Around 900 tourists visiting Machu Picchu in Peru were left stranded earlier this month. Protests disrupted train services, blocking access to the ancient Inca site. This incident occurred on September 15 and 16, affecting travel to the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site.
Key Takeaways
- Approximately 900 tourists were stranded near Machu Picchu due to protests.
- Train services were suspended after tracks were blocked and damaged.
- The demonstrations concern the replacement of a long-standing bus operator.
- Peruvian authorities and the US Embassy issued travel warnings.
- Police and protesters clashed, resulting in injuries.
Train Service Halted in Cusco Region
On September 15, PeruRail, a main train operator in southern Peru, announced the suspension of its services. This affected the Cusco mountain region. The company stated that routes were blocked by "rocks of various sizes." These obstructions prevented trains from running safely.
A local branch of PeruRail also reported damage to its infrastructure. "Third parties" reportedly excavated parts of the rail. This damage occurred amidst growing protests from local residents. These actions directly impacted the ability of trains to transport passengers to and from Machu Picchu.
Fact: Machu Picchu Tourism
- Machu Picchu welcomes over 1 million visitors each year.
- The site is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.
- Tourism is a vital part of the local economy, supporting numerous businesses and jobs.
Protests Over Bus Operator Change
The demonstrations began due to a change in the bus operator. Consettur, a company that transported visitors from the nearby town of Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance, saw its 30-year contract expire. This change led to significant local opposition.
Other bus companies attempted to take over the route. However, protesters prevented these new buses from operating. This created a standstill in transportation for tourists. The local community expressed concerns about fairness and transparency in the selection process for the new operator, according to Reuters.
"Following brief interruptions to service along the route yesterday and today, PeruRail has today announced that all rail traffic along the Ollantaytambo-Machupicchu-Ollantaytambo route has been temporarily suspended," a spokesperson for the US Embassy in Lima stated on September 16.
Hundreds of Tourists Stranded
The suspension of train services and bus operations left many tourists stranded. On September 15, authorities evacuated approximately 1,400 tourists. Despite these efforts, 900 people remained stranded in Aguas Calientes on September 16, according to Peru’s tourism minister, Desilu Leon.
Evacuation efforts faced challenges due to ongoing protests. The situation highlighted the vulnerability of tourist access to remote sites during civil unrest. Many travelers had to adjust their plans without prior notice. The US government subsequently issued a travel warning for Americans planning to visit Machu Picchu.
Impact on Local Businesses
The protests have created a power vacuum for local businesses. Many depend heavily on the tourism generated by Machu Picchu. These businesses include hotels, restaurants, and tour operators in Aguas Calientes and surrounding areas. The disruption directly affected their income and operations.
The local economy relies on a steady flow of visitors. Interruptions can have significant financial consequences for residents. Protesters claim the process for replacing Consettur lacked transparency, which could affect local employment and economic stability.
Background on Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is an Inca citadel located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru. It is situated on a 2,430-meter mountain ridge. The site was built in the 15th century and later abandoned. It remained largely unknown to the outside world until 1911. Today, it is a major archaeological and tourist destination, celebrated for its intricate dry-stone construction and panoramic views.
Clashes and International Concern
The protests were not without conflict. According to the AFP, 14 police officers were injured in clashes with demonstrators. These incidents occurred when police attempted to clear the train tracks. The clashes underscore the tension between authorities and protesters.
The organization New 7 Wonders, which recognizes Machu Picchu as a "Wonder of the World," expressed concern. They sent a letter to the Peruvian government. The letter warned that Machu Picchu's status could be jeopardized if the conflict worsened. This highlights the international importance of the site and the need for stability.
Travelers with plans to visit the area were advised to contact their rail service providers. They should inquire about rescheduling or reimbursement options. Additionally, tourist agencies and guides were recommended sources for updated travel conditions. This advice aimed to help tourists navigate the unpredictable situation.
- Contact rail providers: PeruRail and Inca Rail for updates.
- Consult tour operators: For current travel conditions and alternative arrangements.
- Monitor official advisories: From the US Embassy and local Peruvian authorities.
The situation at Machu Picchu serves as a reminder of how local disputes can impact global tourism. Ensuring smooth operations and fair processes is crucial for maintaining access to such significant cultural heritage sites.
