Machu Picchu at risk of losing New 7 Wonders status amid overtourism and policy gaps
Campaign organizers say Peru’s conservation decisions will determine whether the 15th‑century citadel remains on the New 7 Wonders of the World list.
Machu Picchu is at risk of losing its status as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, as tourism pressures grow and critics say conservation policies lag behind visitor demand. The New 7 Wonders project said Machu Picchu’s status hinges on Peru’s key decision-makers, who must implement and enforce measures to protect the site while managing crowds.
The 15th-century Inca citadel was honored with the New 7 Wonders title in 2007 after earning more than 100 million votes worldwide, a milestone that elevated its profile and helped power a surge of international tourism.
Advocates say Peru must enact and enforce stronger visitor controls, boost funding for conservation, and maintain critical infrastructure to withstand the pressures of millions of annual visitors. Without clear and sustained policy action, the citadel could lose its standing on the list that famously blends cultural significance with public-vote legitimacy.
Local operators and residents say preservation must be prioritized to ensure the site's integrity for future generations, warning that neglect could erode not only archaeological value but also the livelihoods dependent on orderly visitation.
The case underscores how the New 7 Wonders designation—awarded through a global public vote—must be supported by responsible governance and funding, and could set a precedent for other heritage sites facing similar pressures.
As Peru weighs policy options, tourism stakeholders and conservationists await a clear plan that balances preservation with livelihoods, and the international audience watches whether the New 7 Wonders list can maintain credibility as a reflection of enduring cultural heritage.
