Machu Picchu (Machu Pikchu)
“Few romances can ever surpass that of the granite citadel on top of the beetling precipices of Machu Picchu, the crown of Inca Land.”
-Hiram Bingham
Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world, is nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, often referred to as “The Lost City of the Incas,” is a testament to the sophisticated engineering skills and architectural prowess of the Inca civilization. Perched nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, Machu Picchu is a spectacular, well-preserved city that offers an insight into the history and culture of ancient Andean societies.
Constructed around 1450 AD, at the height of the Inca Empire, Machu Picchu was abandoned just over 100 years later, during the Spanish Conquest. The Spanish invaders never discovered Machu Picchu, which allowed it to remain hidden and untouched for centuries. It was not until 1911 that this magnificent site was brought to international attention by the American historian Hiram Bingham.
Today, Machu Picchu is one of Peru’s most visited sites and a major revenue generator for the country’s tourism industry. The site comprises around 200 structures, expertly carved into the hillside. These encompass plazas, temples, residential houses, and agricultural terraces, all built with a clear understanding of both aesthetic beauty and practical functionality. The intricate network of buildings and terraces blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, creating a harmonious interplay between human-made structures and natural terrain.
The mystery surrounding Machu Picchu’s original use and sudden desertion continues to intrigue archaeologists and historians worldwide. Regardless of its past, this remarkable site in the heart of the Andes is a shining testament to human ingenuity and resilience. Its awe-inspiring location, coupled with its historical significance, makes Machu Picchu an enduring symbol of Peru’s rich cultural heritage.
Fast Facts
Country: Peru
State/Province: Cuzco
Mountain Range: Andes
Parents: Andes
Elevation: 7,970 feet / 2,430 meters
Prominence: 824 feet / 251 meters
Isolation: 0.73 miles / 1.18 kilometers
Nearest Higher Neighbor (NHN): Mount Everest
Fun Fact: Machu Picchu is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
Flora and Fauna
Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not only renowned for its impressive Inca ruins but also for its rich biodiversity. Located in the heart of Peru, nestled high in the Andes, it offers a unique ecosystem perfect for a diverse range of flora and fauna. The natural environment surrounding this ancient citadel is as remarkable as its architectural and cultural history.
The flora at Machu Picchu is characterized by its rich diversity, contributed by the site’s location in the transition zone between the high Andes and the Amazon Basin. The region boasts over 400 species of orchids alone, along with other exotic plants like bromeliads, ferns, and begonias. This diverse flora also includes unique species like the Puya Raimondii, the largest bromeliad in the world, and the Kantu flower, Peru’s national flower.
The fauna at Machu Picchu is equally captivating. The region is home to a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects that are native to Peru. Visitors can often spot the elusive spectacled bear, the only bear species native to South America, along with other animals like chinchillas and vizcachas. Birdwatchers would find Machu Picchu a paradise with over 400 species of birds including the majestic Andean condor and the bright-colored cock-of-the-rock, Peru’s national bird.
The richness of the flora and fauna at Machu Picchu is a testament to Peru’s incredible biodiversity. The area’s ecological significance further amplifies the importance of conservation efforts to protect this unique site from environmental threats. Indeed, the natural wealth of Machu Picchu is as integral to its allure as its historical significance. When exploring this magnificent site in Peru, one cannot help but be awed not just by its architectural marvel but also by the astounding lifeforms that inhabit the Andes’ misty cloud forests.
Trails
Machu Picchu is nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It’s not just the ancient Incan city that draws visitors from around the globe, but also the breathtaking trails surrounding it. These trails offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and physical challenge that have made them renowned among outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the best-known trails near Machu Picchu is the iconic Inca Trail. This four-day hike covers approximately 26 miles from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu itself, passing through cloud forests and alpine tundra, past numerous Incan ruins, and offering stunning views of the Andes. It’s a challenging trek, but the reward upon reaching the Sun Gate and catching that first glimpse of Machu Picchu at sunrise is incomparable.
However, the Inca Trail is far from being the only trail near Machu Picchu. The Salkantay Trek is another popular option. This trail offers a more rugged experience, traversing through varied landscapes at higher altitudes than the Inca Trail. The journey culminates with a descent into lush jungle before reaching Machu Picchu.
If you’re looking for something shorter and less strenuous, but still want to experience the beauty of the Andes and see Machu Picchu, consider the two-day Inca Trail. This trail covers part of the same route as the full Inca Trail but starts further along at KM 104. Another option is the one-day Wiñay Wayna trek which begins at KM 104 and takes you to Machu Picchu in just one day.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for a multi-day adventure or a novice wanting to soak in the natural beauty of Peru, there are trails near Machu Picchu to suit your tastes and abilities. Each offers a unique perspective on this ancient wonder nestled within the majestic Andes.
