You can visit Machu Picchu between 6:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily. There is a rainy and dry season, it's also best to book in advance to be included in the 400 visitors allowed every day. There are generally only two recognised seasons in Peru, the dry and wet seasons. Temperatures don't vary much each side of the 50 to 80 degree average, but temperatures in the higher parts of the central Andean ranges, like you'll encounter on the Inca Trail and at Machu Picchu, can drop below this.
Machu Picchu History and Facts
Machu Picchu is the quintessential destination on every South America travel bucket list. Machu Picchu's history is part fact and part enigma. There are many stories and legends surrounding its purpose. What we do know is that it was built as a palace for Emperor Pachacuti, escaped destruction by the conquistadores who failed to find it, and that is was discovered by Hiram Bingham on July 24, 1911. Since then it has risen Picchu has risen to take the spot as of one of the world’s most famous and revered architectural and archaeological monuments. Read more about Machu Picchu below.
6 Peruvian Words You Should Know Before Your Machu Picchu Adventure
Because of its role as an international tourism destination, it’s totally possible to visit Machu Picchu without speaking a lick of Spanish at all—let alone any specifically Peruvian words. However, there’s no denying that the ability to communicate with the local people will only make your Peruvian adventure that much more fulfilling. If you’re new […]
Essential Machu Picchu Hiking Packing List
Download your Essential Machu Picchu Hiking Packing List (PDF) Main piece of luggage: a sports bag with wheels, a suitcase, a backpack or similar. Maximum checked weight allowed on Peru flights is 23 kilograms (50 pounds), airlines will charge for excess baggage. Daypack: used for day trips and on the bus. Must be well fitting with supportive shoulder […]
Pisac Market and Hike to Pisac Ruins
Pisac is a small town in the Sacred Valley, well worth a visit on your way to Machu Picchu. The town is home to a colourful ‘mercado artesanal’ or craft market, a great place to experience a traditional way of life, with villagers coming and going with their wares. The village is perched high in the mountains and surrounded by Inca farming terraces, giving a clear example of how the Ina agronomists solved the problem of planting on the slopes of the hills. Pisac is a Quechua word (sometimes referred to as Pisaq) which means partridge (a type of bird) and as was customary in Inca architecture, the city is designed in the shape of an animal, in this case the partridge!
How To Get To Machu Picchu
There is so much interesting history in Peru, particularly at Machu Picchu, and there is an abundance of amazing sights, textures, architecture and culture to take in. Here's some tips to consider before you leave home.