Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu est une citadelle inca emblématique située dans la cordillère des Andes, au Pérou. C'est l'un des sites archéologiques les plus célèbres au monde et un site du patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO. Machu Picchu a été construit au XVe siècle et est resté caché au monde extérieur jusqu'à sa redécouverte en 1911. Le site présente des constructions complexes en pierre, des champs en terrasses et des vues majestueuses sur les montagnes. Les visiteurs peuvent explorer les ruines antiques, parcourir le célèbre Chemin de l'Inca ou prendre un train pittoresque pour atteindre le Machu Picchu. Le Machu Picchu est une destination incontournable pour les passionnés d'histoire, les amoureux de la nature et tous ceux qui souhaitent avoir un aperçu de l'ancienne civilisation inca.
Lieu et adresse
Machu Picchu is situated in the Andes Mountains, approximately 80 kilometers northwest of Cusco, in the Urubamba Province of southeastern Peru. The archaeological site is perched at an elevation of 2,430 meters above sea level, overlooking the Urubamba River valley.
Se rendre sur place
The most common route to Machu Picchu begins in Cusco. Visitors typically travel by train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), the nearest town, followed by a bus ride up the winding mountain road to the site. Alternatively, adventurous travelers may opt for the multi-day Inca Trail trek.
- By Train: PeruRail and Inca Rail operate services from Cusco (Poroy Station) or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours.
- By Bus: From Aguas Calientes, buses depart frequently for the 30-minute ascent to Machu Picchu's entrance.
- On Foot: The Inca Trail requires advance permits and takes 4-5 days, culminating in a sunrise arrival at Machu Picchu.
Heures d'ouverture et billets
Machu Picchu is open year-round, with slight variations in hours:
- General Hours: 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM).
- Morning Session: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM (requires a morning ticket).
- Afternoon Session: 12:00 PM to 5:30 PM (requires an afternoon ticket).
Tickets: Must be purchased in advance through the official website or authorized vendors. Prices vary for adults, students, and Peruvian nationals. Entry to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain requires separate permits.
Meilleur moment pour visiter
The dry season (May–October) offers clearer skies and more comfortable hiking conditions, though it is also the busiest period. Early mornings or late afternoons provide softer light for photography and fewer crowds. The wet season (November–April) brings lush greenery but occasional rain.
Durée de la visite
Most visitors spend 3-4 hours exploring the main ruins. Those hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain should allocate 5-6 hours.
Activités
- Guided tours of the archaeological site (available in multiple languages).
- Hiking to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for panoramic views.
- Climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (permits required).
- Exploring the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, and other Inca structures.
Installations
- Restrooms near the entrance (no facilities inside the ruins).
- A small café and gift shop at the entrance.
- Limited accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges due to steep terrain and uneven steps.
- No parking available; vehicles must remain in Aguas Calientes.
Ce qu'il faut apporter et porter
- Sturdy, comfortable shoes for walking on uneven stone paths.
- Layered clothing for changing weather conditions.
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for high-altitude sun exposure.
- Water and snacks (carry out all trash).
- Passport (required for entry and optional stamp at the site).
Règles et règlements
- No food or large backpacks allowed inside (small daypacks permitted).
- No drones, tripods, or professional photography equipment without prior authorization.
- Stay on marked paths; climbing on ruins is prohibited.
- Respect the site’s cultural significance—quiet behavior is appreciated.
Informations sur le contact
For official updates and ticket purchases, visit the Machu Picchu official website.