Tragic Train Collision Near Machu Picchu Claims One Life, Leaves Many Injured

Wed Dec 31 2025 08:38:37 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A head-on collision between two tourist trains near Machu Picchu results in one death and over 40 injuries, prompting major rescue efforts in difficult terrain.

A tragic train collision near Machu Picchu in Peru has led to the death of the train driver and injuries to at least 40 passengers. The accident involved two trains operated by PeruRail and Inca Rail on the track linking Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Local authorities have mobilized multiple ambulances to transport the injured, with reports indicating that many tourists are stranded at the crash site due to challenging terrain. The cause of the incident remains unknown, and discussions about transportation provision to the UNESCO World Heritage site are ongoing.

A train driver has died and at least 40 people have been injured in a head-on rail collision near Peru's most popular tourist attraction, Machu Picchu.

Two trains collided on the single track leading to the ancient Inca town on Tuesday, according to a statement from the local government. It said that 20 ambulances had attended the scene and that injured people had been transferred to medical facilities in the nearby city of Cusco.

The US embassy in Peru confirmed that US citizens were among those injured in the crash, but authorities have yet to release any identities.

Local media outlet Peru21 reports that hundreds of tourists remain at the scene awaiting evacuation, which has been hampered by difficult terrain around the crash site. At least 20 of the injured are in critical condition, according to health officials.

The collision occurred on the track linking Ollantaytambo Station and Aguas Calientes, where the journey typically lasts around 90 minutes. The trains involved, operated by PeruRail and Inca Rail, collided due to unclear circumstances.

We deeply regret what has happened, stated PeruRail, noting that its personnel had provided immediate first aid to those affected.

This incident comes amid ongoing tensions between transport providers to Machu Picchu and local communities, who have raised concerns over the transparency of the bidding process for transport contracts. The lucrative tourist route to the site is often criticized for its steep ticket prices and accessibility issues.

Built in the Peruvian Andes in the 15th century, Machu Picchu is noted as one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World. It attracts many tourists who either take trains or hike along the Inca trail. Since 2011, daily caps on visitor numbers have been implemented to aid in preservation efforts, yet concerns about overtourism continue.