Hiram Bingham travel tips

Jul 3, 2024 • 11 min read

If you're wondering when's the best time of year to visit Machu Picchu, what to pack and how to get there, the answer depends on whether you plan to hike up or take the train, and whether you'd prefer to visit in the busiest season when the weather's better but the site is more crowded.

Peru's famous Machu Picchu is an iconic destination in South America. Dubbed «the lost city of the Incas,» the 15th-century citadel was discovered in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham and was later designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. The ruins only allow a maximum of 3,800 visitors per day, but that's slated to change in the new year.

LVMH luxury travel company Belmond is expanding its presence on the rails from Scotland to Singapore and South America with more lavish accommodations, top chefs and new itineraries ahead of rival Accor’s launch of a competing product in 2024. The moves are designed to take advantage of well-heeled travelers' desires for unique experiences, according to Belmond executives speaking to the media during the International Luxury Travel Mart.

For many, the charm of slow travel is more appealing than the convenience of flights. The experience of interacting with fellow travelers and soaking in the surreal sights of snow-dusted mountaintops, glacial lakes, paddy fields, and imposing viaducts remains unmatched. From catching the northern lights from the comfort of your carriage to watching zebras trotting through green pastures, these train journeys are for those who wish to savor the world while crossing items off their bucket lists.

The travel experts at Bounce analyzed the world’s landmarks on a variety of factors including annual visitor numbers, entry prices, TripAdvisor ratings, and Instagram posts, to reveal the world’s most loved landmarks.  

Peru's Sacred Valley has long lured intrepid travellers with tales of god-like emperors, human sacrifice and gargantuan feats of masonry. The Incas left such an indomitable mark on this part of Peru, it’s hard to believe the Empire lasted for less than a century, from 1438 to 1533. But traces of the ancient civilisation are felt everywhere, from the citadels of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, to the isolated, sky-high fortress of Machu Picchu. Countless visitors traverse the region on hiking tours, but for a journey that truly befits the grandeur and ambition of the Incas, explore the Sacred Valley by train. Here are three of the top sights along the way.

Machu Picchu is a must-see destination for any traveler. Located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru, this 15th-century Inca citadel stands roughly 8,000 feet above sea level and is surrounded by lush vegetation and steep escarpments. It’s an extraordinarily beautiful setting that has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Visiting Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories. From its stunning natural beauty to its mysterious archaeological wonders, there’s something for everyone at this incredible site. These Airbnbs near Machu Picchu will help you grasp the historical importance of this sacred site.