10 Reasons Why You Must Visit Machu Picchu
- By:
Rebecca Braak
Machu Picchu isn’t just a landmark; it’s a place that leaves a lasting impression. Nestled high in the Peruvian Andes, this ancient Incan citadel offers an unforgettable blend of history, engineering marvels, and spectacular views. But what makes it truly special? There’s more to this iconic site than its well-known beauty. From the stories hidden within its walls to the unexpected moments that take your breath away, here’s a look at 10 reasons why a visit to this gem in Peru is an experience you won’t want to miss.
1. Fascinating History
Visiting Machu Picchu is like opening a door to the past. Did you know that it has been hidden from the world for centuries, thanks to its location? The Spanish conquistadors never found it. The American archaeologist Hiram Bingham rediscovered it on July 24, 1911. According to the History Channel, it could have been a retreat for Inca leaders. From the 16th century to 1911, its existence was a well-kept secret by people who lived in the region. Led by an 11-year-old boy, the archaeologist climbed the mountain’s ridge and saw the Sacred City for the first time. A year later, he conducted excavations with a multidisciplinary team from the Yale Peruvian Expedition.
The ‘Lost City of the Incas’
Colonial documents refer to the historic sanctuary as the “Settlement of the Incas” or the “Old Village of the Inca Named Guaynapicchu.” In the same way, the names “Machu Picchu” and “Huayna Picchu” appeared for the first time in a cartographic document in 1874. 37 years later, Bingham rediscovered the place after traveling from Cusco into the Urubamba Valley on foot and by mule. A farmer told him about some ruins on Machu Picchu mountain, which means “Old Peak” in the Quechua language.
2. Spectacular Scenery
This site has a mountainous landscape, surrounded by lush forests, towering peaks, and the winding Urubamba River below. The views are breathtaking. When planning a Peru tour, you must include this in your itinerary! The Inca citadel is located in a remote and rugged region in the Andes Mountains. Therefore, getting to Machu Picchu is an adventure in itself. The site is situated on a hilltop, giving incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Moreover, the rugged terrain and the mist give a sense of mystery and wonder, making the trip even more astonishing.
3. Machu Picchu is a Cultural Landmark
These ruins were once a thriving Incan city. Nowadays, it’s a true testament to the Incas’ advanced engineering and architectural skills. Even so, it is not just a destination, it’s a cultural experience. The Peruvian culture, people, food, and customs will immerse travelers in the Andean way of life. After the trip, you’ll appreciate even the local traditions.
Cusco Is a Historical City
A city tour through Cusco brings many interesting sights!
Located in the southeastern part of Peru, Cusco was the capital of the Tawantinsuyo Inca Empire between the 15th and the 16th centuries, until the Spanish conquest. In 1983, the city was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Also, the Constitution of Peru distinguishes it as the Historical Capital of Peru. Annually, Cusco hosts nearly 2 million visitors. Travelers and wanderers find Cusco a mystical city. You can walk through streets with curious names such as Ataúd (coffin), Siete Culebras (Seven Streets), and Arpías (harpies). The ancestral and magical living history of its streets has been kept intact. You’ll find colonial and republican houses, monasteries, and churches from the Incan and colonial times.
Altitude in Machu Picchu
Let’s talk about the elevation in Machu Picchu. The ruins are located 2,430 meters (7,972 ft) above sea level and therefore aren’t considered a high-altitude destination. However, Cusco is a high-altitude city. Even so, once you land in Cusco, you’ll immediately feel as if the air has become thinner. Cusco’s elevation is 3,399 m.a.s.l. (11,152 ft).
Coca leaf tea in Peru is almost ritualistic.
The high altitude can cause altitude sickness or “soroche”. It’s recommended to allow your body to acclimate to the altitude and drink coca tea. Then, how should you acclimate for your tour? In South America, coca has been cultivated for about 8,000 years. Even so, coca was sacred to the Incas. They treasured the leaves for their medicinal properties. In the same way, they used them for rites, rituals, and ceremonies. The high altitude may trigger some mild effects of altitude sickness, such as headaches, fatigue, and nausea. In this case, you should drink a lot of water and try the coca or mate de coca tea that helps with altitude sickness.
