Peruvian authorities seek recognition of the Inca Trail as a sustainable tourist destination

This international recognition would not only benefit the historical sanctuary of Machu Picchu but also put the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in a position to be a first-class international destination.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is only a tiny part of an immense network of trails constructed by ancient Peruvians through Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, Colombia and Peru. This famous, colossal trail represents, even today, the unity and strength of the Andean culture.

Actually, only 200 tourists per day are allowed to enter the Inca Trail, which connects the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the Sun Gate or Intipunku in Machu Picchu through 40 kilometers (24 miles) of trail. Because of this, it’s important to reserve entrance tickets very far in advance. If you decide to travel with Salkantay Trekking, don’t worry: we’ll get your tickets without a problem!

Inca Trail: Sustainable tourist destination

Sustainable tourist destination

The National Service of Protected Natural Areas of the State (Sernanp) has presented an initiative to TourCert so that the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu can obtain certification as a sustainable tourist destination.

TourCert is a German company that specializes in tourism certification on a global level. Following their demanding criteria, this company advises tourist destinations so they can achieve sustainable and responsible operation practices.

To obtain this certification, they must draw up a general diagnostic and compile information about different aspects of quality and sustainability of the network of Inca Trails. All of this must be done following the international requirements of sustainability and social responsibility in tourism.

If the certification is granted, the Inca Trail will benefit from this international recognition as it will become a leading destination on a global level. It’s also important that Sernanp involve tourists, tour operators and the population in the care of this natural area.

Live the intense experience of hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

experience of hiking

If you’re a nature and history-lover, the Inca Trail route is ideal for you. Several magazines specialized in travels consider the Inca Trail to be one of the top 5 best treks in the world. You will pass by mountains covered in snow, cloudy forests, waterfalls, diverse vegetation, native animals, archeological sites and other captivating wonders.

Machu Picchu was also chosen as one of the Modern 7 Wonders of the World and is considered the principal tourist destination in Peru. According to data of Promperú and the Ministry of Exterior Commerce and Tourism (MINCETUR) in 2017, Machu Picchu received 1 million 411 thousand 279 tourists.