This once powerful and advanced civilization was wiped out by the European conquerors in an incredibly short space of time, and much of the history, culture, and traditions of these people were lost.
Machu Picchu is an ever-enduring legacy of the Inca Empire that fell to the Spanish invaders in the 16th century. To help you out, here’s our guide to traveling from Cusco to Machu Picchu.ĭon’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Peru (Travel Guide) It’s best to plan your trip to Machu Picchu well in advance, as it is a once in a lifetime experience, but an experience that is incredibly popular amongst travelers. The gateway to Machu Picchu is the old Inca capital of Cusco, and from here you can hike through the mountains or take the scenic train as close to the base of Machu Picchu as possible.Įither way, figuring out the best route can be difficult, especially as many of the multi-day treks have limited places available. It’s a sight to marvel at, a sight like no other, where the ruins of this Inca city are perched on dramatic cliffs, in overwhelmingly beautiful surroundings. From that moment of rediscovery, this ‘Lost City of the Incas’ has become an epic tourist attraction in the heart of the Peruvian mountains.
It stood abandoned, hidden away in the mountains for centuries until it was again rediscovered in the early 20th century. This world-famous Inca ruin is found high in the mountains, and its history is as mystical as the very clouds that swirl around the towering, snow-capped peaks.Īfter the fall of the Inca Empire to the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, Machu Picchu was lost to records and to time. Machu Picchu is the most iconic tourist attraction to be found anywhere in Peru, and perhaps anywhere in South America.