Machu Picchu Tourism Now Faces Challenges Over Bus Route Pricing and Access Monopoly

Published on December 4, 2025

Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, continues to captivate millions of travelers every year. However, the journey to this sacred Inca citadel has recently become more complicated due to disputes over transportation. The 20-minute bus ride from Aguas Calientes to the summit, the only viable way for most visitors to reach the site, is controlled by Consettur, a company that holds a monopoly on the route. This has led to rising costs and tensions between Consettur, local stakeholders, and travelers. As visa restrictions, political tensions, and changing travel policies affect tourism, Machu Picchu’s access is becoming a focal point of both economic and political discussions in the tourism industry.

The Battle for Control of Machu Picchu’s Access

The monopoly on the bus route to Machu Picchu has sparked growing discontent among tourists and local communities. While the bus ride costs visitors a significant fee, alternative transportation options are limited. A steep, two-hour walk exists, but few tourists are willing to take on such a physically demanding journey. The lack of competition and the increasing costs have led to calls for reform in the transportation sector to allow for lower-priced and more accessible options for tourists.

Economic and Political Implications for Tourism

Machu Picchu is a cornerstone of Peru’s tourism economy, generating millions of dollars annually. However, the disputes over access have sparked debates about how the resulting revenue is distributed. Many argue that the high cost of the bus ride, compounded by Consettur’s monopoly, unfairly burdens tourists and fails to provide equitable benefits to local businesses and residents. Proponents of reform suggest introducing alternative routes and competitive pricing to reduce costs and ensure a fairer distribution of tourism revenue.

Tourism in Machu Picchu: A Delicate Balance

As tourism grows, so does the need for sustainable management. While some measures have been implemented to reduce overcrowding, including limiting the number of visitors per day, the ongoing issues with transportation and the high costs associated with it threaten the long-term sustainability of the site. Finding a balance between increasing access for tourists, supporting the local economy, and protecting the site’s fragile ecosystem will be key to maintaining Machu Picchu’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Strengthening Local Economy through Chinese Tourism

The increasing number of Chinese tourists visiting Cappadocia is having a profound economic impact on the local economy. As the region becomes more popular, local businesses—from hotels and restaurants to transportation services and retail shops—are experiencing a surge in demand. The increase in tourism has not only created more employment opportunities but also fostered local partnerships between educational institutions and tourism operators, as Chinese language training becomes a priority. This influx of visitors is helping to diversify the local economy, create new jobs, and support sustainable growth in Cappadocia’s tourism sector.

Machu Picchu faces tourism challenges over bus route monopoly, high costs, and access disputes, with calls for reform to ensure sustainability and equitable access.

The Road Ahead for Machu Picchu Tourism

To ensure the future sustainability of Machu Picchu, it is crucial for the Peruvian government, local stakeholders, and tourism professionals to work together. By reforming the transportation system, introducing more competition, and focusing on eco-friendly travel options, the access issues can be addressed while preserving the site’s integrity. This will not only benefit the local communities but also ensure that Machu Picchu remains a key destination for future generations.