The Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru announced today that the country has seen a significant 62.4% increase in international tourist arrivals in the first quarter of 2024, totaling 768,416 visitors.
This number marks an increase of 295,000 tourists compared to last year, according to data provided by Migraciones.
Chile tops the list of source countries with 218,307 visitors, followed by the United States with 124,478. Other nations making substantial contributions include Ecuador, Bolivia, Colombia, and Brazil, the latter of which saw an impressive increase of 130.9%. South America remains the most significant region, accounting for 56.4% of the total visitors (433,000 tourists), while North America and Europe contributed 21.1% and 15.2%, respectively.
Asian markets, particularly Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Japan, Thailand, and China, have also seen significant visitor increases. The Jorge Chávez International Airport was the main entry point, welcoming 446,000 tourists, closely followed by the border checkpoints at Santa Rosa de Tacna and CEBAF Tumbes.
This growth in tourist flow is a positive sign for the ongoing recovery of the tourism sector in Peru.
What should you do to visit Machu Picchu?
Visiting Machu Picchu, one of the world's new seven wonders, requires planning, especially because the site limits daily visitors to protect its heritage. Here are some steps to organize your visit:
- Purchase your ticket in advance through Peru's Ministry of Culture's official website or travel agencies.
- Choose your mode of arrival: You can take a train from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes or embark on a trek like the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek, both requiring prior reservation.
- Consider accommodation options in Aguas Calientes, Cusco, or the Sacred Valley.
- Ascend to Machu Picchu: Use the bus service from Aguas Calientes or hike the steep trail that takes about 1-2 hours.
- Consider hiring a guide to enhance your experience with historical and architectural details.
- Prepare for the weather: Bring suitable clothing and a rain poncho due to the humidity and frequent rain.
- Respect the site's rules to ensure a sustainable and respectful visit.
| At TreXperience, we plan your trip to guarantee you a memorable experience at Machu Picchu, so all you need to worry about is enjoying your journey.