Machu Picchu Altitude

by Marc
(France)

Located south of the equator by 13 degrees, Machu Picchu is in the southern hemisphere on Mount Machu Picchu’s crest which is roughly northwest of Cusco City by 80 kilometers. Machu Picchu is high above sea level by 2,450 meters giving it a milder climate when compared to Cusco, the Incan capital.

In terms of tourism, Machu Picchu is one of the most visited attractions due to its colourful history and is a major South American archaeological site as well.

The area where Machu Picchu lies is mainly wet all year round, although it experiences dry season at some point as well. However, most of its rains come down from October to April. Because of the Urubamba River, where Machu Picchu is located at its loop, river mists will rise to the town from the 450 meter vertical cliffs that lead down to it. Because of Mach Picchu’s fantastic location, it has always had a military advantage throughout history.

Machu Picchu can be reached by one of two bridges, and the tree trunk bridge alone connects a 20-foot cliff gap that has a height of 570 meters. It was heights like this that turned invaders away from even attacking Machu Picchu.