Without a shade of doubt, the Historical Sanctuary of Machu Picchu (HSMP) is the most important tourist attraction in Peru. It is located in the department of Cusco, on a high mountain in the lush Amazon forest. Machu Picchu owes most of its beauty and charm to its gorgeous natural setting: mountain woods blending with this historical sanctuary's rich flora and fauna.

On January 8th, 1981, with Supreme Law Nš 021-81 -AA, the Peruvian government established the Historical Sanctuary of Machu Picchu to preserve its archaeological monuments and valuable Pre-Hispanic remains, as well as the landscape and wild flora and fauna species in the area.

Covering an area of 32,592 hectares, it is among one of the world's wonders and in 1983 was declared to be the "Cultural and Natural Heritage of Humanity" by UNESCO.

The Historical Sanctuary of Machu Picchu not only preserves geological formations and archaeological remains within the Sanctuary, but also the unique flora and fauna and spectacular landscape of the surrounding woods.

The Historical Sanctuary of Machu Picchu is an invaluable archaeological discovery, symbolizing both Peru and the Andean region. It is the natural habitat of wild flora and fauna, and helps protect the archaeological remains placed inside.

OBJECTIVES DEFINED FOR THE AREA ACCORDING TO THE HISTORICAL SANCTUARY OF MACHU PICCHU
MASTER PLAN

• Protecting the natural environment and landscape as well as the archaeological monuments and other cultural assets.
• Conserving the natural ecosystems as well as native species of flora and fauna, seeking restoration of the ecological balance.
• Restoring the examples of integrated use of ecosystems, as the Inca civilization had created them
• Restoring the original pre-Hispanic management and hydraulic engineering technology to enhance the conservation of soil and water and reintroduce the Andean crops.
• Promoting scientific research in biology, history, archaeology and anthropology
• Fostering the development of tourism and recreational use of the area, thereby generating income for the region and the country, in a sustainable way, maintaining ecological balance and the scenic beauty of the spot.
• Making it possible for visitors to enjoy themselves, while obtaining deeper knowledge of the cultural values and history of the area.