Safaris Bergsteigen Wandern Insewandern Weltweit

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Dirk Rauschenbach

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zurück Peru    Aguas Calientes   Sumaq Aguas Calientes Sumaq Machu Picchu  machupicchuhotels-sumaq.com Incafestung

Aquas Calientes nach MacchuPicchu	steinquader

Ollanta nach Aquas Calientes Schönste Zugfahrt der Welt von 2600 m auf 2000 m in den Dschungel	Cusco nach Aquas Calientes    Start Inkatrail   perurail2

Machu Picchu Huayna Picchu Phutuq K'usi  vista	Machu Picchu Santuario Historico Machu Picchu  teraces

Machu Picchu Inkaterra Macchu Picchu Pueblo  inkaterra	Wayna Picchu Intimachay  huayna

Machu Picchu  urubamba Fluss	Machu Picchu Urubamba

Machu Picchu   Train	Machu Picchu House of the guardian to the Funerary Rock  Trail

Machu Picchu	Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu	Machu Picchu Estación de Machu Picchu  Wanderung am Rio

Machu Picchu Stone  Machu Picchu Rocks	Machu Picchu  casa

Valle Sagrado – Aguas Calientes   Aguas Calientes   Sumaq Aguas Calientes Sumaq Machu Picchu  machupicchuhotels-sumaq.com Incafestung

1 Tag Valle Sagrado – Aguas Calientes  Pap
Früh am Morgen beginnt Ihre Zugfahrt nach Machu Picchu, "der verlorenen Stadt der Inkas". Vom Bahnhof in Aguas Calientes werden Sie abgeholt und zu Ihrem Hotel gebracht. Der Rest des Tages steht Ihnen zur freien Verfügung. Sie können den Ort erkunden oder die Thermen besuchen und entspannen. Am Nachmittag/frühen Abend wird Ihr Reiseleiter für Machu Picchu Sie im Hotel aufsuchen um alles Wichtige für den morgigen Ausflug zu besprechen. Inklusive: Fahrt mit dem Vistadome Zug. Große Panoramafenster, die von den Fotografen unter den Reisenden sehr geschätzt werden, guter Service und ein komfortabler Sitzabstand sind die Kennzeichen des Vistadomes, der zudem über einen Getränkeservice an Bord verfügt.

2 Tag Machu Picchu – Cusco
Am Morgen fahren Sie mit einem Bus 30 Minuten zu der wunderbaren Zitadelle hoch, wo Sie noch vor den Touristenscharen, die heute aus Cusco anreisen, ankommen. Während der geführten Tour durch die Zitadelle besichtigen Sie den Hauptplatz, den runden
Turm, die heilige Sonnenuhr, die königlichen Zimmer, den Tempel der drei Fenster und die Friedhöfe.

Inklusive: Besteigung des Huayna Picchu (2.700 m), der auf fast jedem Machu Picchu Bild zu sehen ist. Voraussetzung für die ca. 2-stündige Panorama-Wanderung, auf der Sie etwa 350 Höhenmeter überwinden, ist eine gute Kondition und Schwindelfreiheit, da es auf dem letzten Teil des Weges einige steile Stufen zu erklimmen gilt. Unterwegs und erst recht nach Ihrer Ankunft auf dem Gipfel werden Sie jedoch mit einem unvergleichlichen Ausblick auf Machu Picchu belohnt! Genießen das einzigartige Panorama der Inkaruinen inmitten andiner  Bergzüge.

Danach haben Sie Zeit zur freien Verfügung, um auf eigene Faust einen Spaziergang durch die Zitadelle zu unternehmen, bevor Sie sich am Nachmittag wieder nach Aguas Calientes zum Bahnhof begeben. Den ersten Teil der Strecke fahren Sie mit dem Zug, anschließend bringt Sie ein Transfer zu Ihrem Hotel in Cusco.

Tag 1 Vom Heiligen Tal nach Aguas Calientes  to
Am Morgen werden Sie zum Bahnhof gebracht. Mit dem Zug fahren Sie durch die schöne Landschaft nach Aguas Calientes bei Machu Picchu. Hier können Sie zum Beispiel in den Thermalquellen entspannen. Am Abend sucht Sie Ihr Guide (deutschsprachig) auf, um alles Wichtige für die Machu Picchu Besichtigung am nächsten Tag zu besprechen. (F)
Tag 2  Machu Picchu, geheimnisvolle Inka Stadt
Per Bus geht es dann in die Serpentinen hoch zur ‚verlorenen Stadt der Inkas‘. Erst um 1911 wurde die alte Inkastadt von dem Amerikaner inmitten des Urwaldes wiederentdeckt. Sie besichtigen mit Ihrem englischsprachigen Guide ausführlich die mystische Anlage und haben noch genügend Zeit für eigene Erkundungen. Nachmittags geht es zurück mit dem Zug bis  Ollantaytambo oder Poroy und einem Transfer nach Cuzco in Ihr Hotel.

Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic and breathtaking historical sites in the world. Located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, it’s an ancient Inca citadel that has captivated visitors for centuries due to its impressive architecture, stunning setting, and mysterious origins. Here’s everything you need to know about this fascinating archaeological wonder.

Overview of Machu Picchu:

• Location: Machu Picchu is situated at an altitude of about 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level, atop a ridge between the peaks of Machupicchu and Huayna Picchu mountains. The site is located in the Cusco Region of Peru, near the town of Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo).

• Meaning: The name "Machu Picchu" translates to "Old Peak" in Quechua, which refers to the mountain it sits on. While the exact purpose of the site is still debated, it is believed to have been a royal estate or a religious retreat for Inca rulers.

