In 2001, the Peruvian government began requiring tourists to buy expensive permits to hike the remote Inca Trail, which goes to the ancient city of Machu Picchu. The total number of permits is strictly limited; in fact, only 500 people per day are now allowed to hike the Inca Trail, whereas before 2001, visitors numbered in the thousands. The Peruvian government argues that this permit program has successfully prevented deterioration of archaeological treasures along the Inca Trail.