Things to do in Machu Picchu
Explore top experiences
Top 10 attractions in Machu Picchu
Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu means "old mountain" in Quechua and is often called the "lost city of the Incas." This mountain citadel, built by the Inca Empire in the 15th century, sits on a steep ridge in the Andes at an elevation of approx. 2,400 m, overlooking the rushing Urubamba River valley. Hidden among mountains and clouds, it eluded Spanish colonizers and was abandoned with the empire's fall until its rediscovery in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham, led by a local guide. The city is constructed with precisely fitted dry-stone walls that have withstood centuries of weather and earthquakes. Visitors can explore two main areas: the agricultural terraces and the urban sector. The Temple of the Sun's windows align with the summer solstice sunrise, reflecting Inca sun worship; the Temple of the Three Windows, with its massive stonework, and the central plaza formed the religious core. The Intihuatana, a finely carved monolithic stone, is believed to have served astronomical purposes, giving rise to its name meaning "hitching post of the sun." The viewpoint near the Guardian's Hut frames the ruins with the towering Huayna Picchu peak—a classic photo spot—while alpacas often wander into shots on the terraced lawns. Morning mists clearing at sunrise, with sunlight bathing the stone walls, create a magical scene, so early arrival is recommended. Due to the high altitude and strong UV rays, sun protection and warm layers are essential. For the adventurous, hiking the Inca Trail for days and glimpsing the citadel from the Sun Gate remains an unforgettable arrival for many trekkers.Urubamba · 77m from Machu Picchu
Inca Trail
Machu Picchu is located in the Peruvian Andes and is a 15th-century Inca Empire ruins. Situated on a mountaintop at an altitude of 2,430 meters, this ancient temple complex is known as the "City in the Sky" and is known for its exquisite stone architecture, amazing engineering skills and beautiful scenery that coexist harmoniously with the mist-shrouded natural landscape. Visitors can hike along the Inca Trail to explore the remains of this mysterious civilization, including the Temple of the Sun, royal residences, and more.Urubamba · 2.1 km from Machu Picchu
Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu
Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu is located in the heart of the Sacred Valley of Machu Picchu and is a mysterious and important monolith. The Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu is approx. 3m high with a unique shape, serving as a physical symbol of the Inca civilization's worship of Mother Earth. The natural grooves on the rock's surface were regarded by the ancients as divine patterns, and the surrounding area is scattered with remnants of ceremonial platforms and irrigation canals. It can be reached by car from Ollantaytambo in approx. 40 minutes. The Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu is believed to be a place where the ancient Incas performed rituals and observed celestial phenomena. Visitors can feel the mysterious atmosphere of the Inca civilization here and enjoy the magnificent view of the surrounding Andes. Due to its cultural and historical value, please remain quiet and respectful when visiting the Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu. The recommended time to visit the Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu is early morning or late evening, when there are fewer tourists, allowing for a better experience of the Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu's mysterious aura. It is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring enough water and sun protection.Urubamba · 213m from Machu Picchu
The Temple of the Sun
In Urubamba, Cusco Region, Peru, the The Temple of the Sun is an Inca site of great historical and cultural significance. It was one of the important places where the ancient Inca civilization worshipped the sun god Inti, reflecting a high degree of integration between celestial worship and architectural skill. The temple itself is constructed from massive stone blocks. Archaeologists speculate that these stones were transported from a quarry on the opposite bank, demonstrating the Incas' astonishing ability to transport stone and build without the use of wheels. Its architectural style is characterized by stonemasonry where stones fit tightly together without mortar, allowing the structure to withstand natural forces like earthquakes. The ancient Incas believed the sun was the source of life and natural order, so they built such sacred spaces to hold sacrificial and astronomical ceremonies. Although the site has weathered over time and many original structures have not been fully preserved, it remains an indispensable physical piece of evidence for understanding Inca religious, social, and scientific thought.Urubamba · 135m from Machu Picchu
Huayna Picchu
