Could Peru’s Machu Picchu lose its ‘Wonder of the World’ status?
Concerns are growing in Peru that Machu Picchu may be stripped of its title as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, following warnings from the New7Wonders organisation.
Authorities, tourism leaders and citizens have urged the government to act swiftly, including seeking support from UNESCO, to safeguard the Inca citadel’s international prestige.
The alarm was raised after reports pointed to a series of problems: irregular ticket sales, rising prices, transport difficulties, and poor coordination between tour operators and state institutions. Experts warn that these issues not only threaten Machu Picchu’s reputation but could undermine the livelihoods of millions of Peruvians who depend on tourism. According to industry data, more than 6.5 million people in the country are tied to the sector.
Local leaders in Cusco, including the regional governor, have criticised the central government’s management and called for greater decentralisation or even an autonomous authority for the site. Former foreign minister Óscar Maúrtua argued that poor services and overlapping responsibilities are damaging the visitor experience and stressed the need for urgent reforms. He and others have suggested that Peru request technical assistance from UNESCO or the World Tourism Organisation.
Machu Picchu remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a status that is not currently under review. However, the potential loss of its ‘Wonder of the World’ designation carries symbolic and economic weight. Business leaders warn that the site has become a “political prize” in domestic disputes, and that ongoing mismanagement risks eroding Peru’s global standing as a leading tourist destination.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
