Machu Picchu

Shrouded by mist and surrounded by lush vegetation and steep escarpments, the sprawling Inca citadel of Machu Picchu lives up to every expectation. In a spectacular location, it’s the most famous archaeological site on the continent, a must for all visitors to Peru. Like the Mona Lisa or the pyramids, it has been seared into our collective consciousness, though nothing can diminish the thrill of being here. This awe-inspiring ancient city was never revealed to the Spanish colonizers and was virtually forgotten until the early part of the 20th century.

An ancient ruined city tucked into mountain peaks: Machu Picchu

Bérenger Zyla/500px

Book
Trip
12 Days in Peru: Roots of the Rainforest and Machu Picchu
12 days / 11 nights

12 Days in Peru: Roots of the Rainforest and Machu Picchu

App
Lonely Planet App on a phone
Brand New!

Get the Lonely Planet App

World Nomads travel insurance
Trusted Partner

Dreaming of Machu Picchu? Protect your trip

Travel with confidence. Protect your trip and your wallet.

We don’t represent World Nomads, we receive a fee from quotes using this link. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Book your Peru trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

See Peru how it's meant to be seen

Planned by local experts and tailored to you, Lonely Planet Journeys handles the logistics so you can just enjoy the trip. Tell us what you want and we'll build your Peru itinerary from scratch, or browse our bookable trips to get inspired.

Top places to visit in Machu Picchu

Discover the best attractions in Machu Picchu from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Machu Picchu

Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.