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Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail
Framed by spectacular Andean peaks and surrounded by verdant jungle, Machu Picchu is an eye-tantalizing tribute to man in harmony with nature. Located high above the clouds, the city's streets, temples and staircases spread across a jungle ridge that eventually plunges more than 300 meters into the treacherous waters of the RÃo Urubamba below. Everything within this city, from the intricate terraces and delicate gardens to the complex system of aqueducts, was designed to both promote and preserve the sacred relationship between man and nature. Natural phenomena, like the sun, moon, water and earth, were sacred to the Inca and were the inspiration for much of the city's layout.
Besides its awe-inspiring architecture and spiritual atmosphere, perhaps the most enchanting aspect of Machu Picchu is its relative historical ambiguity. Since it was first introduced to the modern world in 1911 by Yale archeologist Hiram Bingham, this mountain city has yet to reveal the purpose of its origins. A number of theories have circulated throughout intellectual circles, including one suggesting that it was a boarding school where the children of those conquered by the Inca were brainwashed. However most historians and archaeologists believe it served as a religious center and vacation home for Cusco's Royal Inca.
Despite, or perhaps due to its enigmatic character, Machu Picchu has become one of the single most popular destiniations in South America, drawing up to 2,500 people a day to its ancient grounds, high above the Sacred Valley.
Next to the entrance to the ruins, you will find a left-luggage office, toilets, a shop and a place to hire guides. During the dry season, the ruins are a popular area for sandflies, so take insect repellent and wear long pants and shirt.
Before visiting, get updated info on Machu Picchu entrance fees, Inca Trail Tours. Tours of Machu Picchu can be arranged in Cusco.
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Other places nearby Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail: Chinchero, Urubamba, Yucay, Cusco, Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town), Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Andahuaylillas and San Pedro and Cusco: South of the Plaza de Armas.
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Hiking to Machu Picchu
The Inca Trail
Characterized by rugged ascents boasting magnificent views of Andean scenery and trails that wind their way through the cloud forest and past ancient archaeological sites, the Inca Trail is perhaps
...Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, Peru
Salcantay
In terms of trekking opportunities in the Sacred Valley, this one requires a bit more physical and logistical preparation. The crowning jewel of the Salcantay trek is Nevado Salcantay (6,271 meters
...Lares Valley Trek
If you\'re looking to get off the beaten path but don\'t want to miss out on stellar scenery, then the Lares Valley Trek is an excellent option. In contrast to the popular Inca Trail Trek, the Lares ...Short Inca Trail
If you do not have the time or youthfulness (we are both 65 and my husband has had a knee replacement), the short Inca trail can be a most rewarding way to travel to Machu Picchu. About 11 km, a
...Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, Peru
Choquequirao
Among trekking opportunities in the Sacred Valley this rigorous trail entices trekkers with the chance to view magnificent, albeit less well-known, Inca ruins, and it has become a popular alternative ...Salcantay alternative route
The alternative trek takes in three more unusual, quieter campsites along the route, largely away from other tourists. On the alternative Salcantay trek, many choose to take transport further along
...Machu Picchu Tours
Machu Picchu Tours
Some people wait years to be able to get a chance to see the majestic Inca ruins at Machu Picchu, so if you get a chance to reach the spectacular cloud-enshrouded green peaks that are home to the
...Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, Peru
Cusco Tours
Tours in Cusco vary from trips to local archaeological ruins to multi-day visits at sites outside the city. It is very possible to plan your trip from your home country, which is a good idea if you
...Cusco, Peru
Lima Tours
As a huge, thriving metropolis, Lima can be overwhelming when it comes to planning the day. Its numerous museums, churches, colonial buildings and pre-Columbian ruins are enough to exhaust even the ...Lima, Peru
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