15 Machu Picchu facts that you (most probably) didn't know about

Nestled within the rugged Andes Mountains of Peru lies a marvel of ancient engineering and breathtaking beauty: Machu Picchu. This iconic archaeological site, shrouded in mystery and majesty, continues to captivate travelers from around the globe with its enigmatic allure and awe-inspiring vistas.

In this article, we embark on a journey to uncover its secrets and marvels. From its intriguing history to its architectural wonders, we'll delve into some fascinating Machu Picchu facts that make this UNESCO World Heritage site a must-visit destination for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike. 

So pack your curiosity and prepare to be transported back in time as we explore the wonders of Machu Picchu together.

Plan your trip with this article about The best time to visit Peru and this one on safety in Peru.

15 facts about Machu Picchu 

1. Veiled wonder

Machu Picchu remained hidden from most of the world until its rediscovery in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham. He was searching for the lost Inca capital of Vilcabamba when he stumbled upon the ruins of Machu Picchu. 

Tucked away amidst the Andes Mountains, this ancient citadel was unknown to the outside world for centuries, lending an air of mystery to its allure.

While Bingham wasn't the first outsider to lay eyes on the site, his writings and photographs brought Machu Picchu to the world's attention.

Overgrown by lush vegetation and surrounded by steep cliffs, its secluded location added to the intrigue that awaited those who would eventually uncover its secrets.

2. Inca engineering marvel

The precision of Inca engineering is evident in Machu Picchu's construction. Built without mortar, the stones fit together so perfectly that not even a blade of grass can slip between them.

This architectural feat has withstood centuries of earthquakes, a testament to the ingenuity of its creators. Each stone was carefully shaped and placed, showcasing the Inca's mastery of stonecutting techniques and their deep understanding of structural stability.

3.  Terraced Tapestry

The Incas ingeniously adapted to the steep terrain of the Andes by constructing agricultural terraces at Machu Picchu. These terraces not only prevented soil erosion but also created microclimates, allowing a variety of crops to thrive at different altitudes.

Carved into the mountainside with remarkable precision, these terraces showcase the Inca's advanced understanding of hydrology and agricultural practices, enabling sustainable farming in a challenging environment.

Imagine the backbreaking work it took to construct those steep terraces, all to grow crops like corn and potatoes. 

4. Location and altitude

Perched at a dizzying altitude of nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, Machu Picchu sits between two towering peaks - Machu Picchu Mountain (meaning "Old Peak") and Huayna Picchu ("New Peak").

The remote location in the midst of the cloud forest is part of what makes this ancient city so captivating, making it one of the most mind-blowing Machu Picchu facts. It's like a hidden world, untouched by time.

5. Significance in Inca history

Built in the 15th century at the height of the Inca Empire, Machu Picchu served as a royal estate and religious sanctuary for Inca emperors and nobles.

Its isolation high in the mountains helped it survive intact, escaping destruction by the Spanish conquistadors during their conquest of the Inca Empire in the 1500s.

To think, an entire city remained hidden from the outside world for centuries. The stories those stone walls could tell.

If these Machu Picchu facts haven't stirred your imagination enough yet, here you can find 16 photos that will inspire you to visit Peru.

6. Andean gardeners

Llamas, iconic residents of Machu Picchu, serve a practical purpose beyond their photogenic appeal. These camelid grazers help maintain the site by munching on grass and keeping vegetation in check, a tradition reminiscent of the Inca era.

Their gentle presence adds to the ambiance of the site, evoking images of the ancient Andean peoples who once called Machu Picchu home.

7. Enigmatic enclave

For one of the most iconic places in the world, it's surprising how much about Machu Picchu remains a mystery - including its exact purpose. Archaeologists and historians have debated this question for decades.

The most widely accepted theory is that Machu Picchu was a sacred site for the Inca. The number of temples and ritual spaces support this idea. It may have been a pilgrimage destination, where Inca nobles and religious leaders came to perform ceremonies and connect with the gods. Standing there amidst the temples and mountains, you can only imagine how spiritual the place must have felt.

8. Quarry of origin

The exact source of the massive stones used in Machu Picchu's construction remains yet another mystery. While some were quarried locally, others were transported from quarries located several kilometers away, a remarkable feat considering the rugged terrain and lack of modern transportation.

The logistics of moving these stones, some weighing several tons, across treacherous mountainous terrain baffle researchers to this day, underscoring the remarkable engineering prowess of the Inca civilization.

9. Astronomical significance

Another astonishing fact about Machu Picchu is its profound testament to the Incas' mastery of astronomy, showcasing their unparalleled understanding of celestial phenomena.

Structures like the Intihuatana stone are believed to have served as a sundial or calendar to mark the solstices and equinoxes. Windows and openings align with celestial events. The Inca's understanding of the heavens is literally built into the architecture of Machu Picchu.

