Welcome to the mysterious ruins of Machu Picchu, Peru. Prepare yourself as you are about to embark on a virtual tour exploring one of the most intriguing destinations on the planet. Don’t worry ... you won’t need heavy hiking gear or an experienced guide to tour the spectacular views and scenery the magnificent complex has to offer.
Start by viewing a virtual tour of Machu Picchu and then follow the map on your left to continue your journey....
A Brief Overview
7,000 feet above sea level and nestled on a small hilltop between
the Andean Mountain Range, the majestic city soars above the Urabamba
Valley below. The Incan built structure has been deemed the “Lost
Cities”, unknown until its relatively recent discovery in 1911. Archaeologists
estimate that approximately 1200 people could have lived in the area,
though many theorize it was most likely a retreat for Incan rulers.
Due to it’s isolation from the rest of Peru, living in the area full
time would require traveling great distances just to reach the nearest
village.
Separated into three areas - agricultural, urban, and religious -
the structures are arranged so that the function of the buildings
matches the form of their surroundings. The agricultural terracing
and aqueducts take advantage of the natural slopes; the lower areas
contain buildings occupied by farmers and teachers, and the most important
religious areas are located at the crest of the hill, overlooking
the lush Urubamba Valley thousands of feet below.
Hikers, tourists, and the early explorers describe
similar emotions as they climb their way through the
Inca Trail.
Many call the experience magical. Glancing out from
the Funerary
Rock Hut on all the temples, fields, terraces,
and baths seems to take you to another time. Blending
in with the hillside itself, many say the area creates
a seamless and elegant green paradise, making it a
must for anyone who travels to Peru.
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