The Wonder Of Machu Picchu

By Author: Nicola Connolly
Total Articles: 4
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One of the most well known archaeological sites in the modern world is undoubtedly the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu, located eight thousand feet above sea level in the middle of the awe inspiring peaks of the Andes Mountains.

One of the most well known archaeological sites in the modern world is undoubtedly the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu, located eight thousand feet above sea level in the middle of the awe inspiring peaks of the Andes Mountains. Every year thousands of tourists make their way to the Urubamba Valley in Peru to admire the architectural ingenuity of the ancient Inca civilization. Lima, the capital city of Peru is the main gateway to this remarkable country. From here you will need to change flights to reach Cusco, the city closest to the ruins.

Most travellers continue their journey on the local railway network. The railway takes you as far as the town of Aguas Calientes. When you leave the station, cut through the market stalls and you will arrive at the office which sells bus tickets to take you up the entrance of the main citadel. Travel to Machu Picchu itself takes roughly ...
... thirty minutes by bus from the town of Aguas Calientes. However, for those in good physical shape you can walk to the ruins from Aguas Calientes. Allow up to two hours for the ascent and one hour for the descent and be prepared for the steps to be slippery when wet.

Cusco & Machu Picchu travel opportunities and activities abound. However, the biggest draw for all visitors to this site is the main citadel itself. The iconic landmark is the best preserved Inca site in the Andean region. In 2007 it was voted as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Built on dizzying, terraced slopes, the citadel sits on a saddle between two dramatic mountain peaks. Besides the Temple of the Sun, the other key attractions are The Ritual Fountains, the Royal Palace and Nusta’s Bedroom. Spectacular views are to be had from the Huayna Picchu peak at the northern end of the site. Just make sure to buy your Huayna Picchu ticket in advance as only 400 people a day are permitted to do this hike.

Trips to Peru and Machu Picchu would be incomplete without a visit to the Manuel Chavez Ballon Site Museum. The museum is located near the Puente Ruinas, which is a thirty minute walk from the town of Aguas Calientes or approximately an hour long steep downhill walk from Machu Picchu itself. A trip to this museum is key to gaining an understanding of the history and importance of the ruins. Interactive displays and colourful artefacts make a walk through this museum a fascinating way to spend an hour or two.

Cusco travel and Machu Picchu tours can be a little complicated because only 2500 people a day are allowed into this UNESCO World Heritage site. In order to avoid any complications make sure to book your entrance tickets well in advance. You can either book your tickets online (www.machupicchu.gob.pe) or through a recognized tour operator. You can also book your tickets when you arrive in Cusco at the ‘Direccion Regional de Cultura’ office but this is not advised during peak season (June – August) as tickets sell out fast. Tickets for children under the age of eight are free.

A Machu Picchu travel adventure is full of great things to see and do. Just remember to plan your trip in advance and don’t make the mistake of spending only a few hours in Machu Picchu. Take your time, spend the day and soak up the energy of this magical ancient Incan site.
Resource: http://www.bestofcusco.com/machu-picchu-home/