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South America Machu Picchu is a protected and sacred ancient city, offering visitors one of the world’s most unique UNESCO World Heritage sites to explore. Many visitors opt to explore the ruins on their own, however, guided tours are readily available for those who wish to learn more about the various sites. There are several must-see temples, as well as multiple hiking trails located around the site. As the location is relatively high at 2,430 meters, it is important to have taken time to acclimate to the elevation in order to avoid altitude sickness, especially when planning any of the trail hikes located in the park.
Santuario Historico de Machu Picchu
The historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu refers to the protected park that includes more than 35,000 hectares of land that houses the archaeological site of Machu Pichu. Located on the Peruvian Andes mountains, the sanctuary is located in a cloud forest on the mountain’s eastern slope. Discovered in the early 20th century, the site features discovered (and surely undiscovered) remains of ancient Inca architecture and culture. The natural habitat is also home to many animals, flora, and fauna, including many which are endangered such as the Andean bear and high-altitude quetzal. A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983, it is one of only three physical areas in the America’s to hold the distinction of importance across the Cultural and Natural Heritage of Humanity.
Address: N/A
Phone: +51 84 582030
Operating Hours:
– Monday 6:00am – 5:30pm
– Tuesday 6:00am – 5:30pm
– Wednesday 6:00am – 5:30pm
– Thursday 6:00am – 5:30pm
– Friday 6:00am – 5:30pm
– Saturday 6:00am – 5:30pm
– Sunday 6:00am – 5:30pm
Admission Cost:
Foreign visitors:
– Adults – S/ 152.00
– Students – S/ 77.00
– Children – S/ 70.00
Visitors from Peru and CAN member countries:
– Adults – S/ 64.00
– Students – S/ 32.00
– Children – S/ 32.00
Cusquenian visitors:
-FREE
Website
Temple of the Sun
Built into the site of a natural cave and at a higher elevation than many of Machu Picchu’s other sites, it is believed the Temple of the Sun was built specifically to worship our closest star. Prior to the Spanish invasion, the temple was adorned with gold and silver ornaments. Located in what is referred to as the “Hannan” neighborhood of the ruins, visitors can see the temple from a viewpoint located adjacent to the location. As the temple is protected, entering it is forbidden. The Temple of the Sun is built with granite blocks in an imperial Inca style. Connected to a natural cave, it is believed that the temple may have also been a tomb for the Inca Pachacutec.
Plaza Manco Cápac
Located in the center of Aguas Calientes, the Plaza Manco Cápac is marked with the statue of the Inca king Manco Cápac in its center. Commissioned by the sculptor David Lozano, it was a gift from the Japanese colony for the centenary of Peru’s independence and was placed in the plaza in 1933. The square is surrounded by various shops and restaurants in what is considered the gateway to Machu Picchu. The square is surrounded by various other sculptures and works of art to the backdrop of the surrounding mountains. Located near to the Machu Picchu train station, this is generally one of the first sites tourists visits on their way to the ancient ruins.
Address: Av. 28 de Julio 1300, La Victoria 15033
Phone: N/A
Operating Hours: N/A
Admission Cost: N/A
Website (unofficial)
Temple of the Three Windows
One of Machu Picchu’s most famous locations, the Temple of the Three Windows is located near the Machu Picchu main square. While the purpose of the temple has been debated and is still unknown to this day, it is believed to have represented various world’s that the Inca believed in, with each window representing a different part of the Inca world including the human world, underworld, and the realm of the gods. It is believed that two additional windows were once part of the structure, but that they collapsed at some point. Due to its central location, this is one of the temples that will greet visitors at the beginning portion of their journey through the ruins.
Temple of the Condor
Carved from a natural rock formation, the Temple of the Condor is an example of stonemasonry whereby the Inca formed the rock into the shape of a condor’s wings while in-flight. The floor of the temple includes a rock carved into the shape of the condor’s head and neck feathers. Believe to have been used as a sacrificial altar, the temple includes a small cave that previously contained mummified remains. Adjacent to the temple is the site of an ancient prison, as well as underground dungeons used to hold prisoners while their fate was decided. The Temple of the Condor is located near the Machu Picchu main square in the Hurin neighborhood of the ruins.
Intihuatana Stone
The Intihuetana Stone is a ritual stone used by the Incans and was believed to have been used to showcase the seasons and various solstices. Having survived the destruction of many of South America’s Inithuatana by the Spanish, the stone was perfectly aligned with the sun during the winter solstice. Considered one of the most visited sites in all of Machu Picchu, the name literally translates to a “place to tie up the sun”. Located in the Hanan neighborhood of the ruins, visitors can climb one of two sets of stairs to reach the stone. As this specific site is only open from 7am to 10am daily, it is recommended to leave early if you want to get a closeup of this special location.