Wiñay Wayna - Ruin Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail - Peru

A rough two or three-hour descent from the ruins of Puyupatamarca, located on the Inca Trail, will bring you to the spectacular ruins of Wiñay Wayna, nestled high above the Río Urubamba. Here you will find a hotel and restaurant where you can grab a cold drink and hot shower. Originally a companion site for Machu Picchu, these ruins probably served as a ceremonial and agricultural center. Like today, they may also have served as a rest stop for weary travelers on their way to the grand gates of Machu Picchu. The complex is divided into two architectural sections, with temples at the top and more rustic structures below. As many as 19 different springs carry water to various stone baths located at different levels throughout the characteristic Inca terracing. If you're up for a bit more walking (about two hours), you can take the well-marked trail from the ruins to Intipunku, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Location:
Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, Peru

Ruin