Displaying items by tag: Machu Picchu

Willka T'ika is much more than a hotel and retreat center. It is a truly magical place set in the sacred valley of Peru. The accommodations, living spaces and conference rooms are scattered throughout the property amidst incredible gardens. This place is truly a botanist’s dream. Each garden is completely unique with different plant species in a variety of colors. There are seven main gardens, each centered on a separate chakra: moon, sacred sun, sacred earth, sacred water, Lucuma, Spiral and sound. Many beautiful varieties of flowers that attract hummingbirds in great numbers.

Mountain Lodges of Peru’s Machu Picchu Lodge to Lodge trek is a high-end hiking experience unique in Peru that distinguishes itself from other companies in many ways. First and foremost are its gorgeous lodges with impressive architecture and stunning views. Until 2007, trekking in the Machu Picchu area involved camping out through freezing nights at high altitudes – most people hiking the Inca trail in the high season got so cold at night that by 2-3 am they’d be up and ready to start the next days hike. It makes an immeasurable difference to have a warm room, a hot shower, a comfortable bed and hygienically-prepared three course meals.

At the end of the 15th century, the secluded Inca citadel of Machu Picchu was a vibrant city still being carved into the Andean peaks flanking the Urubamba River canyon. Over 200 buildings already provided housing, temples and storage facilities for the city's 1,200 residents. Vast tracts of land had been terraced for farming. Within just 27 years, more than half of Machu Picchu’s Incan population became infected with small pox and died. The citadel fell into disuse, and, quickly enveloped in dense vegetation, became motionless, frozen in time.

Travelers, dreamers, adventure-seekers, nature lovers, even homebodies will all find inspiration in Michael Bright’s book, 1001 Natural Wonders You Must See Before You Die. With detailed descriptions of historical and cultural significance, geological and ecological statistics, this book is a useful reference even for experienced travelers.  Complete with stunning photography, this 950 page compendium shows places in the world most would never have known existed.  Not only does it bring the reader through a breathtaking journey around the world, but it serves as inspiration for travel and creates a thirst for the unknown.