The towering peak behind the city ruins in the classic Machu Picchu postcard shot. While it may look intimidatingly steep in photos, you'll find it's not a vertical climb once you're on the trail. If you aren't particularly afraid of heights or are a fan of climbing, don't miss the hike to the top of Huayna Picchu. Standing on the giant granite rocks at the summit to look down over Machu Picchu is an experience you'll never forget.Urubamba · 822m from Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu HotSprings
Machu Picchu HotSprings, also known as the hot springs town, is located at the foot of Machu Picchu. The hot springs were formed by volcanic activity in the region and are an ideal place for visitors to relax. These warm pools are surrounded by lush vegetation, with water temperatures maintained between 100°F–114°F, providing a comfortable experience for visitors to enjoy. Although the water is slightly yellowish, there is no need to worry, as this color comes from the sulfur, iron, and other minerals naturally present in the hot springs, which help relieve fatigue. Many visitors traveling to Machu Picchu include this in their itinerary. The hot spring area is equipped with changing rooms, showers, and lockers, making it convenient for visitors to better enjoy this unique natural experience.Aguas Calientes · 3 km from Machu Picchu
Temple of the Condor
The Temple of the Condor is an example of the superb craftsmanship of the Inca masons. The natural rock began to form millions of years ago, and the Incas used the natural shape of the rock to carve it, subtly showing a bald eagle in flight. Historians speculate that the vulture's head was used as an altar. Below the temple is a small cave where a mummy was once placed. There is a prison behind the temple with a niche for a person.Urubamba · 146m from Machu Picchu
Intihuatana, Urubamba
One of the greater mysteries at Machu Picchu is a massive stone carving called the Intihuatana, Urubamba. Some archaeoastronomers speculate that this exquisite, quadrilateral stone carving on a raised platform in the plaza is a sundial, while others say it was used for some form of astronomical observation. Although there is no consensus on its purpose, almost all archaeologists agree that the Intihuatana, Urubamba is one of the most sacred structures within Machu Picchu. How do you identify the Intihuatana, Urubamba? If you see a group of tourists from afar surrounding a large stone, reaching out their hands without touching it to feel the energy released by the stone, that is the Intihuatana, Urubamba. This Intihuatana, Urubamba has three very peculiar features. First, there is a corner next to the Intihuatana, Urubamba; this protruding corner points due north. You might want to bring a compass to verify the exquisite calculations of the Incas in the mid-15th century. The second peculiar feature is the upright stone on top of the Intihuatana, Urubamba. The cross-section of the stone has four corners that look somewhat irregular, and these four corners point exactly to the cardinal directions. The corner pointing due north aligns perfectly with a peak called Huayna Picchu, and the opposite direction, due south, also aligns with a peak. Similarly, the due west direction also aligns with a peak, but there is no peak to the east. Why? Because the sun needs to shine in. The Incas built this "City in the Sky" at such a high altitude to welcome the rising sun from the east, so how could there be a mountain blocking it? This is another peculiar feature, which is enough to show that the Incas were very wise.Urubamba · 63m from Machu Picchu
Templo Principal
The area where the main temple, the Three Window Temple and the Shuan Sun Stone are located is known as the Sacred Plaza. The buildings in this area are larger than other buildings in Machu Picchu, and the lintel rock of the main temple weighs 3 tons. This temple has only three walls, and next to the main temple is a humble little temple, which historians speculate is the place prepared by the priest.Urubamba · 64m from Machu Picchu
Temple of the Three Windows
The Temple of the Triple Window, located within the ruins of Machu Picchu, is one of the outstanding examples of Inca architectural art. The temple is named for its unique three windows, which are believed to have important religious and astronomical significance. The design and arrangement of the windows demonstrate the Inca's superb stonework skills, and the fit between the stones is extremely high, which is breathtaking. The Temple of the Triple Window is one of the core buildings of Machu Picchu, where visitors can feel the mystery and magnificence of Inca culture. The location of the temple provides a good view overlooking the surrounding valleys and the Andes Mountains in the distance, making it an ideal place to take landscape photos. Due to the high altitude of Machu Picchu, visitors should be aware of altitude sickness and are advised to bring enough water and sunscreen. Transportation to Machu Picchu usually requires departure from Cusco, and arrival by train and bus. Please follow the protection regulations of the site when visiting, and do not touch or climb the monuments to maintain this precious cultural heritage.Urubamba · 62m from Machu Picchu
Experiences you can't miss in Machu Picchu
Featured Food & drink in Machu Picchu
View all Food & drink
4.8/5
· 51 reviewsFree cancellation
Book now for today
22 consecutive positive reviews
