Responsible Tourism in Cusco: How to Travel Without Harming What You Came to See

Machu Picchu receives thousands of visitors daily, and that pressure carries a real cost for the site and local communities. Here's what you can do to minimize your impact.

Respect established quotas and circuits

Regulated circuits and daily visitor limits exist to physically protect structures from accelerated wear after 500+ years. Stepping off the marked path or touching walls, however harmless it seems, contributes to deterioration.

Choose operators with real authorization

Informal operators aren't just a risk to you (see common scams); they often also skip carrying-capacity rules and don't pay the permits that fund the site's conservation.

Support local communities directly

• Buy crafts directly from producers or cooperatives, not just middlemen.
• Hire certified local guides and porters — it's a direct income source for families in the region.
• Eat at local restaurants and markets, not just international chains.

Don't leave waste in nature

On treks like Salkantay, Humantay or Rainbow Mountain, pack out all your trash, including organic waste that isn't native to the Andean ecosystem.

Respect communities and their culture

• Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural communities.
• If there's a fee for a photo with someone in traditional dress, it's fair to pay it — it's part of their economy.
• Learn a few Quechua words (see useful phrases) as a gesture of respect.

Water and porters on high-altitude treks

On the Inca Trail and similar treks, check that the operator treats its porters well (regulated carry weight, food, proper gear) — it's a real labor-rights issue in the trekking industry.

Our commitment

As a local operator, we work with guides and porters from the region, follow each site's quotas and rules, and prioritize local suppliers in our tours' value chain. See about us.

Frequently asked questions

Does tourism really damage Machu Picchu?

Yes, physical wear from footsteps and human contact is real, which is why daily quotas and regulated circuits have existed since 2019.

How do I know if an operator treats its porters well?

Ask directly about carry weight, food and gear before booking a multi-day trek.

Is it appropriate to pay for photos with local people?

Yes, if asked, it's a fair way to acknowledge their time and image — see it as part of the local economy, not a scam.