Machu Picchu, the fabled 'Lost City of the Incas', perches dramatically on a misty ridge between Andean peaks at 2,430 meters. Recognized as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, its seamless integration of dry-stone masonry and mountain nature evokes sheer wonder.
Top Attractions & Sights
Machu Picchu Citadel & Huayna Picchu Peak
The iconic Inca stone citadel featuring the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana astronomical stone, and the thrilling climb up Huayna Picchu peak.
Historic Cusco & Sacsayhuamán Fortress
The imperial Inca capital blending Spanish baroque basilicas with megalithic Inca stone walls at the Sacsayhuamán citadel.
Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo, Pisac & Maras)
The fertile Urubamba River valley boasting terrace fortresses at Ollantaytambo, the handicraft market of Pisac, and the ancient salt pans of Maras.
Where to Go & Neighborhoods
In Cusco, explore the bohemian artisan neighborhood of San Blas with its steep cobbled alleys and traditional weavers, alongside bustling San Pedro Market.
Where to Eat & Local Gastronomy
Cicciolina (Cusco)
Renowned warm dining room and tapas bar in a colonial courtyard, celebrated for Andean tapas, seared duck, and grilled Urubamba trout.
Chicha by Gastón Acurio (Cusco)
Celebrated Peruvian chef Gastón Acurio's tribute to regional Andean cuisine, serving sacred valley corn, trout ceviche, and slow-cooked suckling pig.
MIL Centro (Moray)
Visionary high-altitude research restaurant by chef Virgilio Martínez (of Central), overlooking Moray terraces at 3,500m elevation.
Getting Around & Transportation
Fly from Lima to Cusco (CUZ). Access to Machu Picchu is via scenic glass-roofed trains (PeruRail Vistadome or Inca Rail) from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, followed by a 25-minute shuttle bus to the citadel gate.
Best Time to Visit & Stay Duration
May to October offers the driest and clearest trekking conditions in the Andes. Note that the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance each February. Recommended stay: 4 to 6 days to acclimatize.
Traveler's Tip
Descend directly to the Sacred Valley (elevation 2,870m) upon landing in Cusco (3,400m) to acclimatize gently before tackling high-altitude ruins.