Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan city located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America. While tourism has brought economic benefits to the region, it has also had a significant impact on the site and its surrounding environment. In this article, we will explore how tourism affects Machu Picchu.
History of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century by the Incas and was abandoned after the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. The site was rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, an American historian who was searching for Vilcabamba, the last Incan capital. Since then, Machu Picchu has become a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Positive Impact of Tourism
Tourism has brought many economic benefits to Machu Picchu and its surrounding communities. Local residents have been able to benefit from increased job opportunities within the tourism industry. Additionally, tourism has contributed to infrastructure development and improved transportation systems.
Preservation Efforts
The increased revenue generated by tourism has allowed for greater preservation efforts at Machu Picchu. The Peruvian government has invested heavily in restoration projects that have helped to maintain and improve the site’s infrastructure.
The Negative Impact of Tourism
While tourism has brought many benefits to Machu Picchu, it has also had a negative impact on both the site and its surrounding environment.
Environmental Impact
The high number of tourists visiting Machu Picchu each year has put a strain on the local environment. The area is home to many rare plant species that are now under threat due to human activity such as foot traffic and littering.
Cultural Impact
The influx of tourists has also had a cultural impact on the local communities. Traditional ways of life have been disrupted, and some residents have been forced to move to make way for tourism infrastructure.
Sustainable Tourism
To address these negative impacts, sustainable tourism practices have been implemented at Machu Picchu. This includes limiting the number of daily visitors and enforcing strict regulations around waste management and conservation efforts.
Ecotourism
In recent years, ecotourism has become a popular way to visit Machu Picchu while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and local communities. Ecotourism involves responsible travel that promotes conservation efforts and supports the local economy.
Conclusion
Overall, tourism has had both positive and negative impacts on Machu Picchu and its surrounding environment. While it has brought economic benefits to the region, it has also put strain on the natural and cultural resources of the area. Sustainable tourism practices such as ecotourism can help minimize negative impacts while still allowing people to experience this incredible historical site.