Recently declared one the Seven New Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is one of the most sought after destinations in Peru and probably in South America as a whole. Hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world make the trip to visit this extraordinary citadel built by the Incas. If you too want to try to uncover the mysteries surrounding the construction of this spectacular work, read this guide to find out how to organize your Machu Picchu trips.

There are several ways to discover Machu Picchu, from different angles, and depending on your preference. Sport addicts, history lovers, young and old alike will revel in exploring this grandiose archeological site. The more active ones and those who wish to get an authentic experience, taking them back to the Inca times, will chose to go on an Inca trail trek. Reaching Machu Picchu after four days of strenuous hiking is an awe-inspiring experience which words alone can describe. As you reach the Sun Gate, just before sunrise, and the morning fog clears up, Machu Picchu unfolds before your eyes, lit with sunlight.

machu picchu tours – Machu Picchu is the most visited site in Peru, and one of the top tourist destinations in all of South America. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Historic Sanctuary and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

For those who’d rather remain comfortable as they discover Machu Picchu, there are various ways to reach the citadel and still enjoy its beauty. If you want to have a full experience, and avoid the crowds, the best way is to stay for a night in Aguas Calientes, the nearest town. Wake up at dawn and take the first buses that take you up to Machu Picchu, at 5:00am. You will have the chance to explore the site almost on your own and admire the sunrise gently stroking the gorgeous ruins.

If you don’t have time to stay in Aguas Calientes, don’t worry, you can also organize your Machu Picchu trip from Cusco. The train leaves early and will get you in Aguas Calientes in about 2.5 hours. You will reach the citadel around ten in the morning, which will leave you plenty of time to visit before taking the train back in the late afternoon. You can also immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery of the Sacred Valley of the Incas by staying in Ollantaytambo, located about 60 km from Cusco, and take the train from there.

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Explore one of the Seven New Wonders of the World on an exciting tour of Machu Picchu that will take you back into time. Get fascinating insights into the Inca Regime way of life with a tour of the magnificent and mysterious ruins. Read this guide to know what to see and do on Machu Picchu tours. You can either choose a guided visit which will take you to the noteworthy spots, or explore the citadel on your own. Take your time to explore this archeological gem as there are myriad places to see, all featuring distinctive characteristics which will help you understand a little better how the Incas lived and died.

If you are up to it, climb the strenuous hike up to the Sun Gate overlooking Machu Picchu from where you will get the most spectacular views of the ruins as well as of the surrounding mountains and valley covered with lush forests. You will arrive on the site through the Sun Gate if you are coming from the Inca Trail, and if you catch an early bus in Aguas Calientes, you may in time to admire the sun rise lighting up the entire area.

There are several ceremonial sites and temples throughout the site. Near the summit of the main city stands the gorgeous Temple of the Sun, characterized by spectacular stonework, which was used to celebrate Inti (The Sun), one of the most important Inca deities. On Huayna Picchu, lies the beautiful Temple of the Moon, covering the entire slopes of the mountain. The temple comprises a set of architecturally enhanced caves, most likely used to hold mummies of important Inca ancestors and provide places for their worship. It also features intricate stonework on the walls which are decorated with niches and altars carved into the native rock.

Don’t miss the Intihuatana Stone, whose exact purpose is still unknown, and the only one that has been well-preserved. All others were found by the Spaniards in other Inca cities and destroyed. Some people believe the stone has special powers that fill you with energy when you touch it. Why not lay a hand on it and see? Maybe it will give the energy to hike up Wayna Picchu to get the most breathtaking views of Machu Picchu from above.