Machu Picchu Useful Information
Machu Picchu, one of the new seven wonders of the world, is one of the most fascinating and visited destinations on the planet. This ancient archaeological site built by the Incas is located high in the Peruvian Andes, offering a unique experience for history lovers and adventurers alike. If you are planning a trip to this emblematic place, here we tell you everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
Where is Machu Picchu Located?
Machu Picchu is located in the southern region of Peru, specifically in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, about 5 hours by train from Cusco. Despite being more than 2,400 meters above sea level, the citadel is located in an area surrounded by mountains and lush vegetation, which gives it a mystical and magical air. The most common way to reach Machu Picchu is through the city of Cusco, which is the main gateway for travelers, you can take a train to Machu Picchu or hike the 4 Day Inca Trail hike from Ollantaytambo.
Machu Picchu Altitude
The citadel of Machu Picchu is located about 2,430 meters above sea level (7,970 feet). This altitude, although lower than Cusco, is a little scary to most tourists, it is important to keep in mind that some people could experience some symptoms of altitude sickness specially headache. Therefore, it is recommended to acclimatize to the altitude in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before heading to Machu Picchu to avoid the effects of soroche (altitude sickness).
History of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu was built by the Incas in the 15th century and is believed to have been a royal residence or religious sanctuary for Pachacutec Inca. The citadel was unknown to the world until 1911, when the American historian Hiram Bingham rediscovered it. Since then, it has captivated millions of tourists from all over the world with its impressive architecture and incredible location.
Despite its historical and cultural importance, the real function of Machu Picchu is still a mystery. Archaeologists agree that it was a religious and administrative center, but it could also have served as a place of retreat for Pachacutec.
The Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu
The weather in Machu Picchu is tropical, but due to its location in the mountains, it has variations in temperature throughout the year. There are two main seasons to consider you are planning to visit Machu Picchu in 2025.
High season (May to September): during this season, the weather is mostly dry, which makes it the best time to visit Machu Picchu. Temperatures are cooler in the morings and evenings and rainfall is less frequent, allowing for a more comfortable experience exploring the ruins. However, since it is the high season, Machu Picchu tickets sell out fast and the site could be super crowded.We recommend booking your Machu picchu Tour far in advance.
Low season (October to April): During these months, rains are more frequent, which can make some trails slippery specially if you are planning to hike the Clsssic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. However, the advantage of traveling in low season is that there are fewer tourists, allowing you to enjoy a quieter experience without crowds.
