Peru: Machu Picchu cut off as rail and air services suspended again
James ChappleRail and air links serving Machu Picchu have been suspended again as political protests continue in southern Peru and capital Lima.
Cusco airport became the latest regional hub to cease operations on Thursday (12 January), the Foreign Office has confirmed.
Juliaca airport serving Peru’s Puno region shut on 6 January and Ayacucho on 10 January. "No date has been announced for the re-opening of these airports," the FCDO has warned.
Airports are also restricting access to those with a valid boarding pass.
In addition, rail service suspensions in the south of the country were on Thursday extended to the Ollantaytambo-Machu Picchu route.
"It is possible there could be further suspensions to services and disruption to travel in the Sacred Valley and any return to Cusco, so we advise visitors to check with travel providers in advance," said the FCDO, with Cusco being the gateway to the Unesco World Heritage site.
The FCDO is also continuing to warn travellers that travel to some parts of the country "may not be possible" owing to airport closures, road blockades and rail service suspensions.
A three-day night-time curfew in the Puno ended on Thursday.
On the protests, the FCDO said a new wave of unrest began on 4 January, spreading to other parts of the country. "These protests are unpredictable and can escalate quickly and include violence," it said.
"Be aware travel around the country may be difficult," the FCDO advice continues. "Plan for disruption and allow extra time to reach your destination. You should ensure you travel with a sufficient supply of food, water, cash in local currency and personal medication.
"You should liaise with your local airline, hotel or tour operator for further advice and assistance that they may provide to mitigate disruption, and for information on alternate arrangements that may need to be made for onward travel, including bus and rail journeys."
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