HUNDREDS of tourists have been left stranded at Machu Picchu during major protests that have ground transport to a halt.
The lifeline train from the world-famous tourist spot was stopped due to a protest, Peru’s tourism minister said.
APThe Machu Picchu archeological site sits devoid of tourists[/caption]
AFPPolice officers standing guard pose for a snapshot on the train tracks near Machu Picchu Pueblo[/caption]
This service was suspended on Monday due to “rocks of various sizes” blocking the route amid the demonstrations.
Protesters are objecting to a new bus company that has been commissioned in the area.
It all kicked off when the contract of Consettur, which runs the tour buses, had expired.
Those protesting have blasted a lack of “transparency and fairness” in the process of replacing the company.
A total of 1,400 tourists were evacuated from the historic Inca city on Monday, according to Tourism Minister Desilu Leon.
But this means around 900 people are still stranded in Aguas Calientes, according to reports.
The US Embassy in Peru has urged tourists to avoid large gatherings and demonstrations.
A spokesperson said: “Peruvian authorities have been evacuating tourists from Machu Picchu Pueblo/Aguas Calientes using land and rail routes, when possible.
“Travellers who still seek to visit Machu Picchu during this period despite the protests should be aware that transportation, access to the site, and access to other services may be further limited without prior notice.”
The protests started last week after the concession ended for Consettur.
PeruRail’s local unit said “third parties” have managed to evacuate part of its rail route.
Machu Picchu, a 15th-century Inca citadel, is one of Peru’s best known tourist attractions, and gets scores of visitors each year.
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sits nearly 8,000 high in the mountains.
The site was named one of the New 7 Wonders of the World in 2007.
Tourism remains a vital component of the country’s economy.
But campaign group New7Wonders has warned that this heritage could be in jeapordy.
In a letter to the Peruvian government, it warned that the conflict would threaten its status as one of the New Wonders of the World.
APTourists wait be evacuated from Ollantaytambo[/caption]
AFPTourists visit the ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu[/caption]