Hundreds of tourists find themselves stranded near Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca citadel located in Peru, due to ongoing protests related to the expiration of a key bus company’s concession. Things worsened when Consettur, the company that transports visitors between Aguas Calientes and the archaeological site, had its operating concession revoked last week. This unexpected turn of events created even more confusion and complications for our nation’s travelers.
Iconic attractions like Machu Picchu offer incredible archaeological riches and panoramas. In a worldwide poll in 2007, it gained the distinction of being one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The Great Wall of China should feel pretty good sitting up there next to other world famous places. India’s Taj Mahal and Mexico’s Chichen Itza were considered in that same selection. Once the heart of the mighty Incan empire, the citadel is now Peru’s most-visited cultural attraction. It brings over 250,000 tourists annually generating over 43 million dollars to the local economy.
The battle over Consettur’s concession has led to protests from local people. Demonstrators claim that the process to replace the federally-funded bus company is not open or equitable. The project has since ignited a firestorm of controversy in the region. Due to months-long protests, passenger train service has been suspended. This ongoing disruption makes any travel plans very difficult for those wishing to travel to or from Machu Picchu.
Though it’s been thawing this week and authorities are hoping to reopen some routes, about 900 tourists were still trapped in Aguas Calientes as of Monday. Just earlier that day authorities had managed to evacuate approximately 1,400 tourists without casualties. Sadly, most are still waiting for justice as the turmoil rages on.
The protests not only affect tourist mobility but highlight broader issues concerning local governance and tourism management in this historically significant region. Those local officials are under a lot of heat to find a fix. Under immense pressure to keep everyone safe, they have to make sure local operators are treated fairly.
