The ruins of Machu Picchu are well-preserved due to the intelligent construction of the stone buildings, the location sheltered from the weather, and the low number of visitors until their rediscovery in the early 20th century.
The temperate climate and the high altitude of Machu Picchu (about 2400 meters) play a crucial role in the preservation of the ruins. Up there, the air is drier, which limits the proliferation of plants and slows down natural erosion. Additionally, the area experiences few radical climate changes, no severe frosts, and no regular extreme weather events. This stable and cool climate has allowed the stones and structures to remain almost intact for hundreds of years, pretty impressive for a city perched in the mountains!
The Incas were specialists in stonework. They carved the blocks with such precision that they fit together perfectly, even without using mortar to hold them together. The result: the walls withstand earthquakes thanks to their slightly slanted shape and the perfect interlocking of the stones. These blocks were often enormous, some weighing several tons, but their precise arrangement allowed for an even distribution of weight. This exceptional craftsmanship has ensured that Machu Picchu remains in place today, almost intact after centuries.
Perched on a steep mountain at over 2400 meters above sea level, Machu Picchu is naturally difficult to reach. Surrounded by deep valleys, impressive canyons, and dense forests, the city remained long protected from invasions, looting, and even mass tourism. This natural isolation allowed the site to remain tranquil, largely undisturbed by humans for centuries. The result? The buildings, paths, and agricultural terraces have been able to remain almost intact. Even today, reaching Machu Picchu requires some effort, which continues to help protect its precious state of preservation.
The Inca builders had developed a highly efficient drainage system using stone channels that still function today. Thanks to this, the heavy rains typical of the region have never been able to infiltrate for too long, thus preventing erosion of the site. Specially designed agricultural terraces also allowed for perfect water management by slowing its flow. Additionally, they took into account the natural slope of the land, incorporating subtle inclinations in each structure to guide the water gently towards the outlets. This ingenious know-how greatly contributes to the exceptional preservation of Machu Picchu after so many centuries.
Today, Machu Picchu is constantly monitored to prevent damage caused by mass tourism. The number of visitors is limited each day in order to preserve the site. Regular checks allow for the quick identification of signs of deterioration. Teams of specialists carefully restore the walls and paths using materials identical or very similar to those originally used. And because natural erosion is also an issue, erosion control measures have been implemented: slope stabilization, rainwater management, and constant maintenance of the paths to avoid excessive impact on the ruins.
The stones of the constructions at Machu Picchu were cut and assembled without mortar; this exceptional precision in the assembly largely explains the excellent stability and preservation of the structures.
Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of about 2,430 meters, which is significantly lower than Cusco, the former capital of the Incas situated at 3,400 meters. This explains why the site is more easily accessible and comfortable for visitors.
Machu Picchu has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983 and was recognized as one of the seven new wonders of the world in 2007.
Archaeologists believe that Machu Picchu was a sacred city that also served as an imperial residence for Pachacutec, the Inca emperor.
Yes, Machu Picchu is open year-round. However, the weather conditions are optimal between May and October, which is the dry season when the climate makes visiting easier and offers better visibility of the site.
The main natural risks for Machu Picchu include landslides, heavy rains during the wet season, and occasional seismic events. Authorities implement various conservation measures to mitigate these risks.
Every year, Machu Picchu welcomes around 1.5 million tourists. To preserve the site, the Peruvian authorities have established a strict daily entry limit, currently set at about 2,500 visitors per day.
Several routes exist, but the two main ones are the hike via the Inca Trail or the train journey from the city of Cusco to the village of Aguas Calientes, followed by a short shuttle to the archaeological site.
Because Machu Picchu remained hidden due to its isolated and mountainous location. The Spaniards never discovered its existence during their conquest, which allowed for an exceptional preservation of the original architectural structures.
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