Lata in contact with members after fatal Machu Picchu train crash

The Latin American Travel Association (Lata) has confirmed it is in contact with its members on the ground after a train driver was killed and at least 40 other people were injured in a rail collision on the line to Machu Picchu on Tuesday.

Police are investigating the head-on crash between two trains operated by Inca Rail S.A. and PeruRail S.A.

The train line fully reopened on New Year’s Eve and all services resumed as normal.

A Peru government statement said: “As part of a joint and timely action, approximately 1,300 foreign tourists and 700 nationals were evacuated during the early hours from the Ollantaytambo station. 

“Train service was restored and continues to operate normally, ensuring the safe transfer of passengers and vehicles along the route, while work continues to remove debris and restore traffic flow.”

A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office said: “We are supporting a number of British nationals involved in a train collision near Machu Picchu, Peru, and are in contact with the local authorities.”

Lata chairman Martin Johnson said the association was “shocked” to learn of the incident and its thoughts are with the train driver who died and those who were injured.

He added: “We are in contact with our members on the ground, who will be liaising with any affected customers directly, and will share further updates when available.”