Top 10 Best Things to Do in Machu Picchu
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Top 10 Best Things to Do in Machu Picchu

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  • Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchutop_1
    󰺂10
    Urubamba78m from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󰋄Sunrise & panoramic views spot
    󰋄Puerta del Sol: Perfect for Sunrise & Panoramic Views
    󱨠Saved by 155 users󱨠37% positive reviews
    4.7/5
    shanghaiboyushanghaiboyu

    Machu Picchu boasts 140 structures, including temples, sanctuaries, parks, and residences, as well as over 100 stairways, numerous fountains, and a comprehensive water system. Abandoned during the Spanish invasion and the fall of the Inca Empire in the 16th century, Machu Picchu was discovered by Yale University professor Hiram Bingham in 1911. The ruins consist of two main areas: an urban area and an agricultural area, separated by a stone wall. Beyond the wall lie terraced agricultural areas, divided into high and low terraces depending on the terrain. The urban area is divided into three zones: the sacred area, the area for priests and nobles, and the southern area for commoners.

  • Sacred Rock at Machu Picchutop_2
    󰺂5.5
    Urubamba204m from downtown
    Highlights:
    Steep Huayna Picchu overlooking Machu Picchu
    󱓊Symbolic stone of Inca village
    4.0/5
    DEAR张小球DEAR张小球

    If we simply evaluate the sacred stone, it is just a big stone. But in Machu Picchu, this stone is given a sacred name, and it is also a must-see when going to Machu Picchu, attracting people to stop and take pictures.

  • Temple of the Condortop_3
    󰺂5.1
    Urubamba146m from downtown
    Highlights:
    󰋄Giant Divine Eagle Natural Rock Sculpture
    󱨜Inca Astronomical Observatory Ruins
    4.1/5
    DEAR张小球DEAR张小球

    The Temple of the Condor and the main temple are also located on a high ground in Machu Picchu. The Temple of the Condor is named because there is a large stone similar to an eagle nearby, and this stone is obviously carved by ancient people.

  • Intihuatana, Urubamba
    4
    󰺂5.1
    Urubamba66m from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱨜Sun directly overhead & shadowless
    󱓊15th-century Incan sacred ruins
    4.2/5
    DEAR张小球DEAR张小球

    Shuanri Stone is a large stone located at a high place. The shape of this ancient stone is obviously artificially carved. It is very magical. Looking down from here is also a very spectacular view.

  • Temple of the Three Windows
    5
    󰺂4.9
    Urubamba63m from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱨜Symbol of the Inca Empire
    Masterpiece of seamless stone joining craftsmanship
    4.2/5
    chinadesk1chinadesk1

    The Temple of the Three Windows is one of the attractions in Machu Picchu. In ancient times, it was used to worship the sun god, and this place may have been a place for religious ceremonies. The huge stones are neatly stacked, as if they were strictly measured. Many places in Machu Picchu are hard to imagine and full of mystery.

  • Templo Principal
    6
    󰺂4.7
    Urubamba65m from downtown
    Highlights:
    Inca Sun God Altar
    󱨜Machu Picchu's highest sacrificial sanctuary
    4.9/5
    DEAR张小球DEAR张小球

    The main temple is one of the highest points of Machu Picchu. The building here is very grand. Looking down from above, the whole Machu Picchu brings people a panoramic view of the visual impact. It is very shocking and the angle is quite good.

Best things to do in Machu Picchu (2025)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Machu Picchu? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Machu Picchu offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Machu Picchu

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Machu Picchu experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu

• Urubamba | 78m from downtown

• : Sunrise & panoramic views spot,Puerta del Sol: Perfect for Sunrise & Panoramic Views

Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu

• Urubamba | 204m from downtown

• : Steep Huayna Picchu overlooking Machu Picchu,Symbolic stone of Inca village

Temple of the Condor

• Urubamba | 146m from downtown

• : Giant Divine Eagle Natural Rock Sculpture,Inca Astronomical Observatory Ruins

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Machu Picchu

If you want to explore attractions just outside Machu Picchu, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Machu Picchu, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Machu Picchu special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Machu Picchu

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Machu Picchu

Ready to explore the best of Machu Picchu? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What Best Things to Do are there in Machu Picchu?
These are all Best Things to Do in Machu Picchu:Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu, Temple of the Condor, Intihuatana, Urubamba, Temple of the Three Windows
What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Machu Picchu?
Some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Machu Picchu include:Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu:4.7, Temple of the Condor:4.1, Intihuatana, Urubamba:4.2, Temple of the Three Windows:4.2, Templo Principal:4.9
At what locations in Machu Picchu can Best Things to Do in Machu Picchu be found?
The Best Things to Do in Machu Picchu are mainly located in:Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu:Urubamba, Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu:Urubamba, Temple of the Condor:Urubamba, Intihuatana, Urubamba:Urubamba, Temple of the Three Windows:Urubamba
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