Machu Picchu, Peru
THE LOST CITY OF THE INCAS
No city in the world raises so much intrigue as does Machu Picchu. Carved high in the mountains above Cusco in Peru, Machu Picchu is the most famous of the abandoned cities of the Incas.
Rediscovered in 1911 Machu Picchu is thought to have been built as a retreat for royalty and religious leaders by Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui in the late 15th century.
Machu Picchu's approximately 200 houses were said to be largely populated by women, children and priests. Built by the Incas master architects the city molded into the local landscape with many of the natural features used as part of the city.
The masonry used to build the buildings is intricate. The stones were individually carved and joined together without mortar. So perfect are the joints that even a thin knife can not be inserted between them.
Altitude Sickness:
To ensure that you do not suffer the effects of altitude sickness it is recommended that you spend a day or two acclimatising at Cusco before ascending to Machu Picchu.
Should you feel the effects at any stage it is recommended that you descend to a lower level and slowly ascend the mountains. Those who decide to walk the Inca Trail should prepare by ensuring that they are in reasonable physical shape and have spent the minimum time acclimatising in Cusco.
It is always important to take it slowly. It is better to enjoy it then not at all.