significance have emerged. What is in no doubt is how finely preserved the site is, having not been discovered by the Spanish conquistadors nor disturbed by looters since its abandonment.

A guided tour of the site will give a full exploration of the ruins - staircases, terraces, temples, palaces, towers, fountains and the famous sundial. You may also have an opportunity to climb Huayna Picchu, the ubiquitous peak that overlooks Machu Picchu. The views from here are stunning and afford fantastic and unique photo opportunities. Other walks that can be undertaken from the site include the Sun Gate and the Hanging Inca Bridge as well as Machu Picchu Mountain itself.

Machu Picchu is of course the end point to the famous classic Inca Trail a four day walk along Inca trails past ruins and through varied flora, fauna and beautiful mountain scenery. If you do not arrive on foot along the Inca Trail you will come by train. The train station is in the town of Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo) located 400m below Machu Picchu surrounded by towering mountains and cloud forest. Many people choose to spend a night here (recommended) in order to allow a second visit to the site.

In Aguas Calientes you may choose to visit the hot springs or climb Puticusi (Happy Mountain!)for an alternative view of Machu Picchu across the valley (not a climb for the faint-hearted).

Machu Picchu is of course a highlight of any trip to Peru and often many people´s main purpose for visiting the country – it rarely dissapoints!