Since its modern-day rediscovery in 1911, Machu Picchu has become the largest attraction in all of South America. The majestic Incan citadel is set high in the Andes Mountains in Peru, above the Urubamba River valley. Although it was known to the local Incas and is only 50 miles (80 km.) from Cusco, Machu Picchu was unknown to the Spanish during the colonial period, and because of it remained untouched and uninfluenced by outside cultures.
• Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of New Seven Wonders of the World.
• National Geographic devoted their entire April 1913 issue to Machu Picchu.
• The Incas built Machu Picchu around 1450, but abandoned it just a century later. The original use of the citadel is still unknown.
• Travel to Macchu Picchu aboard the world famous Hiram Bingham train, complete with a dining and bar car.
• Spend the night at the only hotel in the archeological park’s grounds. Wake up the next morning and experience the site at sunrise before the crowds arrive.
• Climb Huayna Picchu, the iconic mountain behind the actual ruins. The peak rises over Machu Picchu, and is restricted to only 400 visitors a day.
