Peru’s political situation reached a peak this past week after the country’s president, Pedro Castillo, was impeached and arrested in Lima. As a result, a 30-day state of emergency has been declared across Peru and these recent events have already caused impacts on travel in Peru.

Political protesters blocked trains running to Cusco, the Andes city leading to one of the most-visited attractions in the world: Machu Picchu. Many travelers, including Americans, found themselves trapped at the historic site after protesters blocked the train tracks with rocks.

Machu Picchu’s Mayor Darwin Baca said, “We have asked the government to help us and establish helicopter flights in order to evacuate the tourists. The only way to get in and out of the town is by train, and these services are suspended until further notice.”

Baca confirmed American, European, Peruvian and South American travelers comprise those stuck at Machu Picchu awaiting a way out. Certain tourists’ situations are becoming more urgent, with some having run out of medication. The United States and American citizens stuck at Machu Picchu have a constant line of communication open. The exact number of American citizens trapped is unknown, but it is estimated around 300 tourists in total remain at the site.

A town that relies 100 percent on tourism, Machu Picchu continues to face problems from the protests. Mayor Baca reported the town now suffers from food shortages, calling on the Peruvian government to put an end to the protests.

As for air travel, flights resumed from Cusco’s Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport after being temporarily suspended. Airlines like LATAM continue to operate flights, but are keeping a close eye on the political situation in the country.

With more questions arising as to how the unrest may come to an end, many want to know how these recent events will affect future travel. The U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory for American citizens traveling in Peru, citing possible shutdowns of local roads, major highways and trains due to demonstrations. Giving Peru a level 3 advisory, the U.S. State Department urges those planning to visit Peru to reconsider travel. Access to public transportation and airports may also be interrupted as efforts continue to handle the social unrest.

Do you have a trip planned to Peru in 2023? Do you know someone currently in Peru? Have you experienced a similar situation during your travels? Tell us your thoughts. Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.