Travel insurer highlights health risks at major tourist landmarks

Travellers with pre-existing medical conditions may face significant accessibility and health challenges when visiting some of the world’s most popular tourist attractions, according to an assessment by travel insurance provider Total Travel Protection.

The insurer evaluated the New Seven Wonders of the World against several health-related considerations, including mobility restrictions, cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, sensory impairments, medication management, dietary sensitivities, and the effects of jet lag.

Italy’s Colosseum received the highest accessibility score of 90 out of 100, followed by India’s Taj Mahal (67) and Mexico’s Chichén Itzá (60).

At the other end of the rankings, Peru’s Machu Picchu scored 35, reflecting concerns around its high altitude, uneven terrain, and the physical demands of reaching the site.

Petra in Jordan (47) and the Great Wall of China (50) also ranked among the more challenging destinations, although accessibility varies considerably between individual routes and visitor facilities.

Sarah Finley, travel expert at Total Travel Protection, said travellers should consider factors beyond the attractions themselves, including journey times, local temperatures, and the availability of accessible transport.

For example, visitors to Christ the Redeemer in Brazil may face additional difficulties due to scheduled escalator maintenance, which is expected to continue until May 2027 and requires visitors to negotiate approximately 80 steps.

Dr Ellen Welch, an NHS GP and medical expert at Total Travel Protection, added: “Being prepared with enough medication, food you enjoy, and a plan for any mobility restrictions is essential when travelling, especially to more remote or busy locations.”

Dr Welch also recommended allowing sufficient time to acclimatise at higher altitudes and seeking medical advice before departure.

The findings follow recent research from Travel Guard highlighting the importance of accessible travel information, with 40% of respondents reporting that accessibility concerns had deterred them from visiting a destination.