Peru suspends Inca Trail access to Machu Picchu due to heavy rains

Heavy rains in southern Peru have forced the temporary closure of the historic Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu. Landslides and flooding have damaged several key sectors along the trail, including Llulluchapampa, Ayapata, and Wiñaywayna, according to the Decentralized Directorate of Culture (DDC) of Cusco. The Ministry of Culture announced the suspension of visitor access on Tuesday, citing the damage and the forecast of an "Isolated Depression at High Levels" (DANA) impacting the region. The DDC Cusco has ordered the return of visitors who entered the trail on Tuesday and halted new entries. "The surveillance and conservation staff of the Inca Trail Network are constantly monitoring these sectors to promptly identify any risk situation and take the necessary measures," stated Francisco Huarcaya, head of Conservation for the Inca Trail Network. Authorities are evaluating alternative routes for visitor return, specifically through kilometer 104 (Chachabamba) and kilometer 106 (Choquesuysuy). These routes are subject to ongoing assessment of weather and safety conditions, with a decision expected by Saturday, August 22. If adverse weather continues, the ministry indicated that procedures for rescheduling visits or refunding entry fees would be initiated. The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism assured that the Tourist Protection Network is coordinating with relevant institutions to ensure traveler safety and advised visitors and tour operators to stay informed through the I-Perú service and follow official instructions. This closure comes amid ongoing concerns about visitor management at Machu Picchu. A recent audit by Peru's Comptroller General's Office revealed that the citadel experienced an overload of 91,836 people between 2024 and 2025 due to uncounted entries, with daily visitor numbers exceeding permitted capacity on certain dates. Regulations implemented in recent years limit daily visitors to 4,500 in low season and 5,600 in high season.

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The surveillance and conservation staff of the Inca Trail Network are constantly monitoring these sectors to promptly identify any risk situation and take the necessary measures.