Machu Picchu Without Plastics: Inspiring Responsible Tourism
RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE, SERNANP, and Inca Trail Tour Operators are working together to raise awareness among travelers visiting Machu Picchu about going plastic-free and properly disposing of their waste during their journey to and from the iconic Inca citadel.
On December 2nd, 2026, Responsible People, SERNANP, and Inca Trail tour operator gathered in the town of Intihuatana, also known as Hidroeléctrica, to educate visitors and local residents about reducing plastic use and protecting the environment. When travelers buy disposable plastic bottles and discard them irresponsibly, they contribute to long-term environmental pollution. Many visitors and locals leave these bottles along the route instead of using designated collection points, creating a trail of plastic waste. For this reason, we strongly encourage everyone to bring aluminum bottles or reusable canteens.
The team spoke with local residents about the importance of disposing of trash only in designated areas. Unfortunately, some people still throw waste into the Urubamba River, which passes through Hidroeléctrica, or leave it scattered in undesignated places instead of using official trash containers. Municipality garbage trucks sometimes take up to two days to arrive, causing trash to accumulate. To address this issue, a coordinated effort was launched to provide residents with recycling training and educational talks on environmental responsibility. Residents were also informed that disposable bottles can be recycled at collection centers managed by SERNANP or the Municipality.
During these talks, many residents expressed their willingness to improve their waste disposal habits. Local businesses also agreed to support this important cause, which benefits not only the community but also Cusco and the planet as a whole.
Under the leadership of Ms. Karin, SERNANP played a key role in uniting Inca Trail tour operators to promote responsible plastic management. RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE also joined this initiative and extends sincere gratitude to all tour companies and SERNANP for collaborating to protect the routes leading to the Inca citadel.
Local Inca Trail tour operators offered gifts to residents and travelers who participated in the awareness activities, including reusable canteens, Machu Picchu T-shirts, keychains, and cloth bags.
Important Note:
During the event, serious concerns were raised about several tour operator agencies that did not participate in the initiative and have been identified as not managing their waste responsibly during their operations. Untrained staff from these companies often leave trash along the route or at control points. SERNANP will take action to ensure these operators adopt responsible waste management practices. Without everyone’s commitment, awareness efforts cannot be fully effective. Unfortunately, many large Inca Trail tour operators—those with the highest number of departures—did not join this important cause, leaving most of the responsibility to only a few companies that are truly committed to improving their environmental practices.
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