Peru's Inca Trail closed as El Niño floods hit Machu Picchu region
Heavy rains linked to El Niño have caused flooding and landslides in Peru, cutting off access to the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. The Inca Trail, a popular hiking route, has been closed until Saturday due to overflowing waterways and debris. The capital Lima also experienced flooding and road closures.
The Inca Trail, one of South America's most iconic trekking routes, has been temporarily sealed off by Peruvian authorities after torrential downpours triggered landslides and caused waterways to overflow. The closure, effective through Saturday, leaves thousands of prospective hikers unable to reach the 15th-century citadel perched in the Andes. Meanwhile, the capital Lima has not been spared, with floodwaters invading homes and forcing road closures across the city. The disruption stems from the El Niño weather pattern, which typically brings above-average rainfall to Peru's coastal and highland regions during its active phase. Local media reports indicate officials are monitoring conditions before reopening the trail to visitors.
This disruption could significantly affect Peru's tourism economy, as Machu Picchu draws hundreds of thousands of international visitors annually, with the Inca Trail serving as a primary access route. Travelers with booked permits may face cancellations or rescheduling, potentially straining local businesses that depend on steady foot traffic. The flooding in Lima also highlights urban infrastructure vulnerabilities that may worsen if El Niño conditions persist. Residents in flood-prone areas could experience prolonged displacement, while authorities may need to reassess disaster preparedness protocols for future climate-driven weather events.