South America Cruises Including Machu Picchu

If you are planning to go on a South America cruise, why not include a visit to the quintessential symbol of South American cultures, the extraordinary Machu Picchu? This stop will give you extra time to immerse yourself in this exclusive wonder of the world.

Surrounded by towering, granite mountain peaks, the 15th century Inca city, Machu Picchu, is one of South America’s most spectacular landmarks. The preserved citadel of Peru’s last pre-Columbian civilisation sits nestled atop the Andean crests, a jumble of stone amongst a backdrop of emerald-green spikes. Wispy clouds roll across its peaks, reminding visitors of their soaring height above the ground.

Although Machu Picchu is still draped in mystery, many archaeologists believe the city was built for emperor Pachacuti. The mystical atmosphere is part of its charm however, making this sacred landmark all the more enchanting. The Sacred Plaza was once the political sector, flanked by the main temple and the Intihuatana, the religious sun dial carved into rock. It’s surrounded by crumbling terraces, where Inca crowds once gathered for the city’s celebrations and festivities.

The area around this ancient wonder is bursting with indigenous villages and stunning natural attractions. The Sacred Valley of the Incas, the heartland of the Inca Empire, conceals a scattering of crumbling hamlets, surrounded by valleys, gorges and maize fields. The archaeological sites of Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Chinchero can also be found close by.

Once the Inca capital, Cusco grew to become a thriving hub of the Spanish empire. Today, this gateway to Machu Picchu is a medley of Inca ruins and colonial architecture. Its heart is the Plaza de Armas, above which the Inca Sacsayhuaman fortress looms dramatically.

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