Witnessing the ingenuity of an ancient civilization surrounded by the captivating beauty of the lush rainforest remains part of the attraction offered when visiting Peru and Machu Picchu. The legendary ancient city is but one of many experiences visitors enjoy while staying in Peru. Climb mountains, raft down rivers and meet the people who express a willingness to share their culture and traditions with guests. Spend a few days or a few weeks exploring the country. Each
Machu Picchu tour package offers something for everyone with a variety of activities.
A Machu Picchu tour package might include exploring the Inca Trail. This vast network of roads existed in ancient times providing the means for communication, trade and travel between communities. Either on foot or by vehicle, guests view spectacular scenery along the way. Travel through the deep untamed Urubamba Valley and up to the fertile lush countryside of the highlands. The journey then ventures to the mountains of the Andean Cloud Forest. Gaze in amazement at the staircases constructed from huge stones, tunnels chiseled into the rocky hillsides and bridges spanning streams and trails.
The adventure may begin at Cuzco. Once the heart of the Incan Empire, the city now offers a complex blend of ancient life and modern civilization. Guests enjoy comfortable accommodations with all of the comforts of home. Tour the city that not only reflects the Incan culture but also Spanish occupation. Though once serving as a location for ancient ritual festivities, the main square currently boasts a major Spanish influence concerning architecture and culture. The city reveals its colorful past through a series of museums housing exhibits that span the artistic, cultural and religious background of the people. Visit the marketplace and witness centuries of artisanship displayed in the numerous locally produced items.
The following day, embark on a guided tour of the Sacred Valley, which includes a visit to the Ollantaytambo ruins. Many believe this archeological setting served as a military fortress that protected the city and provided a place of residence for the wealthy elite. Here guests find a well-planned community surrounded by fortress walls. Amazing architectural features of the site include the grid-like pattern of neighborhoods, aqueduct plumbing and ancient functional fountains that remain standing.
While some enjoy the challenge of hiking the 25-mile path along the Incan Trail to Macchu Picchu, others prefer more convenient train and bus travel to the destination. While walking, trekkers encounter a variety of landscapes that include different archeological sites, natural springs and waterfalls. Macchu Picchu stands almost 8,000 feet above sea level in the saddle between the Macchu Picchu and Huayna Picchu mountains. Spanning a distance of approximately five miles, the ancient community features various levels accessible by ramps and steps that seem part of the natural landscape. The impressive architectural features of the site include an aqueduct system that supported agricultural and residential needs. Terraces not only provided extensive farm land but also served to inhibit invasion.
The Moon Temple carved into the cave of Waynapijchu also provides visitors with a glimpse into the artistry of ancient stonecutters. The enormous entrance spans almost 24 feet in height and 18 feet in width. The interior has perfect rectangular walls. Some doorways lead to individual compartments while other doorways serve as camouflage. Speculation exists as to the purpose of the site. The many features of Macchu Picchu offer hours, if not days, of thought-provoking exploration.
