Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
Historical place · Urubamba ·
Sophisticated Inca citadel with dry-stone walls & stunning views
Sophisticated Inca citadel with dry-stone walls & stunning views
"Reached via Circuit 3 alongside the Temple of the Sun, this burial complex is where archaeologists discovered over 100 skeletons, lending powerful context to the site’s ritual past." - Paul Jebara
"Standing atop the “Lost City of the Incas,” with its mist-shrouded peaks and ancient stones, was nothing short of magical. With expert guides, even kids can connect with its complex history, and private tours make the encounter feel more personal." - Shawna Huffman Owen
"Astrid Därr embarked on a road trip with her son, traveling from Patagonia to the US. The journey involved camping and exploring diverse landscapes, fostering her son's adventurous spirit while managing the challenges of solo parenting on the road."
"Machu Picchu is a historical sanctuary and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It is renowned for its stunning Inca architecture and panoramic views of the Andes mountains." - Harrison Pierce Harrison Pierce Harrison Pierce is a freelance writer and digital nomad passionate about personal finance and travel. He is traveling full-time with the help of points and miles and enjoys connecting with people on the grou
"Ascending from Aguas Calientes by a shaded, corkscrew bus route, I arrived at Machu Picchu and was struck by terraces groomed down toward a sea of forested hills and small temples bathed in bright light, a sight that gave me goose bumps. Guided by Fátima Silverio Carbajal, I learned that Pachacútec likely built the city around 1450 as a strategic link between the Andes and the Amazon, housing perhaps 500 royals, philosophers, astronomers and climate scientists and serving political, religious and agricultural functions; the site is also a place of homage to Pachamama, the earth mother. While touring I watched viscachas scurry atop walls and wild llamas gather on lawns, and in a solitary moment I imagined the Incas honoring their sun god Inti amid the cool, resonant stone." - Monisha Rajesh Monisha Rajesh Monisha Rajesh is a London-based travel journalist and author whose work has appeared in publications like Time and Vanity Fair. She’s written three books, "Around India in 80 Trains," "Around the World in 80 Trains," and "Epic Train Journeys." Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
