Nearly 800 tourists are stuck in Machu Picchu, Peru | Abroad
Hundreds of tourists are trapped in the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu in Peru. Trains have stopped running due to ongoing protests against Peru’s new president, Dina Bouluart. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises the Dutch not to go on holiday to the South American country for the time being.
Last week, Polwart’s predecessor Pedro Castillo was impeached after he tried to dissolve Parliament. his supporters, especially outside the capital, Lima, Moved for days. At least seven people have been killed in the demonstrations. The authorities declared a state of emergency for the entire country.
At the gate of Machu Picchu, about 779 tourists of various nationalities were stranded, according to local authorities. The only way to travel comfortably between the historic ruins and the city of Cusco, 110 kilometers away, is by train. Due to protests in Cuzco, trains are no longer running at the moment. Peru Rail has suspended trains for fear of blockages and to ensure the safety of passengers.
The government would have been asked to help evacuate the backpackers by helicopter. Several tourists have told AFP that they have missed their flight home and that there is no certainty yet when the trains will run to Cuzco again.
A major tourist attraction
Machu Picchu is one of the most important tourist attractions in South America, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. The ruined city was founded by the Incas in the 15th century and consists of about 200 buildings. Thousands of visitors come every day, including many Dutch.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the situation in Peru is “extremely unpredictable.” Travel advice goes from yellow to orange. The State Department advises to only go to Peru if necessary and to stay away from demonstrations.
Disaster fund
The trade association of travel organizations ANVR notes that an inventory of who is in Peru is currently being conducted. “It is also important that later today the disaster fund determines whether there has been a disaster in Peru or not. If the members of the committee of this fund decide that this is the case, Dutch nationals can be repatriated. We understand that smaller travel organizations specializing in South America In particular I have reported travelers staying in Peru,” said ANVR spokeswoman Hanita van der Meer.
Contact: Stranded in Peru?
Traveling in Peru and now stranded due to demonstrations in the country? Let us know: Email us at [email protected] and we’ll get back to you.
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