Every year during the month of February, maintenance works are carried out on the routes of the Inca Trail. However, this does not affect the entrance to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. This blog will explain in more detail why the Machu Picchu trail will NOT be closed in February! The Inca Trail is one of the best 5 walks in the world. Unfortunately, this hiking trail closes in February of each year. So, if you want to visit Machu Picchu in February, yes, it is possible to visit. but you can not make the Inca Trail tours. You will have to settle for arriving by train through the Sacred Valley of the Incas or take some alternative treks.
Yes, it is possible. Machu Picchu was closed two times. The first time was the pandemic (COVID-19), It closed for a year and 6 months. The second time was on January 21st, 2023, during the current political and social situation in Peru. Machu Picchu was closed for two months between January and February.
Update: 21st January 2023
Clashes have broken out again during protests against the government in Peru. The Ministry of Culture closed access to the famous Inca-ruined city of Machu Picchu. Travelers planning to visit the Inca site of Machu Picchu were taken to Cusco on Sunday. Amid renewed clashes between demonstrators and police at anti-government protests across the country, the Ministry of Culture has barred access to the famous Inca city of Machu Picchu. A statement from the ministry said the step was necessary “in view of the current social situation in our region”.
Those who want to visit the ruined city in the coming days will be out of luck because access will be denied until further notice. The Ministry of Culture announced on Twitter that the attraction will remain closed to travelers for the time being. Holidaymakers who have already purchased tickets should contact their tour operator or ticket agency. Peru has been suffering from massive political unrest for some time.
The reason for the decision to block is the current social situation and the protection of visitors. The well-known ruined city had already been closed in December. Among other things, the train service between Cusco and Machu Picchu came to a standstill.
Machu Picchu and the Inca trail will reopen on 01 March 2023. We recommend that you can start making your bookings so as to secure your spots.
is Machu Picchu closing?
In order to guarantee the safety of tourists and the general population, the Ministry of Culture of Peru announced that they will close Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail indefinitely.
This measure was taken due to the endless protests against the government of that country. Requesting the removal of President Dina Boluarte.
"Faced with the current social situation in which our region and the country find themselves, the closure of the Inka Road Network and the Llaqta de Machu Picchu has been ordered, from January 21, 2023 until further notice, to safeguard the safety of tourists and the population in general".
Decentralized Directorate of Culture of Cuzco and the Headquarters of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
Rail services to Machu Picchu were also suspended due to the same reason.
May information through the email info@salkantaytrekmachu.com
February is one of the months of the low season in Machu Picchu. One of the reasons for the low influx of visitors is the rainy season from December to March. These rains can make the stone roads a bit slippery and the fog is constant. On the other hand, during the days of light rain you can see a landscape of Machu Picchu with few clouds and probability of rainbows. An unforgettable scene!. Remember that the famous Inca Trail Close during this month because of the climate and to maintenance the route, but Machu Picchu NEVER CLOSE.
It occurs between April and October and for many, although not for all, it is the best time to travel to Machu Picchu; The sun shines all day and there is almost no rain, allowing you to perform, without much care, the treks to the mountains of Machu Picchu, to obtain the best aerial views of the Inca city with the blue sky in the background. However, you will have to take turns in the places, with many other people who chose this time to visit Machu Picchu; and in case you did not know, during the dry season, there is also the "high season of tourism", so you will have a lot of company. This season makes entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, train tickets and hotels, must be booked at least 3 months in advance. If you want experiences like the Inca Trail or the Huayna Picchu Mountain, you will have to book your deposit 6 months before.
It occurs between November and March, and unlike what many people think, it does not rain throughout the day; What's more, the rains during this season are in the afternoon, in most cases. The Inca city of Machu Picchu can be covered with mist during this time; however, it will disappear with the passing of the morning, giving you the opportunity to see, from the mountains of Machu Picchu, how the fog dissipates over the city. As if an artist revealed his masterpiece before his eyes. Also, if you do not mind getting a little wet, you can get lower prices, discounts at hotels and many other advantages of coming to Machu Picchu in rainy weather
As you can see, entering Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail in February is impossible. If you only have free time to visit Machu Picchu in February, you will have to arrive by train through a 2 hour trip through the Sacred Valley. Another option is to get to Machu Picchu through the alternative route of Hydroelectric. This form is longer (lasts 7 hours approximately) but more full of adventure.
If you want to get to Machu Picchu walking in February, you can choose other incredible routes.
During the days of February, the most traditional neighborhoods of Cusco and the entire Andean region dress up as part of the carnival. This month is perfect for travelers who want to experience Peruvian culture to the fullest. Do not miss a fun trip in Peru enjoying these destinations:
Machu Picchu is now open as well as the 4 Day Inca Trail, and Short Inca Trail. make your bookings now!!
Once opened the Machu Picchu, it is possible to do the Salkantay Trek and other alternative trek to Machu Picchu.
