18:19 | Cusco (Cusco region), Mar. 24.
Heavy rain fell at the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu early on Friday, triggering a mudslide on a secondary stretch of the path between Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna archaeological monuments.
The pathway goes from the valley floor to the mountain as it passes through a deep gorge, where the piece of land collapsed affecting a 20-meter stretch.
Emergency teams at the Decentralized Culture Directorate of Cusco (DDCC) have been deployed to the area to undertake restoration works along the pre-Hispanic trail.
According to Fernando Astete, head of the Machu Picchu National Archaeological Park, the incident does not affect the inflow of tourists along Machu Picchu's Inca Road System.
"The main road starting at Piscacucho is in good conditions, and visitors are now on a normal three-day trek," the official stated.
An alternate route has been set up for those travelling to Wiñaywayna. Once there, travelers can then head to the llaqta in Machu Picchu.
It should be noted visitor traffic has been suspended on the affected stretch while restoration works are carried out.
"A team of geologists will assess the mudslide-affected area to determine the real geological situation of the place," archaeologist Francisco Huarcaya affirmed.
(END) PHS/MAO/RMB/MVB
Published: 3/24/2017