General information about Machu Picchu

History of Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is one of the most emblematic cities of the Inca Empire and one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. It was built in the 15th century by order of the Inca Pachacútec and is believed to have served as a ceremonial center and royal residence. Its strategic location on top of a mountain allowed it to remain hidden from Spanish conquerors, preventing its destruction.

In 1911, American explorer Hiram Bingham rediscovered Machu Picchu with the help of local farmers. Since then, it has been the subject of multiple archaeological studies that have revealed its impressive urban planning, advanced engineering, and connection to the Andean worldview. In 1983, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site, and in 2007, it was recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Learn more. ➔

Location and altitude

Machu Picchu is located in the Cusco region, within the Urubamba province, in the Machu Picchu district. It is situated at 2,430 meters above sea level in the Andes mountain range, surrounded by mountains such as Huayna Picchu and Putucusi.

Its geographical coordinates are: -13.1631, -72.5450. The citadel is within the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, a protected area of 32,592 hectares that hosts a great diversity of flora and fauna, including orchids, spectacled bears, and the Andean cock-of-the-rock, Peru’s national bird.

How to get there?

Climate

Machu Picchu has a subtropical mountain climate, characterized by moderate temperatures and high humidity. The average temperature ranges between 8°C and 22°C during the day. There are two main seasons:

– Rainy season (November to March): Frequent rainfall, and the path can become slippery.
– Dry season (April to October): Sunny days and clear skies, although nights can be cold.

The weather can change quickly, so it is recommended to bring waterproof clothing and sunscreen.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, between April and October. During these months, there is less chance of rain, and the trails are in better condition. However, June and July are the busiest months due to vacations in many countries, which can lead to crowds.

If you prefer to avoid crowds, April, May, September, and October are ideal months, as they offer good weather without as many tourists.

Recommendations

– Buy your ticket in advance: Only a limited number of visitors are allowed per day, so it is advisable to purchase tickets months in advance.
– Wear comfortable and layered clothing: The weather varies throughout the day, so it is best to wear light clothing for the day and a jacket for the night.
– Use insect repellent and sunscreen: The area is humid and has mosquitoes, as well as high solar radiation.
– Acclimate before visiting: To avoid altitude sickness, it is recommended to spend at least two days in Cusco before going up to Machu Picchu.
– Wake up early for a unique experience: If you want to enjoy the sunrise at Machu Picchu, leave Aguas Calientes early to arrive before 6:00 a.m.