The authorities will use the closure of this iconic route to carry out essential maintenance and conservation work.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is 43 kilometers long and is considered one of the world’s best hiking and trekking routes.
The famous Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu will be closed to the public from February 1 to February 29, 2025. This annual closure, implemented by the Decentralized Directorate of Culture of Cusco (DDC) and the National Service of Natural Protected Areas (Sernanp), aims to facilitate conservation efforts, structural maintenance, and the natural recovery of the ecosystem impacted by tourism.
What Maintenance Work Will Be Done?
During this period, a team of approximately 30 specialized workers will perform various maintenance tasks, including:
- Vegetation Control: Cutting overgrown plants and removing roots that could compromise archaeological structures.
- Cleaning and Restoration: Maintaining walls, enclosures, terraces, water channels, and other infrastructure.
- Structural Consolidation: Strengthening paths, steps, and historical sites along the route.
- Bridge and Rail Maintenance: Repairing or replacing contemporary wooden elements such as bridges, railings, and handrails.
Several archaeological sites along the trail, including Salapuku, Qhanabamba, Qoriwayrachina, Willkaraqay, Patallaqta, Tunasmoqo, Pawkarkancha, Patawasi, Sayacmarca, Qonchamarca, Phuyupatamarca, Intipunku, Wiñaywayna, Chachabamba, and Choquesuysuy, will receive special preservation efforts to ensure their protection.
Archaeologist Guadalupe Quiroga Linares, head of the Machu Picchu National Archaeological Park, emphasized that the closure complies with the Regulations for the Sustainable Tourist Use of the Inca Trail Network. She also stressed that these maintenance efforts are crucial for preserving the archaeological heritage and ensuring the safety of future visitors.
Will Machu Picchu Remain Open?
Yes! While the Inca Trail will be closed in February, Machu Picchu itself will remain open. However, authorities have set a daily visitor limit of 5,600 during the 2025 peak season, covering high-demand dates such as:
- January 1
- April 17-20 (Easter)
- June 19 – November 2
- December 30-31
This measure is designed to regulate tourist flow and minimize environmental and structural impact on the archaeological site.
How to Visit Machu Picchu During the Closure?
Travelers who still wish to visit Machu Picchu in February can take alternative routes, such as:
- Train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, followed by a short bus ride to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
- Exploring other trekking options in the region, such as the Salkantay Trek or the Lares Trek.
Authorities strongly recommend that tourists and tour operators plan accordingly, stay informed via official channels, and respect all conservation measures. Protecting this UNESCO World Heritage site is a shared responsibility, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the wonder of Machu Picchu.