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Do you want to visit Peru’s famous Inca citadel and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World? If you are looking for reasons to visit Machu Picchu, the best tourist attraction in the world, then look no further. Here are some of our favorite things about the historic sanctuary that we’re sure you will enjoy as well, once you book a trip.
The word most often repeated by visitors to Machu Picchu is impressive. To visit Machu Picchu is the opportunity to be exposed to the architectural feat of the Incas, a unique combination of man and nature. The craftsmanship of the Incas to cut large stones into polygonal shapes make this structure a splendor to observe.
Perhaps many are encouraged to double the bet and explore one of the most legendary Inca roads that links the city of Cusco with the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail. Of course, there are plenty of other trail options but all will lead you through beautiful landscapes and ancient ruins.
Machu Picchu is of great value to Peru not only for its touristic attraction or demonstration of an ingenious native culture, but also because of the diverse ecosystem. Spread over 32 thousand hectares, the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu is believed to nurture about 10% of the fauna and 22% of the flora found in Peru. On the citadel itself you just may bump into one of these woolly creatures.
Upon arrival at the Puerta del Sol the clouds and fog begin to dissipate to uncover the citadel; this experience, and all of majestic Machu Picchu, is a priceless encounter. Located at 7,972 feet above sea level (2,430 meters), the citadel is actually at a lower altitude than the city of Cusco (11,152 feet).
The backdrop to the panoramic views of Machu Picchu, this mountain provides the best vantage point. Meaning ‘young mountain’ in Quechua, Huayna Picchu reaches 2,667 meters high, making it over 200 meters taller than the ‘old mountain,’ Machu Picchu. Though the climb up does not require any technical skills, the 1000-foot ascent is quite steep.
Sources: Peru for Less , Machu Picchu Trek
This is an updated version of an article originally published on November 24, 2015.
Cover photo: David Swinney/Flickr
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