Machu Picchu - wonder of the worldOn the slopes above the Vilcanota River lays one of the most beautiful and magical archaeological sites on the planet. Considered by some to be a mystical place exuding vital energy, Machu Picchu is also remarkable for its solid construction, well-balanced use of space, and the harmony of its design with the natural surroundings. Its name comes from the ancient Quechua words meaning “Old Mountain”. Amazingly enough this incredible place, although always known by the local people, lay in peaceful secrecy from the Western World until 1911 when the guide Melchor Arteaga lead Professor Hiram Bingham to the site. Bingham returned in 1914 with the support of Yale University and the National Geographic Society to "re-discover the site". Since that time, Machu Picchu has been referred to as the “Lost City of the Incas”. The Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary is a natural reserve, declared by UNESCO as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage site in 1983. The Machu Picchu town, Aguas Calientes, is reachable by rail (3 to 4 hours, depending on type of train service) from Cusco, and the bus ride from Aguas Calientes to the archaeological site takes 20 minutes. Visitors must heed the conservation regulations of the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary. The Inca Trail The Inca Trail is a physical and mental challenge – but an ultimately rewarding adventure requiring four days of often difficult walking over rugged terrain and changing altitudes to reach the destination: Machu Picchu. Other attractions & activities
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