Machu Picchu is unarguably one of the most famous and popular sites in South America and an iconic site within the world of travel. In 2007, Machu Picchu was voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
But Machu Picchu’s popularity could also be a curse. The number of visitors to Machu Picchu each year has grown from the low 100,000s in the 1980s, to a peak of nearly 1.4 million tourists in 2014 – an approximate increase of 700%! This increased traffic is slowly “wearing away” the famed site.
To protect the archaeological site, there will be new admission rules for visiting the citadel. Ticket sales will be divided into a morning ticket (8:00AM to 12:00PM) and an afternoon ticket (12:00PM to 5:30PM). At this time, any change in cost a ticket has not been announced. There will of course be an option to buy both the morning and afternoon ticket, giving travelers a recommended full day in the ruins. Initially this change was to begin mid 2017, but after consultation with tour operators, locally and internationally, the date has been unofficially moved to January 2018.
The change is an attempt to manage crowding, easing the stress on the fragile ruins. It means a little more red tape, but with the greater good in mind, keeping Machu Picchu in great shape and accessible for future travellers. Authorities in Peru have been considering the change for some years, seeing it as both logical and ecofriendly.
Goway is able to assist with all things Machu Picchu and South America.