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromKRW 1,506KRW 1,586
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromKRW 29,407KRW 30,955
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromKRW 84,377KRW 88,818
5.0/5
· 45 reviewsFree cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
45 consecutive positive reviews
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromKRW 90,472KRW 95,234
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromKRW 74,142KRW 78,045
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromKRW 41,893KRW 44,098
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromKRW 74,142KRW 78,045
5.0/5
· 1 reviewFree cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromKRW 28,899KRW 30,421
Featured Day tours in Machu Picchu
View all Day tours
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
FromKRW 116,522
4.9/5
· 145 reviewsFree cancellation
92 consecutive positive reviews
FromKRW 251,581
4.8/5
· 6 reviews· 37 booked70 travelers saved
FromKRW 989,418
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
FromKRW 44,137
4.0/5
· 1 review· 32 bookedFromKRW 81,570
Featured Cultural experiences in Machu Picchu
View all Cultural experiences
Free cancellation
Book now for today
20% off
Limited-time sale
FromKRW 9,472KRW 11,840
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for today
FromKRW 10,373
FromKRW 128,307
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromKRW 19,356KRW 20,375
Free cancellation
Book now for today
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromKRW 21,369KRW 22,494
4.0/5
· 1 reviewFree cancellation
Book now for today
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromKRW 28,154KRW 29,636
More things to do
Private Tours in Machu Picchu
View More Private Tours in Machu Picchu
Group Tours in Machu Picchu
View More Group Tours in Machu Picchu
Free things to do in Machu Picchu
What travelers say about Machu Picchu
shanghaiboyuAugust 27, 2025
5.0
Machu Picchu boasts 140 structures, including temples, sanctuaries, parks, and residences, as well as over 100 stairways, numerous fountains, and a comprehensive water system. Abandoned during the Spanish invasion and the fall of the Inca Empire in the 16th century, Machu Picchu was discovered by Yale University professor Hiram Bingham in 1911. The ruins consist of two main areas: an urban area and an agricultural area, separated by a stone wall. Beyond the wall lie terraced agricultural areas, divided into high and low terraces depending on the terrain. The urban area is divided into three zones: the sacred area, the area for priests and nobles, and the southern area for commoners.
Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
M25***40April 12, 2021
4.0
You need to be in good fitness to visit this place, there is a lot of uphill walking! We did the day trek with 'United Mice' and were very pleased with our guide Walter, a Peruvian who was most knowledgeable and affable. Machu Picchu is truly a great place to see
Inca Trail
DEAR张小球May 17, 2020
5.0
If we simply evaluate the sacred stone, it is just a big stone. But in Machu Picchu, this stone is given a sacred name, and it is also a must-see when going to Machu Picchu, attracting people to stop and take pictures.
Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu
泰宁根吴承恩May 1, 2020
5.0
Huayna Picchu is located opposite Machu Picchu. It takes some time to get to Huayna Picchu, but the scenery along the way is very good, and it is worth visiting. It is also super beautiful to appreciate Machu Picchu from this angle.
Huayna Picchu
apabaruSeptember 7, 2026
3.0
After visiting the Sun Gate at the Machu Picchu ruins, I returned to Machu Picchu village and, having some free time in the afternoon, went to the pool. It's a short 20-minute uphill walk from the town center. I brought my swimsuit, but forgot to bring slippers, though they are sold near the entrance. I bought some for 10 soles. The entrance fee is 20 soles, and there's a waterfall at the top, but that's an extra charge. There are lockers, and you get a locker key in exchange for your ID (passport). The pool is like a swimming pool with slightly lukewarm water. It's a little cloudy, but I managed to tolerate it and got in. About 80% of the people there are locals, and it seems like a place where children are having fun.
Machu Picchu HotSprings
东张西望望东西April 12, 2020
5.0
The Temple of the Condor is also located at a relatively high place. The scale of the entire building of the Temple of the Condor can still be clearly seen, and through the Temple of the Condor, you can also see the beautiful architectural complex of Machu Picchu.
Temple of the Condor
小民2011November 28, 2019
5.0
The 13-degree angle is consistent with the angle here, which is vaguely mysterious! Let's explore it. This stone embodies the wisdom of the Incas and deeply reflects their worship of the sun.
Intihuatana, Urubamba
chinadesk1July 21, 2022
5.0
The Temple of the Three Windows is one of the attractions in Machu Picchu. In ancient times, it was used to worship the sun god, and this place may have been a place for religious ceremonies. The huge stones are neatly stacked, as if they were strictly measured. Many places in Machu Picchu are hard to imagine and full of mystery.
Temple of the Three Windows
