Since Machu Picchu opened its doors for tourism purposes in 1948, it had only closed for only two months in 2010, when a flood destroyed the railway from Cusco.
The numbers registered in Machu Picchu —declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO on December 9, 1983— were impressive.
Before the pandemic began in Peru last March, between 2,000 and 3,000 people used to enter the citadel per day and in high season up to 5,000.
That month, on the last day of visits, 2,500 people were registered in the area.
Protocol
According to the protocol established to prevent the spread of COVID-19, daily access to the world wonder will be limited to 675 visitors per day —30% of the total authorized number in a normal season.
Visitors must enter the archaeological park in groups of 8 guests —including a guide— and must comply with social distancing of 1.5 to 2 meters.
Likewise, each sightseer must wear a face mask, avoid crowds, and have his/her temperature measured to verify that he/she do not have a fever, as part of the biosafety protocols at this stage of the new normality.
The official reopening ceremony will kick off today at 6:00 p.m. (local time).
Source: Andina
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