Things to see and do at Machu Picchu
Trek the Inca Trail
For those wondering how to visit Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail is by far the most popular way to get to the site.
One of the most well-known hiking trails in the world, tackling this quintessential route is a sure-fire way to make sure your visit to Machu Picchu is one to remember.
This moderate-difficulty hiking trail beautifully shows off the sheer variety of Peru's landscapes, taking you through the snow-capped Andes and leafy rainforests, and ending at the breathtaking ruins themselves. For the most authentic experience, opt for the four-day classic route which leads you along the same paths ancient messengers would have used to travel to and from the citadel. There is also a two-day option for those keen to combine a trip to Machu Picchu with another destination in Peru.
If you do plan to take on the Inca Trail, our travel specialists will handle all the admin, from finding you a licensed trekking operator to helping you secure a permit.
While this is the only hiking route that ends directly at the ruins, there are several alternative routes, such as the Lares Trail, each offering its own unique charm.
Marvel at the Inca stonework
As one of the oldest surviving Inca sites, it's no wonder that Machu Picchu contains some of the finest examples of Inca stonework still around today.
Wander through the site and you'll notice that the stonework isn't particularly decorative, with many buildings made up of simple stones with no engravings. However, the skill of the Inca craftsmen who built Machu Picchu is something to marvel at as each stone is cut to measure, all precisely slotted together without the need for mortar.
The Temple of the Three Windows at Machu Picchu is a fascinating display of this kind of stonework that enchants visitors with its enigmatic past. Its name derives from the three trapezoidal windows that adorn each wall, each carefully carved and fitted together.
As you stand before this remarkable example of Inca ingenuity and craftsmanship, not only are you treated to breathtaking views of the Andes landscape, but you also can't resist being captivated by the intricate stonework and the air of mystery that surrounds this ancient place of worship.
Explore the terraces
As well as the iconic architecture, the sheer scale of Machu Picchu remains one of its most outstanding qualities. Nowhere is this more evident than in the agricultural terraces that surround the site, cascading down the mountainside.
The Incas built these giant stair-like structures so they could use the land around Machu Picchu for agriculture, with the network of terraces acting as a vast drainage system, preventing crops from getting too much water during the rainy months. The intricate terraces are also one of the main reasons we can still visit Machu Picchu, preserving this ancient site from centuries of landslides.
Aside from their intriguing cultural heritage, the impressive terraces offer a dreamy view, creating a striking visual effect, and it's impossible to imagine Machu Picchu without them.
Visit the Intihuatana
Amongst the characteristically simple architecture, there are some sculptural and more detailed pieces to spot at Machu Picchu, such as the Intihuatana stone.
This ancient plinth sits at the highest point of Machu Picchu, inside the Sacred Plaza, and is open from 7-10 am. Still standing strong, it’s thought that the intricately carved pillar served as a solar clock and ceremonial centerpiece for people of its time.
Meticulously designed and perfectly aligned to capture the sun's rays during specific solstice events, the precision and craftsmanship displayed in both placement and shaping of this sacred stone are a testament to the Inca's advanced architectural and astronomical knowledge.
