The ruins of Machu Picchu are one of the most famous tourist destinations in South America, and for good reason. It’s an Inca site that was built into a mountain peak and is set above a river with beautiful views. The place is so remote that it wasn’t discovered by outsiders until the 20th century, when it was found hidden beneath overgrowth and rediscovered by historians. In this post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about Machu Picchu and how to visit it.
Who Built Machu Picchu?
The Inca built Machu Picchu. You may have heard of the Aztecs and the Mayans, two other South American civilizations, but the Inca were the largest, with an empire that stretched across Peru, Ecuador, and parts of Bolivia and Chile. They were noted for their architecture and use of agricultural terraces. Machu Picchu is an Inca archaeological site that was built as a summer residence for the Incan emperor or his relatives. The Inca built Machu Picchu during the Renaissance, from 1450 to 1572.
How to Visit Machu Picchu
You can either fly to Lima, Peru, and then take a bus or a train to Aguas Calientes, the town near Machu Picchu, or fly directly to Aguas Calientes. From there, you can take a bus, train or hike to Machu Picchu. To walk, you will have to climb up about 1,000 steps. If you visit during the rainy season in May to August, you are likely to encounter clouds and rain, which almost always obscure the views of Machu Picchu. The best months to visit are April, May, September, and October. Visiting during the rainy season can be a great experience, as the vegetation and cloud forest around the ruins grow at a much faster pace. With no tourists, you’ll be able to experience one of the world’s most beautiful and mysterious places in solitude. Be aware, though, that many of the paths to and inside Machu Picchu are unpaved, are very steep, and can be slippery when wet.
What To Know Before You Go To Machu Picchu
The ruins of Machu Picchu have not been restored in any way, so walking there is like walking through a giant archaeological dig. You’ll have to climb over large pieces of rubble, step on dirt and mud, and walk across dirt paths that lead to the ruins. Be sure to wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a rain jacket, as it rains often in the area. There are no food or water vendors at the ruins, so be sure to bring your own. There are restrooms at the ruins, but they are very poorly maintained. Also, there are no facilities for the disabled. If you have a physical disability, go with a friend or relative. And if you are visiting Machu Picchu, you might consider bringing mosquito repellent along as well, as they are very common in the area.
Final Words
Machu Picchu is magical. It’s a destination you can visit if you’re on a budget and healthy or one that works for people with less mobility as long as they can afford a luxury tour. Either way it is an amazing experience.