Historical Significance:

• Inca Civilization: Machu Picchu was built by the Inca Empire during the 15th century, likely under the rule of Pachacuti, one of the most famous Incan emperors. It remained largely unknown to the outside world until it was brought to international attention by Hiram Bingham, an American explorer, in 1911.

• Mystery of Purpose: The exact purpose of Machu Picchu remains a subject of debate among archaeologists. It is believed to have served as a religious sanctuary, a royal estate, or a fortress. The site features various temples, plazas, and agricultural terraces, which indicate its importance to the Inca civilization.

• Architectural Marvel: The site is renowned for its masterful stone construction, with perfectly fitted stones that require no mortar. The precision and ingenuity of the Incan engineers who designed and built the site are evident in the way the structures have withstood centuries of earthquakes and weathering.

Key Features of Machu Picchu:

1. Intihuatana Stone:

   • One of the most recognizable features of Machu Picchu is the Intihuatana, a large ritual stone that was likely used by the Incas as a solar clock or astronomical observatory. It is thought to have been used for agricultural and ceremonial purposes, particularly to track the movement of the sun.

2. Temple of the Sun:

   • This is one of the most important and well-preserved structures in Machu Picchu. The Temple of the Sun is a circular building with windows and doors aligned to the solar events, such as the winter solstice, indicating the Inca’s advanced understanding of astronomy.

3. The Inca Bridge:

   • The Inca Bridge is a remarkable feat of engineering. It is a narrow, wooden bridge built across a sheer cliff, leading into the mountainside. It was likely used as a defensive feature to prevent access to the site from the lower part of the mountain.

4. Agricultural Terraces:

   • Machu Picchu features a series of terraces built into the mountainside for agriculture. These terraces were used to grow crops such as potatoes, maize, and quinoa, providing food for the inhabitants of the citadel.

5. Main Plaza:

   • The Main Plaza is the central open area of Machu Picchu, where important ceremonies likely took place. It is flanked by several buildings, including temples and ceremonial structures, and offers an incredible view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

6. Huayna Picchu:

   • Huayna Picchu is the steep mountain that rises behind Machu Picchu. This peak is a popular hiking destination, offering spectacular views of the citadel below. Visitors can climb the Huayna Picchu Trail, which includes steep, narrow paths and dramatic cliffside views. Limited access to this trail is available, and it is highly recommended to book tickets in advance.

7. The Lost City:

   • Machu Picchu is often referred to as the "Lost City of the Incas" due to its rediscovery by Hiram Bingham in the early 20th century. It is thought that the site was abandoned after the Spanish conquest, which may be one reason why it was "lost" to history.

How to Get to Machu Picchu:

1. Train:

   • Most visitors reach Machu Picchu via Aguas Calientes, which is accessible by train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo. PeruRail and Inca Rail are the main train services that operate in this area. The scenic train ride offers stunning views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River.

2. Bus:

   • Once in Aguas Calientes, visitors take a bus (the journey takes about 25 minutes) to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The buses operate frequently and provide a comfortable ride up the winding road to the ruins.

3. Trekking:

   • For adventurous travelers, there are a few trekking options to reach Machu Picchu:
     • The Inca Trail: This is the most famous trek to Machu Picchu, which takes about 4 days to complete. The trail winds through stunning landscapes, ancient Inca ruins, and lush forests. It requires booking permits in advance, as access is limited.
     • The Salkantay Trek: A longer alternative, this trek is considered one of the most scenic, passing through rugged mountain terrain, cloud forests, and tropical valleys.
     • The Lares Trek: A less-visited trek that takes hikers through remote villages and Inca ruins, offering a more cultural experience.

4. Hiking Up from Aguas Calientes:

   • For those looking for a bit more of a challenge, it is possible to hike to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes. This involves a steep, 1.5-hour climb up a series of stone steps. However, this option is less common, as most people prefer the bus ride.

Best Time to Visit:

• Peak Season: The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season (April to October). The weather is more stable, with fewer chances of rain, making it ideal for sightseeing and hiking.

• Rainy Season: November to March is the rainy season, and while the site is still accessible, the trails and viewpoints may be slippery or foggy. Fewer tourists visit during this time, so it can offer a quieter experience.

Tickets:

• Tickets to Machu Picchu are sold in time slots to manage the number of visitors. Visitors can buy tickets online or at the official Machu Picchu ticket office in Cusco or Aguas Calientes. It’s highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• There are different ticket options available:

  • Classic Machu Picchu ticket (includes entry to the citadel).
  • Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets (additional tickets for hiking trails).

Tips for Visiting Machu Picchu:

• Arrive Early: The site gets crowded as the day goes on, so it’s a good idea to arrive early for the best experience. The first buses leave from Aguas Calientes at around 5:30 AM, and getting there early allows you to enjoy the site with fewer people around.
• Acclimatize to the Altitude: Although Machu Picchu itself is at a relatively moderate altitude, travelers should spend a few days in Cusco or Sacred Valley to acclimatize to the higher altitude before visiting.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The site involves a lot of walking, including stairs and uneven terrain, so comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential.
• Bring Water and Snacks: There are few places to buy food or water inside Machu Picchu, so it’s a good idea to bring your own water bottle and some light snacks.

Conclusion:

Machu Picchu is not only one of the most spectacular examples of ancient Incan engineering but also a must-visit for travelers interested in history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you're wandering through the ruins, hiking to the peaks, or simply soaking in the views, a visit to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience.

01.03.25 Copyright   Dirk  Rauschenbach Koelnerstrasse 293 51702 Bergneustadt  Datenschutzerklaerung   02261 9788972  Mail ccooly( at) web.de