# What are the problems with tourism in Machu Picchu?

> Machu Picchu faces crowding, erosion of ruins and trails, waste in Aguas Calientes and landslides; Peru caps entries with timed tickets.

The main problems are too many visitors for a small, fragile site: foot traffic wears down stone steps, terraces and trails, crowds make the experience worse, and the gateway town of Aguas Calientes struggles with waste, water and fast unplanned growth. The site also sits on steep slopes prone to landslides in the rainy season, and protests or transport disputes have disrupted access at times. To manage this, Peru limits daily entries with timed tickets and fixed routes through the ruins.

## The main problems

- **Overcrowding:** thousands of people visit on peak days, mostly via a single rail line and one bus road, so bottlenecks are common.
- **Wear on the ruins:** walking, touching and climbing on walls erode stonework and terraces. This is why visitors now follow one-way circuits.
- **Trail erosion:** the classic Inca Trail and other routes see heavy use. The Inca Trail requires permits, usually sells out months ahead in high season, and closes each February for maintenance.
- **Waste and infrastructure:** Aguas Calientes grew quickly around tourism, and handling garbage, sewage and water for so many visitors is a long-standing challenge.
- **Natural hazards:** heavy rains (roughly November to March) bring landslides that can block the railway and roads; crowds increase the stakes.
- **Access disruptions:** political protests closed the site for a period in early 2023, and disputes over ticket sales or bus services have caused interruptions since.
- **Uneven benefits:** much of the money goes to rail, tour and hotel companies, while local communities carry many of the costs.

## How to visit responsibly

1. Buy official timed tickets well in advance and only from the government site or a licensed agency.
2. Visit in the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) and pick an early or late entry slot.
3. Stick to your assigned circuit, don't climb walls, and don't bring drones (prohibited).
4. Take your trash back with you; single-use plastics are restricted at the site.
5. Use licensed local guides and trekking agencies that pay porters fairly.
6. Check news for strikes or route closures just before you go.

## FAQ

**Why has Machu Picchu been closed to tourists?**
Short closures have happened because of political protests, landslides and maintenance. The Inca Trail closes every February.

**Is Machu Picchu closing permanently?**
No. There are no plans to close it; instead Peru adjusts daily caps, circuits and ticket rules. Check current rules before booking.

**How hard is Machu Picchu to visit?**
The citadel itself involves stairs and uneven paths at about 2,400 m (7,900 ft); Cusco, where most trips start, is higher, so allow time to acclimatize.

**Can older travelers or kids visit Machu Picchu?**
Yes. Many visitors in their 70s and 80s and families with children go by train and bus. Choose a shorter circuit and pace yourself.

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https://inyourtravel.com/what-are-the-problems-with-tourism-in-machu-picchu/ · In Your Travel · Checked 2026-10-31