Peru is initiating the development of new alternative routes to Machu Picchu this year. This initiative aims to diversify tourism in the area, providing visitors with enhanced opportunities to immerse themselves in local Peruvian culture and communities.
The Machu Picchu Council has allocated nearly US$1.2 million for new projects at this UNESCO World Heritage site. Following years of heavy and damaging rains, a significant portion of the budget will be directed toward maintenance work. This includes the renewal of footpaths and the construction of new lookouts, information centers, rest areas, and waste stations. Additionally, a large-scale planting campaign will aim to cultivate one million native plants and trees along the pathways.
Consequently, the remaining funds will be utilized to implement the new access routes to Machu Picchu. These routes are expected to alleviate some pressure from the main trails. One of the new corridors, named the Amazon Access Route, will link the Intihuatana community with the areas of San Miguel, Inkarakay, Mandor, and Puente Ruinas up to Machu Picchu Town. Another corridor will connect Choquellusca, located on the border with Piscacucho in the Ollantaytambo district, with San Antonio de Torontoy, leading towards Machu Picchu.
According to the Machu Picchu Council, these projects aim to showcase the region’s natural, cultural, and social heritage while diversifying attractions and stimulating the local economy.
Moreover, various routes already exist for visitors looking to access Machu Picchu. The classic Inca Trail remains the most popular, while alternatives such as the Lares Valley Track, the Salkantay Trek, and the Inca Jungle Trail provide diverse trekking experiences.
