15 Amazing Things Tourists Can Do at Machu Picchu in Peru

The breathtaking Incan citadel nestled high in the Andes Mountains, offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking adventure, history, and stunning landscapes. Machu Picchu is a wonder that continues to captivate visitors from around the world, and exploring its many facets will leave you in awe.

Here are 15 must-do activities when visiting this ancient marvel.

 1. Take in the Sunrise at Machu Picchu

Seeing the first rays of sunlight hit Machu Picchu is a magical experience. Machu Picchu is best seen in the early morning when the mist lifts, revealing the ruins bathed in golden light. Arriving early allows for a more peaceful experience before the crowds arrive. The dramatic play of light and shadow across the stone structures enhances the mystical aura of the site. A sunrise visit is truly one of the most breathtaking moments you can have in Peru.

2. Hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)

The Sun Gate offers one of the most rewarding hikes in Machu Picchu. The hike takes about an hour each way, making it accessible to most visitors. The panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys make the effort worthwhile. Standing at the Sun Gate, you can appreciate the grandeur of this ancient city as the Incas once did.

3. Climb Huayna Picchu for a Bird’s-Eye View

For the most iconic view of Machu Picchu, climbing Huayna Picchu is a must. Machu Picchu appears even more majestic from this towering peak, which rises dramatically behind the ruins. The steep, narrow trail is challenging but rewarding, with stunning views at every turn. Limited daily permits make this hike an exclusive adventure, adding to its appeal. Reaching the summit provides a once-in-a-lifetime perspective on the ancient citadel and its breathtaking surroundings.

4. Explore the Temple of the Sun

One of the most significant structures in Machu Picchu, the Temple of the Sun was a sacred site for the Incas. The curved walls and fine masonry showcase the architectural mastery of the Incas. As a place of astronomical observation, it played a key role in Incan rituals and calendar tracking. Visitors can marvel at its precision and spiritual importance.

5. Visit the Intihuatana Stone

The Intihuatana Stone is one of the most mysterious and fascinating elements of Machu Picchu. The stone’s placement aligns with the sun during the solstices, reinforcing its spiritual and ceremonial role. Many visitors report feeling a unique energy when they place their hands near it. This relic is a testament to the Incas’ advanced understanding of astronomy and their deep respect for nature.

6. Walk Through the Sacred Plaza

The Sacred Plaza is at the heart of Machu Picchu and features some of its most important buildings. Machu Picchu’s central gathering place includes the Principal Temple, the Temple of the Three Windows, and other finely crafted structures. The intricate stonework and precise construction techniques highlight the engineering skills of the Incas. Walking through the plaza, you can imagine the ceremonies and discussions that once took place here.

7. Admire the Agricultural Terraces

The agricultural terraces surrounding Machu Picchu are an engineering marvel. Machu Picchu was self-sustaining thanks to these terraces, which prevented erosion and supported crop cultivation. The stepped design allowed the Incas to grow potatoes, maize, and other essential crops in the challenging mountain environment. These terraces also showcase the Incas’ advanced irrigation techniques. Today, they serve as a stunning visual reminder of the ingenuity that allowed the city to thrive.

8. Discover the Royal Tomb

The Royal Tomb is an intriguing site that may have been the burial place of Incan nobility. Machu Picchu’s elite likely rested in this finely carved chamber beneath the Temple of the Sun. The tomb features a ceremonial niche and a staircase leading to the temple above, reinforcing its sacred status. Exploring this area provides insight into Incan burial traditions and beliefs about the afterlife.

9. Stroll Across the Main Plaza

The Main Plaza serves as a large open space in the middle of Machu Picchu. Today, it provides an excellent viewpoint to appreciate the layout of the city. The contrast between the grassy field and the surrounding stone structures adds to its beauty. This is a great spot to pause, take in the scenery, and reflect on the history of this incredible site.

10. Visit the Guardhouse for a Classic View

The Guardhouse offers one of the most photographed views of Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu’s famous postcard-perfect perspective can be captured from this elevated structure near the entrance. The Guardhouse was used by sentinels to monitor those entering and leaving the city. This spot provides a sweeping panorama of the ruins, framed by the lush green mountains. It’s an ideal place to take memorable pictures before exploring the rest of the site.

11. Hike to the Inca Bridge

The Inca Bridge is a fascinating yet lesser-known feature of Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu’s hidden trails include this precarious pathway, which served as a secret entrance for the Incas. Built along a steep cliffside, the bridge consists of a narrow trail with a section removed for security purposes. The short but thrilling hike to the bridge showcases the Incas’ strategic defense methods.

12. Experience the Temple of the Condor

The Temple of the Condor is one of the most unique sites within Machu Picchu. The temple’s design reflects the Incan belief in the sacredness of animals, particularly the condor, which represented the sky and the afterlife. The carved head of the bird is on the ground, while its wings form part of the rock formation above. This site offers a glimpse into the Incas’ deep spiritual connection with nature.

13. Spot Llamas Roaming the Site

Llamas are a delightful part of the Machu Picchu experience. Machu Picchu’s terraced slopes and open spaces are home to these friendly animals, which were important to the Incas for transport and wool. They add charm to the ruins as they graze peacefully and pose for pictures. Interacting with them provides a fun and authentic touch to your visit. Watching these gentle creatures wander among the ancient stones makes the site feel even more alive.

14. Take a Guided Tour to Uncover Hidden Details

A guided tour enhances your understanding of Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu’s rich history, hidden meanings, and architectural secrets are best uncovered with the help of a knowledgeable guide. They provide context to the ruins, explaining their significance and the Incan way of life. Guides also share lesser-known facts that might be missed when exploring alone. Investing in a tour ensures a deeper appreciation of this extraordinary place.

15. Capture the Beauty with Stunning Photos

Photographing Machu Picchu is an absolute must. Machu Picchu’s breathtaking landscapes, intricate ruins, and dramatic mountain backdrops make it one of the most photogenic places in the world. Early morning and late afternoon light create the best conditions for photography. Capturing the site from different angles allows you to relive the magic long after your visit. Every corner of this ancient wonder offers a picture-perfect moment.