Machu Picchu is currently experiencing an internal crisis sparked by local residents who oppose the new company, Torontoy, which recently won the tender to operate the shuttle buses along the Hiram Bingham route to Machu Picchu.
On September 5, 2025, the contract of the company, CONSETTUR, which had been operating this route for years, officially ended with the municipalities of Aguas Calientes and Urubamba. As soon as Torontoy was set to take over, local residents began striking to oppose the change. Protesters have blocked the railway, preventing Torontoy from entering Aguas Calientes and disrupting train services to Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Today:
The Peruvian government has not yet intervened, leaving both locals and visitors in uncertainty. This conflict has severely affected travelers planning to visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Currently, it is impossible to reach Machu Picchu by train or bus. Both Inca Rail and Peru Rail have suspended operations due to the strike, while shuttle buses are blocked by protesters. Visitors already in Aguas Calientes are forced to walk up to Machu Picchu on their own.
So far, the government has issued no official statement, and the situation continues to disrupt the travel plans of thousands of tourists.
How Does This Affect Travelers?
At the moment, it is impossible to reach Machu Picchu by train or shuttle bus. Tourists already in Aguas Calientes are being forced to walk up to the citadel on their own. Meanwhile, those in Cusco or the Sacred Valley cannot access the town at all due to the blocked railways.
The only available alternative is the so-called “Amazon Route”:
Cusco → Santa María → Santa Teresa → Hidroeléctrica → 4-hour walk to Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu.
However, this detour has its downsides. Many drivers on this route have raised their prices, taking advantage of stranded tourists.
Is Machu Picchu at Risk of Losing Its Wonder of the World Status?
Just yesterday, the international organization that oversees the New Seven Wonders of the World expressed concern over the ongoing crisis and warned that Machu Picchu could be at risk of losing its Wonder status if the situation continues.
Constant abuses and repeated problems during visits to Machu Picchu have generated growing anxiety and concern. The site is now caught in the middle of political conflicts and local population disputes, while the government has taken no effective action to restore order.
Final Thoughts:
Machu Picchu has always been a dream destination for travelers worldwide, but today, that dream is turning into a nightmare for many. Until the Peruvian government intervenes and negotiations resolve the conflict, visitors should expect serious disruptions and reconsider travel plans.