Ancient city is 'world's most amazing landmark' if you can take on the trek
One of the world's great wonders has some of the most breath-taking views you're ever likely to see and llamas.
Machu Picchu in Peru is one of the world's great wonders which, by all accounts, lives up to the hype. Across more than 19,000 reviews on Tripadvisor, the iconic historical settlement has a five-star rating. The score is enough to win Machu Picchu a 'Best of the best' award on the review website.
Essentially, Machu Picchu is a quaint, historic city sat in a lush valley in southeastern Peru, 3,400 metres (11,152 feet) above sea level. The site itself is of huge archaeological significance, and its well-preserved ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into Incan life. Visitors can explore intricate stone structures and gain an understanding of the cultural and religious practices of the Inca people.
Part of the joy in visiting is actually the process of making it up to Machu Picchu. The easiest approach is by train from Cusco along the floor of the Urubamba Valley, then by bus up to the entrance of the ruins. Alternatively, from the station at Aguas Calientes you can opt to take a strenuous 90 minute walk up to Machu Picchu.
The Inca ruins of the Machu Picchu sanctuary (Getty Images)If you go by bus you'll get great views and arrive fresher, but you'll also miss the chance to walk the famous Inca Trail and tread in the footsteps of a people belonging to a fascinating but now crumbled civilisation.
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The orientation of Machu Picchu is believed to be based on ritual principles, and the Sacred Rock within the site provides a key vantage point with spectacular views. Many people chose to hike up to Huayna Picchu, a mountain adjacent to the city which provides one of the best panoramic views of the entire site.
Different viewpoints within Machu Picchu, such as the terraces, the Sun Gate, and the summit of Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, provide diverse angles to admire the architectural brilliance and natural surroundings.
The history of the city remains one mired in mystery. We know it was built by the Inca civilization in the 15th century during the reign of Emperor Pachacuti. It served as a royal estate and religious retreat.
The true purpose of Machu Picchu remains a subject of debate, but it's believed to have served as a ceremonial and astronomical site. The architecture includes impressive stone constructions showcasing advanced engineering skills.
After being abandoned in the 16th century, likely due to the Spanish Conquest, it remained hidden from the outside world until its rediscovery by American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911. The city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 for its cultural and historical significance.
Another charming of Machu Picchu are the llamas. During the Inca Empire's height, the animals were the largest domesticated beasts in South America, as there were no horses, mules, donkeys, or other mammals. The Incas used llamas to transfer food, guano, and construction materials, making the Inca Empire's expansion possible.
Today, there are around 30 llamas in Machu Picchu, wandering free in the ruins' terraces. Still, in Cusco and Puno villages, they are herded and vital to support the locals' economy. Their wool is used to make sweaters, ponchos, and chullos that are warm and thick for the Andes' cold weather.
If you fancy visiting Machu Picchu then the easiest way is to fly to Cusco and make the short journey from there. Typically that costs around £1,100 return from UK airports, with Heathrow being the main departure hub. Some tickets are available in February next year for closer to £700 with LATAM and Iberia airlines.
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