Machu Picchu: At least 900 tourists have remained stranded in the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, after passenger train services were suspended due to protests, Peru’s tourism minister confirmed.
Authorities said around 1,400 visitors had been evacuated. However, hundreds were still stuck after residents blocked the tracks with large rocks and damaged parts of the rail line in Cusco’s mountainous region. PeruRail, the company operating the route, reported that ‘third parties’ had also excavated parts of the track, affecting stability and delaying evacuation efforts.
The demonstrations erupted over a dispute involving the replacement of tourist bus operator Consettur, whose concession to ferry visitors from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of the historic Inca citadel expired last week. A neighbouring district appointed another bus company to take over operations, but protesters opposed the move, claiming the process lacked transparency and fairness, and blocked the newcomer from operating.
The disruption has created major travel chaos at Peru’s most visited cultural site, forcing some tourists to leave on foot as the standoff between residents, authorities, and transport companies continues.
The unrest has raised concerns over the impact on Peru’s vital tourism sector, which relies heavily on the steady flow of visitors to Machu Picchu. Local businesses in Aguas Calientes, already struggling with reduced tourist access, warn of potential financial losses if the standoff persists.
Authorities are urging dialogue with community leaders and transport operators to restore normal services, but tensions remain high as residents push for greater involvement in decisions affecting the lucrative tourism economy.
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