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Machu Picchu: Conservation was key to selection as World's Leading Tourist Attraction

17:00 | Cusco (Cusco region), Nov. 26.

The conservation and preservation of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu were key to the World Heritage Site being chosen as the "World's Leading Tourist Attraction 2024" at the World Travel Awards —known as the Oscars of tourism. This achievement commits the specialized and technical staff to continue this work.

This was stated by Machu Picchu Archaeological Park Chief Cesar Medina, who emphasized that being chosen for the sixth time is satisfying and encourages his team to continue safeguarding the site.

"Those who visit the llaqta realize that our heritage is well-preserved and retains its originality," he underscored.

The park spans more than 37,000 hectares, with the Inca citadel listed as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, along with its guardians, Machu and Huayna Picchu.

According to the official, this brings the Culture Directorate staff together to preserve it in the face of the massive tourist influx.

"We are going to make greater efforts to preserve the llaqta, control the (visitor) capacity, and improve the conditions for visits," he said, referring to the 5,600 daily visits the citadel receives during high season. This will be much more visible by the end of this year.

The four circuits that have been implemented to decentralize visits to the llaqta may undergo some modifications, at least in Circuit One, which would expand visits to the Inti Punku and Puente Inca sector "so that they (visitors) have greater satisfaction and it (the experience) becomes more attractive."

As Medina explained, between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., a massive influx of visitors can be seen, as the fortunate ones arrive at the mountains surrounding Machu Picchu.

According to a ministerial resolution, the visitor capacity is currently limited to around 4,500 visitors per day, but this issue is still under study and evaluation.

Rains

In the face of the start of rainy season, which has been in intense for the past two weeks, he mentioned that the cultural entity staff is conducting maintenance on floors with geoblocks, drains, roof covering renewal, and regular work.

Ashes in Machu Picchu

Regarding the public complaint against a travel agency that apparently encouraged the scattering of human ashes at one end of the Inca citadel, Medina said that investigations and notifications are being carried out to identify those responsible. He added that this calls for better vigilance.

Lastly, he mentioned that regulations do not prohibit this act. Nonetheless, visitors are encouraged to observe good manners when touring the llaqta.