Amidst the majestic mountains of Peru lies Machu Picchu, one of the wonders of the modern world and a highly popular tourist destination for travelers exploring South America. This Incan citadel is renowned for its incredible landscapes, impressive architecture, surprising location, and rich history. If you’re planning to visit Machu Picchu, the first thing you need to know is where the town and citadel are situated. In this article, we’ll tell you where the ruins of Machu Picchu are located and which country you should travel to in order to experience them.
Machu Picchu is situated in Peru, a country on the west coast of South America. The Incan citadel is located in the Cusco region, atop a mountain at an elevation of about 2,430 meters above sea level. Cusco, the nearest city to the town of Machu Picchu, is approximately 80 kilometers away, traversing the Sacred Valley, a beautiful valley that hosts towns and significant cities from what was once the most powerful empire in the region’s history.
Machu Picchu is located in the Andes mountain range, an impressive mountain chain that stretches across South America. The mountain where the ancient Incan city is found is known as “Machu Picchu,” which translates to “Old Mountain” in Quechua, the language of the ancient Peruvians in this area. The mountain stands at a height of 2,430 meters above sea level, making the hike to the top somewhat strenuous. However, the view from the summit is spectacular and undeniably worth the effort.
To reach Machu Picchu, you first need to travel to Cusco, the city closest to the Incan citadel. Cusco is a stunning city with a rich history and culture. Moreover, it is dedicated to tourism, offering various accommodation and restaurant options. From Cusco, you can take a train to the town of Aguas Calientes, now known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, the only town near the ruins of Machu Picchu. The train journey from Cusco is an incredible experience as you traverse spectacular landscapes of the Peruvian Andes, with high-quality, comfortable, and luxurious train services.
Once in Machu Picchu Pueblo, you can take a bus to the top of the mountain where the entrance to the archaeological site is located. Buses depart regularly throughout the day, and the journey takes about 20 minutes. If you prefer walking, you can take the Hiram Bingham Trail, a 1.5-hour hike offering beautiful scenery along the way.
Machu Picchu Pueblo is well-prepared to welcome all types of visitors, from those seeking a luxury experience to adventure enthusiasts and outdoor activities lovers. Now that you know a bit more about where the ruins of Machu Picchu are located, their elevation, and how to reach them, come and enjoy the history of a civilization that built a great empire amidst the majestic mountains of the Peruvian Andes.
Travel to Machu Picchu with us and let us take care of all the details so you can fully enjoy the experience. Visit our website and choose how and when to travel to Machu Picchu, select your preferred train, and don’t miss the opportunity to explore the sacred citadel of the Incas.
