Huayna Picchu Closed Until June 30 for Maintenance Works

Temporary closure aims to preserve Machu Picchu’s most iconic hiking route

Huayna Picchu Mountain, one of the most iconic attractions within Machu Picchu, will remain temporarily closed from June 1 to June 30, 2026 due to conservation and maintenance works being carried out by Peru’s Ministry of Culture. The intervention aims to preserve archaeological structures and improve safety conditions along the ascent route.

What works are being carried out?

Main interventions include:

• Restoration of Inca stairways along the route
• Reinforcement of retaining walls and drainage systems
• Maintenance of walking surfaces using traditional techniques
• Replacement of safety railings in steep and high-risk sections
• Vegetation management to protect archaeological structures and pathways

Closure period

June 1 – June 30, 2026

During this period, access to Route 3-A of Circuit 3, which leads to Huayna Picchu Mountain, will be suspended for all visitors.

The temporary closure allows conservation teams to conduct comprehensive restoration works without visitor traffic on the route.

Impact on travelers

Visitors traveling to Machu Picchu during June should note that Huayna Picchu will not be available as part of their visit.

However, the archaeological sanctuary will remain open, and travelers may still enjoy other authorized circuits and viewpoints within the site, subject to ticket availability.

What agencies should do

Recommendations for wholesalers and travel advisors:

• Review existing bookings that include Huayna Picchu access
• Inform affected passengers about the temporary closure
• Consider alternative Machu Picchu circuits when planning itineraries
• Update pre-departure documentation and travel information

Long-term benefits

The maintenance program is designed to ensure the long-term preservation of one of Machu Picchu’s most visited areas while improving safety for future visitors.

Once completed, the works will contribute to:

• Enhanced conservation of archaeological structures
• Improved trail safety for visitors
• Better environmental management along the route
• Sustainable tourism operations within the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu

These improvements support the ongoing preservation of Machu Picchu, one of South America’s most important cultural and archaeological landmarks.