Breaking News: Horrific Train Crash Near Machu Picchu Between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes Kills 1, Injures Over Forty Including US Citizens

Published on December 31, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

A head‑on train collision on the rail line between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) has left one person dead and at least 40 injured, including US citizens, as holiday travelers were en route to the famed Inca citadel. The crash occurred on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, during peak holiday travel season and has triggered transportation alerts and the suspension of all rail traffic on the critical route to Machu Picchu, Peru’s top tourist draw.

What Happened?

According to official reports from the U.S. Embassy in Lima, PeruRail, and the Peruvian Ministry of Transport (MTC), the collision occurred at approximately 1:20 p.m. local time in the Pampacahua sector (kilometer 94), along the single‑track rail line that serves travelers between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).

The crash involved two passenger trains — one operated by PeruRail and the other by Inca Rail — resulting in a head‑on collision as both were transiting in opposite directions. The accident site lies in a rugged Andean section near Qoriwayrachina, a point on the route that has no direct roads and thus required ambulances and emergency crews to reach victims over difficult terrain.

Authorities are now investigating whether a signaling or dispatch system failure was involved, with formal inquiries underway by Peruvian prosecutors and transport investigators. The U.S. Embassy has warned U.S. citizens to remain away from the crash area and coordinate travel changes with airlines and tour operators.

Who is Affected?

Emergency and official reports confirm:

• Fatalities: One death — a railway conductor — was confirmed by the Cusco prosecutor’s office as a result of the collision.
• Injured: At least 40 people were injured, ranging from minor to serious conditions.
• Nationalities: Among the injured are U.S. citizens and reports also indicate Chinese nationals are receiving treatment in specialized clinics in Cusco.
• Tourists and Locals: The majority of those affected were travelers — many foreign tourists visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site — alongside train crew members.

Casualties and Injuries:

• Fatalities: One railway conductor has been confirmed dead in the collision.
• Injured: At least 40 individuals have been injured, including passengers and train staff. Among the injured are U.S. citizens and Chinese nationals.
• Medical Assistance: The injured have been transferred to specialized clinics in Cusco for treatment, and emergency responders continue to assess the situation.

Where Did the Incident Occur?

The crash occurred on the rail line connecting Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), an area frequented by travelers heading to the Machu Picchu archaeological site. The Pampacahua sector, located at kilometer 94, is a critical part of the rail corridor that transports tourists to the ancient Inca site, making this incident particularly impactful for Peru’s tourism industry.

This route is served by two major operators—PeruRail and Inca Rail—who provide regular services for travelers visiting Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

When Did the Crash Happen?

The crash occurred on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at approximately 1:20 p.m. local time. The time of the crash coincides with the peak holiday season in Peru, meaning the disruption has affected many international visitors who had plans to visit Machu Picchu during the holidays.

How Are Travelers and Tourists Being Affected?

The suspension of rail services between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes has caused significant disruption, especially during the high tourist season. The suspension is expected to remain in place until investigations are completed and it is determined when and how services can resume.

Travelers currently in the area or planning to visit Machu Picchu are advised to take the following steps:

1. Contact Rail Service Providers: Travelers who had tickets for trains operating along the Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes route should immediately contact PeruRail or Inca Rail to inquire about alternative arrangements, including rescheduling or refund options.
2. Reach Out to iPerú: For emergency assistance, travelers should use the iPerú emergency line at +51 944-492-314. This line is available for all travelers requiring support, including those needing assistance with alternative transport or medical inquiries.
3. Consult with Travel Agencies: Travelers are encouraged to consult their tour operators or travel agencies for guidance and to adjust their plans as necessary.
4. Avoid the Area: The U.S. Embassy has advised U.S. citizens to avoid the crash site and nearby areas for their safety and to follow any instructions provided by local authorities.
5. Monitor Official Communications: Travelers should continue to monitor official sources, including iPerú, the U.S. Embassy, and rail operators for updates regarding the resumption of services and any changes to travel advisories.

What Are the Official Responses to the Incident?

Investigation Underway

The Peruvian Ministry of Transport (MTC), in conjunction with PeruRail, Inca Rail, and local authorities, is conducting a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash. Early reports suggest that a signaling or dispatch failure may have been a factor, but further details will be released once the investigation concludes.

Rail Traffic Suspended

As of December 31, 2025, all rail operations between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes have been suspended until further notice. This suspension is part of the investigation process, and no estimate has been provided for when services will resume. Passengers planning travel to Machu Picchu are urged to make alternative arrangements and keep in touch with their service providers for updates.

Emergency Assistance

For those requiring assistance, iPerú continues to offer support to both injured and uninjured travelers. The emergency line +51 944-492-314 is available for inquiries and assistance, and travelers are encouraged to use it for urgent matters.

Travel Advisory

The U.S. Embassy has issued a Transportation Alert, urging U.S. citizens to avoid the area near the crash site. The embassy also recommends that travelers coordinate with their airlines or tour operators for alternative departure plans from Cusco, given the disruption to local travel infrastructure.

Conclusion:

The train collision between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes on December 30, 2025, has resulted in tragic consequences, with one fatality and at least 40 injuries, including U.S. citizens. Rail services on this critical route have been suspended as investigations continue.

Travelers in the area or planning to travel to Machu Picchu are urged to stay informed through official channels like iPerú and the U.S. Embassy, and to contact their service providers for updates on alternative arrangements. The authorities are working diligently to resolve the situation, but the impact on Peru’s tourism infrastructure, especially during the peak season, is significant.

For anyone affected, iPerú remains the central point for assistance, and travelers are advised to act quickly to adjust their plans accordingly.

This article is based on official reports from the U.S. Embassy in Lima, PeruRail, the Peruvian Ministry of Transport (MTC), and iPerú, ensuring accuracy and timeliness of the information.