Table of Content
The National Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, established in 1981, covers 32,592 hectares in the Urubamba province of the Cusco region. This unique protected area combines exceptional archaeological heritage with extraordinary biodiversity, being the only site in the world declared a Cultural and Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983.
History and archaeology
The lost citadel
Built around 1450 during the reign of the Inca Pachacútec, Machu Picchu served as a ceremonial center, astronomical observatory, and royal residence. The city was abandoned around 1532 with the arrival of the Spanish and remained hidden until its scientific rediscovery by Hiram Bingham on July 24, 1911.
Main sectors
The citadel is divided into three fundamental sectors: the Urban Sector, which includes the Temple of the Sun, the Royal Residence, and the Intihuatana; the Agricultural Sector with its terrace system that prevented erosion and maximized production; and the Religious Sector, where the Temple of the Three Windows and ceremonial spaces are located.
Exceptional biodiversity
Flora
The sanctuary protects over 3,000 plant species, featuring more than 400 species of orchids, including the famous Wiñay Wayna. The cloud forests are home to endemic species along with medicinal plants used ancestrally by local communities.
Fauna
Among the most representative mammals is the spectacled bear, the only South American bear, along with the puma and Andean deer. Birds include the cock of the rock, Peru’s national bird, the Andean condor, and over 300 registered species. The ecosystems range from high jungle at 1,800 meters to puna at 4,200 meters in altitude.
Practical information for visitors
Access and transport
Visitors can reach the site by train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, a journey that takes between 2 to 3 hours. There is also the option to hike, such as the Classic Inca Trail of 4 days or alternative routes. The final ascent from Aguas Calientes is done by bus, taking about 25 minutes.
Hours and tickets
The sanctuary has a maximum capacity that varies between 4,500 and 5,600 visitors daily depending on the season. Operating hours are from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with different time slots available. Reservations are mandatory and should be made in advance, especially during peak months when it is recommended to book at least six months ahead. There are 3 main circuits with 10 different sub-circuits to organize visits and preserve the archaeological heritage. Tickets can only be purchased through the official portal of the Ministry of Culture. During peak season (January, April, June-November, and December), capacity increases to 5,600 visitors, while the rest of the year it remains at 4,500 daily visitors.
Best times
The dry season from May to September offers stable weather and clear skies, while the wet season from October to April presents greener landscapes, fewer tourists, but frequent rain.
Additional mountains
Huayna Picchu
This mountain, standing at 2,693 meters, requires a 3 to 4-hour round trip hike with high difficulty. Access is limited to 400 people daily, but it offers complete panoramic views of the citadel.
Machu Picchu Mountain
At 3,082 meters high, this mountain allows access to 800 people daily. The hike takes between 4 to 5 hours round trip with moderate to high difficulty, providing a spectacular aerial view of the archaeological complex.
Discover the Magic of Machu Picchu: Tour Options
Essential tips
Preparation
Visitors should acclimatize in Cusco for 2 to 3 days and bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. Non-slip footwear is mandatory, and original identification documents are required for entry.
Sustainability
The conservation of the sanctuary depends on respecting marked trails, avoiding touching archaeological structures, and taking all waste back. It is recommended to hire certified local services to support the sustainable development of the communities.
The National Sanctuary of Machu Picchu represents the perfect harmony between ancient cultural heritage and natural conservation, offering a transformative experience that requires careful planning and absolute respect for this treasure of humanity.
