A modern airport project is gaining momentum that could significantly increase access to Machu Picchu, Peru’s famed Incan citadel. While plans for an airport near the historical site have been discussed for years, recent construction progress suggests an opening as early as the end of 2027.
Long-Awaited Project Accelerates
The project, which has faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, funding issues, and other challenges, aims to alleviate congestion at the current Cusco airport. The new airport will be located approximately 36 miles (60 kilometers) from Machu Picchu, in Chinchero, within the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and about 19 miles (30 km) from Cusco. This development underscores the growing demand for tourism in the region and the demand for improved infrastructure.
Currently, most visitors traveling to Machu Picchu from international destinations must first fly into Lima. The existing Cusco airport’s runway limitations prevent it from accommodating long-haul flights. The new airport is designed to handle up to 8 million passengers annually and will be capable of receiving direct flights from the United States and Europe – a significant change for travelers hoping to visit the ancient site.
Despite the increased accessibility, authorities assure that visitors will not be able to land directly at Machu Picchu. The final leg of the journey will still require travel by train, bus, or a multi-day trek along the Inca Trail, ensuring the preservation of the site and its surrounding environment. The site and its immediate surroundings will remain protected and off-limits to direct flights.
The increased accessibility is expected to boost tourism to Machu Picchu, but also raises concerns about potential overcrowding and environmental impact. The new infrastructure is designed to accommodate a substantial increase in visitors, but the long-term effects on the fragile ecosystem remain a point of discussion.
Visitors can still experience the traditional routes to Machu Picchu, including the popular three- or four-day trek on the Inca Trail. You can learn more about the site’s discoverer, Hiram Bingham, here. Information about the climate in Lima can be found here.
