10 Must-Do Experiences in Machu Picchu, Peru – A Personal Journey

 Machu Picchu, yaar, is one of those places that’s always been on my bucket list. And when I finally got the chance to visit, it was like stepping into another world. The ancient ruins, the breathtaking views, the whole vibe of the place—it’s something you have to experience to really understand. Let me take you through the 10 best things to do in Machu Picchu, straight from my own journey there.

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1. Hike the Inca Trail

Before you even reach Machu Picchu, the journey begins. The Inca Trail is something else. It’s a four-day trek through the Andes, and while it’s tough, the views are absolutely worth it. I remember reaching the Sun Gate at sunrise—it was magical, yaar. You get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu from up there, and it’s something that stays with you.

2. Explore the Citadel

When you finally step into the citadel of Machu Picchu, it’s like stepping back in time. The stone structures, terraces, and temples are so well-preserved, it’s hard to believe they were built centuries ago. I spent hours just wandering around, imagining what life was like back then. The craftsmanship is incredible—every stone seems to be perfectly placed.

3. Climb Huayna Picchu

If you’re up for a challenge, climbing Huayna Picchu is a must. It’s the mountain that you see in the background of most Machu Picchu photos. The climb is steep and a bit nerve-wracking at times, but once you reach the top, the view is out of this world. You get a bird’s-eye view of the entire site, and it’s absolutely worth the effort.

4. Visit the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)

If you didn’t hike the Inca Trail but still want to experience the Sun Gate, you can do a short hike from Machu Picchu itself. The Sun Gate was the main entrance to Machu Picchu for the Incas, and standing there, you can see why. The view of the ruins with the mountains in the background is breathtaking. It’s a peaceful spot to take a break and soak in the surroundings.

5. Explore the Temple of the Sun

The Temple of the Sun is one of the most important structures in Machu Picchu. It’s believed to have been used for religious ceremonies, and the precision with which it was built is mind-blowing. The temple has this unique window that perfectly aligns with the sunrise during the solstices. Standing there, you can almost feel the spiritual energy that the Incas must have felt.

6. Walk Through the Sacred Plaza

The Sacred Plaza is where you’ll find some of the most impressive structures in Machu Picchu, including the Principal Temple and the House of the High Priest. The whole area has this serene, almost sacred feel to it. I remember just standing there, taking it all in, feeling a deep connection to the past.

7. Discover the Intihuatana Stone

The Intihuatana Stone is one of the mysteries of Machu Picchu. It’s a carved stone that the Incas used as a solar clock. The precision with which it was carved is incredible, and it’s believed to have been used for astronomical observations. I spent a good amount of time here, trying to imagine how the Incas used this stone to track the sun and the seasons.

8. Enjoy the View from the Guardhouse

The Guardhouse offers one of the best views of Machu Picchu. It’s where you can get that classic postcard shot of the entire site with Huayna Picchu in the background. I remember just sitting there, taking in the view, and feeling a sense of accomplishment for making it all the way there.

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9. Take a Moment at the Temple of the Condor

The Temple of the Condor is another fascinating spot in Machu Picchu. The temple is shaped like a condor, a bird that was sacred to the Incas. It’s a reminder of how connected the Incas were to nature and the world around them. I found this spot to be particularly peaceful, and it’s a great place to just sit and reflect.

10. Watch the Sunrise Over Machu Picchu

Finally, if there’s one thing you absolutely must do, it’s to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. There’s something magical about seeing the first rays of sunlight hit the ancient stones. I woke up early to catch the sunrise, and it was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen. It’s a moment that stays with you long after you’ve left.