The Peruvian government is preparing a technical report to define the right Machu Picchu visitor capacity. And thus prevent the rapid erosion that the Inca citadel suffers as a result of the massive number of visitors it receives daily. The report would be ready by September 2026, according to statements by Culture Minister Alfredo Luna.
After a contract is awarded in the coming weeks, the technical report study will run for about 5–6 months. The current capacity was set in 2019 and allows 4,500 visitors per day in the low season and up to 5,600 in the high season. It has stayed in place so tourism activity is not interrupted. But this capacity is reaching its limit: Machu Picchu received about 1.6 million visitors in 2025. On peak days, entries reached 5,600 visitors. In low season, daily attendance dropped from around 4,500 to 3,000.
In addition, the minister noted that about 20% of the citadel was refurbished over time (due to the visitors erosion) and needs reinforcement, another reason smart visitor management matters.
What the report is expected to cover
- A new recommended number of visitors (by season)
- Clear rules for how people move through the site (flow, timing, protection)
- Access points and entry management
- New visitor circuits and route design (there are currently three; the goal is to add more)
- Risk assessments like climate change and forest fires, plus wear from rain, fungi, and foot traffic.
New circuits for new Machu Picchu visitors in 2026
Officials also want the Machu Picchu circuits and tickets to match better to different travel styles. Some visitors come mainly for the archaeology; otherwise, others want nature and biodiversity. The sanctuary is bigger than the famous Inca citadel; it includes about 60 archaeological monuments, 80 mammal species, 400+ bird species, and over 3,000 plant species.
Once the report is delivered, authorities can update ticket availability, expand routes, and fine‑tune entry points. Therefore, if you’re planning for late 2026 or 2027, staying informed now can save you stress later.
- Book early for high-season dates and keep some flexibility
- Choose the circuit that fits your priorities (views, temples, nature)
- Build acclimatization time before your visit and pack light layers for fast-changing weather
- Follow the marked circuit and respect one-way circulation
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