World Traveler

Lying within easy traveling distance of Cuzco is one of Peru’s most famous tourist destinations, the impressive Inca fortress Machu Picchu. The ‘city of Incas’ is probably even South America’s most coveted archaeological attraction. The ancient city sits high in the mountains, and is particularly interesting because it is relatively pristine and intact–the site itself was never found by the invading Spaniards and was largely untouched until the early 1900s.

Despite constant studies dating back to the time of it’s rediscovery by Hiram Bingham in 1911, the history and purpose of the compound remains a fascinating mystery. Some experts and scholars believe the citadel was a royal vacation palace, while others are convinced the structures actually represent an effort by the Inca to rekindle their dying culture in the final years of the empire. Either way, the incredible stonework and craftsmanship at the site is evidence the compound was of some great cultural significance to the Inca.

The site is open from dawn till dark. Many tours from Cuzco visit the site, but many travelers also visit on their own. However, keep in mind you are not allowed to carry large or bulky backpacks, food, or drinks into the ruins. There is no official visitor center, but tickets to the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary can be purchased in neighboring Aguas Calientes or through a Cuzco tour agency. Also, the Museo de Sitio Manuel Chavez Ballon is a nice place to get maps and information about the site.

Once you actually enter the complex compound and it’s confusing passageways, keep an eye out for a few buildings and areas that you shouldn’t miss. The Hut of the Caretaker of the Funerary Rock is a bit morbid (mummification may have been performed here), and the nearby series of ceremonial baths is captivating and beautiful. Some of the most intricate stonework in the whole site is featured in the delicate looking Temple of the Sun. The tower may have been used for ceremonial and astrological purposes. The Temple of Three Widows has nice views of the Sacred Plaza. The main altar is the Intihuatana, located beyond the strange Sacristy. The small building called the Sacristy has many nooks and niches of all sizes, and an impressive stone bench; the building is especially known for the intricately cut rocks flanking it’s main doorway. The Intihuatana is a delicately crafted rock pillar that may have been used to predict the solstice, and is one of the few remaining such pillars because of the Spanish effort to smash the shrines.

Most people traveling to Machu Piccho stay in Cuzco or Aguas Calientes. Aguas Calientes sits in a large valley just below the famous ruins, and has many convenient hotels and tour guides. The aptly-named Hotel Machu Picchu Inn is comfortable and clean–we recommend making reservations ahead of time. Cafe Inkaterra is located in the Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, and is a quiet and calm place to go after a long day traveling. The foot is both traditional and modern, and the atmosphere is inviting and romantic.

If you want to stay at the ruins themselves, the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge is one of your only choices. The hotel is often full, so book rooms ahead of time. All of the rooms have views of the ancient compound, and the staff is attentive. The in-house food is expensive but tasty.