Machu Picchu is an iconic Inca site nestled high in the Andes mountains of Peru. Known worldwide for its impressive structures and deep cultural significance, it’s no wonder it captures the imagination of so many. But have you ever wondered about the name “Machu Picchu”? In the local Quechua language, it directly translates to ‘old peak’ or ‘old mountain .’As you learn more about this ancient city, you’ll discover that every corner has a story just waiting to be told.
Here are 11 things you probably didn’t know about Machu Picchu:
- Hidden in Plain Sight: Machu Picchu’s high location in the Andes mountains shielded it from prying eyes. Even during the relentless Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire, this majestic city remained undiscovered, untouched, and uninfluenced by foreign invaders.
- Ancient Eco Innovators: Machu Picchu showcases the Inca civilization’s foresight and understanding of the environment. While today, we emphasize the importance of sustainability and eco-friendly designs, the Incas were already ahead of the game. They implemented a sophisticated drainage system featuring over 100 drains throughout Machu Picchu. These weren’t just for managing rainwater; they played a crucial role in landslide prevention. This ancient approach protected their city and harmonized with the natural surroundings, providing us with a lesson in environmental stewardship from centuries past.
- Heads Up on High Altitude: Machu Picchu sits at a towering 7,970 feet (2,430 meters) above sea level. This impressive elevation is part of its charm, but it’s worth noting for travelers. Some may feel the effects of mild altitude sickness upon arrival. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit, spending time in Cusco first is a good idea. This allows your body to adjust to the higher altitude before you make your way to the iconic ancient city.
- Nature Everywhere: Machu Picchu isn’t just about ancient stones and historic tales. It’s also an exciting location for nature lovers. The Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife, with over 400 bird species flying through its skies and several unique orchid varieties that add splashes of color to its landscape. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature enthusiast, this site is a feast for both the eyes and soul.
- Llamas Everywhere!: One of the highlights of Machu Picchu isn’t just the ruins themselves but the Andean llamas that roam around them. These gentle creatures freely wander the ancient pathways and terraces, adding a unique aspect to the stunning landscape. Snapping a photo of one of these friendly, furry locals is a great way to spice up your social feed and make some fantastic memories at the same time.
- Sunlit Secrets: At Machu Picchu, there’s a site that captures the morning’s first rays of sun in a special way: the Temple of the Three Windows. With its three trapezoidal openings designed to greet the sunrise, this temple pays homage to the Inca’s deep reverence for Inti, their Sun God. It is a testament to how the ancient people of Machu Picchu beautifully intertwined architecture with nature and spirituality.
- Book in Advance: To ensure Machu Picchu remains as pristine as the day it was discovered, there’s a cap on daily visitors. This ensures everyone gets the chance for a unique experience while preserving the site’s magic. If Machu Picchu is on your bucket list, booking your tickets ahead of time is wise, particularly during the busy tourist months. Secure your spot and get ready for a journey of a lifetime!
- Sacred Geography: Machu Picchu’s position in the Andes wasn’t chosen by chance. It aligned with important astronomical events and acted as a celestial calendar for the Incas. The nearby sacred mountains further underscore the site’s significance. So, as you visit, know that every step you take is on land deeply connected to both the skies and revered peaks around it.
- Strength Over Wheels: While the Incas showcased remarkable engineering know-how, they never used the wheel for construction. To build the vast city of Machu Picchu, they relied heavily on human strength, combined with ropes and ramps, to transport massive stones. This showcases their incredible skill and determination to accomplish such monumental tasks without what many consider a basic tool.
- Built to Last: The structures of Machu Picchu were created using an impressive construction method known as “ashlar .”By cutting stones to fit seamlessly together without the need for mortar, the Incas ensured their buildings could stand strong against earthquakes. This technique is a key reason why many of these ancient structures remain intact to this day despite the region’s active seismic activity.
- Self-Sustainable: Machu Picchu isn’t just an architectural marvel; it was also thoughtfully planned for sustainability. The terraced fields that dot the landscape weren’t merely ornamental. They played a crucial role in enabling the city to produce its own food. These terraces were cleverly designed and ensured optimal crop yield, providing ample food for those living there.
Get Ready For Your Machu Picchu Adventure!
Machu Picchu is more than ancient stones, breathtaking landscapes, and fuzzy llamas; it’s a trip through history, showcasing ancient Incan life and innovation. A visit to Machu Picchu gives visitors a unique opportunity to connect with a world that is far removed from our own.
Are you considering a trip? Let Explorify be your compass. Our expertise ensures that you not only witness all of the site’s wonders but also have the opportunity to grasp its true significance. The stories, the culture, the panoramic views are all waiting. Why would you let such a transformative experience be anything less than perfect? Choose Explorify for a journey that does justice to Machu Picchu’s grandeur. Dive deep into the past and book your adventure now!
