Two tourist trains traveling to and from Peru’s world-famous site Machu Picchu crashed on Tuesday. The accident left at least one person dead and around 30 passengers injured.
The trains were carrying tourists who were either going to or returning from the ancient Inca city, which is one of South America’s biggest tourist attractions.
Railway Worker Killed, Services Suspended
Police confirmed that the person who died was a railway worker. Jhonathan Castillo Gonzalez, a captain with the Cuzco police department, told the Associated Press that railway services on the route between Machu Picchu and the nearby city of Cuzco were stopped after the crash.
The suspension was announced to ensure safety and allow rescue and investigation work to take place.
How the Crash Happened
According to the railway company, one train coming from Machu Picchu ran into another train that was heading toward the site. The collision happened in the early afternoon near Qoriwayrachina, which is also an archaeological area.
At this time, authorities have not shared any clear explanation for what caused the two trains to crash.
Rescue Teams Rush to Remote Location
The crash occurred in a remote Andean area that does not have direct road access. Because of this, rescue operations were challenging.
Around a dozen ambulances and medical teams were sent to the scene to treat and transport injured passengers to hospitals.
Scenes of Heavy Damage
Videos shared by local media showed damaged train cars stuck on the tracks. Several coaches had broken windows and dented sides. The trains were seen trapped between thick forest and a large rock wall, showing the force of the collision.
Two trains collided head-on along the rail route leading to Machu Picchu, killing a railroad worker and injuring dozens of people — including U.S. citizens.
The crash occurred between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, the primary transportation corridor for tourists visiting… pic.twitter.com/lhtUNWbBKW
— Steven Latham (@wienerdogwifi) December 31, 2025
Why Machu Picchu Is So Important
Machu Picchu has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. The tourism ministry says it welcomes about 4,500 visitors every day, many of whom are from other countries.
The ancient city is famous for its perfectly fitting stone bricks and was built in the 15th century by the Incas as a special place for their emperors.
Tourism Has Grown but Faces Challenges
Nearly 1.5 million people visit Machu Picchu every year, mostly arriving by train through the town of Aguas Calientes. Over the past decade, tourist numbers have increased by about 25%.
However, political unrest and arguments over how the site should be managed have sometimes affected tourism. In the past, protesters have blocked the railway line that leads to the historic site.
Also Read: Mystery In The Clouds: 1,000-Year-Old Amazonian Relics Unearthed In Peru Hints At Lost Civilization
Other Ways to Reach the Site
Apart from traveling by train, Machu Picchu can also be reached on foot. Visitors can begin their journey from the small town of Ollantaytambo.
The trek takes about four days and is popular among adventure travelers who want to reach the site by hiking through the mountains.
