Machu Picchu is a breathtaking and mysterious place that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. Located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, this ancient Inca city is perched high above the valley below, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The city was built in the 15th century and is believed to have served as a royal retreat or a sacred site for the Inca people. It is unknown exactly why the city was abandoned, but it is thought that it may have been due to the arrival of the Spanish conquerors in the region.
Despite being largely forgotten for centuries, Machu Picchu was rediscovered in 1911 by American historian Hiram Bingham, who brought the site to the attention of the Western world. Since then, it has become a major tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors from all over the world each year.
There are many ways to experience Machu Picchu, from taking a guided tour to hiking the Inca Trail. No matter how you choose to explore this amazing place, it is sure to be a truly unforgettable experience.
Getting there
To get to Machu Picchu from the United States, you will need to first fly to Lima, Peru, which is the capital and largest city in the country. Lima is served by several major international airports, including Jorge Chávez International Airport, which is the busiest and most well-connected airport in Peru.
From Lima, you will need to take a domestic flight to Cusco, which is the closest major city to Machu Picchu. Cusco is served by Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, which is located just outside the city. There are several airlines that operate flights between Lima and Cusco, including LATAM, Avianca, and Sky Airline.
Once you arrive in Cusco, you can take a bus or taxi to the town of Ollantaytambo, which is the starting point for the train journey to Machu Picchu. From Ollantaytambo, you can take a scenic train ride through the Andes Mountains to Aguas Calientes, which is the closest town to Machu Picchu. From there, you can take a bus or walk up to the site.
Alternatively, you can also fly directly to Cusco from some major cities in the United States, such as Miami, New York, and Los Angeles. However, these flights tend to be more expensive and may not be as convenient as flying to Lima first.