American Hiker suffers fatal fall at Machu Picchu

A US citizen fell off a steep slope while approaching the sacred Inca site of Machu Picchu in Peru on January 1. She was near the end of her 4-day trek along the 26-mile Inca Trail. Details are not known at this time. These treks are usually guided with parties of several individuals. Most people go in groups that are escorted by skilled guides, although it is possible to do an independent trip if you have supplies. The trail is mostly paved with stones and is easy to follow.

The victim was identified as Rachel Cecilia Gian, 26. Her hometown has not been revealed. She fell while on the Intipunco portion of the hike, which is right near the end of the adventure approaching the archeological site. She fell off the main trail and it took over 5 hours for rescue workers to find her, due to the rough terrain and conditions. The village near the site is called “Aguas Calientes." The only way to get to Machu Picchu is by train or the hike. No roads go there. Machu Picchu was discovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham.

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, International Outdoor Adventure Examiner

Rick Deutsch has lived the Carpe Diem (Seize the day) lifestyle, enjoying adventure travel worldwide. He's explored many rewarding places including the Galapagos, Machu Picchu, the Great Wall, Mt. Fuji and the Pyramids – on every inhabited continent. He’s summited California's Mount Whitney,...

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