10. Controversy over artifact ownership

In 1911, explorer Hiram Bingham stumbled upon Machu Picchu while searching for the legendary lost city of the Incas. Bingham, a professor at Yale University, was led to the site by a local farmer named Melchor Arteaga. Over the next few years, Bingham and his team conducted extensive excavations at Machu Picchu, uncovering the ruins and collecting hundreds of artifacts. 

The artifacts collected by Bingham's team became the subject of a long-running dispute between Peru and Yale University.

For nearly a century, the artifacts were housed at Yale's Peabody Museum. The Peruvian government argued that the artifacts had only been loaned to Yale for research and should be returned.

After years of negotiations, an agreement was finally reached in 2012. Yale returned most of the artifacts, while retaining a small number for ongoing research. The returned items are now displayed at the Machu Picchu Museum in Cusco.

11. UNESCO World Heritage Site designation

In 1983, Machu Picchu was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its outstanding cultural and natural significance. This designation has helped to ensure the protection and preservation of the site for future generations.

Today, it attracts millions of visitors annually, drawn not only by its ancient wonders but also by the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding Andes Mountains.

Ongoing archaeological research continues to uncover new insights into life at Machu Picchu and the Inca civilization as a whole. It's a testament to the enduring legacy of this remarkable site.

12. The effects of overtourism

As many others iconic places of the world, Machu Picchu grapples with the adverse effects of overtourism. The surge in visitor numbers, fueled by the site's global renown and accessibility, has strained its delicate ecosystem and cultural heritage.

Environmental degradation, erosion of historic structures, and overcrowding have become pressing concerns, threatening the very essence of this sacred sanctuary.

The Peruvian government has implemented regulations to manage tourism and minimize damage to the delicate ruins, limiting the number of visitors that can access the site each day.

As authorities seek sustainable solutions to manage tourism flow and preserve Machu Picchu's integrity, the imperative remains to strike a balance between conservation and accessibility, ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy the unique experience of this timeless marvel without compromising its legacy.

13. Best time to visit

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. The weather is generally sunny and mild, making for comfortable hiking and exploring.

June to August is the busiest time of year, so if you prefer smaller crowds, consider visiting in April, May, September, or October.

Just be sure to book your tickets well in advance through the official site, as entrance to Machu Picchu is limited to a certain number of visitors per day.

14. Getting there: trains and treks

Despite its remote location high in the Andes Mountains, getting to Machu Picchu is easier than you might think. Most visitors take a train from the city of Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.

The train ride itself is a stunning journey, winding through the cloud forest and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, it's just a short bus ride up to the ruins. For the more adventurous, hiking the Inca Trail is an unforgettable way to reach Machu Picchu. This multi-day trek follows ancient Inca paths through the mountains, passing lesser-known ruins along the way.

15. Exploring the ruins

Once you're there, give yourself plenty of time to explore the extensive ruins. Many Machu Picchu tours include a guided visit to the main structures, such as the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana stone. But there's so much more to discover.

Wander through the residential areas, marvel at the intricate stonework, and take in the stunning views from every angle. For an extra challenge, hike up to the Sun Gate or the peak of Huayna Picchu for a bird's-eye view of the citadel. No matter how you choose to experience Machu Picchu, it's sure to be a highlight of your trip to Peru.

The sense of history, the breathtaking natural beauty, and the sheer scale of the ruins make it a truly unforgettable destination and definitely one of the best experiences in the world for any traveler.

Immerse yourself in Peruvian culture

If you are seeking a deeper cultural immersion beyond the typical tourist trail in Peru, volunteering in Cusco offers a unique opportunity to engage with local communities and make a meaningful impact. As the gateway to Machu Picchu, Cusco pulsates with history, tradition, and vibrant culture.

Worldpackers offers a safe and reliable way to volunteer abroad by matching volunteers with hosts who provide accommodation and often meals in exchange for volunteer work.

By volunteering, you'll gain firsthand insights into Peruvian life, forge genuine connections with locals, get to know other like-minded travelers, and contribute to local initiatives. Oh, and as if all of these rewards weren't enough, you'll also be saving tons of money on your trip.

Need more inspiration? You can read the experience of a fellow traveler: "How I lived, traveled, and worked in Peru through a Worldpackers exchange".

These are some examples of work-exchange opportunities in Cusco:

• Assist with cleaning, general maintenance and reception in a family-run guesthouse. 
• Love to teach? Share your knowledge in a bilingual kindergarten.
• Help with gardening, animal care and other tasks in a rural "hacienda" surrounded by stunning mountains.
• Have the unforgettable experience of living in a popular hostel in Aguascalientes, right at the foot of Machu Picchu!

Check out all the volunteering opportunities in Cusco, Aguascalientes and other places in Peru.

Did you like these ideas? Subscribe to the Worldpackers Community for free and start saving your favorite volunteer positions until you are ready to get verified.