The world-famous archeological site, Machu Picchu in Peru, is the single most popular tourist destination in the country, and an extremely popular trek for those looking to hike through the Andes Mountains. However, anyone thinking of making the hike was issued a warning from the U.S. embassy this week.
Protests Disrupt Travel
This week, Reuters reported that at least 900 tourists were stranded near Peru’s ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu after a passenger train service was suspended due to a protest in the area.
The train service was suspended on Monday after the route became blocked by “rocks of various sizes,” according to PeruRail, as protesters clashed with authorities and bus companies.
1,400 tourists had been evacuated on Monday, but some 900 remained stranded in Aguas Calientes – the closest town to Machu Picchu – on Tuesday, Tourism Minister Desilu Leon told local radio.
U.S. Embassy Issues a Statement
As a result of the protests, the U.S. Embassy in Peru issued a statement this week warning travelers about the protests and the issues they may cause for anyone traveling to Machu Picchu in the near future
“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,” the statement read, via Newsweek.
“Rail and road traffic on routes leading to Machu Picchu may be disrupted without prior notice. Travelers with rail travel plans should contact their rail service provider directly regarding rescheduling or reimbursement options. Travelers should consult with their guides or tourist agencies on travel conditions and adjust plans accordingly.”
Machu Picchu Could Lose Status As World Wonder
Back in 2007, Machu Picchu was named one of the 7 New Wonders of the World, but it sounds like the historical site could be at risk of losing that status.
This week, the New7Wonders project, which organized the vote that made Machu Picchu a World Wonder, issued a warning that the site is at risk of losing its “credibility” as one of the wonders due to overtourism, limited conservation policies, and social conflicts like these protests, among other issues.
“The designation implies a shared commitment to the conservation and responsible management of the site, as well as the implementation of international preservation and management standards,” the statement said.
We’ll have to see what adjustments Peru is able to make to ensure the site stays among the 7 New Wonders of the World.
