Inca Trail to Machu Picchu to Close Starting January 31, 2026, for Maintenance Work

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will be closed to tourists on Saturday, January 31. The trail will reopen on March 1. During this time, maintenance and repair work will be carried out. This was confirmed by the management of the Machu Picchu archaeological park.

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This closure takes place every February. This time, around 60 specialists and workers will also participate. They will walk from Piscacucho, in the district of Ollantaytambo, to the Inca citadel. This complies with the regulations for sustainable tourist use of the Inca Trail. The information was provided by the park’s director, César Medina Alpaca, to the Andina Agency.

First, the team will work on several sites along the route. These include Salapuku, Qhanabamba, and Wiñaywayna. Patallaqta, Phuyupatamarca, and Intipunku will also be worked on. In addition, they will reach Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy. The entire route will receive direct attention to prevent damage.

Then, the Inca Trail will be rehabilitated. In addition, retaining walls will be reinforced. Vegetation will also be cut and floors will be repaired. At the same time, bridges, ramps, and wooden railings will be maintained. This will make the trail safer for everyone.

The campsites will also be improved. For example, the floors and drains will be treated. Walls will also be stabilized and toilets will be repaired. This will improve conditions for visitors.

Loose rocks will be removed from some sections. This will help prevent rocks from falling onto the trail. According to authorities, an emergency occurred near Wiñaywayna last November. As a result, the route had to be diverted to other areas at that time.

In addition, work will be carried out in conjunction with Sernanp. Together, the slopes will be stabilized and special geogrids will be installed. However, a technical assessment will be carried out first. This will allow a decision to be made on which areas need the most reinforcement.

Several problems have occurred on the Wiñaywayna section. This is because the rains are intense. As a result, landslides occur frequently. Therefore, maintenance is necessary every year.

Normally, 500 people enter the Inca Trail each day. This number includes tourists and porters. They carry food and equipment for visitors during the hike.

Finally, the closure is also due to heavy rains. These rains will continue until March. Therefore, the main objective is to prevent accidents. This protects the health and safety of all people who use the trail.

Source: Andina.pe