If you are up for adventure, a long uphill climb, and the most unbelievable, mesmerizing view in the entire world, you must see the Machu Picchu ruins.  These ruins are surrounded by mystery.  As you scale the rock steps for hours, finally reaching the top of the mountain, you will wonder how this “Lost City of the Incas” was created.  Obviously, getting the massive rocks to build this city to the top seems an impossible task. 

Considered one of the most famous of all Inca architecture ruins, Machu Picchu is located about 70 miles from the city of Cuzco, which takes about three and one-half hours to reach by train.  Located one and one-half miles above sea level, these ruins are found in the rich jungle where it is estimated being built sometime around the mid-15^th century.  The architecture of Machu Picchu, built by the Inca Pachacutecs, was not discovered until 1911 at which time Hiram Bingham, and American explorer came up them during his travels. 

What you will discover when you reach Machu Picchu is that there is an almost invisible force of spirituality coupled with some of the most beautiful scenery on earth.  Interestingly, we have since learned that the only people who were allowed access to this city included priests, priestesses, noblemen, and chosen women known as Akllas.  This sanctuary is found on the eastern slop of Machu Picchu but in in two different areas.  The first is an agricultural area and the second urban. 

With the urban section of Machu Picchu, you would find many dwellings and canal systems along with temples, squares, royal houses, and mausoleums.  On the other part of the ruins is the agricultural aspect where the grass is so green that there are no words to describe the color.  The ruins show us several levels of architecture but the one thing that is consistent and perfect are the buildings used for religious purposes. 

Generally, all the roofs of the building were made from tree trunks, thatched with straw of ichu.  For the walls of the buildings, these are all designed to lean inward just a little to protect the structures from earthquakes.  As you look out over the peak of the Huayna Picchu, which is located on the other side of the ruins, you would see a breathtaking view.  This panoramic view stretches out over the Urubamba Valley, so beautiful you would envision Heaven looking the same. 

The climate at Machu Picchu is very tropical with average temperatures throughout the year between 55 and 60 degrees.  However, you will actually experience two very separate seasons.  The first season starts in November, running to March during which time there is significant rain, thus the incredible green vegetation.  The second runs from April to October, which is considered the dry season.  During this season, you would expect to see a little warmer temperatures but still very comfortable.  When visiting this part of the world, you certainly want to take the time to visit Machu Picchu, gaining an entirely different view of the world.