Even though they are the source material for cocaine, don’t worry, coca leaves are NOT addictive! They are used as natural remedies for headaches, sore throats, stomach aches, and relief from pain and hunger. All over Peru, you can see people walking and chewing unprocessed coca leaves. They are part of the Peruvian national identity.
4. Spiritual Connection
Machu Picchu has been considered a site of spiritual significance thanks to its healing and transformative energy. The ancient city was believed to be a sacred site where the Incas connected with the divine. Even so, historians think it was built for sacred purposes. The Incas worshiped Viracocha (the universe creator), Inti (Sun god), Mamaquilla (Moon Goddess), Illapa (Thunder god), Pachamama (Mother Earth), and multiple gods that represented the supernatural. Travelers from around the world enjoy the healing and transformative energy of this place.
5. World-Famous Peruvian Cuisine
Peru is worldwide known for its amazing gastronomy. Peruvian chefs have been awarded for their use of flavors and ancient ingredients. Likewise, they have fused pre-Colonial, Inca, and international cuisines to achieve one of the most important cuisines in the world. Therefore, you can savor the best Peruvian cuisine during tours to Incan sites.
Peru has an important genetic diversity, with traditional foods such as corn, potatoes, tubers, Amaranthaceae (quinoa, Kiñiwa, and Kiwicha), and legumes. With the Spanish conquest, they also included Spanish foods like rice, wheat, and meats (beef, pork, and chicken). Even so, the country has:
- More than 500 different types of dishes.
- More than 3.800 varieties of potatoes.
- Over 2.000 different soups
- 300 varieties of chili.
In recent years, Peruvian cuisine has developed into Novo-Andean food. It’s made with Andean and organic ingredients, brought from the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the South Valley. This movement is trying to re-establish the pre-Hispanic cultural heritage of Peruvian ancestors before the Spanish came to South America.
Peruvian cuisine is a must try!
Visitors can enjoy mouthwatering Peruvian dishes in restaurants as well as on the streets. You must try:
- Ceviche
- Lomo saltado
- Stuffed causa
- Baked cuy (guinea pig)
- Tiradito
6. Inca Architecture
The engineering genius and precision of the Incas are some of the most stunning things about this archaeological site. They mastered the technique to adapt to the mountainous terrain of the Andes. When visiting the citadel, you’ll marvel at the Inca architecture and how they managed to build long-lasting structures without iron tools or wheels atop a mountain.
Perfectly Cut Stones
The Ruins’ walls have stones that fit perfectly together, even at elaborate angles. The Incas achieved precision without iron tools or mortar. For instance, you’ll not be able to fit a blade between the stones because they are so tightly fitted together. Throughout the Inca Empire, they used limestone and granite. The drawings of Quechua chronicler Felipe Guaman Poma de Ayala show that the stones were moved by teams pulling ropes.
Water Management System
Rain was very important for the Incas. Because of this, they built a 750-meter-long canal, 10 to 16 centimeters deep, to bring water down to the city. The Incas developed a subsurface drainage system that helped the ruins stand until today. Also, they regulated the heavy rains through a system of conduits and fountains.The function of the construction is still debated among archaeologists. Some theories propose that it was an estate for the Inca Pachacuti, a leader who transformed the Empire. In Quechua, Pahcakutiq means “reformer of the world”. Others consider it could have been a pilgrimage site that included the Inca Trail.
The genius of Incan architecture puzzles archaeologists.
Agricultural Terraces
The Incas mastered harvesting in the Andes’ sharp slopes and intermittent waterways. Moreover, they established the terraced constructions cut into the hillsides. Throughout the whole Inca Empire, the terraces system was installed. Likewise, they expanded the land used for agricultural activities. With them, the Incas were able to use rainwater as a source of crop irrigation through channels. Intrigued by the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu? Click below!
