The Historic Sanctuary of Machupicchu observed its 44th anniversary on January 8 as a State-protected natural area, reaffirming its commitment to conserving the extraordinary and unique biodiversity thriving in the interwoven Andean and Amazonian ecosystems.
The sanctuary is also home to monumental Inca constructions of immense historical and cultural value, most notably the Machupicchu citadel, Peru’s flagship tourist attraction, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Historic Sanctuary of Machupicchu
Established on January 8, 1981, this sanctuary is located in Machupicchu district, Urubamba province, Cusco region. It spans an area of 32,302.58 hectares.
This internationally-renowned protected natural area is famed for its stunning Inca archaeological complexes, sites, as well as monuments of great historical and cultural value.
The sanctuary also boasts significant environmental value with forested areas, steep mountains, and snow-capped peaks.
It serves as an interaction zone between the Andean highlands and the Amazon basin, forming part of a narrow transition strip between these ecosystems. The terrain is characterized by its steep slopes and abrupt relief.
This region features unique geographic characteristics, ranging from snow-capped peaks exceeding 6,000 meters above sea level to the warm, humid Urubamba River valley below 2,000 meters.
The area’s sharp elevation gradient, combined with a complex wind system, creates microclimates that foster remarkable biological diversity.
The western section features tropical vegetation in the Acobamba River basin, part of the “cloud forest” ecosystem, representing the uppermost limit of tropical vegetation in this part of the Andes.
This cloud forest hosts a wide variety of flora and fauna species, making Machupicchu an unparalleled natural treasure.
Added to its natural splendor is the iconic Inca Citadel, entirely constructed in stone atop the Machupicchu mountain.
This monumental heritage site, exemplifying advanced Inca architectural and engineering knowledge, was declared a UNESCO Mixed World Heritage Site (both natural and cultural) in 1983 and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.
Archaeological Treasures
Beyond the citadel, the sanctuary features numerous world-renowned archaeological sites, including Inca Raq’ay, Intiwatana, Intipata, Choquesuysuy, Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, Phuyupatamarca, Sayacmarka, Runkurraq’ay, Wayllabamba, Torontoy, Waynaq’ente, Machuqente, Q’ente, Qoriwayrachiwa, Pulpituyoc, Patallacta, and Palccay.
These sites and monuments are linked to complex and amazing irrigation systems, agricultural terraces, and pathways, showcasing the advanced development of ancient Peruvian civilizations.
How to reach Machupicchu
The sanctuary is located 110 kilometers northwest of Cusco, approximately a four-hour journey combining bus and train travel to the Machupicchu Pueblo (Machupicchu Town) district. From there, visitors can cover the remaining 8.5 kilometers either on foot in about one hour or by bus in 20 minutes.
Tourism Activities
Nature and cultural tourism are the primary activities at Machupicchu. Trekking enthusiasts can explore the Inca Trail to fully appreciate the sanctuary’s remarkable natural and cultural wealth.