The ruins of Machu Picchu, rediscovered in 1911 by Yale archaeologist Hiram Bingham, are one of the most beautiful and enigmatic ancient sites in the world. While the Inca people certainly used the Andean mountain top (9060 feet elevation), erecting many hundreds of stone structures from the early 1400's, legends and myths indicate that Machu Picchu (meaning 'Old Peak' in the Quechua language) was revered as a sacred place from a far earlier time. Whatever its origins, the Inca turned the site into a small (5 square miles) but extraordinary city. Invisible from below and completely self-contained, surrounded by agricultural terraces sufficient to feed the population, and watered by natural springs, Machu Picchu seems to have been utilized by the Inca as a secret ceremonial city. Two thousand feet above the rumbling Urubamba river, the cloud shrouded ruins have palaces, baths, temples, storage rooms and some 150 houses, all in a remarkable state of preservation. These structures, carved from the gray granite of the mountain top are wonders of both architectural and aesthetic genius. Many of the building blocks weigh 50 tons or more yet are so precisely sculpted and fitted together with such exactitude that the mortarless joints will not permit the insertion of even a thin knife blade.

What you Need to Take:
The sacred Inca city of Machu Picchu is famous for its dramatic setting among spectacular peaks and lush cloud forest. Guided excursions are offered every day of the year.

DETAILS OF THE PROGRAM MACHUPICHU

Departure from Cusco is by train, at 6am. Guided tour around the sanctuary of Machu Picchu and return to Cusco the same day leaving at 4:20 p.m.
Return to the city by 8:30pm. (approx)

Included:
- Transfer Hotel - Train Station - Hotel
- Spanish and English speaking professional guide
- Bus from Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes
- Ticket entrance to Machu Picchu
- Round trip transportation by train
- Buffet lunch in a tipical Restaurant in Aguas Calientes