Deadly Train Collision Near Machu Picchu Leaves One Worker Dead and Dozens Injured
Cusco, Peru — A serious train collision near Peru’s world-famous Machu Picchu archaeological complex left one railway worker dead and at least 30 passengers injured on Tuesday, according to local authorities.
The accident involved two tourist trains traveling in opposite directions along one of the country’s most critical heritage rail routes. Emergency responders were dispatched quickly, while rail services between Machu Picchu and the city of Cusco were immediately suspended.
Collision on a Key Tourist Railway
Captain Jhonathan Castillo Gonzalez of the Cusco police department confirmed that the victim was a railroad employee working on the line at the time of the crash. Officials stated that one train departing from Machu Picchu collided head-on with another train heading toward the site.
The collision occurred near Qoriwayrachina, an archaeological area located along a narrow stretch of railway surrounded by dense forest and steep rock formations.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the precise cause of the accident. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether operational errors, signaling issues, or infrastructure problems played a role.
Passengers Injured, Rail Services Halted
Videos shared by local media outlets showed damaged train cars with broken windows and dented metal panels stranded along the track. Several passengers were seen receiving medical assistance as rescue teams worked in difficult terrain.
Most injuries were reported as non-life-threatening, though some passengers were transferred to nearby hospitals for further treatment and observation.
Machu Picchu’s Dependence on Rail Transport
Machu Picchu welcomes around 1.5 million visitors each year, making it one of South America’s most visited tourist destinations. The majority of travelers access the site by train via the town of Aguas Calientes, the main gateway to the ancient Inca citadel.
Constructed in the 15th century during the height of the Inca Empire, Machu Picchu is renowned for its perfectly cut stone architecture and its role as a royal sanctuary for Inca emperors.
Rising Tourism, Mounting Pressure
Tourism to Machu Picchu has increased by approximately 25% over the past decade, placing growing strain on transportation infrastructure. Rail services have periodically faced disruptions due to protests, labor disputes, and political tensions related to site management and environmental concerns.
In some cases, demonstrations have led to temporary blockades of the railway, highlighting the fragility of access to the historic site.
Alternative Routes Still Available
While train travel remains the most common option, Machu Picchu can also be reached on foot via trekking routes starting from Ollantaytambo. These journeys typically last about four days and appeal to visitors seeking a more immersive experience.
Safety Concerns Under Review
The deadly collision has renewed debate over railway safety standards in high-traffic tourist areas across Peru. Authorities have stated that rail operations will only resume once comprehensive safety inspections are completed.
As investigations continue, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges involved in balancing mass tourism with infrastructure safety at one of the world’s most iconic heritage sites.