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Machu Picchu

Shrouded by mist and surrounded by lush vegetation and steep escarpments, the sprawling Inca citadel of Machu Picchu lives up to every expectation. In a spectacular location, it’s the most famous archaeological site on the continent, a must for all visitors to Peru. Like the Mona Lisa or the pyramids, it has been seared into our collective consciousness, though nothing can diminish the thrill of being here. This awe-inspiring ancient city was never revealed to the Spanish colonizers and was virtually forgotten until the early part of the 20th century.

An ancient ruined city tucked into mountain peaks: Machu Picchu

Bérenger Zyla/500px

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12 Days in Peru: Roots of the Rainforest and Machu Picchu
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12 Days in Peru: Roots of the Rainforest and Machu Picchu

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12 Days in Peru: Roots of the Rainforest and Machu Picchu

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  1. 1 Watching the vibrant flutter of colorful macaws as they feast on the Amazon’s macaw clay lick
  2. 2 Seeing the Amazon rainforest — and hearing the life within — on a guided nocturnal tour
  3. 3 Uncovering the secrets of the Lost City of the Incas on a visit to Machu Picchu
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