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Machupicchu Butterfly House
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The Machu Picchu Butterfly House (Mariposario de Machupicchu) is a beautiful and educational sanctuary located near the town of Aguas Calientes, at the foot of the famous ruins. This center is dedicated to the study and conservation of the incredible variety of butterflies found in the Machu Picchu historical sanctuary, one of the most biodiverse areas in Peru. Visitors can walk through a lush, enclosed garden filled with hundreds of colorful butterflies fluttering among native plants. The center also features a nursery where you can see the different stages of the butterfly life cycle, from tiny eggs to caterpillars and spectacular chrysalises. It is a peaceful spot to learn about the delicate balance of the cloud forest ecosystem and the importance of protecting even its smallest inhabitants.
- Location: Peru
- Top sights: Ruin stairs · Llamanden · Pacaymayo
- Nearby: Urubamba (47 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 |
| Rain mm | 133 | 131 | 100 | 41 | 12 | 5 | 12 | 10 | 22 | 60 | 73 | 135 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Visitors walk through enclosed mesh habitats filled with lush tropical vegetation where numerous local butterfly species fly freely. The facility also features educational exhibits displaying the entire metamorphosis cycle from egg to adult.
Typical hours
The sanctuary usually operates from mid-morning until the late afternoon hours, providing ample time for a daytime visit. The flying activity of the butterflies tends to be highest during the sunniest and warmest parts of the day.
Photography
Brightly colored clothing, especially reds and yellows, may attract the butterflies to land on you, creating magical close-up photo opportunities. A macro lens on your camera or phone is highly recommended for capturing intricate wing patterns.
Time needed
Most guests spend roughly forty-five minutes to an hour exploring the flight area and reading the informational displays. Families with curious children might easily extend their visit slightly longer to watch the emerging pupae.
Combine with
Located in the valley, this attraction is a wonderful prelude or a relaxing follow-up to exploring the grand ruins up on the mountain. It sits close to the Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum, which provides further historical context.
Getting there
The facility is situated just outside the main settlement of Aguas Calientes, easily reachable by a flat, scenic walk along the dirt road following the river. Taxis and local transit vehicles passing by can also drop you right at the entrance.
Insider tip
Guided explanations by the passionate local staff are often included with the modest admission fee and significantly enhance the learning experience. Wear insect repellent before arriving, as the riverside location can sometimes harbor mosquitoes.
Geography
Facts
- Located a short walk from Aguas Calientes on the way to the Machu Picchu ruins.
- Home to more than 30 different species of butterflies native to the local cloud forest.
- Features the spectacular 'Morpho' butterfly, known for its bright iridescent blue wings.
- The center conducts a successful breeding and release program to support local populations.
- Includes educational exhibits on the role of butterflies as pollinators in the Amazon.
- The historical sanctuary of Machu Picchu is home to over 300 species of butterflies in total.
- A private conservation initiative that also supports environmental awareness for tourists.
- The site is surrounded by native vegetation that serves as a natural habitat for wild butterflies.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Machupicchu Butterfly House (11)
Mandor (recepción)📍 landmark
This reception area serves as the forested entrance to the lush Mandor Botanical Gardens and its hidden waterfalls.
🌐 mandor.pe🕒 Mo-Su 07:00-18:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is the butterfly house?
It is located near Aguas Calientes, at the foot of Machu Picchu.
What is the best time of day to visit?
In the morning the butterflies are most active as it gets warmer.
Are you allowed to touch the butterflies?
No, please keep your distance so as not to damage the delicate wings.
Is the butterfly house suitable for families?
It is a very beautiful and educational experience for children and adults alike.
Are there guided tours in the house?
Usually you get brief explanations about the life cycle of the species at the entrance.
Machupicchu Butterfly House: where is it located?
Machupicchu Butterfly House is located in Peru.
Machupicchu Butterfly House: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ruin stairs, Llamanden, Pacaymayo.
Machupicchu Butterfly House: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Machupicchu Butterfly House: why is it worth visiting?
The Machu Picchu Butterfly House (Mariposario de Machupicchu) is a beautiful and educational sanctuary located near the town of Aguas Calientes, at the foot of the famous ruins.
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Machu Picchu
The famous Inca citadel high in the Andes, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a wonder of the world.
Ollantaytambo
One of the best-preserved Inca towns with an impressive fortress, located in the Sacred Valley.
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An Inca archaeological site consisting of deep, circular terraces dug into the earth.
Choquequirao
An impressive Inca city in southern Peru, architecturally very similar to Machu Picchu, but much more isolated.
Sacsayhuamán
A massive Inca fortress near Cusco, known for its massive, seamlessly fitted stone blocks.
Cusco Cathedral
The magnificent main church on the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, built on the foundations of an ancient Inca palace.
Cristo Blanco
A large white statue of Jesus on Pukamoqo Hill, watching over the city of Cusco with open arms.
Coricancha
The most important sun temple of the Inca Empire in Cusco, upon whose ruins the Spanish built the Church of Santo Domingo.
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