Peru's Ministry of Culture Introduces New Visitor Circuits at Machu Picchu

Starting June 1, 2024, Peru's Ministry of Culture will implement three new circuits and ten routes at Machu Picchu, Cuzco, to manage the increasing number of visitors. This initiative aims to reduce congestion and enhance the overall visitor experience at the iconic archaeological site.

The new circuits are designed to offer visitors a more organized and enjoyable experience while preserving the integrity of Machu Picchu. The maximum number of daily visitors during the high season will be capped at 5,600.

Circuit 1 focuses on the upper section of the agricultural sector, featuring terraces and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Wayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, and Putucusi. Visitors can choose from options available during both the high and low seasons.

Why this matters: The implementation of new circuits and routes at Machu Picchu has significant implications for the preservation of this iconic cultural site and the management of tourism in Peru. This initiative may set a precedent for sustainable tourism practices in other culturally sensitive areas, and its success or failure could have far-reaching consequences for the environment and local communities.

Circuit 2 encompasses both the agricultural and urban sectors of Machu Picchu. This circuit includes landmarks like the Inca quarry, the Sun Temple lookout point, the Sacred Stone, Qolqas, and the Temple of the Condor. Similar to Circuit 1, there are options available for both high and low seasons.

Circuit 3 explores the lower section of Machu Picchu, including agricultural terraces and the urban sector. Notable attractions on this circuit include the Water Mirrors, Pisonay Square, the Temple of the Condor, and the Sacred Stone. This circuit also offers options for both high and low seasons.

Entrance tickets for Machu Picchu are issued based on personal data and are non-transferable and non-refundable. It is recommended to purchase tickets at least 45 days in advance since the number of visitors allowed is limited. Tickets can be bought online, and there is no sales point at the entrance to Machu Picchu.

Visitors purchasing tickets for specific entry slots are granted a tolerance period, allowing arrivals within the designated time frame. During the high season, the tolerance period is 45 minutes, while in the low season, it is 30 minutes.

In addition to the main circuits, visitors can explore the surrounding mountains of Machu Picchu with additional tickets. These mountains include Machu Picchu Mountain, Wayna Picchu Mountain, and Huchuy Picchu Mountain. The number of daily entrance tickets available online for these mountains is limited.

Wayna Picchu Mountain allows 400 daily visitors and takes around 45-60 minutes to ascend. Machu Picchu Mountain, with 800 daily tickets available, requires about 90 minutes to climb and demands good physical condition. Huchuy Picchu Mountain, with 200 tickets, is a shorter hike, taking around 15 minutes.

The implementation of these new circuits and routes at Machu Picchu reflects the Ministry of Culture's commitment to preserving the site while enhancing the visitor experience. High season is approaching, visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and secure their tickets early.

Key Takeaways

• New circuits and routes at Machu Picchu start June 1, 2024, to manage visitor flow.
• 3 circuits and 10 routes will be implemented to reduce congestion and enhance experience.
• Daily visitors capped at 5,600 during high season; tickets must be purchased in advance.
• 3 additional mountains (Machu Picchu, Wayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu) require separate tickets.
• Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable; plan ahead and secure tickets early.