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Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is an ancient city located in Peru's mountains. This city is believed to have been built by the Inca people and was abandoned later. Machu Picchu is now a popular tourist destination and is known for its stunning views and architecture.

With its rich history and breathtaking scenery, it is no wonder that Machu Picchu is a bucket list destination for so many people. This guide will explore everything you need to know about Machu Picchu, from its history to how to get there and what to expect when you arrive.

So, whether you are planning a trip or just curious about this legendary city, read this article for all the essential information about Machu Picchu.

History of Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca fort located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru on a 2,430-metre (7,970 ft) mountain ridge. It is the most famous archaeological site in the world and is known as "The Lost City of the Incas".

The site was built by the Inca emperor Pachacuti in the mid-1400s and served as a royal estate and country retreat. It was abandoned less than 100 years later, following the Spanish Conquest of the Inca Empire in 1532. Until 1911, the fort remained largely unknown to the outside world, and American historian Hiram Bingham rediscovered it.

Since then, Machu Picchu has become an iconic symbol of Peru and South America's most popular tourist destinations. Every year, thousands of people make the trek to Machu Picchu, via the four-day Inca Trail hike or by taking a train from Cusco.

Whether you are an experienced hiker or a first-time visitor, Machu Picchu is a truly unforgettable experience.

Geography of Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, situated on a 2,430-meter (7,970 ft) high mountain ridge, is in the Cusco Region of Peru. It is located in the Urubamba Province, about 80 kilometers (50 miles) northwest of Cusco. Aguas Calientes is a major town near the city of Machu Picchu.

The site of Machu Picchu has its unique location and setting. The area is surrounded by steep cliffs and includes many mountains, rivers, and other natural features. Machu Picchu sits at the intersection of two rivers—the Urubamba River and the Vilcanota River—and is surrounded by several mountain peaks.

Machu Picchu has a tropical climate with two seasons: a wet season from October to April and a dry season from May to September. The average temperature at Machu Picchu is 15°C (59°F).

Machu Picchu was built using local materials, including stone from the nearby quarry at Pachacamac. The city also has mortarless stone walls—a technique known as ashlar masonry.

Machu Picchu was constructed with thatched roofs and polished dry-stone walls in the traditional Inca manner. The site includes many temples, palaces, plazas, other buildings, and terraced agricultural fields.

Machu Picchu was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and is Peru's most popular tourist destination.

What to see in Machu Picchu

The ancient city of Machu Picchu is located in the Andes Mountains and is surrounded by stunning scenery. The site was once home to the Inca civilization and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are several things to see in Machu Picchu, including the main Citadel, the Temple of the Sun, and the Inti Punku (the Gate of the Sun). Other highlights include the House of the Priestess, the Royal Tomb, and the Temple of Three Windows. Visitors can also explore some of the many hiking trails in the area.

Must do activities at Machu Picchu

There are many must-do activities at Machu Picchu, the most important of which is to explore the ancient Inca site itself. The other main activity is to hike the nearby Inca Trail, one of the most popular treks in the world. There are many different trails to choose from, depending on your fitness level and time frame, but all offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

If you are energetic, you can also hike up Huayna Picchu, the mountain over Machu Picchu. It is a tough climb, but the views from the top are incredible. Alternatively, you can take a leisurely stroll around some of the many ruins near Machu Picchu, such as the Temple of the Sun or the Palace of the Princesses.

Finally, no trip to Machu Picchu would be complete without a visit to the nearby town of Aguas Calientes. You can relax in one of the many hot springs or enjoy the local cuisine.

Visiting Machu Picchu

When it comes to visiting Machu Picchu, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. The dry season, which lasts from May to September, is the ideal time to go. There is less probability of rain at this time, and the weather is more consistent. Tickets tend to sell out quickly, so order them in advance.

As for getting to Machu Picchu, you have a few options. You can take a direct flight to Cusco, the closest airport, or take a bus from Lima. If you are coming from Lima, spend a few days in Cusco acclimatizing to the altitude before making the trek to Machu Picchu.

Once you arrive in Machu Picchu, there are different ways to explore the site. Either go on a guided tour or explore on your own. We recommend taking a guided tour as they will be able to give you all the history and background information on what you are seeing. There is so much to see and do at Machu Picchu that one day might not be enough.

Conclusion

One of the most well-liked tourist spots in Peru is Machu Picchu. The ancient city is a stunning example of Inca architecture, and its setting in the Andes Mountains is breathtaking. While planning a trip to Machu Picchu, check out this essential guide to help you make the most of your visit.


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Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations in North America. Every year, millions of people visit Niagara Falls to see the amazing sights and experience the natural wonders of this world-famous destination.

The History of Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls has been a tourist destination for centuries. The first person to visit Niagara Falls was Father Louis Hennepin, a French missionary, in 1678. He wrote about the beauty of the falls, which attracted other European explorers and settlers to the area.

In the early 19th century, Niagara Falls became a popular honeymoon destination for American couples. The popularity of the falls as a tourist destination grew throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Today Niagara Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year.

