Machu Picchu's Tourist Bus Controversy: Evacuations and Local Disputes Unfold

Mon Nov 24 2025 14:47:27 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A recent dispute over tourist bus services to Machu Picchu left 1,400 stranded visitors needing evacuation. The conflict arises between current operator Consettur and a rival firm following license changes.

Machu Picchu's tourist bus situation has sparked controversy after 1,400 tourists were stranded due to a conflict over bus licensing. Consettur, which has provided bus services for 30 years, faced protests and disruptions as the local community contested the bidding process linked to a new operator. The legal battles continue as the tourism industry expresses concerns over local revenue allocation and operational monopolies.

Machu Picchu, the remains of a 15th Century Inca city, is Peru's most popular tourist destination, attracting over 1.6 million visitors each year. A recent row regarding the tourist buses that transport visitors to the iconic site has led to significant disruptions, including the evacuation of 1,400 tourists.

The conflict primarily involves Consettur, the company that has provided bus services for the last three decades, transporting around 4,500 people daily from the local town Aguas Calientes to the mountain-top ruins. Tourists must either take a bus, which is a short 20-minute journey, or endure a challenging two-hour walk to reach the historic site.

Cristian Alberto Caballero Chacón, Consettur's head of operations, acknowledged some recent unrest among various local communities. Following the expiration of Consettur's license, a rival company is poised to take over, which has led to protests and blocked railway lines, forcing authorities to step in and evacuate stranded travelers on special trains.

Despite the licensing conflicts, Consettur continues to operate, navigating legal challenges as local shareholders—including the district council—push back against the notion that the longstanding service is a monopoly.

Alongside the logistical issues, tourists have expressed frustrations over high train ticket prices to Aguas Calientes, which can cost between $140 to $2,000. Local community leaders are voicing concerns that only a small percentage of ticket sales benefits the area, with the majority directed to the central government.

The mayor of Aguas Calientes, Elvis La Torre, has called for a fairer distribution of tourism revenues to better support the local community. As negotiations and disputes continue, the future of transportation services to Machu Picchu hangs in the balance.