| Duration: | 8 Hour(s) - 0 Minute(s) |
| Tour Category: | Full Day Tours |
VISIT TO MACHU PICCHU
Perched high in the Peruvian Andes, the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu stands as a breathtaking testament to the ingenuity and spiritual devotion of the Inca civilization. A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this ancient city is a pilgrimage for travelers and history enthusiasts alike. Its unique location—nestled between two towering peaks, Machu Picchu ("Old Peak") and Huayna Picchu ("New Peak")—immerses visitors in a misty, ethereal landscape where jungle meets mountains.
Constructed in the mid-15th century during the reign of Emperor Pachacuti, Machu Picchu was more than just a settlement. It is believed to have been a royal estate, a sacred ceremonial site, or both, reserved for Inca nobility and religious leaders.
The Incas’ advanced understanding of engineering is evident in the site's architecture. Using a technique called ashlar masonry, they precisely cut and fit massive stone blocks together without mortar, creating structures so durable that they have withstood centuries of earthquakes. This masterful stonework is showcased in prominent structures like the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the iconic Intihuatana stone, thought to be an astronomical clock or calendar.
The site's abandonment, likely tied to the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire around 1530, remains a mystery, as the conquistadors never discovered it. Reclaimed by the jungle for centuries, Machu Picchu was brought to international attention in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham, though locals had known of its existence all along. Bingham's work ignited a global fascination that persists today.
Program:
Transfer to the train station to take the ride to Machu Picchu. You will arrive at the Aguas Calientes Station by Vistadome train, then you will be transported by bus to the top of the mountain and citadel of Machu-Picchu, one of the most renowned examples of Inca architecture, surrounded by lush cloud forest. Lost in history, it was not discovered until 1911 by the American explorer Hiram Bingham. After a guided visit to the ruins, you will have a self-service lunch at Mapi Sanctuary.
Transfer to take your train ride back to Cusco City.
