A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Machu Picchu
Learn the proper pronunciation of Machu Picchu, the famous Inca citadel in Peru.
machu picchu
MAH-choo PEE-choo
/ˈmɑtʃu ˈpitʃu/ · ma · chu · pi · chu
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
Machu Picchu is frequently mentioned in travel guides, documentaries about ancient civilizations, and news reports related to Peru or historical sites. You'll hear it when discussing South American tourism or the Inca Empire.
Where the word comes from
The name Machu Picchu comes from the Quechua language, meaning 'old peak' or 'old mountain'. 'Machu' means old, and 'Picchu' means mountain.
Common ways people get it wrong
- MAH-shee PEE-chee The 'ch' sound in Quechua, like in Spanish, is a 'ch' as in 'church', not a 'sh' sound.
- MAY-choo PEE-choo The first syllable is pronounced with an 'ah' sound, like in 'father', not a long 'ay' sound.
Frequently asked
Is it Machu Pichu or Machu Picchu?
The correct spelling is Machu Picchu. Both parts of the name have two syllables and end with the 'oo' sound.
What does Machu Picchu mean?
Machu Picchu is a Quechua phrase that translates to 'old peak' or 'old mountain'. It refers to the prominent mountain on which the ancient citadel sits.
How do you say it like a local?
The pronunciation is generally consistent across English speakers, with the emphasis on the first syllable of each word: MAH-choo PEE-choo. The 'ch' sound is like in 'church'.
How do Peruvians say Machu Picchu?
In Peru, Machu Picchu is typically pronounced with the emphasis on the second syllable of each word: ma-CHOO PEECK-choo.
What is the correct pronunciation of Machu Picchu in Spanish?
The Spanish pronunciation is very similar to the common English pronunciation: mah-choo peek-choo. The 'ch' sound is the same as in 'church'.
How to pronounce Machu Picchu in Quechua?
The original Quechua pronunciation is approximately 'matchu pikchu'. The sounds are quite similar to the Spanish pronunciation.
What is the difference between American and British pronunciation of Machu Picchu?
The main difference lies in the vowel sound of the second syllable in 'Picchu'. Americans tend to pronounce it closer to 'pik' while the British might use a sound closer to 'peech'.
