Machu Picchu: The new routes to explore the sanctuary
Imagine a place where the sky seems to touch the mountain peaks, where the morning mist dissipates, revealing a sanctuary hidden in the heart of the Andes . This is Machu Picchu , an archaeological jewel that continues to fascinate travelers and explorers from around the world.
With its still unsolved mysteries and unparalleled beauty, Machu Picchu is not only an architectural marvel, but a journey into the past and into the spiritual realm .
Every stone in this architectural complex, also known as " the Lost City of the Incas," tells a story of power, astronomy, and ancient wisdom. Discovered by explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911, this site has since been an inexhaustible source of inspiration and admiration, and is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World .
The layout of Machu Picchu follows precise astronomical patterns, aligning with celestial events that were of paramount importance to the Incas. This aspect has added a layer of mysticism to its already rich history, making it a place where nature and spirituality intertwine, and which can be explored in a variety of ways .
The new routes to explore Machu Picchu
Recently, the Ministry of Culture of Peru presented exciting changes to the tours of the Inca city of Machu Picchu , with the aim of offering an unforgettable experience and ensuring the conservation of this World Heritage Site.
Since June 1st, at the height of the season, visitors to Machu Picchu have been able to enjoy three new circuits , each designed to offer unique perspectives and allow for the classic photograph with the Inca sanctuary in the background. These three new circuits comprise a total of 10 routes .
Circuit 1: Panoramic
- Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain: Known for its panoramic views, this route offers a breathtaking visual experience of the cultural landscape, surrounded by sacred mountains or apus. It also includes the best agricultural terraces and the mountain itself.
Circuit 2: Classic Machu Picchu
- Route 2-A: Includes a visit to the qolqas (storehouses), the terrace system, ceremonial and residential enclosures, terrace platforms, water channel, plazas, phaqcha (water fountains), and waka (sacred site). Visitors will also explore the agricultural sector, Llaqta Punku, Granitic Chaos, the Sacred Plaza (Main Temple and Temple of the Three Windows), the Sacred Rock, and the Hall of Mirrors.
- Route 2-B: Lower Terrace: In addition to covering part of the agricultural area, this route goes into the urban area of Machu Picchu, including the quarries, ceremonial and residential enclosures, the main square, the Sacred Rock and the water mirrors.
Circuit 3: Machu Picchu Royalty
- Route 3-B: Designed to showcase the most sacred sites and those occupied by Inca royalty, this route highlights the finest high-ranking architecture. It includes the qolqas (storehouses), the agricultural terrace system, ceremonial enclosures, and the Temple of the Condor.
- Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Mountain: An exciting and challenging experience with a 2.4 km trek to the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks and main Apus of the Cusco region.
- Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Mountain: A short walk that leads to a viewpoint elevated almost 100 meters high, providing a unique perspective.
Route equivalence
If you bought your ticket in advance, here's the equivalent of the new routes you can travel:
- Tickets for Circuit 1 or 2: Llaqta de Machu Picchu or Puente Inca: You can choose between routes 2-A, 2-B or 3-B.
- Tickets for Circuit 3: Llaqta de Machu Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain: You can choose between routes 1-A or 3-B.
- For Circuit 4: Llaqta de Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu: You can choose route 3-A. Llaqta of Machu Picchu and Huchuy Picchu: You can choose between routes 3-B or 3-D.
From June 1 to October 15, 2024, and on December 30 and 31, 2024, Machu Picchu will allow up to 5,600 visitors per day . The distribution will be 1,100 visitors for Circuit 1, 3,050 for Circuit 2, and 1,450 for Circuit 3.
The new routes offer a unique opportunity to rediscover this iconic site, ensuring its legacy endures for generations. Come and discover Machu Picchu!
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