Explore the iconic “Lost City of the Incas” with expertly curated Peru Travel Packages. Immerse yourself in the rich history, fascinating Incan mythology, and captivating mystery of Machu Picchu, a breathtaking Inca ruin perched high in the Andes Mountains.
Huayna Picchu Hike
Elevate your Machu Picchu experience by hiking Huayna Picchu. This challenging climb rewards you with unparalleled panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding landscapes. Along the way, discover lesser-known Inca ruins, adding another layer of intrigue to your adventure. Due to limited access, securing your Huayna Picchu entrance tickets well in advance is highly recommended when booking your Peru travel packages.
Machu Picchu Mountain Trail
For breathtaking, sweeping vistas, consider the Machu Picchu Mountain hike. This popular trail offers incredible panoramic perspectives of the entire Machu Picchu citadel and the majestic Andes Mountains that cradle it. Similar to Huayna Picchu, permits for Machu Picchu Mountain are limited and should be reserved as part of your Peru travel package arrangements to ensure you don’t miss out.
Inti Punku (Sun Gate)
Witness the iconic Sun Gate, known as Inti Punku in Quechua. Historically the original entrance for Inca Trail trekkers arriving at Machu Picchu, Inti Punku is now accessible as an additional hike for all Machu Picchu visitors. Incorporate a visit to the Sun Gate into your Peru travel package itinerary for a memorable experience and classic photo opportunities.
The Guardhouse Viewpoint
One of the initial landmarks encountered on your Machu Picchu tour is the Guardhouse, also referred to as the House of the Guardians. Historically used by Inca sentinels to oversee the citadel, today, it serves as the quintessential vantage point for capturing stunning panoramic photographs of the Machu Picchu ruins. Many Peru travel packages include guided tours that highlight the Guardhouse and its significance.
Wank’a (Sacred Rock)
Marvel at the enormous Sacred Rock, or Wank’a in Quechua. This impressive stone formation strikingly mirrors the mountain peaks in the background, holding deep spiritual significance within Machu Picchu. Discover the stories and symbolism of the Sacred Rock as part of your cultural exploration on Peru travel packages.
Temple of the Three Windows
The Temple of the Three Windows stands as one of Machu Picchu’s most recognizable and iconic locations. Overlooking the Sacred Plaza, this temple features three trapezoidal windows, characteristic of Inca architectural design. Explore the Temple of the Three Windows and other key sites with guided tours included in comprehensive Peru travel packages.
Puente Inca (Inca Bridge)
Venture to the Inca Bridge, Puente Inca, a thrilling hiking destination within Machu Picchu. This remarkable bridge is essentially a narrow wooden plank that crosses a sheer precipice thousands of feet high, reached via a narrow stone path. Originally designed as a secret entrance and exit, its precarious nature effectively controlled access to the citadel. Consider adding the Inca Bridge hike to your adventurous Peru travel package.
Temple of the Condor
Witness the Temple of the Condor, a breathtaking natural rock formation expertly carved by the Incas into the shape of an Andean condor. This site served as an object of worship and stands as a powerful testament to the Incas’ masterful stonework. Encounter the Temple of the Condor and other wonders on specialized Peru travel packages focusing on Inca history and archaeology.
“Stairway of Fountains” Engineering
Appreciate the incredible engineering prowess of the Incas evident in Machu Picchu’s “Stairway of Fountains.” This ingenious system comprises sixteen fountains within the citadel, likely used by Machu Picchu’s inhabitants. Astonishingly, these Inca water fountains still function today, fed by a spring near Inti Punku, showcasing the advanced hydraulic knowledge of the Inca civilization, often featured in detailed Peru travel packages.
Temple of the Sun
Explore the Temple of the Sun, a distinctive semicircular ruin within the Machu Picchu citadel. This temple held immense sacred importance within the fortress. Intriguingly, its trapezoidal window is precisely positioned to capture the sun’s rays directly during the winter solstice (June 21st), highlighting the Inca’s astronomical understanding. Learn more about Inca astronomy and spirituality on cultural Peru travel packages that include in-depth tours of Machu Picchu.
Temple of the Moon (Huayna Picchu)
To discover the Temple of the Moon, embark on the Huayna Picchu mountain hike within the Machu Picchu complex. This enigmatic temple, shrouded in shadow, features a throne carved directly into the rock and was reserved exclusively for Inca priests for ceremonial rituals. Access to the Temple of the Moon is often included in specialized Peru travel packages that incorporate the Huayna Picchu hike.
Intihuatana Stone
Finally, encounter the renowned Intihuatana stone. Its Quechua name, Intihuatana, often translates to “The Hitching Post of the Sun.” This intricately carved stone is believed to have functioned as a sophisticated sundial, further demonstrating the Inca’s advanced scientific knowledge. Discover the mysteries and theories surrounding the Intihuatana stone on guided Peru travel packages designed to explore the wonders of Machu Picchu.
