TOURIST INFORMATION ABOUT MACHU PICCHU

It is located 129 kilometers northwest of Cusco on the Urubamba River (hence the name Vilcanota River), in the mountains of Vilcabamba. Its altitude is over 2380 meters above sea level. The citadel of Machu Picchu is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world and is Peru’s main destination. Few man-made works show as much harmony with nature as the citadel of Machu Picchu and the 33 archaeological groups that are linked by the Inka Trail.

The archaeological complex is located at the top of the mountain, Machu Picchu (in Quechua meaning ancient mountain or important mountain) which gives the name to the citadel and the impressive landscape that we have all seen. In front of it, the incredible mountain of Wayna Picchu appears (“young mountain”) on whose summit and slopes some archaeological remains are located. Both summits border the mighty Urubamba River that flows to the east, 400 meters below the citadel.

Heigh

It is 2490 m.a.s.l. taking the Main Plaza of the archaeological site as a reference. According to some scientists, it may have been created 36 thousand years B.C.

Climate

Because it is located in a subtropical zone, it has a temperature that oscillates between 8º to 22º C. The rainiest months are from December to April.

How to get to Machu Picchu?

The access is by train (112.5 Km – 4 hours approx), from San Pedro station in Cusco, to Aguas Calientes station and the only company that provides this service is Peru Rail. From this point there are two ways to go up to the citadel, one (which is the most common) is by bus (20 min trip). The other way is on foot (at no cost to the pocket but it does cost the legs) in a 1 ½ hour walk. To the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, and adventure lovers can reach Machu Picchu via THE INCA TRAIL that goes from km 82 in four days and three nights approximately, km 88 in four days and three nights approximately and km 104 in two days and one night.

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)

TOURIST SITES FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT MACHU PICCHU:

Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu

On January 8, 1981, the Peruvian government declared Machu Picchu as a Historic Sanctuary by Supreme Decree N° 021-81-AA, which covers an area of 32,592 hectares, due to the need to protect the archaeological monuments, valuable vestiges of the pre-Hispanic era and its scenic setting, as well as the species of native flora and fauna associated with the region, is considered one of the wonders of the world and in 1983 was declared by UNESCO as Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The Citadel of Machu Picchu

One of the greatest Inca architectural works, for having been built in a place that means facing the greatest topographical difficulties; but thanks to this wild and inaccessible area, the citadel enjoys extraordinary landscapes.

Wayna Picchu

It gives the characteristic image to the archaeological complex. At the top, there is a group of terraces that would have been used for religious purposes.

Machu Picchu Village

Formerly called Aguas Calientes, it was born as a result of the large influx of visitors who came, in growing groups, to visit the adjacent archaeological complex. Here you can find: lodging services, restaurants, Internet, etc.

Inca Trail

The Inca Trail comprises approximately 46 km (4 days of walking) between roads and ravines, which begins at Km. 82 of the railway line.