The Different Views of Niagara Falls

There are three different ways to view Niagara Falls: from the Canadian side, from the American side, and from above.

·        The Canadian side offers the best views of Niagara Falls. There are several observation decks, viewing areas, and a boardwalk that takes you right to the edge of the falls. You can also take a ride on the Maid of the Mist boat tour, which gets you up close and personal with the falls.

·        The American side offers different views of Niagara Falls than what you will see from the Canadian side. The most popular spot to view Niagara Falls on the American side is Goat Island, where you can walk out to the edge of Horseshoe Falls. Another great spot for views is Prospect Point Park, where you can get a bird’s eye view of all three waterfalls.

·        For something truly unique, take a trip aboard the Niagara Gorge Railway and enjoy panoramic views of Niagara Falls from above. It is a great way to see all three waterfalls at once and get an idea of how massive they are.

The Edge of the Niagara Falls

The edge of the falls is the best place to see the power of the water as it tumbles over the precipice. Several observation decks along the Niagara Gorge offer breathtaking views of the falls. The Rainbow Bridge, which spans the gorge just upstream from the falls, is a popular spot for picture-taking and boasts an up-close view of both the American and Horseshoe Falls.

Daredevils of Niagara Falls

Since the early days of Niagara Falls, people have been drawn to its raw power and beauty. Over the years, many have attempted to conquer the falls, often with tragic results. Here are some of the most famous (or infamous) daredevils who have taken on Niagara Falls:

·        Annie Edson Taylor was the first person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel. She did it on her 63rd birthday in 1901 to achieve fame and fortune. Thankfully, she survived the stunt and lived to tell the tale.

·        Bobby Leach was the second person to went over Niagara Falls in a barrel. He did it in 1911 and also survived. Later he performed other stunts, including walking across a tightrope stretched over the falls.

·        Charles Stephens attempted to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel in 1920 but died during the attempt. His body is still missing.

·        Red Hill Sr., along with his son Red Hill Jr., became the first (and only) father and son duet, who went over Niagara Falls together in a barrel. They did it in 1951, and both survived.

·        Nik Wallenda became the first person to walk across Niagara Falls on a tightrope in 2012. He completed the stunt, which was televised live around the world.

How to get to Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls are located on the border between the United States and Canada, so there are a few different ways to reach them depending on your location.

If you are coming from the United States, the easiest way to get to Niagara Falls is by car. Several highways lead right to the falls, and once you cross the border into Canada, signs will point you in the right direction.

If you are coming from Toronto or another Canadian city, you can take a bus or train to Niagara Falls.

Once you arrive in Niagara Falls, there are plenty of ways to get up close and personal with the falls.

·        You can walk along the edges of the waterfall.

·        You can ride an elevator to the top of one of the falls for an incredible view.

·        You can also take a boat tour that takes you right into the spray of the falls.

Travel Guide for Niagara Falls

While planning a trip to Niagara Falls, there are a few things to know before visiting. Here is a travel guide for sightseers that will help you make the most of your trip:

When to Visit: The best time to visit Niagara Falls is during the summer season when the weather is warm and sunny. However, keep in mind that June through August are also the busiest months at Niagara Falls, so expect large crowds. If you want to avoid the crowds, plan your trip for September or October when the weather is still pleasant.

What to See: There is more to see at Niagara Falls than just the falls themselves. Be sure to take a ride on the Maid of the Mist boat tour for an up-close look at the powerful falls, and do not forget to visit Goat Island for some fantastic views. For something truly unique, check out 'Journey Behind the Falls', where you can stand inside a cave behind the raging waters of Horseshoe Falls.

What to Do: Other than sightseeing, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at Niagara Falls. Take a walk along one of the many scenic trails, go whitewater rafting or tubing down the rapids, or take a helicopter.

Where to stay when visiting Niagara Falls

The first question you need to ask when trying to find accommodation in Niagara Falls is, how close to the Falls do you want to be?

If your priority is to walk out of your door and see the Falls, then you can stay in hotels like the Niagara Falls Marriott or the Sheraton on the Falls. Both of these come with a high price tag, so if you are looking for something more budget-friendly, there are plenty of other hotels located a little further away from the Falls. These hotels will still give you easy access to all the main attractions.

If you are hoping to do some wine touring, then it might be worth considering staying in Niagara-on-the-Lake. This quaint town, situated right in the middle of Ontario's wine country, offers visitors plenty of options for day trips and activities. There are also several good restaurants and cafes, as well as several bed and breakfasts if you are looking for a more intimate accommodation option.

No matter where you choose to stay, there is no doubt that Niagara Falls is an incredible destination that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Conclusion

Niagara Falls is one of the world's most famous natural wonders and a must-see for any traveler. With its three massive waterfalls, Niagara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world to be visited once in a lifetime. This travel guide will help you make the most of your visit to Niagara Falls, from where to stay and what to do, to how to best experience this natural wonder. So start planning your trip to Niagara Falls today.