Machu Picchu is considered to be one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. It is worthy of the title because it is ancient and mysterious, yet incredibly well preserved. It contains much history that to this day is the subject of debate among archaeologists.

An estimated 1000 people lived in Machu Picchu for about a hundred years, before abruptly abandoning the site around 1572. Why they left remains unclear even now, although it appears to have been somehow related to the Spanish conquest of the region. We do know, however, that after the original Inca inhabitants left Machu Picchu, the site remained unseen and untouched by non-natives for over three hundred years.

Machu Picchu was rediscovered by an archaeologist, Hiram Bingham III of Yale University, while he was looking for a unique city in Cuzco. A farmer’s son lead Bingham on the Inca trail until they reached the peak of the mysterious Machu Picchu. The archaeologist was then sponsored by National Geographic and Yale University in his endeavor to find explore the site.

The “old mountain” is a popular tourism destination precisely because the site remained untouched for so long. Tourists now flock there at a rate of over one thousand visitors per day.

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.

The vast majority of Machu Picchu tourism originates from the nearby city of Cusco. From there, you can catch a train up the mountain. Another method of reaching the sacred site is by hiking one of the famed Inca Trails, a wondrous network of footpaths that wind among the snow covered mountains, twisting rivers, and spectacular countryside. This is widely regarded as being among the best trekking routes on Earth, because of the remarkable archeological sites and diverse plant and animal species you’ll find along the way.

The perplexing structure of Machu Picchu, the most important and exquisite legacy of the Inca people, is a part of the Historic Sanctuary with which it shares its name. It is also among just a few sites in all of the Americas that rank on the World Cultural AND Natural Heritage Lists put forth by UNESCO. Located atop a mountain almost 8000 feet above sea level, this sacred site celebrates and enhances the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds it. It is truly a unique location, making it easy to see why Machu Picchu tourism continues to expand.

van leasing companies – FLEXXiVan Monthly Insurance Policy

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.