Starting January 1, 2024, the Inca citadel of Machupicchu —located in Urubamba province (Cusco region)— will receive 5,600 tourists per day, on very specific dates, considering the conservation, prevention, and other actions that the Peruvian State has been implementing, under the commitments assumed regarding the preservation and sustainability of this marvelous Sanctuary.
It was confirmed by a statement from the Ministries of Culture, Foreign Trade-Tourism, and Environment, after the meeting of the Machupicchu Management Unit (UGM) Steering Committee held on November 30.
Thus, the technical proposal by the Ministry of Culture was unanimously approved, which establishes a dynamic capacity at the Historic Sanctuary of Machupicchu, that is, flexible, considering the advances in conservation and preservation that the Ministries of Culture and Environment, through the National Service for Natural Areas Protected by the State (Sernanp), have been undertaking since 2015 —the year in which the last capacity study was received.
Furthermore, this agreement considers the purpose of improving and optimizing the flow of tourists.
Moreover, the statement underscores that the capacity of 4,500 daily visits was approved.
The document also points out that Sernanp presented the Site Plan for the Inca Trail Network, which was unanimously approved, for the benefit of the thousands of domestic and foreign tourists who visit this natural space.
“The proper conservation of the Historic Sanctuary of Machupicchu is a priority for Peru, providing, in turn, the opportunity to boost sustainable and responsible tourism that generates sustained economic development and better management in the provision of cultural and tourist services,” the statement reads.
Lastly, the document underlines that the Ministry of Culture had submitted this proposal, after months of participatory work, in which representatives of UGM entities and civil society have taken part.