to sign an agreement to update the carrying capacity study of Machu Picchu, Peru's iconic tourist attraction, a World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, which has been in effect since 2015.
This was reported by Mincul in a statement regarding Machu Picchu’s carrying capacity, in which it clarified that this capacity is dynamic.
The maximum number of visitors allowed at the llaqta of Machu Picchu is 4,500 per day during low season and 5,600 during high season, as established by Ministerial Resolution No. 404-2024-MC.
The high season at Machu Picchu begins on June 19 and ends on November 2.
Moreover, a visitor capacity of 5,600 is also permitted on the following dates: January 1, from April 17 to 20, and from December 30 to 31.
The government agency stated that any modifications to this carrying capacity are subject to technical studies conducted by the Ministry of Culture's competent units.
In this regard, it emphasized its coordination with Mincetur to sign an agreement to update the carrying capacity study of the Inca citadel, which has been in force since 2015.
Route Improvements
In the statement, the Ministry of Culture announced that, within its scope of responsibility, it proposes improvements to the routes, which require technical justification in the following areas: geological, topographic, biological, and engineering feasibility.
Additionally, a proposal on visitor planning and frequency, as well as an operation and maintenance plan for the modern structures that have been implemented, is required.
Unfeasible Projection
"Therefore, the projection of 27,000 visitors as the carrying capacity, mentioned in some media outlets, has no technical basis and is absolutely unfeasible," the ministry emphasized.
Finally, the Ministry of Culture affirmed that any approved technical proposals will continue to preserve the physical attributes and the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) for which Machu Picchu was inscribed as a World Heritage Site.