Final answer:
Historically, there was mainly one route to Machu Picchu, known as the Inca Trail. Nowadays, visitors can also take a train to Aguas Calientes and then a bus, or opt for alternative hiking routes, resulting in multiple principal ways to arrive at the photo-taking area of the site.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question relates to how many principal ways there are to arrive at the area where people take the classic view photos of Machu Picchu. Hiram Bingham, an American historian, has significantly contributed to unveiling Machu Picchu, and his discovery showcases the remarkable architecture and building techniques of the Inca, including their exquisite stone shaping and fitting that creates the foundation of this historical site.
Considering the pathways to this ancient site, historically, there has primarily been one main route known to outsiders, which is the Inca Trail. However, considering modern tourism and accessibility options, visitors can now also arrive at Machu Picchu via train to Aguas Calientes followed by a bus ride up to the ruins, or through additional hiking routes like the Salkantay Trek, making a total of multiple principal ways to reach the famous photo area of Machu Picchu today.