7. Take a Scenic Train Ride
Every Machu Picchu tour starts in Cusco. You can get to the town, Aguas Calientes by trekking or taking a train. Train rides are the quickest way to get to Machu Picchu. The train ride is known as one of the most scenic train rides in the world. It gives visitors a dramatic view of the lush valleys and rugged peaks while following the Urubamba River course.
The train to Machu Picchu is quite special.
The tour starts at the Cusco station. During a 45-hour journey, the train passes through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo and continues to the last stop in Aguas Calientes station. Aguas Calientes is the closest point to the ruins. Even so, the only access to the city is by train from Ollantaytambo. Make sure you have your camera ready! Nature changes through the journey: Andean foothills transform into lush cloud forest.
If you need tips or want to learn about other routes from Cusco, we have a comprehensive guide to train travel in Peru!
8. Year-Round Destination
The ruins are located in a subtropical area. Therefore, it has a particular climate. Hence, the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu possesses one of the richest ecosystems on the planet.
You can visit these Incan ruins all year long!
Best Time To Visit Machu Picchu
This depends mostly on what you want to see and do. Beyond that, the weather is a big factor to consider when deciding on the best time to go to Machu Picchu. There are two seasons here, rainy and dry. As a result, it has a pleasant climate, making it ideal for hiking. It is located 2,440 meters (8000 ft) above sea level. On average, the temperatures stick between 50 to 80 °F (10 to 27 °C). However, the weather can change unexpectedly. Remember to always be prepared for intense rain or sun! Regardless of the season, you should bring waterproof clothes because it can rain at any time. Also, the Peruvian sun is extremely strong. Therefore, it’s recommended to wear a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of SPF sunscreen. It’s also suggested to bring insect repellent. If you wonder when the best time to travel to Machu Picchu is, here are some key features of each season:
Rainy Season (December through April)
- Foggy mornings.
- February is the wettest month in the Cusco and the Sacred Valley region.
- Rainy days help the vegetation to get an intense green.
- Pack waterproof clothes, a jacket, and hiking shoes.
- In the rainy season, Machu Picchu could be cloud-covered with low visibility. However, the clouds dissipate throughout the morning. Also, a foggy scenario can give a charming and mysterious feel to the experience.
Dry Season (May through November)
- Clear skies and the lowest daily rainfall averages.
- Tourist peak season in Cusco and Machu Picchu.
- June, July, and August are particularly busy.
- Include sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen protection in your bag.
- Bring insect repellent.
9. One of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World
In 2007, it was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Because of its impressive construction, it was voted as one of the most amazing landmarks on the planet in a global poll. Other sites that made the list include the Great Wall in China, Petra in Jordan, the Colosseum in Rome, and the Taj Mahal in India, among others.
10. Machu Picchu is a World Heritage site
The ruins stretch over 5 miles and have 3,000 stone steps. Nowadays, more than 1 million people travel to this Llacta or Inca citadel annually. As a result, people marvel at one of the world’s most famous man-made wonders. In 1981, the Inca citadel was proclaimed a Peruvian Historic Sanctuary. In the same way, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1983.
This site undeniably belongs on every intrepid traveler’s bucket list. The legendary ‘Lost City of the Incas’ immerses you in a world of ancient secrets, where culture, history, and architectural brilliance converge. This marvel of the Andes continues to dazzle with its mystery and grandeur. Experiencing a guided tour here means stepping into living history. Peru has earned global recognition, named the World’s Leading Culinary and Cultural Destination in the 2021 World Travel Awards, and its crown jewel, this iconic citadel, was celebrated as the World’s Leading Tourist Attraction.
Llama near ruins in Peru.
Contact us and book your tour today. If you need more information regarding when to travel to the Galapagos Islands or Ecuador. One of our Destination Experts will be happy to help!
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- How to choose the best Peru and Machu Picchu tour?
- Top 7 Things to Do in Peru and Machu Picchu
- A Guide to Eco-Friendly Travel in Peru
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