Selected as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, The Lost City of Machu Picchu is for sure a place you want to visit. The ancient site was built around 1450, over a mountain ridge and above the Sacred Valley – archaeologists believe that the city was constructed as an estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuchi (1438-1472). The Inca city was abandoned by its citizens during the Spanish Conquest but it remained untouchable until 1911, when the wonder became an important tourist attraction. In 1983 UNESCO announced Machu Picchu as a World Heritage Site. Among the diverse amount of possible activities, the visitors can admire the amazing Incan constructions, such as the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun and the Room of the Three Windows. Exploring the amazing geography of the site is an outstanding option. Also, there are many alternative routes to the Lost City, where you can enjoy a really good hiking and behold the fantastic environment the circuit provides. The prices vary from US$ 72 to US$ 85 per adult (half for students and children), depending on which of the optional activities you decide to do.
The
Inca Trail is a must if you manage to see Machu Picchu. The route takes you on a 55-mile walk through valleys, forests and hills where the trekkers will be in touch with nature, enjoying unique landscapes that change constantly.
Before arriving the city grounds the adventurer will see the Incan sacred ruins of Patallaqta and Wilkaraqay, passing by the Kusichaka River. The trail gets more interesting as it reveals an ancient holy ground where the Incas used to perform their rituals, sacrifices and prayers. Keep in mind that if you intend to go to Machu Picchu through the Inca Trail it’s necessary to book it in advance, as the number of people is restricted to 200 per day and the trail remains closed every February for cleaning.
