Machu Picchu will reopen on Wednesday (15 February), a move welcomed by Lata chief executive Danny Callaghan and also Martin Johnson, director of Latin America specialist operator Latin Routes.
Callaghan said his confidence in the development had been boosted by Lata member Amazonas Explorer reporting some tourists had already made their way to the landmark prior to the official reopening.
"Cusco and the Sacred Valley are now fully open, as is Lima, coastal regions, northern Peru, Arequipa and the Colca Canyon," said Callaghan.
"Inca Rail has announced their Ollantaytambo-Machu Picchu and Machu Picchu-Hidro-Electrica services have resumed, currently at reduced frequency, but with PeruRail expected to be running all services normally by Monday 20 February."
The Foreign Office updated its travel advice on Monday (13 February) to reflect the changes, with a whole section dedicated to the political situation in Peru.
The current wave of political protesting in Peru got under way in early December following the ousting of president Pedro Castillo, and has at times seen largely swathes of Peru’s transport network come to a near-complete standstill.
Only capital Lima’s airport has operated throughout, with those in Cusco, Arequipa and Puno all experiencing closures, while rail services around the country – particularly to and from Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu – frequently disrupted.
Callaghan continued: "While there are still some sporadic roadblocks and reduced air services, this is a big step forward towards a return to normal tourism services.
"We would suggest operators build a little flexibility into itineraries for now, but if clients are travelling with a decent DMC in Peru, they will have a great holiday and see the key sights with no problems. Inca Trail passes for April and May are selling fast, so clients need to get booked up."
Johnson added it was great to see the protests in the country calm down. "Although a little flexibility is still needed in order to make adjustments to some clients’ holiday itineraries, we are confident clients can enjoy a great holiday to Peru and see the incredible regions and amazing attractions it offers.
"We will continue to closely monitor the situation, and hope the people of Peru can find an amicable resolution to the current political situation."
