Monday, September 22, 2014

Experience Machu Picchu Iguazu Falls Tours

By Karina Frost


Historical sites and majestic natural wonders often make the most amazing vacation destinations. South America has plenty of both to offer with many travel packages available which combine visits to multiple locations within a single trip for even more adventure. Many of those who have taken Machu Picchu Iguazu Falls tours have stated the experience was nothing short of magical.

Overlooking Peru's Urabamba Valley at almost eight thousand feet over sea level, is an ancient complex that once housed the mighty Inca. This fifteenth century city was unknown to all but the locals until 1911. It has since grown into a top tourist location and the most popular icon to represent a once powerful civilization and its strong, innovative people.

Since the early invaders from Spain had no knowledge of this site, it was left mostly intact and has since gained additional protection by being declared a significant piece of cultural history by both UNESCO and the Peruvian Historical Society. Reconstructive projects and preservation measures have been implemented on certain buildings to better demonstrate to visitors how the site might have looked in its heyday. Only a limited number of individuals are allowed in the complex annually to help protect its integrity.

The Temple of the Sun, The Inti Watana and The Room of the Three Windows are the primary structures of this complex. The city planners separated the other buildings based on whether they served urban, religious or agricultural needs. Everything is so well laid out to flow with the natural surroundings and get the most effective use of how the land flows, creating a stunningly seamless vista.

After soaking in all the beauty of this ancient city, the focus moves to the wonder that is situated at the joining of Argentina and Brazil. Set amid a canopy of lush jungle greenery lies what has been deemed one of the most dramatic scenes in all of South America. More than two hundred and fifty individual waterfalls of varied heights and widths make up one undeniably breathtaking sight.

In comparison to the impressive waterfalls of Niagara, these South American beauties are taller and more than double the width of their North American sisters. The majority of the cascades are located on the Argentine side which provides a spectacular view for those standing in Brazil. As the water from the cliffs comes crashing into that waiting in the river, a haunting mist rises high into the jungle canopy.

There are several ways in which one may enjoy, and fully experience the wonder of this natural phenomena. Visitors may take one of five well paved paths that allow for some incredibly awesome views. Trains run routes with stops at key viewing points but the most impressive option is to join a specialized boating excursion, several of which will actually take passengers under the cascading curtains of water.

An incredible South American vacation can be had beholding the majestic beauty of waterfalls and experiencing the history of ancient ruins. A trip through time and glimpse of the power of nature are a combination that will make a lasting impression. There is also the benefit of having the opportunity to take a cultural taste of Brazilian, Argentine and Peruvian ways of living.




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