In recent days, train service to Machu Picchu has experienced several technical issues and delays, leading many travelers to wonder: Is taking the train to Machu Picchu still safe?
Because Machu Picchu is surrounded by steep mountains, building a direct road for vehicular traffic is not viable. As a result, the only ways to reach the citadel are by train from Ollantaytambo or on foot via the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, or other alternative trekking routes. Because of this unique access model, train operations receive close attention whenever disruptions occur.
Two main rail operators service the route connecting Cusco, Poroy, and Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu, as well as the route between Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) and Hydroelectric (Hidroeléctrica): PeruRail and Inca Rail. Recently, two separate incidents—including a mechanical failure and a track collision—temporarily halted services, causing delays and frustration for local residents and tourists alike.
Is It Safe to Travel by Train to Machu Picchu?
Yes, traveling by train to Machu Picchu remains safe. The recent service disruptions were caused by operational coordination issues between the two rail companies and track concessionaires. Steps are currently being taken to restore full confidence among travelers, travel agencies, and Inca Trail tour operators.
Here is a breakdown of what occurred during recent incidents involving the train operators in Cusco:
Train Services Suspended Following an Incident Between Inca Rail and PeruRail Units
Train circulation along the Ollantaytambo–Machu Picchu route was temporarily halted following an operational incident involving units from both Inca Rail and PeruRail near the Pampacahua sector.
The concessionaire, Ferrocarril Transandino S.A. (FTSA), suspended rail operations to allow safety evaluations and technical investigations to take place on the single track. Official statements confirmed that no passengers or crew members were injured, and no third parties were affected.
Delays and Rescheduling
PeruRail confirmed that one of its trains was involved in the incident and advised passengers of expected delays across scheduled departures. Affected users were directed to customer support lines for rebooking and assistance.
Inca Rail announced an immediate halt to its services between Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu Pueblo as directed by the track operator until track safety could be fully re-established.
Ongoing Investigation at Pampacahua
Technical teams from FTSA, alongside local authorities and rail operators, are assessing the scene to determine the exact circumstances of the event. Official announcements avoided using the term “collision” while technical reviews were underway. Full service resumed once official clearances confirmed safe operating conditions on the line.
Delays Due to Mechanical Issues Near Kilometer 88
In a separate event prior to the Pampacahua incident, a local PeruRail train suffered a mechanical failure near Kilometer 88 (Qoriwayrachina sector) on the Ollantaytambo–Machu Picchu stretch.
The breakdown left domestic and international passengers stranded for nearly four hours. Due to the delay in dispatching a replacement locomotive, passengers disembarked and demonstrated on the tracks, bringing all traffic along the single line to a complete standstill.
Operations resumed around 1:00 PM after PeruRail cleared the track and dispatched a replacement train. Local passengers and travel organizations have urged operating companies to improve regular maintenance procedures and implement faster contingency protocols to avoid future disruptions.