This post has 11 Simple Fields-fields attached. Show fields.

Panoramic shot of the full Machu Picchu archaeological complex framed by sharp ridges and thick cloud forest
Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, located in southern Peru at about 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level, is one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Believed to have been built in the mid-15th century by the Inca emperor Pachacuti, it remained unknown to the outside world until its rediscovery in 1911. The site includes well-preserved temples, terraces, and stone buildings set high in the Andes Mountains. It sits above the Urubamba River and is surrounded by lush cloud forest.

Each year, over 1.5 million people visit Machu Picchu. Most travelers reach the site by first flying into Cusco, then taking a train to the town of Aguas Calientes (also called Machu Picchu Pueblo), followed by a bus or hike up the mountain to the entrance. For those seeking a more challenging route, the Inca Trail, a multi-day trek through mountain passes and ruins, is also a popular option.

Multi-tiered agricultural terraces and intricate stone structures of Machu Picchu set against lush mountain slopes
Aerial view of Machu Picchu’s central ruins with stone walls, plazas, and temples spread across terraced ridges
Elevated view of the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu with steep green mountains and a winding river below
Dense stone architecture of Machu Picchu framed by vegetation and dominated by the dramatic peak of Huayna Picchu
The steep, rugged peak of Huayna Picchu towers above the cloud-covered Andean valley near Machu Picchu
Partial stone structure from the Inca ruins in Machu Picchu with thick green foliage and a jagged mountain backdrop
Overview of layered stone walls and terraces of the Machu Picchu ruins stretching up the green Andean slope
Traditional thatched-roof stone guardhouse at Machu Picchu overlooking a misty landscape of Andean mountains
Wide view of Machu Picchu's stone terraces and tree-lined slopes nestled beneath forested Andean peaks
View of ancient Inca stone buildings and agricultural terraces at the ruins of Machu Picchu, nestled in the Andes Mountains
Dense tropical jungle and steep mountains rise behind the muddy Urubamba River flowing near Machu Picchu, Peru

Privacy Policy, Legal Notices and Copyright 2016-2025. Engage the Exotic TM, All Rights Reserved.