Hiking in Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail

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Despite the peace and tranquility conjured up by its astounding natural beauty, Machu Picchu is a fervently protected place, inhabited by numerous whistle-blowing guards who noisily herd unsuspecting travelers who have strayed from the main path. To explore the ruins in peace, the best option is to hire a guide or buy a map and stick to the specified routes. Guides are available on the site and often prove to be extremely knowledgeable. For a spectacular experience, obtain permission from the Instituto Nacional de Cultura in Cusco to enter the ruins before 6 a.m. and watch the sunrise over the Andes.

From the ticket booth, you'll enter the south side of Machu Picchu through the Guard's Quarters, now the modern-day entrance. From here, there are a number of ways to explore the ruins, all of which offer striking views of intricate Inca architecture, Andean mountains and terraced staircases. A few of the can't-miss Machu Picchu attractions include the Temple of the Sun, Royal Tomb, Three-Windowed Temple,  Chamber of the Princess, Principal Temple, Intihuatana, Huayna Picchu, Temple of the Moon and Intipunku.