Machu Picchu Facts: History, Access & What to Expect

Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel perched on a mountain ridge at 2,430 meters (7,970 ft) in the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes. Built during the reign of Emperor Pachacuti around 1450 AD and abandoned approximately 100 years later during the Spanish Conquest, it remained unknown to the outside world until American historian Hiram Bingham brought it to international attention in 1911.

Today it is Peru's most-visited attraction, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1983), and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World (2007). Whether you arrive by the Inca Trail or by train, nothing quite prepares you for the scale of the ruins in person.

History

Pachacuti, the ninth Inca emperor, is believed to have ordered the construction of Machu Picchu around 1450 AD. The site likely served as a royal estate and sacred religious center for Inca nobility, not a city for common people. At its peak, it housed approximately 750 residents including priests, workers, and attendants.

The Incas abandoned Machu Picchu around 1572, likely during the collapse of the Inca Empire following the Spanish Conquest. Because the Spanish never discovered it, the site avoided the destruction that befell other Inca cities. The surrounding jungle gradually reclaimed the structures.

Hiram Bingham, a Yale University professor, reached Machu Picchu on July 24, 1911, guided by a local farmer named Melchor Arteaga. Bingham publicized the site globally, though local families had known about and farmed near the ruins for generations. Archaeological excavation and restoration have continued ever since.

How to Get There

Inca Trail (4 days)

The classic route: 43 km on foot through the Andes, arriving through the Sun Gate at sunrise. Requires a government permit (limited to 500 people/day). The most memorable way to arrive. See our Inca Trail facts and route map.

Train from Ollantaytambo (1.5 hours)

The most popular non-trekking option. Scenic train through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, then a 25-minute bus ride up to the citadel. No permit needed. Available through our non-trekking packages.

Train from Cusco/Poroy (3.5 hours)

Direct train service from outside Cusco. Longer but avoids the Sacred Valley transfer. Limited schedules; check availability.

Bus from Aguas Calientes (25 minutes)

The final leg for all visitors except Inca Trail trekkers. Buses run every 10 minutes starting at 5:30 AM. The switchback road climbs 400m from the river valley to the citadel entrance.

Walking Circuits

The Peruvian government has established defined walking circuits to manage visitor flow and protect the site. Your ticket specifies which circuit you follow:

• Circuit 1 (Full): Upper and lower sections including the classic panoramic viewpoint. The most complete experience.
• Circuit 2 (Classic): Upper section with the iconic postcard view, main temples, and Intihuatana. Most popular circuit.
• Circuit 3 (Lower): Agricultural terraces and lower section. Less crowded, different perspectives.
• Circuit 4 (Short): Quick visit focused on the main plaza. Best for those adding Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

Key Structures

Temple of the Sun

A semicircular tower with precision stonework rivaling the finest in Cusco. Two windows are aligned with the sunrise during the summer and winter solstices. Below the temple is a natural cave called the Royal Tomb.

Intihuatana Stone

A carved granite pillar that served as an astronomical clock or calendar. The name means "hitching post of the sun." The Incas believed it held the sun in place during the winter solstice. It is one of the few Intihuatana stones not destroyed by the Spanish.

Room of the Three Windows

A temple with three large trapezoidal windows overlooking the Urubamba Valley. In Inca mythology, the three windows represent the three worlds: Hanan Pacha (upper/celestial), Kay Pacha (present/earthly), and Uku Pacha (underworld).

Temple of the Condor

A rock carved to resemble a condor with outspread wings. The condor was sacred to the Incas as a messenger between the earthly and celestial worlds.

Agricultural Terraces

Hundreds of stone terraces cascade down the mountainside, serving both agricultural and structural purposes. The terraces prevented erosion and landslides while providing growing space for crops at different microclimates.

Entrance Fees (2025-2026)

• Foreign adults: 152 soles (~$40 USD)
• Foreign students (with ISIC card): 77 soles (~$20 USD)
• Huayna Picchu add-on: Additional 200 soles (~$53 USD), limited to 200 people in two time slots
• Machu Picchu Mountain add-on: Additional 200 soles (~$53 USD), limited to 400 people daily

Prices are set by the Peruvian government and may change. Our tour packages include Machu Picchu entrance fees.

Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain

Huayna Picchu (2,693m)

The iconic peak visible behind Machu Picchu in every photograph. A steep 45-minute climb with some sections requiring hands on rock. Narrow trail with vertigo-inducing drops. Limited to 200 people per day in two time slots. Book weeks or months in advance for peak season.

Machu Picchu Mountain (3,082m)

A longer but less steep climb (1.5-2 hours) offering the highest panoramic views of the entire site and surrounding mountains. Less crowded than Huayna Picchu. Better for those who prefer a wider trail and more gradual ascent.

Visitor Tips

• Arrive early: The first buses depart at 5:30 AM. Early morning has the best light and fewest crowds.
• Hire a guide: Guides are required for entry and explain what you are looking at, since there are no signs inside.
• Bring rain gear: Rain is possible any time of year, even in the dry season. A light waterproof jacket is essential.
• Sun protection: Despite the altitude, UV exposure is intense. Bring hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
• No drones, tripods, or large bags: Bags larger than 40L must be checked at the entrance. Selfie sticks are prohibited.
• Restrooms: Only available outside the main entrance. There are no facilities inside the citadel.
• Altitude: At 2,430m, Machu Picchu is lower than Cusco. If you have acclimatized in Cusco, you should feel comfortable here.

Machu Picchu FAQ