Tour the Iconic Machu PicchuUncover the mysteries of Machu Picchu, Peru
When do you want to go?
2024
I'm flexible
Passengers
Adults (18+)
Children (0 - 17)
Tour Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas
Situated on a mountain ridge above the Urubama River and surrounded by tropical forest, Machu Picchu is in one of the most idyllic settings in the world. Built around 1450 AD, the site has been classed as a UNESCO World Hertiage site and claimed a place among the seven wonders of the world. The city had been considered lost for centuries, until it was rediscovered in 1911 by explorer Hiram Bingham. The whispers of an ancient civilization can still be heard among the ruined buildings and sacred stones, encouraging the adventurous traveller to uncover the myths and mysteries woven into this spiritual location.
Guided Tours to Machu Picchu
Travelling across the Andes Mountains, travellers will be dazzled by the lush scenery and snow-capped mountain ranges. From Lima, Peru, tours to Machu Picchu are plentiful. Whether they are express tours to Machu Picchu or spending time exploring the South American region. We’ve got the tours for you.
What to Expect – Why Visit Machu Picchu?
Visiting Machu Picchu promises a journey filled with wonder, adventure, and discovery. As you ascend through the Andean foothills, anticipation mounts until the mystical citadel reveals itself, nestled amidst mist-shrouded peaks. Exploring the intricately crafted stone terraces, temples, and dwellings, you'll uncover the secrets of the ancient Inca civilization, marvelling at the ingenuity of their architecture and urban planning. Whether wandering the labyrinthine pathways, meditating amidst the serene ruins, or capturing the perfect photograph of the iconic Huayna Picchu towering above, Machu Picchu promises an immersive and transformative experience unlike any other, leaving indelible memories etched into your soul.
Popular Sights to See in Machu Picchu
Temple of the Sun
A sacred enclosure that served as a place of worship for the Incan Sun god. High ranking members of the Incan Empire and Priests could enter and place offerings and pay homage.
The Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is an iconic trekking route that winds through the stunning Andean landscape of Peru. As trekkers traverse steep stone staircases and traverse narrow paths, they are rewarded with a profound sense of accomplishment upon reaching the Sun Gate, where Machu Picchu reveals itself in all its splendour, shrouded in mist and mystery.
Climb Huayna Picchu
Travellers can climb Huayna Picchu, the mountain that stands guard behind Machu Picchu. This is a ticketed experience, so booking well in advance is recommended.
Machu Picchu Trivia
New Seven Wonders
In 2007, Machu Picchu was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in a worldwide online poll. Placing the historical site alongside iconic locations such as Petra in Jordan, Cristo Redentor in Rio de Janeiro, the Great Wall of China, the Roman Colosseum, Taj Mahal in India and the Pyramid at Chichen Itza in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.
Home to Incan Royalty
While Machu Picchu was built over six centuries ago, Archaeologists believe that Machu Picchu was built as an estate for the Pachacuti, an Incan leader who reigned from 1438 to 1471.
Local Legends about Machu Picchu
The Ascension Legend
Machu Picchu is said to have been a place of worship. Those who set foot on the site did so with respect and reverence, and those who reached the top experienced a form of enlightenment.
Legend of the Flight of the Condor
According to the region’s legends, Machu Picchu was created by the Inca god, Viracocha, who turned the rocks and mountains of the area into a fortress to provide a place of refuge for his people.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Machu Picchu Important?
Machu Picchu holds profound significance as an archaeological, cultural and historical treasure. It symbolises the ingenuity and resilience of ancient civilisations, earning its status as an UNESCO World Heritage site.
When was Machu Picchu Built?
Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century by the Incans.
Do you have to hike to Machu Picchu?
No, you do not have to hike to Machu Picchu. While many visitors choose to hike the Inca Trail, there are other, less physically demanding ways to reach the ancient site. The most common alternative is to take a train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. From Aguas Calientes, you can take a shuttle bus that will transport you up the winding road to the entrance of Machu Picchu. This method allows you to experience the breathtaking site without the physical exertion of a hike.
Why was Machu Picchu abandoned?
The exact cause of its abandonment is unknown, but it is likely believed to be a combination of environmental, social and political reasons.
How high is Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is at an elevation of 7,972 feet or 2,430 meters. The mountain with the same name is recorded at 10,111 feet or 3,082 meters.
Getting to Machu Picchu and Travelling Around
Train
Take a scenic train ride to explore the incredible Inca citadel. It will take travellers from Ollantaytambo train station and through breath taking scenery until you reach the historical site.
On Foot
The trail offers 26 miles of stunning scenery and reaching elevations of 4,200 meters or 13,773 ft. The usual trail takes 4 days to complete, however travellers can hike a section of the Inca Trail as an add on to their tour of Peru and Machu Picchu.
Conclusion
Machu Picchu offers a wealth of historical and spiritual experiences. From the bustling streets of Cusco to the awe-inspiring ruins of the Sacred Valley, visitors embark on a pilgrimage through breath taking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
