MACHU PICCHU

Planted at 2,430 meters above sea level, it seems to be embedded in the landscape. On the eastern side rise the two great agricultural and urban zones of the city which, it is said, was the last refuge of the acllas (Acllahuasi), these virgins of the Sun charged to perpetuate the sacred rites. In the urban sector were concentrated the secular activities, with residential districts and drains, and sacred, with temples, mausoleums, royal houses. The architecture itself separates the two worlds: rather coarse for what concerns the life of the people, refined for the buildings of the nobility. By a large staircase, one reaches a watchtower which allows a plunging view on the site. Just below, a stone grouping joins the old Tumba Real (or Mausoleo) guarded by a tower (Templo del Sol or Torréon). Las Escalinatas de las Fuentes and a series of sixteen fountains where, it seems, ritual ablutions were performed. The complex adjoins the Residencia Real. From the flight of stairs to the north, we reach the Plaza Sagrada, which marks the entrance to the religious quarter. The central square is closed by several temples. It is here that the mysterious vibrations that emanate from this site are probably best felt. The Intihuatana at the top of a pyramid that clearly emerges from the site is the most famous place. It seems that it was used as solar calendar.

So much for the general view that we embrace with happiness from the Casa del Guardian, the most famous view of Machu Picchu (circuit 1 or terraces above circuit 2). Then what was the site used for? Who built it? How was it built? These are mysteries and historical controversies. Pachacuteq had a great role to play, but it is also thought that the site was prior to him. It would have served as a rest house and/or center of observation of the stars. Excavations and research continue.

Practical. You can always enter the site alone even if a guide is recommended. Count 20 US$ per person for a private visit (minimum 60 US$). At the entrance of the site itself, there are few French-speaking guides.

It is imperative to reserve your entrance to Machu Picchu in advance, a determined number of people is authorized on the archaeological site. With a classic Llaqta entrance, you can choose to take the circuit that you want: 1, 2, 3 or 4. We recommend 1 or 2, the longest ones that start with the panoramic view. The Huchuy Picchu, Wayna Picchu or Montaña Picchu hikes are to be booked separately and conditioned to a single circuit.