Australian traveller dies after fall on Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

An Australian man has died after falling into a ravine while hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru, local authorities have confirmed.

Matthew Cameron Paton, 52, fell during a guided trek near the ‘50 Gradas’ section of the route, according to Peruvian police.

He was reported missing on Wednesday (20 May) after reportedly going over a broken section of railing while crossing a wooden bridge. His body was later recovered by mountain rescue teams approximately 300 metres down a steep slope.

According to the BBC, authorities in Cusco are currently investigating the circumstances of the fall. Early reports suggest he may have tripped before attempting to grab a deteriorated handrail, which then gave way.

The Inca Trail is one of South America’s most heavily travelled trekking routes, attracting thousands of international visitors each year.

However, sections of the route involve narrow paths, steep drops, and ageing infrastructure, particularly in remote areas where emergency response times can be limited.

Paton, who arrived in Cusco around 12 days before the incident with his wife, was hiking with a group of tourists and a guide at the time of the fall.

The incident adds to a growing number of fatal accidents involving travellers undertaking trekking, climbing, and adventure tourism activities in remote destinations, where pre-trip risk assessment, appropriate medical evacuation cover, and clear operator safety standards remain critical considerations for providers managing exposure to complex international claims.