Machu Picchu, the architectural jewel of the Inca Empire, has not only captivated millions of tourists from around the world but also attracted the attention of the international film industry. Its location among the mountains, its history shrouded in mystery, and its breathtaking beauty have made it a perfect setting for cinema.
Over the decades, various productions have chosen this iconic Peruvian site not only for its visual appeal but also for the cultural and spiritual symbolism it embodies. From classic films to contemporary blockbusters, Machu Picchu Peru has served as the backdrop for memorable scenes that have showcased its majesty to millions of viewers around the globe.
In this tour, we will explore how this ancient sanctuary has left its mark on the big screen, reviewing the films that have been shot on location and analyzing the impact these productions have had on both cinema and the tourism industry in Peru.
About Machu Picchu
Located high in the Andes, at more than 2,400 meters above sea level, Machupicchu is one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. Built in the 15th century during the height of the Inca Empire and rediscovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911, this citadel is an impressive testament to Andean engineering, architecture, and culture.
Declared a World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983, Machu Picchu stands out for both its historical value and its natural setting. One can’t help but be amazed by the sheer precision used to form its temples, terraces, stairways, and stone enclosures. This mysterious place combined with its remote location and the energy it emanates, has long fascinated explorers, researchers, travelers and even filmmakers.
Machu Picchu is not only a symbol of Peruvian identity but also a source of global inspiration. It’s no surprise, then, that cinema—always in search of powerful and authentic settings—has found in this marvel the perfect place to tell stories that transcend borders.
Machu Picchu on the Big Screen
Over the years, Machu Picchu has sparked the interest of filmmakers and producers from around the world. Its appearance, natural surroundings, and symbolic value as a legacy of the Incas make this citadel an ideal setting.
However, filming in the Inca citadel is no simple task. As a protected archaeological site and a World Heritage Site, Peruvian authorities maintain strict regulations on commercial and audiovisual activities taking place there. This means that only a very small number of films have been officially authorized to shoot within the sanctuary, making each production a special and carefully supervised event.
Furthermore, each appearance of the citadel on the big screen has helped project Peru’s image globally, contributing to tourism, cultural pride, and international curiosity about this iconic corner of the Andes. In the next section, we’ll explore which films have captured the essence of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, reviewing their stories, contexts, and the way they portrayed this unique setting.
Movies Filmed in Machu Picchu
Below is a selection of films that managed to include scenes shot at the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu, providing not only striking imagery but also international visibility to this historic sanctuary.
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The Secret of the IncasThis classic adventure film tells the story of Harry Steele, a treasure hunter who arrives in Peru in search of a legendary Inca artifact. The plot unfolds between Lima and Cusco, culminating in scenes filmed at Machu Picchu itself, which served as the main location for the story’s climax. It was the first Hollywood production to use Machu Picchu as a setting, sparking international tourist interest in the site. Furthermore, the main character’s look and wardrobe are believed to have influenced the creation of the iconic Indiana Jones. Fact Sheet |
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The Motorcycle DiariesBased on the youthful diaries of Ernesto “Che” Guevara, this film chronicles the journey he undertook through South America with his friend Alberto Granado. During their stay in Peru, they visit Machu Picchu—a scene that represents a key moment in the protagonist’s ideological transformation as he contemplates the grandeur of indigenous cultures in the face of social injustice. Fact Sheet |
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Endhiran (The Robot)This Indian science fiction blockbuster tells the story of a human-like android who develops emotions and falls in love with a young woman. In one of the most memorable musical scenes, the protagonists dance among the ruins of Machu Picchu, creating a striking visual impact that helped promote Indian tourism to Peru. Fact Sheet
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Dora and the Lost City of GoldInspired by the popular animated series Dora the Explorer, this family film follows Dora on an adventure through the jungle in search of a lost city. Although the story doesn’t directly mention Machu Picchu, several scenes were filmed in and around the citadel, serving as the backdrop for the fictional Parapata. Fact Sheet |
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Transformers: Rise of the BeastsThe seventh installment of the Transformers saga, this film blends futuristic Autobot action with cultural settings in Peru. Machu Picchu is a pivotal location where part of the plot unfolds, connecting Earth with an interstellar threat. The film stands out for its depiction of realistic Andean landscapes, enhanced by cutting-edge effects. Fact Sheet |
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Paddington in PeruIn this new installment of the beloved Paddington Bear, the character returns to Peru to visit his Aunt Lucy at the home for retired bears. During his journey, he travels across part of the country, including a magical visit to Machu Picchu, where emotional and humorous moments unfold. The film seeks to combine family entertainment with promoting Peruvian culture. Fact Sheet |