Machu Picchu
[NOTE: This page is constantly being updated so check back for new additions and corrections as things constantly change at Machu Picchu, too!]
As a permanent resident in Cusco, I’m lucky enough to go to Machu Picchu almost anytime I want. The only real issue is getting a seat on the local trail and finding a room at my favorite hospedaje during the busy season if I want to spend the night.
I honestly lost count quite awhile ago as to exactly how many times I’ve visited Machu Picchu since moving to Peru in June, 2019. I’ve been in the early morning for the very special Winter Solstice sunrise, late mornings, and late afternoons. (All of those times have their own special attractions depending on factors I’ll discuss later.)
“Something hidden. Go and find it. Go and look behind the Ranges—Something lost behind the Ranges. Lost and waiting for you. Go!”
Rudyard Kipling
So why do I keep going back? Like most people who have visited the site, it’s really hard to put into words. There’s something about the place that can literally make my job drop even now after dozens of visits.
I simply am not the kind of person who is attracted to popular places in the world — no matter what their significance. I prefer to get away from the crowds and explore new and relatively undiscovered places.
But Machu Picchu is completely different. There is simply SO much to learn about the site and so much that is simply unknown by anyone so far.
Before I get too carried away on this intro page, I’ll stop and ask you to check out each of these section to get more specific information about Machu Picchu (which I’ll be filling in the coming days).
Getting to Machu Picchu
Aguas Calientes – Gateway to Macchu Picchu
History of Machu Picchu
When to Go to Machu Picchu
Tips to Getting the Most from Your Visit to Machu Picchu
Other Cool Stuff About Machu Picchu
Resources
All of these resource links are NOT affiliate links. I don’t make any money from them so rest assured that the only reason they’re here is because I honestly recommend them.
The Machu Picchu Guidebook: A Self Guided Tour – Ruth M Wright and Dr. Alfredo Valencia Zegarra – this is hands down the best guidebook on Machu Picchu.
Turn Right at Machu Picchu: Rediscovering the Lost City One Step at a Time – Mark Adams – This is absolutely my favorite book about Cusco and Machu Picchu. I have both the book and the audiobook version which I’ve listened to countless times! In a marvelous mix of history and travelogue, Mark Adams will open up Machu Picchu to you in a an entertaining way that will be hard to stop reading once you start.