Machu Picchu. Machupicchu
Lost city of the Incas
Enveloped in a magical silence, 120 km (74 miles) northwest of Cuzco on the slopes above the Urubabamba River, lies one of the most beautiful archaeological sites on the planet. Some also consider it to be a mystical place that exudes vital energy. Machu Picchu is remarkable for its solid construction, its well-balanced use of space and the harmony of the design with its
natural surroundings. Its name comes from the ancient Quechua word meaning old mountain. It is strategically located to elude enemies and is surrounded by deep canyons and impressive mountains, which the Incas called Apus or guardian gods. The whole area is covered in thick vegetation.
The site was built entirely of stone, using every space in harmony with function. There are two main sections: the urban area, which includes temples, palaces, plazas, storage rooms, workshops, stairways, and fountains; and
the agricultural area made up of various types of terraces for cultivation.
The local people knew of the ruins long ago. In 1911, the guide Melchor Arteaga led professor Hiram Bingham to Machu Picchu. Bingham returned in 1914 with the support of Yale University and the National Geographic Society and since then, Machu Picchu has been known as the 'Lost City of the Incas', initially confused with Old Vilcabamba, where Manco Inca sought refuge from the Spanish.
The citadel is believed to have been fundamentally for religious purposes. Bingham found a cemetery exclusively of women, which led him to believe it was an immense monastery of acllas (young women) and a retreat and resting place for the Cuzco sovereign. Its construction possibly dates to the times of Tupac Inca Yupanqui, the final era of the Inca empire. The Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary (32,592 hectares - 80,536 acres) is a natural reserve, which UNESCO declared a World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site in 1983.
Altitude
Machu Picchu 2,400 masl (7,872 ft)
How to Get There
By land: The only access to the citadel is by rail from Cuzco, 110 km (68.3 miles) to the Machu Picchu Pueblo station. Travel time is between 3 to 4 hours, depending on the type of train service. The bus ride from the Machu Picchu town (formerly Aguas Calientes) up to the archaeological site takes 20 minutes.
Lodging
The town of Machu Picchu offers budget and three-star hotels. At the entrance to the sanctuary, there are rest rooms, telephone booths, a fast food restaurant and a hotel.
Activities
Archaeology, trekking, photography, mysticism, animal and plant spotting (excellent area for orchid lovers), thermal spirngs, and shopping for arts and crafts.
Minimum Length of Stay
At least one day to visit Machu Picchu and five to seven days to visit other attractions between Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail. The Inca Trail requires three to four days to walk its 39 kilometers, and a total four to five days to include
transport and visit to Machu Picchu.
Recommendations
An overnight stay in the area is suggested. Wear a poncho or raincoat during the rainy season, and in the dry season bring a hat, insect repellent and sunscreen. Visitors must heed the conservation regulations of the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary.
Nearby Attractions
The thermal springs at Aguas Calientes, located 800 meters (half a mile) from the town of Machu Picchu. Also interesting is the climb up to Huayna Picchu, or 'young mountain' (2,667 masl - 8,748 ft), which is the steep mountain that stands behind the citadel in the classic photographs of Machu Picchu. The ascent takes an hour along a narrow, steep path and at the top stands a set of terraces apparently built for ceremonial purposes, and the remains of a partially built temple. Visitors who wish to climb Huayna Picchu must register at the control post located in the Sacred Stone section. Visitors are recommended to use walking shoes and carry water with them.
Season / Climate
Machu Picchu can be visited all year round, although the best months are from April to October. The seasons are clearly defined: summer runs from November to March, with rains and high humidity; the winter or dry season runs from April to October.
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