Machu Picchu opens for one stranded tourist

Posted on 13 October 2020

A Japanese tourist who had been waiting months was given special permission to enter Machu Picchu by the Peruvian government.

‘The first person on Earth who went to Machu Picchu since the lockdown is meeeeeee,’ Jesse Katayama exclaimed on Instagram.

 

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The popular tourist site has been closed since March as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

This incredible opportunity didn’t come without sacrifice however. Katayama was stranded in the town of Aguas Calientes in mid-March because of coronavirus travel regulations. He had initially only intended to spend three days in the country and visiting their sites.

Speaking to a local newspaper, he told them about how he came to be stuck in this small town. The story was seen by the local tourism authority who agreed to give him special permission to visit the Inca city.

This is also a great prelude for the local tourism industry, as the famous site is planned to be opened again in November to a reduced number of visitors. Only 30% of the previous number will be allowed and strict social distancing rules will be adhered to.

‘I thought that I wouldn’t be able to go, but thanks to all of you who pleaded with the mayor and the government, I was given this super special opportunity,’ he wrote on his Instagram account.

Picture: Jesse Katayama/ Instagram






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