It is probably one of the most famous sights in the world: the Inca ruined city of Machu Picchu. Accordingly, the site is popular with many tourists – and that causes problems.
Cusco – Hundreds of tourists in Peru have demonstrated to gain access to the famous Inca ruined city of Machu Picchu.
They formed long lines and clamored for tickets to be sold, as seen on Peruvian television. Some also slept on site at the point of sale in the open air.
The rush of local and foreign guests coincides with national holidays in the Andean country on Thursday and Friday. The Peruvian newspaper “El Comercio” reported on Wednesday that the tickets were completely sold out before the long weekend. According to the Ministry of Culture, tickets will no longer be available until August 19th.
In a statement on Wednesday evening (local time), the ministry also pointed out that it was only on July 17 that the number of visitors permitted until December 31 was exceptionally increased from 3044 to 4044 a day – and that this is also the limit to be irreparable to avoid damage. The increase in visitor numbers should boost tourism revitalization in the Andean city of Cusco and throughout Peru.
The ruins of Machu Picchu are one of the most important tourist attractions in South America and have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. The city was built by the Incas in the 15th century and consists of around 200 buildings. dpa
