Machu Picchu, home of the spirits: How to get there and what to do

Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century, and then later abandoned. — Photos: DAVID BOWDEN

Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most recognised and admired archaeological sites, and every tourist to Peru wants to visit and appreciate the important role it played in the mighty Inca civilisation that was centred on this prominent mountainous location.

American archaeologist Hiram Bingham “discovered” Machu Picchu in 1911, and the luxury train that now carries well-heeled tourists from Cusco (or Cuzco) to the Unesco World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu is named after him.