Both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Severn Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is one of the most revered archaeological sites in the Americas, if not the world.
For a site that is so well known, not much is known about it. The architectural style suggests it was commissioned by Inca Pachacutec and thus thought to have been built around the early or mid-1400s. It was a ceremonial and administrative centre for a population of just under 1,000. It was unknown to the Spanish, abandoned at some stage, and then hidden from the eyes of the world until Hiram Bingham brought it back to life on the 24th July 1911.
Climb Huayna Picchu for outstanding panoramic views over the ruins or venture up to the Sun Gate and experience the descent on foot by the original Inca Trail. Head away from the crowds to the outskirts of the ruins to wander alone into Inca houses and for those budding photographers, a photo through the doorways of Huayna Picchu make for a different perspective to the iconic shots one always sees.
Most visitors spend just half a day exploring Machu Picchu, and while we hope that you will visit such a breath-taking site again, the reality is, it might just be the once. So, in order to make the very most of your stay, we suggest staying overnight, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the complex without the crowds and visit for a second time, to explore in-depth. The Belmond Sanctuary Lodge has an unrivalled position just a stone’s throw from the citadel. Ideally positioned to beat the crowds to the gates, and with views over the cloud-forest clad mountains, it is a true Inca hideaway.
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Reaching the sun gate and marvelling over Machu Picchu unveiled one of the most impressive landscapes that Paul has seen in his global travels.
If your passion is the outdoors and you are looking to delve into South American culture, Roxy recommends one of the lodge-to-lodge hiking programmes to explore the Sacred Valley and beyond. Hopping between the quiet mountain towns, meet the locals that live off the grid and immerse yourself in the welcoming spirit of Peru.
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