The Lost Incan City of Machu Picchu lay hidden in the jungles of Peru until less than a century ago. 

 Since its rediscovery by American archaeologist Hiram Bingham in 1911, Machu Picchu as become one of the most magical and mysterious travel destinations in the world.
Machu Picchu, located about 120 kilometers from Cuzco in Peru, is thought to have been an elite country resort for ancient Incans.  It was well hidden and protected by Incan checkpoints and was miraculously overlooked by Spanish conquistadors.  In fact, Machu Picchu was so well hidden that Bingham only happened upon it by chance, still well preserved after all these years.  The mystery and secrecy of the place make Machu Picchu one of the most popular pilgrimages in the world.
There are several options for getting in to Machu Picchu.  Visitors can take the PeruRail train from Cuzco or a bus from Machu Picchu pueblo Aguas Calientes.  However, one of the most awe-inspiring ways to enter Machu Picchu is on foot, via the world famous Inca Trail.  There are guided 2-day and 4-day hikes on the Inca Trail that end in Machu Picchu, entering the lost city through the Sun Gate.
Once inside Machu Picchu there is a lot to see.  Near the main city summit, visit the Temple of the Sun.  Notice the elegant and unique stonework on the temple’s stone walls and descend the ancient stone staircase in the main plaza to view the temple from the side.  Also stop to admire Intihuatana, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Main Temple, and the Condor.  Feel free to take a walk around the ruins on your own.  However, hiring a guided tour will allow you to experience Machu Picchu to the fullest, learning as much as you can about each landmark.
For beautiful views of the entire site you can take a short hike up Waynapicchu, the second hill next to Machu Picchu.  In addition to beautiful views of the lost city, Waynapicchu has a number of ruins atop its peak as well.
It is important to note that food and beverages are much more expensive in Machu Picchu.  Though your ticket will tell you that you cannot bring food or drink into the archeological site, you may want to bring a few snacks and a bottle of water to tide you over.