Places to See Before You Die…Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail

Travel is one of the best ways to broaden your mind and create some amazing memories so we've decided to highlight some of the most memorable trips that you can take and give you all the information that you need to get there! This week, we've chosen Machu Picchu in Peru, which was recently named as one of the New Seven Wonders Of The World. If that isn't enough to convince you to book your ticket, here's a few more reasons. _____________________________ 1) Machu Picchu is 7,000 feet above sea level and nestled on a small hilltop between the Andean Mountain Range. The Incan built structure has been deemed the 'Lost Cities' and was only discovered in 1911. Some archaeologists estimate that approximately 1,200 people could have lived in the area, though many believe that it was most likely a retreat for Incan rulers. 2) This unique site is located in the Cuzco region of Peru and was built in the classical Inca style, with polished dry stone walls. Its three primary structures are the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of the Three Windows. 3) While it may seem as it is will be there forever, this ancient site is vulnerable and while natural phenomena like earthquakes and weather systems can play havoc with access, the site also suffers from the pressures of too many tourists. In addition, preservation of the area's cultural and archaeological heritage is an ongoing concern. 4) This really is one of the sites that has to be seen to be believed and as a result, it is extremely popular with tourists. The summer months tend to be the busiest but weather conditions are less than ideal from November to April so try October, November, April and May to get the most out of your trip. 5) There are a few ways to arrange your visit to Maccu Picchu, either independently, through a tour booked online in advance or by joining a tour group once you arrive in Cuzco. The independent route is more difficult as, while passes can be booked at machupicchu.gob.pe, there have been difficulties with this system and such bookings were halted temporarily in 2012 due to credit card fraud. The safest bet to make sure you get a guided tour on a specific day is to book ahead online but beware that you may be paying a premium for the privilege. Cheaper tours can be booked in the local region but there is a cap on the amount of visitors allowed on the trail each day so you may have to wait around for a while to get a space. 6) The easiest (and quickest) way to get there is to fly into the Peruvian capital of Lima, and Skyscanner.ie currently has flights with KLM via Amsterdam for approximately €900. From here, Star Peru offers direct flights to Cuzco for €150 or alternatively, drive or take a 21-hour bus journey to your destination.