There are so many amazing travel destinations in the world, it can be hard to choose just one. But if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, you should consider visiting Machu Picchu in Peru.
This ancient Incan city is located high in the Andes Mountains, and its stunning architecture and breathtaking views will leave you awestruck.
Here are ten reasons why you should visit Machu Picchu.
1. Get up close and personal with nature.
At 8,000 feet above sea level, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you explore this ancient city. The views are absolutely incredible—you can see for miles in every direction, including down into the valley below.
As you explore the city, be sure to take time to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you. The mountains and forests are absolutely stunning, and there’s nothing quite like getting up close and personal with nature.
Whether you’re hiking or simply taking a walk through the park, make sure to take in the incredible views.
2. See a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Machu Picchu is one of the most well-preserved sites in South America, and it’s been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site.
It’s also an incredibly fascinating place to visit because it is one of the only ancient cities that was actually built rather than carved out of mountains or hillsides, which meant early people had to manage complicated engineering projects.
In fact, Machu Picchu is so well preserved that many theories about how these structures were created without modern tools have been put forth as science has made great strides with this unique city over the years.
3. Marvel at the architecture.
Machu Picchu is home to many different structures, including temples, schools, markets, homes, and more.
The fact that these buildings were carved right into the mountainside is especially fascinating when you consider how intricate each building actually is.
When you visit this city today, you’ll be absolutely blown away by the architecture—it’s unlike anything else in the world.
4. Enjoy a great meal.
After you’ve taken in all there is to see at Machu Picchu, make sure to enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants in the area.
These restaurants offer up some amazing Peruvian dishes that will fill your stomach and lift your spirits after such an incredible day of exploring and learning about this ancient city.
- Sanctuary Lodge Restaurant is a great place to enjoy a meal after a long day of hiking. They offer a variety of dishes, including pizza, sandwiches, and salads.
- Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel Restaurant is another great option for food near Machu Picchu. They serve international cuisine, including Peruvian specialties.
- El Mapi Restaurant is an excellent choice for those looking for traditional Peruvian fare. They serve up a variety of dishes, including ceviche, chicken piccata, and beef stroganoff.
- Roots Coffee Bar & Cafe is a great way to cap off the day. They serve up an incredible array of coffees, including espresso drinks and French press brews. You can also peruse their loose leaf tea selection while you enjoy your drink. And if hot beverages aren’t exactly what you’re in the mood for, they have a full bar available as well that offers an impressive list of wines, beers, and cocktails.
5. Learn about the Incas.
When you visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the Incas that helped build it all those years ago.
Much of their history was recorded in oral stories rather than through written language, so there are still many questions that remain when it comes to these ancient people.
However, thanks to some incredible work done by historians and archaeologists over the years, we know a lot more about them today than we did even five or ten years ago.
6. See the Macchu Picchu Pueblo Ruins.
The ruins of Machu Picchu Pueblo, the nearby city that was inhabited by farmers and merchants who supported this ancient city, are well worth a stop when you visit Machu Picchu.
It’s very common for people to miss these ruins when they visit because they’re not really advertised or marked in any way, but there are actually wooden signposts scattered throughout the park that point to them if you know what you’re looking for.
As with anything in Peru, it’s best to hire a guide (many of which will wait in line with you and show you around) before exploring this site.
At the very least, plan on stopping by Machu Picchu Pueblo on your way back to Cusco for an incredible experience.
7. Take the Vistadome train down from Machu Picchu.
Be sure to catch the Vistadome train that goes to Aguas Caliente, which takes about 1.5 hours each way.
This ride is expensive but so worth it if you want a really unique view of the Sacred Valley along the way. There are also “backpacker” cars available that offer fewer amenities but just as spectacular views at half the price if you’re on a budget.
8. Do the hike from Wayllabamba to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
If you’re up for it, this is one hike that shouldn’t be missed. The trek has been named as one of the Top 20 Hikes in the World by National Geographic and will give you incredible views of the mountains surrounding you along the way.
At an elevation of 10,792 feet, this two-day trek isn’t easy but it’s worth every step. You’ll experience some amazing things and meet people who’ve come from all over the world (like yourself) to take on this challenge.
Just make sure to bring lots of water and food with you before starting out on your adventure—there are no convenience stores along the way!
9. Find a spot near Wayllabamba to see condors flying.
The mountains around Machu Picchu are home to huge birds that soar high above you as you hike through this majestic place.
Spotting a condor in flight is an amazing experience, and if you’re lucky you’ll see them swooping down from their perches on nearby cliffs.
10. Go back in time at the Ecomuseo del Valle Sagrado de los Incas.
As an important cultural and geographic passage point between Peru’s coast and its Amazon rainforest, the Sacred Valley of the Incas today offers visitors unique insights into this ancient civilization with living descendants still thriving throughout the region.
The Ecomuseo del Valle Sagrado de Los Incas is a brilliant way to experience this place and understand all that it has to offer.
When you visit here, you’ll get the chance to see llamas and alpacas in person while learning about their role in Inca culture and how they were used for food and transportation throughout the years.
As if that’s not enough, you can also try your hand at weaving and learn more about ancestral Pachamama ceremonies that honor Mother Earth.
Final Words
Machu Picchu is an incredible place with a lot to offer visitors. Archaeologists are still learning new things about the ancient city and the people who lived there, thanks to ongoing research and investigations.
If you’re planning a trip to Peru, be sure to add Machu Picchu to your list—you won’t regret it.…