09:11 | Cusco (Cusco region), Oct. 20.
Machu Picchu's long-awaited reopening to tourists is official. The exact date is November 1, as stated by the Machu Picchu Management Unit, the entity in charge of ensuring the sustainability and correct management of the archaeological and natural site in Cusco.
The information was confirmed by Culture Minister Alejandro Neyra on Saturday night, after the
launch of "Volver" (Return), a campaign to raise citizens' awareness about the reactivation of tourism in a gradual, responsible, and sustainable manner.
The culture sector's head reported that Machu Picchu will reopen to tourists on November 1 and confirmed that only 675 people a day would be allowed to visit the archaeological site, that is, 30% of its total capacity, as a preventive health measure to avoid the spread of COVID-19.
Widespread interest
The reopening of Machu Picchu aroused a widespread interest, and one example of this is the huge echo in international media as a result of the
visit of Japanese Jesse Katayama to the Inca citadel, who fulfilled his dream of being able to enter after nearly 7 months of mandatory quarantine decreed by the Government of Peru to prevent the spread of the pandemic.
The 26-year-old tourist had remained in Machu Picchu Town (Aguas Calientes) since March 14 as he was trapped by the lockdown and had to abide by other measures, including a ban in all tourist spots.
In return, the Municipality of Machu Picchu and the Decentralized Culture Directorate (DDC) of Cusco made the necessary arrangements so that "the last visitor to Machu Picchu" can make his dream come true.
His case was trending on social networks in such a way that users expressed appreciation and respect for his perseverance and asked authorities to help him fulfill his dream.
In this way, the Asian traveler became the first foreign tourist to visit Machu Picchu after the lifting of restrictions.
Inca Trail
In a statement, the Machu Picchu Management Unit said that both the Llaqta (Inca citadel) of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail Route 5 will reopen on November 1.
Visitors to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail Route 5 shall get a free-of-charge admission ticket on the
official website. It should be pointed out that only citizens and operators with a valid ticket will be allowed to enter.
(END) MAO/RMB
Publicado: 20/10/2020