Machu Picchu, the remains of a 15th Century Inca city and a Unesco world heritage site, is undergoing a significant transportation crisis as ongoing disputes over bus services have left 1,400 tourists stranded. The head of operations for bus company Consettur, Cristian Alberto Caballero Chacón, reported that conflicts have arisen amidst changes in licensing, threatening the flow of tourists.
For three decades, Consettur has provided exclusive transport for over 4,500 visitors daily to the mountainous site. Yet, competition has intensified after a rival company was awarded the licensing rights. As a result, the new operator, San Antonio de Torontoy, has yet to commence its services, leaving Consettur in control despite its expired license due to ongoing legal challenges.
The crisis became evident when local protests halted train services to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town, prompting emergency evacuations of stranded tourists. Allegations have emerged that the bidding process for the new license was not transparent, igniting outrage from local communities around Machu Picchu.
Tourists have expressed frustration at the high costs of traveling to Machu Picchu. Annalise Jaksic, an Australian tourist, highlighted the expensive train fares and the confusion of additional transport needed upon arrival. Alongside growing dissatisfaction towards ticket sales, Aguas Calientes mayor Elvis La Torre stated that only 10% of revenue from entry tickets remains in the region, which is compounding issues for local businesses that rely on tourist income.
In light of the escalating tensions, various local leaders have called for a restructuring in tourism management in Peru. Carlos González, president of the chamber of tourism in Cusco, is advocating for greater state control of transport among other improvements to enhance competitiveness in tourism. Ultimately, both tourists and communities are feeling the ripple effects of this dispute, emphasizing the need for resolutions that can benefit all stakeholders.
