Machu Picchu is a 15th century Incan citadel situated high in the Andes Mountains in Peru. This magnificent ancient city is one of the most iconic and popular tourist destinations in South America. Built around 1450 AD and later abandoned, Machu Picchu was unknown to the outside world until it was rediscovered in 1911 by explorer Hiram Bingham. Today, over 1 million visitors travel to Peru every year to explore the ruins and experience the magic of this sacred Incan site. In this article we talk about Top Activities to Experience in Machu Picchu.
Explore the Ancient Ruins
Of course, the number one thing you must do at Machu Picchu is wander around the expansive ruins! Walk along the ancient passageways, stand in awe under towering doorways, gaze out over the surrounding mountains from breathtaking terraces – immerse yourself in Incan history.
Make time to see the most notable highlights and landmarks within the citadel ruins:
– The Intihuatana Stone – This carved granite ritual stone was important for astronomical measurements and Incan rituals.
– Temple of the Sun – An impressively crafted semi-circular structure featuring the incredible stonework the Incas were renowned for.
– Room of the Three Windows – The windows align perfectly to important astronomical events and frame awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains.
– Sacred Plaza – Once the beating heart of Machu Picchu, the plaza separates the spiritual, residential, and agricultural areas.
– Temple of Condor – Named for a carved rock at the base resembling the head of a condor, the temple offers panoramic views.
Climb Huayna Picchu
For daring adventurers, climbing the towering peak of Huayna Picchu is an absolute must. Looming over the ruins, this steep mountain peak showcases epic 360° views over Machu Picchu and the surrounding Andes.
The hike takes 1-2 hours each way along very steep and narrow paths with sheer drops – those afraid of heights beware! Only 400 climbers are allowed per day, so be sure to purchase tickets well in advance. Bring plenty of water and wear proper hiking shoes.
Once you reach the top, the exhausting climb is rewarded with the most magnificent panoramas. Gaze down over the entire Machu Picchu citadel, see the Incan Bridge, and marvel at the natural beauty of the cloud-forest mountains.
Visit Inca Bridge
The Inca Bridge is one of the most fascinating sites near Machu Picchu. It’s located on a high cliff facing the ruins along the path up to Huayna Picchu. This rope bridge was used as a secret entrance into Machu Picchu during the time of the Incas.
Walking along the narrow ledge while admiring the bridge’s ingenious construction is quite thrilling! However, the area is very dangerous with extreme vertical drops. Use extreme caution when visiting.
For safety reasons, you can no longer walk across the actual bridge. But even viewing it from a short distance offers a glimpse into the incredible engineering skills and courage of the Incas.
Take a Bus Up to the Citadel
The most popular way to reach Machu Picchu from the town of Aguas Calientes is via bus. While active travelers can hike up and down, taking the bus at least one way is recommended.
The vertigo-inducing road twists back and forth as it climbs nearly 1,000 feet up the steep mountainside to reach Machu Picchu 2,000 feet above the valley. Sit close to a window for edge-of-your-seat views of the deep gorge below!
Buses run every 10-15 minutes, starting at 5:30 am. Purchase tickets in advance in Aguas Calientes to guarantee a spot. The bus ride takes about 25 minutes and drops you right at the citadel entrance – the perfect way to start your Machu Picchu adventure.
See the Sunrise
Watching the sunrise over Machu Picchu is an almost spiritual experience. As the first light peeks over the mountain ridges, the ancient citadel glows red-gold, seeming to come alive with magic.
To reach the site in time for sunrise, you must stay at a hotel in Aguas Calientes rather than busing up from Cusco in the predawn dark. Then wake early, take the 5:30 am bus up to the citadel, and hurry to the Terrace of the Sun or the Watchman’s Hut.
As the sun crests over the mountains, the clouds below you glow pink and orange. The rising sunlight soon illuminates Machu Picchu, highlighting every green mountainside and ancient stone structure. Just you, the ruins, and the dawn – a truly magical memory!
Photograph the Site
With its mist-veiled mountains, imposing architecture, and glimpses of exotic wildlife, Machu Picchu seems made for photography! Don’t forget your camera.
Wait until soft early morning or late afternoon light for the most captivating photos. Compose shots framing the ruins against a backdrop of steep, lushly vegetated peaks disappearing into clouds. Capture images featuring details like the intricate stonework or the abundance of tropical orchids and bromeliads decorating every wall and terrace.
Position yourself outside the Watchman’s Hut or at the Terrace of the Sun for iconic photos overlooking the entire site. Include friends, family, or even fellow travelers in some shots to emphasize the scale.
And be sure to put away your camera sometimes, step back, and just soak in the view with your own eyes!
Sample Local Food & Drink
After an active day exploring Machu Picchu, what better way to unwind than by sampling some delicious regional cuisine! Peruvian food incorporates native ingredients like potatoes, quinoa, and hot peppers with Spanish influences. The mix of flavors and styles is as diverse as the landscape.
In the local restaurants of Aguas Calientes, try dishes like juicy saltado beef stir fry, hearty quinoa soup, or tender alpaca medallions. Be daring and order cuuy (guinea pig), the traditional Andean specialty. And don’t miss the chance to try pisco sours, Peru’s signature cocktail made from grape brandy.
You can also opt for a fancier meal at one of the upscale restaurants at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge Hotel located right beside the ruins! Dining while admiring the view of the ancient citadel is a great way to end your day.
Visit Aguas Calientes & Shop the Markets
The town of Aguas Calientes, located at the base of Machu Picchu, is the main access point for visiting the famous ruins. All buses, trains, and tours originate from here.
While accommodation here is very limited, spending at least one night allows time to enjoy what this colorful village has to offer. Stroll the quaint pedestrian streets, shop for handicrafts at the artisan market, or relax in the town’s natural hot spring baths.
Be sure to browse the rows of stands at the bustling artisan market! Vendors sell beautiful, high-quality items like woolen sweaters, ceramic pottery, alpaca blankets, silver jewelry, woven bags, and more. Haggling is expected – bartering for the best deal is part of the fun!
The market is also a great place to pick up Andean souvenirs like decorative llama figurines or miniature replicas of Incan buildings. Bring home the perfect memento of your amazing Machu Picchu adventure.
There are endless things to experience within Peru’s crown jewel of Incan sites. Follow these top tips to make the most out of your visit to the magical citadel of Machu Picchu! Allow at least 2-3 days to see it all – this lost city certainly deserves your time. With so much history, scenery, culture, and adventure, you’re guaranteed memories to last a lifetime. I sincerely hope you find this “Top Activities to Experience in Machu Picchu” article helpful.