Controversy Erupts over Tourist Buses at Machu Picchu

Wed Nov 26 2025 03:24:12 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A dispute over bus services leading to the iconic Inca site of Machu Picchu has left thousands of tourists stranded, highlighting the complexities of local transport contracts and their impact on the region's economy.

Machu Picchu, one of the world's most visited UNESCO sites, is embroiled in a conflict involving bus services essential for tourist access. The long-standing operator, Consettur, faces challenges from a new competitor, leading to protests and disruptions. Local officials and tourists voice frustrations over high transportation costs and economic benefits, further complicating the region's tourism dynamics.

Machu Picchu Faces Tourist Bus Crisis

Machu Picchu, the remnants of a 15th Century Inca city, is Peru's premier tourist destination and a UNESCO world heritage site. However, a recent conflict regarding the transport buses essential for visitor access has underscored the complexities of tourism management in the region, leading to the evacuation of around 1,400 stranded tourists.

The ongoing dispute originates from Consettur, the company responsible for transporting visitors from Aguas Calientes to the mountain-top site for over 30 years. Cristian Alberto Caballero Chacón, head of operations at Consettur, indicates that conflicts among local communities have surfaced over transport licenses.

The unique geography means reaching Machu Picchu necessitates a combination of a train journey—taking up to three and a half hours—and a bus ride, or an arduous two-hour hike. With only these options available, the recent chaos that left tourists stranded brought significant attention to the transport issues facing the area.

This dispute flared up when local protesters opposed Consettur's near-monopoly status amid the transition to a rival company, San Antonio de Torontoy. Protests have previously disrupted rail services, demonstrating the community's unrest over their future economic prospects and transport accessibility. A round-trip bus ticket presently costs $24 for foreigners.

The situation is further complicated by local feelings on the revenue distribution from entry tickets at Machu Picchu, where only 10% remains in the region, prompting calls for improved local services and more equitable financial arrangements.

Carlos González, president of the Department of Cusco's tourism chamber, advocates for better regulation of public transport and more government focus on regional tourism as a means to uplift local communities.

Please join us as we continue to explore the dynamic interplay between tourism, local communities, and economic opportunities at this iconic destination.