What’s in a name?

      Plenty, when it is a name like Machu Picchu. High up in the Andes Mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu is the lost city of the Incas. Shrouded in the mist of the mountains, Machu Picchu and its origins and demise lay hidden from the eyes of Western civilization for centuries. But when this magnificent city was rediscovered, the genius of its builders was acknowledged and the vast and complicated artistry of the city was labeled as “One of the seven wonders of the world.”

      Today Machu Picchu is one of the prime historic attractions of South America. But the name lives on in North America, too. Specifically in New Orleans,  Louisiana.

      We are regularly asked, “Why the name Machu Picchu?” Because the owner of  Machu Picchu Travel Service Inc. – Angel R. Hurtado – is originally Peruvian. After coming to the United States, he attained degrees in business and later a Master in Business Administration. So his is an All-American success story – both North and South American! He chose the company name to have something to remind him of his home country-and his beginnings. (Incidentally, the correct pronunciation is “Ahn-hell Urh-tah-doh”, but “Angel” works fine.)

      The company opened its doors-and put the first vehicle on the road-in 1980, as Machu Picchu Tours. So millennium year 2000 is our 20! We’re ready for both.

      Starting as a sightseeing company operating with passenger vans, a sedan, and a limousine. That was the introduction to the tourist, transportation and hospitality business in New Orleans.