Days of heavy rains in the Cusco and Machu Picchu region of Peru have stranded tourists and caused over 40 landslides. The railway connecting Machu Picchu to Cusco was blocked by one slide and workers have been busy clearing the debris. Rivers have also been overflowing, resulting in widespread crop damage.
The Peru government has declared the situation an emergency and began air-lifting travelers from Machu Picchu. Almost 2,000 tourists and residents were stranded at the ruins and surrounding area. Five military helicopters are now transporting these stranded people.
Here is the report from local Cusco operator, Andean Adventures:
“For the last two days, two thousand tourists are trapped at Machu Picchu. Some of the stranded travelers are being airlifted to safety by Peruvian military helicopters.
The company that monitors the rail, Perurail, said that that the train operator suspended services Monday and is working to clear rock and mud away from the tracks so that trains could finally continue service soon. The Tourism Minister, Martin Perez, said that the government may send helicopters (currently four) to evacuate tourists and locals from Machu Picchu Pueblo to the town next to the citadel.
Days of heavy rains have triggered up to 40 landslides in the Cusco area, the bridge crossing the Urubamba River to Pisaj was damaged so currently the only connecting paved road to the Sacred Valley is via Chinchero and Urubamba.
The Cusco authorities are waiting for the end of the rainfall to and re-establish the infrastructure as soon as possible.”
Detour will continue posting news regarding this situation in Peru.
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