Tourism slump hits Bolivia, Argentina, Peru amid blockades and issues

In Bolivia, the cultural hub of Tiwanaku experienced a sharp drop in visitors during the Andean Amazonian New Year because of prolonged road blockades. Authorities said the downturn threatens about 90,000 jobs in tourism, gastronomy and culture and has caused tourism‑related losses exceeding 1,100 million bolivianos.

In Peru, the Association of Peruvian Tour Operators (APOTUR) reported that 35 % of complaints from 1.4 million international tourists relate to ticketing and access problems at Machu Picchu, while 26 % cite informality and service failures. The group called for modernized digital ticketing, stronger public‑private coordination and better infrastructure to protect the heritage site.

Peruvian officials also announced plans to increase Machu Picchu’s daily visitor capacity to 5,600 during the upcoming high season, aiming to manage demand more effectively.

In Argentina’s Catamarca province, recent data show fewer tourists, shorter stays and lower daily spending, pressuring hotels, restaurants, retailers and tourism‑linked employment amid wider national economic caution.