Foreign Office advisory issued over Machu Picchu demonstrations and blockades 

A Foreign Office travel advisory has warned of demonstrations and blockades at the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

 

The alert came after it was reported that at least 900 tourists were stranded near the UNESCO World Heritage site in Peru after a passenger train service was suspended due to a protest.

 

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office said in updated travel advice issued last night (Wednesday): “Due to ongoing demonstrations and road blockades near Machu Picchu, rail services to and from Machu Picchu have been disrupted until further notice. 

 

“Rail and road traffic on routes leading to Machu Picchu may be further disrupted without prior notice. 

 

“If you are stranded in Machu Picchu Pueblo, IPERÚ can provide support in person at Av. Pachacuteq Cdra. 1, or by phone at +51 980 328 761.”

 

The protest by residents reportedly began last week after tourist bus operator Consettur’s concession expired.

 

The company transfers tourists from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of the tourist attraction.

 

A neighbouring district commissioned another bus company to provide services in its place, but protesters prevented it from operating.

 

PeruRail confirmed that regular operations to Machu Picchu, suspended on Monday after tracks were blocked by rocks, resumed yesterday “after receiving guarantees of order and safety for the railway from the competent authorities”.

 

However, PeruRail added that it has “no decision or position” on bus operations on the route. 

 

“As a railway operator, our commitment is to transport passengers and/or cargo, provided that legal requirements are met and conditions exist to ensure safe operations,” the company said.

 

However, PeruRail said in an update that daily visitor capacity to Machu Picchu would be limited to 4,500 between October 16 and December 29 with four routes closed during the period.