4th October 2024
Attraction : Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan citadel nestled in Peru’s Andes Mountains, was constructed in the 15th century and is famed for its intricate dry-stone masonry and breathtaking panoramic vistas. Often called the “Lost City of the Incas,” the site exemplifies remarkable architectural and agricultural ingenuity, attracting visitors from all over the world.
The infrastructure needed to support tourism
First, transportation access, making it easier for visitors to travel from major cities and nearby towns. More frequent shuttle services.there are well-established train services from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. Trains are operated by PeruRail and Inca Rail. From Aguas Calientes, regular shuttle buses take visitors up the mountain to the entrance of the site.The citadel is also accessible on foot such a popular routes/trails.
Next, visitor facilities like information centres, restrooms, and food options need to be both at the site and in surrounding areas. Also, Well-marked trails and viewing platforms will improve the overall visitor experience.
Accommodation options, offering a range of choices from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Eco-friendly lodging would promote sustainable tourism while catering to different preferences.
Providing guided tours with professional guides can give tourists a deeper understanding of Machu Picchu’s history and significance, making their visit more meaningful.
Sustainability initiatives are crucial to protect the site. This should include waste management programs, limiting visitor numbers during peak times, and educating tourists on responsible travel.The site has strict regulations to protect it. Visitor numbers are limited, and entry times are scheduled to avoid overcrowding. Designated paths help minimise damage, and waste management efforts are in place, along with educational signs about responsible tourism
Finally, adding cultural experiences like local events, artisan markets, and traditional food options will allow visitors to connect with the region’s rich heritage and culture.
References ~
(No date) Responsible tourism in Machu Picchu. Available at: https://www.responsibletravel.com/holidays/machu-picchu/travel-guide/responsible-tourism (Accessed: 31 October 2024).
Travel guide to machu Picchu: What you need to know (2024) SA Vacations. Available at: https://www.savacations.com/destinations/peru-tours-travel/travel-guide-machu-picchu/#:~:text=The%2015th%2Dcentury%20Inca%20citadel,the%20Andes%20of%20southern%20Peru. (Accessed: 31 October 2024).
Vargas, J. (2024) Traveling to Machu Picchu: Everything you need to know, Apus Peru Adventure Travel Specialists. Available at: https://www.apus-peru.com/blog/guide-to-traveling-to-machu-picchu (Accessed: 31 October 2024).
Visit machu Picchu: A First timer’s guide: Audley travel UK (2023) Audley Travel. Available at: https://www.audleytravel.com/peru/country-guides/machu-picchu-first-timers-guide?infinity=ict2~net~gaw~cmp~21757776921~ag~171211123427~ar~715352042341~kw~~mt~~acr~2868936838&audcmp=21757776921&audadg=171211123427&audkey=&auddev=c&audadid=715352042341&audpos=&audtrgt=dsa-1649220422840&audtel=ppcnb&audnet=g&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD_LTQt7iy-z3pvULxEbqJZgp8wrV&gclid=Cj0KCQjwmt24BhDPARIsAJFYKk3iboH8FaIzqlviArlGmWs7dla3MyvKjtlQUvCDUmZhEApODtmsnTEaAiY5EALw_wcB (Accessed: 31 October 2024).
Xtreme Tourbulencia (2024) Sustainable tourism in Machu Picchu (updated 2024), Xtreme Tourbulencia. Available at: https://x-tremetourbulencia.com/sustainable-tourism-in-machu-picchu/ (Accessed: 31 October 2024).