The Government of Peru has announced the closure of the Inca Trail from March 16 to March 31, 2025. This decision is due to safety concerns arising from heavy seasonal rainfall that has led to landslides and unstable terrain in the region.
In addition to the Inca Trail, nearby attractions such as Humantay Lake and the Salkantay Trek have also been impacted by landslides, leaving some hikers stranded for extended periods. The regional government has advised that the Salkantay trek will remain closed until further notice. The U.S. Embassy recommends that individuals in or traveling through affected areas reconsider their plans and adhere to local authorities' guidance.
Travelers can still access Machu Picchu via alternative routes, although Route 1A within Machu Picchu is closed due to landslides until further notice.
For more information, visitors are encouraged to contact their tour operators or reach out directly to the Dirección Desconcentrada de Cultura Cusco via email at tuboleto@cultura.gob.pe or by phone at +51 84 255805 and +51 84 582030 (ext. 2000).
Travelers planning visits to remote regions in Peru should review updates from iPeru, a governmental service supporting tourists. Monitoring information from local media and government agencies like GERCETUR, iPeru, PROMPERU, COEN, and SENAMHI is advised. It is recommended to consult with tour companies, local authorities, and hotels about the safety of planned hikes or travel itineraries due to inclement weather.
Visitors are advised to avoid areas affected by heavy rains or flooding and find alternative routes when necessary. They should stay informed through local media and Peruvian government updates while being aware of potential flash floods and mudslides. Travelers should pack appropriately with first aid supplies, food, water, and emergency kits for any hikes or treks.
Enrollment in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) is encouraged for receiving alerts from the U.S. Embassy in Lima.
U.S. Embassy Lima contact details:
- Avenida La Encalada cdra. 17 s/n Santiago de Surco 15023
- Phone: +51-1-618-2000
- Email: LimaACS@state.gov
- Website: https://pe.usembassy.gov
U.S. Consular Agency Cusco contact details:
- Avenida El Sol 449
- Email: CuscoACS@state.gov
For consular affairs assistance:
- Phone: +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444
To receive alerts about travel conditions in Peru, enroll in STEP.