Surrounded by a lush cloud forest, the splendor of Machu Picchu extends far beyond its stone walls and terraces. Countless species of plants and animals, some vulnerable or in danger of extinction, are at home in the region, making Machu Picchu a leading destination for nature enthusiasts.
More than 2800 plant species have been identified within the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, a haven of biodiversity filled with exotic tree ferns, epiphytes, bromeliads and more than 400 varieties of orchids.
The historic citadel is a magnet for birdwatchers, with hundreds of bird species having been sighted. Among the fascinating birds found at Machu Picchu are the fabulous Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) and the Andean cock-of-the-rock (Rupícola peruviana), considered the national Peruvian bird; along with a stunning array of colorful hummingbirds, such as the sparkling violetear (Colibri coruscans).
The spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus), endemic to South America and considered a vulnerable species, is perhaps the most important mammal of the Sanctuary. Other significant species include the puma (Felis concolor), the taruca (Mazama chunyii), the Andean deer, and a several species of monkeys, such as the Lagothrix sp., which is also in danger of extinction.
This abundant natural beauty is surrounded by majestic snow peaked mountains, such as the Salkantay (6,271 m.a.s.l.) to the south, and La Verónica (5,750 m.a.s.l.) to the northeast, while the waters of the Vilcanota, the sacred Inca river, flow through the mystical terrain of the Historic Machu Picchu Sanctuary
