【Places to Visit in a Lifetime】Machu Picchu
· About Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is an Inca Empire ruin located in the Andes Mountains of South America, Peru. This aerial city, built on a ridge at an altitude of approximately 2,430 meters, is a dream destination that everyone wants to visit at least once in their lifetime. It was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
The history of Machu Picchu dates back 600 years. It is believed to have been constructed around the 15th century, but its purpose remains a mystery. Due to this enigmatic nature, Machu Picchu is also referred to as the "Lost City."
· The Mysteries of Machu Picchu
One of the reasons Machu Picchu is considered special is that it is one of the few Inca ruins that escaped destruction by the Spanish.
As for the purpose of the city, there are various theories, such as a royal retreat, a religious site, or an astronomical observatory, but no definitive answer has been found. Since the Inca civilization did not have a written culture, no records remain, leaving much about it shrouded in mystery.
· Highlights
Within the ruins, you can find remains of residential structures built with intricate stonework, agricultural terraces, the Temple of the Sun, and the Intihuatana (a sun dial). The advanced architectural techniques used to carve and fit stones seamlessly are particularly impressive, and despite being in an earthquake-prone area, the structures have retained their form to this day.
· How to Access
To reach Machu Picchu, you first need to go through the city of Cusco. From Cusco, there are two routes:
① Take a train to Machu Picchu Village
The first option is to take a train to Machu Picchu Village (Aguas Calientes). Once you arrive at Machu Picchu Village, you can take a bus or walk to the entrance of the ruins. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes, making it a convenient option.
② Take a van to the hydroelectric power station and then walk to Machu Picchu Village
This is known as the "Stand By Me" route. From Cusco, it takes about 6 to 8 hours by van to reach the hydroelectric power station. From there, you walk along a trolley track for 3 hours (10 km) to reach Machu Picchu Village. This long trolley path allows you to feel the remoteness and mystique of Machu Picchu. This route is recommended for those with time and stamina. From Machu Picchu Village, you can take a bus or walk to the entrance of the ruins, just like in option ①.
Admission requires advance reservations, and the number of visitors per day is limited, so early arrangements are recommended.
👀 Who is it recommended for?
☀︎ People who love World Heritage Sites and historical ruins
☀︎ Those considering a solo trip or a once-in-a-lifetime journey
☀︎ People who want to visit places that "mysteriously attract them"
☀︎ Those who want to see breathtaking views of the world
The mysteries and scenery of Machu Picchu leave a deep impression on those who visit.