Machu Picchu

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Machu Picchu

In the variety of its charms and the power of its spell, I know of no other place in the world which can compare with it.
~Hiram Bingham, ‘discoverer’ of Machu Picchu

Travely Wisely | Machu Picchu Tours

Click any image to view a slideshow.

Machu Picchu, built by the Incas, rests atop a mountain ridge, 2430m (7,970ft.) above sea level. It is located in the Cusco Region, Urubamba Province, Machupicchu District in Peru. Researchers believe the Inca emperor, Pachacuti, built the city in the 15th century for his personal estate or perhaps as retreat. Exactly when it was built is still debated today. It is actually unclear why the residents of Machu Picchu left when the Spanish invaded Peru. It was left abandoned and overgrown for centuries until 20th century explorers re-discovered it. Hiram Bingham being the most noted to find the Lost City.

Machu Picchu was linked to the entire Inca Empire via the Qhapaq Ñan, the famous roads of the Incas

As the Incas were masters of stonework and Civil Engineering, the city was constructed in a manner that enabled the inhabitants to be self-sufficient and protected. For example, the terraces you see in most photos of Machu Picchu were used to grow food.

The Peruvian people are still highly influenced by the Incan and pre-Incan civilization today  and a visit to Machu Picchu offers a culture-rich, experience for the mind, body, and soul.

Weather
Machu Picchu is in the “ceja de selva”, literally translated as the eyebrow of the jungle, in a cloud forest so it is a mostly humid zone. It is generally warm and humid during the day and cool during the night, with temperatures ranging between 52 and 81 degrees Fahrenheit (11 and 27 degrees Celsius ). It typically rains more  between November and March.

In the hottest days, it is possible to reach 70ºF  (21° C) although it feels much hotter in the sun which can burn you badly without sun protection. In the coldest early mornings in June, July and August,  the temperature can drop to -43ºF (6 ° C). 

We always suggest dressing in layers since the temperature can drop when the sun retreats behind the clouds and vice versa so you will appreciate the layering technique of dressing.

Machu Picchu was voted One of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. Internationally, it is viewed as one of the world’s top dream destinations. We are delighted that so many people want to visit, and we are working hard to help preserve the magic of Macchu Picchu.

Tourism at Machu Picchu now boosts Peru’s economy to the tune of approximately $40 million per year and while a welcome investment, it is also a threat as the high volume of visitors can cause considerable damage to the ancient structures. 

Efforts are underway to prevent potential damage. And Ancient Summit has been working with various organizations to raise awareness and help prevent erosion of this magical, historical treasure.

Machu Picchu Town (Aguas Calientes) is located in the Urubamba River Valley, in southeast Peru. It is well known for its thermal baths and as a gateway to Machu Picchu. Home to eateries, and a craft market.

The ancient city of Cusco (sometimes spelled Cuzco), has so many interesting features that is is a destination in its own right. The main square, called Huacaypata by the Incas, the artisans quarter of San Blas, the Convent of Santo Domingo, built on top of the Temple of the Sun or “Korikancha” are part of a long list of archaeological treasures.

Cusco is bustling with nightlife and authentic marketplaces featuring arts and crafts, jewelry, alpaca clothing, indescribably delicious food, and many more delights.

Photos

Click any image to view a slideshow.

Facts

Machu Picchu, built by the Incas, rests atop a mountain ridge, 2430m (7,970ft.) above sea level. It is located in the Cusco Region, Urubamba Province, Machupicchu District in Peru. Researchers believe the Inca emperor, Pachacuti, built the city in the 15th century for his personal estate or perhaps as retreat. Exactly when it was built is still debated today. It is actually unclear why the residents of Machu Picchu left when the Spanish invaded Peru. It was left abandoned and overgrown for centuries until 20th century explorers re-discovered it. Hiram Bingham being the most noted to find the Lost City.

Machu Picchu was linked to the entire Inca Empire via the Qhapaq Ñan, the famous roads of the Incas

As the Incas were masters of stonework and Civil Engineering, the city was constructed in a manner that enabled the inhabitants to be self-sufficient and protected. For example, the terraces you see in most photos of Machu Picchu were used to grow food.

The Peruvian people are still highly influenced by the Incan and pre-Incan civilization today  and a visit to Machu Picchu offers a culture-rich, experience for the mind, body, and soul.

Weather
Machu Picchu is in the “ceja de selva”, literally translated as the eyebrow of the jungle, in a cloud forest so it is a mostly humid zone. It is generally warm and humid during the day and cool during the night, with temperatures ranging between 52 and 81 degrees Fahrenheit (11 and 27 degrees Celsius ). It typically rains more  between November and March.

In the hottest days, it is possible to reach 70ºF  (21° C) although it feels much hotter in the sun which can burn you badly without sun protection. In the coldest early mornings in June, July and August,  the temperature can drop to -43ºF (6 ° C). 

We always suggest dressing in layers since the temperature can drop when the sun retreats behind the clouds and vice versa so you will appreciate the layering technique of dressing.

Culture & Conservation

Machu Picchu was voted One of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. Internationally, it is viewed as one of the world’s top dream destinations. We are delighted that so many people want to visit, and we are working hard to help preserve the magic of Macchu Picchu.

Tourism at Machu Picchu now boosts Peru’s economy to the tune of approximately $40 million per year and while a welcome investment, it is also a threat as the high volume of visitors can cause considerable damage to the ancient structures. 

Efforts are underway to prevent potential damage. And Ancient Summit has been working with various organizations to raise awareness and help prevent erosion of this magical, historical treasure.

Nearby Cities

Machu Picchu Town (Aguas Calientes) is located in the Urubamba River Valley, in southeast Peru. It is well known for its thermal baths and as a gateway to Machu Picchu. Home to eateries, and a craft market.

The ancient city of Cusco (sometimes spelled Cuzco), has so many interesting features that is is a destination in its own right. The main square, called Huacaypata by the Incas, the artisans quarter of San Blas, the Convent of Santo Domingo, built on top of the Temple of the Sun or “Korikancha” are part of a long list of archaeological treasures.

Cusco is bustling with nightlife and authentic marketplaces featuring arts and crafts, jewelry, alpaca clothing, indescribably delicious food, and many more delights.

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