Protest Blocks Train Access, Stranding 900 Tourists at Machu Picchu

Hundreds of tourists are stranded near Machu Picchu after protesters blocked train tracks leading to the ancient site. According to Peru’s tourism minister, approximately 900 tourists remain stuck in Aguas Calientes, the town closest to the 15th-century Inca citadel. The disruption occurred due to protests over a tourist bus contract, causing trains to be suspended indefinitely.

Train operator PeruRail reported that the rail route through the mountainous Cusco region was obstructed by “rocks of various sizes,” and stated that “third parties” had damaged parts of the track, complicating the evacuation process for tourists. The situation has escalated as locals have clashed with authorities and bus companies over the contract dispute.

The US Embassy in Peru issued a notice urging tourists to avoid large gatherings and to consult their travel companies regarding the situation. The advisory highlighted that “rail and road traffic on routes leading to Machu Picchu may be disrupted without prior notice,” and recommended that travelers contact their rail service providers for rescheduling or reimbursement options.

Protests began last week following the end of the concession for the operator Consettur. A neighboring district awarded a different company the rights to operate the tourist bus service to Machu Picchu. However, demonstrators in Aguas Calientes have prevented this new operator from commencing service, leading to significant travel disruptions.

Experts note that the most common route for visitors to reach Machu Picchu is by taking a train to Aguas Calientes and then a bus to the entrance of the archaeological site. On March 11, 2024, 1,400 tourists were evacuated from the area, but many are still unable to leave due to the ongoing protests.

Machu Picchu, recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World since a global poll in 2007, attracts millions of visitors each year. The current unrest poses a challenge not only for tourists but also for the local economy, heavily reliant on tourism.

As the situation develops, officials are working to restore access to the site while addressing the protesters’ concerns about transparency and fairness in the awarding of contracts for tourist services.