Machu Picchu elevation
The Machu Picchu elevation is a hair below 8000 feet or just over 2400 meters above sea level. The legendary ‘Lost City of Machu Picchu’ is without a doubt the most important and well known tourist attraction. It is located in Peru and is one of the world’s most impressive archaeological sites.
The Incan architects and builders
It is built by the Incas on the summit of “Machu Picchu” (Old Peak). The city is overlooking the deep canyon of the Urubamba river in a semi-tropical area. Located 75 miles (120 kilometers) from the city of Cusco.
It sits on a mountain site of extraordinary beauty, in the middle of a tropical mountain forest. Machu Picchu is probably the most amazing urban creation of the Inca Empire at its height. The city has giant walls, terraces and ramps. They appear as though they have been cut naturally in the continuous rock escarpments.
Location
The natural setting on the eastern slope of the Andes encompasses the upper Amazon basin. The region is well known for its rich diversity of species.
The whole archaeological complex covers approximately 5 square kilometers. It is situated in the high jungle. The local climate is semi-tropical, warm and humid.
Transportation to Machu Picchu
There are two routes leading to Machu Picchu:
By rail. The quickest and most comfortable way – following the meandering course of the Urubamba River.
On foot. Following the traditional and true route of entry, best known as the Inka Trail.
Stay duration
A minimum of one whole day is needed to visit these ruins and upon arrival there, one should have approximately 2 hours to go over the main part and have lunch at the hotel on your return, before taking the mini-bus anew down to the Puente Ruinas Station (2.30 pm).
The traveler who has more time to spare may stay overnight at the Machu Picchu Ruinas Hotel.
