Machu Picchu: Mexican tourist dies after suffering collapse

A 66-year-old Mexican tourist, identified as Álvaro Sánchez Pérez, died at the Machu Picchu archaeological site in the Cusco region of Peru on Friday, September 25. According to the Dirección Desconcentrada de Cultura de Cusco (DDC), the incident occurred around 09:25 local time while the visitor was taking photographs on a platform in the upper sector of the 'andenes' area, specifically on Route 2.

Park personnel provided immediate assistance and notified medical staff at the clinic located at the entrance of the citadel, as well as the Peruvian National Police. Following a medical evaluation, it was confirmed that the visitor showed no signs of life. The case has been referred to the Public Ministry for legal proceedings.

While the exact cause of the physical collapse has not been officially detailed, authorities noted that Machu Picchu sits at an altitude of 2,400 meters. At such elevations, tourists frequently experience altitude sickness, known locally as 'soroche,' which can lead to serious complications for individuals with underlying respiratory or cardiac conditions.