Is Machu Picchu Open?
Yes, Machu Picchu is open and operating at full capacity in 2024, as confirmed by the Ministry of Culture. In 2023, tickets were sold out for December two months in advance, with Circuits 1 and 2 being the first to sell out. Then, Circuits 3 and 4, including the mountains, are sold out one month in advance. Every day, tourism to Machu Picchu is increasing, and the capacity of entry tickets is not sufficient to meet the demand. Due to the high demand, we strongly recommend booking your tickets well in advance.
Is Machu Picchu closing in February?
Is Machu Picchu closed in February? The answer is no. Machu Picchu remains open year-round to the public, with closures occurring only in the event of natural threats to its infrastructure. Notably, the Inca Trail experiences a temporary closure in February.
Despite its continuous accessibility, Machu Picchu is undergoing significant changes. Did you know that visiting hours for this captivating citadel have been updated from 2021 to 2024? With new restrictions in place, a total of 4,500 daily tickets are available, divided into three time slots and four circuits (6 am to 9 am, 9 am to 12 pm, and 12 pm to 2 pm). These 2024 adjustments have transformed the visitor experience, prompting tour operators to adapt their approaches to accommodate the evolving landscape of Machu Picchu tours.
Inca Trail Opening 2024: Navigating Changes and Plan B for Machu Picchu Adventures
On October 15th, 2023, the Inca Trail 2024 was reopened, allowing tour operators and Inca Trail Machu operators to secure bookings. To ensure your spot, we recommend early reservations, as only 500 spaces are available daily for 2024. These spaces are allocated among trekkers, professional guides, chefs, and porters. The 500 spots are distributed across various Inca Trail Tours, including the 3-day, 4-day, and 5-day Inca Trails, along with the Salkantay trek to Inca Trail. The shorter Inca Trail has a separate booking system from the classic trail.
Despite these changes, there have been misunderstandings leading to misinformation online. Therefore, it’s crucial to comprehend the reasons behind these alterations and how to navigate them.
Why is Inca Trail Closed in February?
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu undergoes a temporary closure throughout February, a practice initiated in 2001. This closure, mandated by Machu Picchu restrictions, prioritizes safety and addresses harsh weather conditions, including heavy rains and landslides. During this period, sanctuary officials conduct maintenance on trails, renovate bridges, and enhance facilities.
Examples of closures include February 2020 (pandemic-related) and instances of strikes or internal issues in Peru.
However, the February 2023 closure of the Inca Trail does not impact Machu Picchu’s accessibility. Machu Picchu remains open year-round, from Monday to Sunday, 6 am to 5 pm, including holidays. We strongly advise against alternative treks to Machu Picchu due to safety concerns.
While unexpected changes can occur, permanent closures are rare. The last extended closure happened in January 2010, following landslides that damaged the railway connecting Aguas Calientes to the rest of the country.
How to Reach Machu Picchu When Inca Trail Closes?
To book the Inca Trail in 2024, avoid February or consider alternative routes. For direct access to Machu Picchu in February, be prepared for rain. February is part of the low season, characterized by fewer visitors due to the rainy season from December to March. Rain can make paths slippery, but it also enhances the scenery, offering a chance to witness Machu Picchu with minimal clouds and potential rainbows.
Trips to Machu Picchu:
1. Machu Picchu Day Tour: Travel by train through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, then take a bus to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a guided tour, free time, and return to Cusco by train.
2. Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour: Opt for train trips, exploring the Sacred Valley in a full day or with an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
Alternatives to Climbing Machu Picchu in February:
Even with the Inca Trail closed, there are thrilling alternatives:
1. Inca Jungle to Machu Picchu 4 Days: Combining downhill cycling, rafting, zip-lining, and hiking, the Inca Jungle offers an adventurous route.
2. Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days: Lasting five days, this trek crosses the imposing snowy Salkantay at 4,650 meters, providing a breathtaking journey to Machu Picchu via Aguas Calientes.