Peru opens new airport with direct access to Machu Picchu

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If you haven’t heard yet, yes, it’s true that Peru is about to open a new airport, making Machu Picchu easier than ever to get to.

So why are we reporting on a topic that has been all over travel sites in the last 24 hours?

Since many didn’t report news, it’s more of a cobweb of forced opinions.

We at Travel Off Path have scoured the interwebs for cold, hard facts about what Peru’s groundbreaking airport really means for you when it’s time to cross a true wonder of the world off your bucket list.

As you probably did heard, Peru confirmed that there were multiple safety alerts issued, followed by a tragic train accident involving tourists just before the calendar change to 2026.

As recognizable as Machu Picchu is, it is a trek from the start with flights, trains, buses, guides and a long list of dos and don’ts.

That said, this is a straight-forward, politics-free zone with no preachy, irritable guilt tripping to make you reconsider your plans.

Here’s everything you need to know about Peru’s new airport:

Fact #1: The airport’s location is set in stone

Currently Cusco is considered the ‘gateway to Machu Picchu’, but that is about to change.

Soon, travelers will be able to choose to fly in for better access to the little-known village of Chinchero, where the rightly named (and rather delayed) village Chinchero International Airport will soon be on the run.

Instead of flying into Cusco and hopping aboard a seemingly endless bus or a triple-digit train to speed up your day, travelers can land only 18 miles of this ancient place high in the Andes.

Regarding sample size, hiking the famous Inca Trail can take days, and a train (the fastest option) still takes up to 3.5 hours.

Although Machu Picchu’s new hub has received mixed reactions, one thing is certain: Travel time will be a fraction of what it once was.

Fact #2: Opening date has a rough estimate

There is no need to look for flights yet. In fact, no one knows for sure which cities, countries or even airlines will participate in the grand opening of this airport.

There is bureaucratic wrangling going on behind the scenes – and we’ll get to that. First, you need to know that this is for the best head to Machu Picchu the old-fashioned way for all of 2026, and much of 2027 as well.

According to our understanding sourcesChinchero International Airport is scheduled to open “late 2027.”

Unfortunately, that schedule doesn’t bode well for travelers wanting to experience the high season, which most experts agree May to September for the most reliable sunny weather.

Fact #3: 2026 will be the least busy in the coming years

If Machu Picchu is fat and happy at the top of your wish list, don’t hesitate any longer: book that trip!

Quick side note: I lied about opinions. Sometimes I like to cut my own items. But don’t worry: no political or hippie-dippy environmental rants coming your way.

Good luck at Whole Foods, but…

I just wanted to share how underrated Lima is as a stopover. I spent a few days exploring Lima on the way to the Amazon via Iquitos, and can’t recommend it enough for underrated beaches, vibrant neighborhoods that rival Miami, and better ceviche than Mexico (yes, I said it!).

If you can swing it, stay there Hilton Miraflores. It is without a doubt the best Hilton I have ever stayed at.

Now back to your regularly scheduled news…

The only other major city with connections to Cusco is Bogota, so chances are Lima is in your future in some form or another.

Since the new airport is not expected until 2027, this is the last year you can explore Machu Picchu before a expected increase of 200% of visitors drop in when Chinchero opens.

Fact #4: Machu Picchu is already breaking tourism records

When you visit one of only seven designated Wonders of the World, you can expect the secret to be out.

Machu Picchu broke tourism records in 2025, despite tourists being stranded (a major driver of the aforementioned safety alert).

Sadly, months later a train to Machu Picchu crashed, injuring dozens and killing one person.

In other words, Machu Picchu has seen both the good and bad sides of the headlines in recent months.

Will any of these cases deter travelers?

Doesn’t sound like it.

In fact, our editor-in-chief Tyler will continue this spring, but choose sore feet over logistical headaches by hiking the Inca Trail.

Despite at least two security warnings in the past calendar year, the U.S. Department of State still classifies Peru as a ‘Level 2: Be extra careful‘ destination, which is similar to many of Americans’ favorite international getaways.

Sam Sears

Sam, our lead writer and San Diego-based journalist, has visited 36 countries and written more than 1,000 articles with an emphasis on sharing his own travel experiences and highlighting lesser-known gems.