Inca Trail News

News about the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu

Andina

The Ministries of Culture and Foreign Trade-Tourism are working on a rapid reopening of Machu Picchu. Cusco's regional and local authorities are also involved. The site is in good condition, but no date has yet been set for the re-opening.

Lonely Planet

Peru is beginning work on new alternative routes to Machu Picchu this year, in an effort to diversify tourism in the area and give visitors more opportunities to immerse themselves in local Peruvian culture and communities.

Science

Several structures at Machu Picchu suffered through at least two earthquakes as they were being built, a new study suggests. Those temblors not only damaged walls, but also triggered a sudden change in construction techniques.

Science

Archaeologists and architects alike have long wondered why 15th century Incans built the grand citadel of Machu Picchu where they did, high in the remote Andes atop a narrow ridge in what is now Peru. One simple answer, researchers now suggest, is that that’s where building materials for the site—large amounts of already fractured rock—were readily available.

How Stuff Works

The 27-mile (43-kilometer) Inca Trail, which modern travelers can still hike from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, was originally designed as a pilgrim route that spiritually prepared the Inca for arrival at Machu Picchu.

National Geographic

An alternative to Machu Picchu’s Inca Trail, this route through the southern Andes links Peru’s archaeological sites and traditional communities, following lightly trodden paths where you’ll encounter few other travellers.

Ozy

The Peruvian government and private operators are promoting alternative routes and attractions, in an effort to protect Machu Picchu and encourage tourism in other parts of the country.