Weather disruptions and labor safety concerns in Cusco

Intense rainfall and a High-Level Isolated Depression (Dana) caused severe weather conditions in the Cusco region of Peru, leading to the temporary suspension of the Inca Trail network at Machu Picchu. The heavy rains triggered landslides, flooding, soil erosion, and damage to sanitary services across multiple sectors, including Llulluchapampa, Ayapata, Paqaymayu Alto, Soqtacocha, Yuncachimpa, Qonchamarka, Wayllabamba, Pawkarcancha, Cusichaka, Phuyupatamarka, and Wiñaywayna.

The Dirección Desconcentrada de Cultura (DDC) of Cusco suspended access to the trail effective August 19, ordering the return of tourists who entered on August 18 and prohibiting new entries. Authorities have evaluated alternative routes through kilometer 104 in Chachabamba and kilometer 106 in Choquesuysuy to assist those returning.

The weather conditions resulted in fatalities among tourism workers. Following the death of 49-year-old porter Gabriel Ríos Mamani at an altitude of 4,210 meters, the Public Prosecutor's Office has opened an investigation into potential crimes regarding the abandonment of a person in danger. His family alleges he was abandoned by his agency, Alpaca Expeditions, while luggage recovery was prioritized.

In response to these tragedies, the Ministry of Culture and the National Service of Natural Protected Areas (Sernanp) are facing pressure to demand stricter oversight. Regional officials are seeking technical meetings to restructure inspections and ensure compliance with safety and labor regulations, noting that alcoholism among support staff has also been identified as a significant risk factor on the route.