While violent protests continue to spread across much of Peru, the country’s government has reopened Machu Picchu.
In a statement on Twitter, Peru’s Ministry of Culture announced that the Inca citadel, which dates back to the 15th century, would reopen. Then Andina, Peru’s News Agency, confirmed that Machu Picchu would reopen on February 15, offering “the same conditions, schedules, and routes that were established before its closure.”
The violent protests demanding the resignation of President Dina Boluarte began in December. That’s when former President Pedro Castillo was impeached and sent to prison for trying to dissolve the country’s congress.
Machu Picchu was closed last month after protests neared the site. At one point, 417 visitors, 300 of whom were foreigners, had been stranded there. Fortunately, they were all evacuated safely.
Machu Picchu’s reopening comes after agreements were reached among authorities, social groups, and the local tourism industry to guarantee the site’s security as well as that of transportation services. Specifically, the reopening “responds to the need for supporting dialogue and peace, in the context of coordinated efforts between authorities and the population,” according to Andina.
None of this means that the protests, which have led to 60 deaths so far, are over. Indeed, the protests in Cusco and Lima continue, and have also spread to other parts of the country. Protesters frequently block roads, disrupt train service, and cause airports to suspend service.
The governments of Peru and the U.S. have issued warnings for tourists of both countries traveling through Peru.
If you’re planning a trip to Peru, here’s what you need to know about traveling safely.
Tourist Protection Network
If you are traveling, or plan to travel to Peru, the good news is that the country’s government has created what’s known as the Tourist Protection Network so national and foreign tourists can travel safely through Peru, according to the Government of Peru.
The foundation of this network is a collection of tourist corridors in Lima, as well as in the north and south of Peru. There are eight corridors that connect airports to historic centers in cities like Cusco, Arequipa, Puno, and Tacna.
These roads have a system of surveillance cameras monitored by the Peruvian National Police as well as local police. The roads are also routinely patrolled by both national and municipal police.
Know Before You Go
If you plan on traveling to Peru, keep in mind that the U.S. State Department has issued a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” advisory for Peru.
“Crime, including petty theft, carjackings, muggings, assaults, and other violent crime, is common in Peru and can occur during daylight hours despite the presence of many witnesses,” the State Department explains.
The ongoing demonstrations and protests may “cause the shutdown of local roads, trains, and major highways, often without prior notice or estimated reopening timelines,” the State Department continues. “Road closures may significantly reduce access to public transportation and airports and may disrupt travel both within and between cities.”
Americans in Peru who become stranded or require assistance can call the U.S. Embassy in Lima.
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