{"id":19925,"date":"2019-02-26T14:52:53","date_gmt":"2019-02-26T13:52:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tourradar.com\/days-to-come\/?p=19925"},"modified":"2019-04-11T13:02:50","modified_gmt":"2019-04-11T12:02:50","slug":"machu-picchu-vs-chichen-itza","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tourradar.com\/days-to-come\/machu-picchu-vs-chichen-itza\/","title":{"rendered":"Machu Picchu vs. Chichen Itza: How to Decide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The world is filled with many enthralling historical sites, but few are as impressive \u2013 or as grand \u2013 like Machu Picchu in Peru<\/a>, and Chichen Itza in Mexico<\/a>. At a glance, both archaeological sites might seem to offer a similar experience. However, they are both vastly different. Machu Picchu is easily one<\/g> the most famed archaeological ruins in the world. Chichen Itza, on the other hand, is a complex is known for its historical significance, impressive pyramids, and ornate stone carvings, but is often less jam-packed than Machu Picchu. Here, we compare the magnificent Machu Picchu vs. Chichen Itza to help you decide where you should venture next.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Hopefully you see Machu Picchu with blue skies| \u00a9 Willian Justen de Vasconcellos\/Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Machu Picchu vs. Chichen Itza<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong><\/td>Peru<\/td>Mexico <\/td><\/tr>
Area<\/strong><\/td>325.9 km\u00b2<\/td>10  km\u00b2<\/td><\/tr>
Cultures<\/strong><\/td>Incan Civilisation <\/td>Maya Civilisation<\/td><\/tr>
Coordinates <\/strong><\/td>13\u00b009\u203248\u2033S 72\u00b032\u203244\u2033W<\/td>20\u00b040\u203259\u2033N 88\u00b034\u20327\u2033W<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>\n\n\n\n

Why you need to visit Machu Picchu<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

We\u2019re not here to tell you what to do. However, we will tell you that making the journey to visit Machu Picchu<\/a> is arguably one of the most rewarding experiences. If you haven\u2019t already squeezed it onto your bucket list, well, you probably should. The 15th-century Inca Citadel is located 2430 metres above sea level up in the Andes Mountains<\/a>. However, the grand city was actually abandoned only 100 years after the construction. Back in 1983, Machu Picchu was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Surrounded by vibrant forests as far as the eye can see, during your exploration you\u2019ll be met with well-preserved temples and plenty of detailed structures to marvel at. An eerie mist can often be found hovering above the ruins, which only adds to the mystery of this spectacular site.
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When to visit Machu Picchu<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The good news for travellers is that Machu Picchu is open year-round, so you won\u2019t miss out on visiting this wonderous site. For travellers wanting to trek the Inca Trail to reach Machu Picchu, keep in mind there are limited permits, and the trail is closed annually in February for maintenance and preservation of the route. On the other hand, if you plan to arrive by train or taxi (skipping the hiking option), there\u2019s no need to worry about weather conditions.
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In an ideal world, it would be best to visit in the drier months of June through August,  known as the peak season. Visitors should be aware that this time of the year \u2013 while offering favourable weather conditions \u2013 means there will be crowds, and accommodation prices will be far higher.
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Charge your phone or camera before your visit | \u00a9 Tom Cleary\/Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

How to get to Machu Picchu <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To start the memorable adventure of visiting Machu Picchu, you\u2019ll need to get to Cusco \u2013 which can be found at a staggering altitude of 3399 metres<\/g>. For travellers<\/g>, trekkers, and adventure enthusiasts that are unfamiliar with high altitudes, Cusco is the best place to help the body adjust, which in turn helps to reduce the impacts of altitude sickness. Whatever you do, make sure you do not rush your time in Cusco, as there is much to eat, do, and to see.
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Once you\u2019ve arrived in Cusco, you will still need to make it to the gateway town of Aguas Calientes, located just a short journey away. From Aguas Calientes, you have a few options. You can either pay for a bus up to Machu Picchu, or you can take the physically demanding option of the steps which will take over an hour. The step-alternative is a challenging experience, but of course, the views of Machu Picchu are beyond worth it, and you\u2019ll forget you ever broke a sweat.
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What to do in Peru<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s completely understandable that Machu Picchu may have initially piqued your interest, but there\u2019s more than meets the eye in Peru!
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