After experiencing Machu Picchu, you’ll undoubtedly crave more. This Inca citadel is hailed as a South American treasure, a must-see destination in Peru, showcasing the remarkable engineering prowess of the Incas. Throughout your journey, you’ll be awestruck by their extraordinary agricultural achievements in such a secluded setting. In fact, a Peru tour is incomplete without seeing the grandeur of Machu Picchu. Curious about the Inca’s ability to construct such a vast and intricate structure, spanning over 5 miles with 3,000 stone steps? Keep reading to uncover the secrets behind this awe-inspiring feat! Machu Picchu Mountain will surely take your breath away.

History that will fascinate you

Exploring Machu Picchu is akin to stepping back in time. Surprisingly, Machu Picchu remained hidden for centuries due to its remote location, evading discovery by Spanish
conquistadors. Here’s a brief glimpse into its historical significance for your Peru and Machu Picchu tours:
American archaeologist Hiram Bingham stumbled upon Machu Picchu on July 24, 1911, potentially serving as a retreat for Inca leaders, as suggested by the History Channel. Concealed from the 16th century until Bingham’s rediscovery, the site remained a well-kept secret among locals.
Guided by an 11-year-old boy, Bingham ascended the mountain’s ridge, unveiling the Sacred City. A year later, he commenced excavations with a multidisciplinary team from
the Yale Peruvian Expedition. Referred to in colonial documents as the “Settlement of the Incas” or the “Old Village of the Inca Named Guaynapicchu,” the names “Machu Picchu” and “Huayna Picchu” debuted in a cartographic document in 1874.
37 years later, Bingham embarked on his journey from Cusco into the Urubamba Valley, eventually learning about the ruins atop Machu Picchu mountain, known as the “Old Peak” in Quechua. Get ready to dive straight into Inca Heritage with your visit here.

Spiritual Connectivity

Machu Picchu is revered for its spiritual energy, believed to hold healing and transformative powers. This ancient city was regarded as a sacred sanctuary where the
Inca civilization communed with the divine. Historians posit that Machu Picchu was constructed for sacred endeavors. The Incas worshipped a pantheon of deities including Viracocha, Inti, Mamaquilla, Illapa, and Pachamama, representing various aspects of the natural and supernatural realms. Visitors from across the globe seek solace in the healing and transformative aura of Machu Picchu.

The magical Inca Trail Trek

The Inca Trail presents a captivating journey through Peru’s rugged terrain, reaching its zenith at the magnificent Machu Picchu. This celebrated route follows ancient pathways, forging a profound connection between adventurers and the region’s storied past. Amid verdant cloud forests and lofty mountain passages, trekkers encounter echoes of the Incan civilization. Camping under starry skies, every step on the Inca Trail signifies resilience and revelation. For those craving an unforgettable fusion of history and breathtaking scenery, the Inca Trail calls forth an incomparable odyssey of exploration and breathtaking natural panoramas.

The mesmerizing Huayna Picchu

Nestled behind the awe-inspiring scenery of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu emerges as a towering sentinel, offering unparalleled vistas of the ancient citadel. Translating to “young mountain” in the Quechua language, Huayna Picchu stands at an impressive elevation of 2,667 meters, towering over its counterpart, the “old mountain,” Machu Picchu, by more than 200 meters. While ascending Huayna Picchu doesn’t demand technical expertise, the journey involves a steep ascent of approximately 1000 feet, promising a thrilling yet challenging adventure for intrepid explorers seeking to conquer its heights.

One of the Wonders of the World

Machu Picchu gained global recognition when it was designated one of the New Seven Wonders of the World on July 7, 2007, owing to its majestic grandeur and breathtaking scenery. Furthermore, since 1983, Machu Picchu has held a place on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites as part of the “Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu,” acknowledging its cultural and ecological significance. Renowned publications like National Geographic Traveler, Lonely Planet, and TripAdvisor have also lauded Machu Picchu as one of the most remarkable human-made structures and awe-inspiring destinations worldwide.

The remarkable Engineering Prowess

The mind-blowing engineering skill displayed by the Incas at Machu Picchu is truly awe-inspiring. Despite the challenging terrain of the Andes, they constructed enduring structures without the use of iron tools or wheels. Their craftsmanship is evident in the precise fitting of stones, creating seamless joints that withstand the test of time. Moreover, their advanced water management system, featuring canals and drainage, demonstrates their adaptability to the region’s climate. Archaeologists speculate on the purpose of Machu Picchu, considering it as a potential residence for Inca leaders or a sacred pilgrimage destination along the Inca Trail. The agricultural terraces further highlight the Incas’ expertise, allowing for cultivation on steep slopes and maximizing agricultural yield across their empire.

Are you convinced yet? If so, reach out to our experts and they will be happy to help you customize your trip to Machu Picchu.