Peru: Cusco places parks, archaeological sites on maximum alert due to heavy rains

15:51 | Cusco (Cusco region), Jan. 14.

Security, conservation personnel, and multidisciplinary specialists remain on active watch for potential impacts on parks, zones, and archaeological sites —as well as possible tourist emergencies—across Peru's southeastern Cusco regiondue to intense rainfall, the Decentralized Directorate of Culture in Cusco (DDC Cusco) reported.

The alert has been issued as a preventive measure in response to the imminent risk posed by the continued rainfall recorded since the beginning of this year.

This task is being prioritized under Supreme Decree No. 003-2026-PCM, which declares a state of emergency in several districts and provinces of Cusco.

The measure aims to prevent risk situations that could compromise the safety of visitors who enter archaeological attractions on a daily basis, as well as the integrity of cultural heritage.

Therefore, staff have been instructed to remain on alert during the current rainy season.

2025

The DDC Cusco reported that it carried out preventive work on wall crests and drainage systems throughout 2025.

In addition, the institution strengthened technical monitoring and immediate-response actions to address any emergencies that might arise as a result of heavy rainfall.

Culture Department Director Diego Pajares said that while conservation and surveillance efforts to protect heritage sites are permanent, current weather conditions require a more agile, preventive, and coordinated response

Therefore, authorities have decided to declare a state of maximum alert at the region's main archaeological parks.

Among the sites covered by this measure are Machu Picchu, Choquequirao, Sacsayhuaman, Pisac, Chinchero, Ollantaytambo, Moray, Pikillaqta, Tipon, and Raqchi, among others.

The alert will remain officially in force until end-March 2026, a critical period of the rainy season.

Lastly, the DDC Cusco urged citizens, tour guides, and domestic and international visitors to assist in protecting the cultural heritage by immediately reporting any damage or risk situations detected during the current season by using the appropriate channels.

This cooperation will enable immediate and timely interventions to safeguard the cultural heritage.