Machu Picchu Inca Trail closed due to landslides and heavy rain

The Dirección Desconcentrada de Cultura (DDC) of Cusco has temporarily suspended access to the Inca Trail network at Machu Picchu, effective Wednesday, August 19, until further notice. The decision follows intense and unusual rainfall that began on the night of Monday, August 17.

The heavy rains, associated with a High-Level Isolated Depression (Dana), have caused landslides, increased stream flows, flooded campsites, collapsed sanitary services, and soil erosion. Specific sectors reported damage, including Llulluchapampa, Ayapata, Paqaymayu Alto, Soqtacocha, Yuncachimpa, Qonchamarka, Wayllabamba, Pawkarcancha, Cusichaka, Phuyupatamarka, and Wiñaywayna.

As a preventive measure, authorities ordered the return of tourists who entered the trail on Tuesday, August 18, and prohibited new entries starting August 19. Officials are currently evaluating alternative routes through kilometer 104 in Chachabamba and kilometer 106 in Choquesuysuy to assist those currently returning from the trail.