Machu Picchu: Finally Accessible for Everyone
Machu Picchu has long been a prominent tourist destination; however, it was largely inaccessible to individuals using wheelchairs until recently. In January 2019, the travel company Wheel the World proudly introduced its first-ever wheelchair-accessible tour of this ancient historical site in Peru. Consequently, they aim to offer these tours to a wider audience.
Founded by friends Alvaro Silberstein and Camilo Navarro, Insider reports that Silberstein, who uses a wheelchair, teamed up with Navarro to create opportunities for people with disabilities to explore the world without limitations. Their company is dedicated to providing tours tailored for individuals with disabilities, along with their friends and family.
According to Navarro, “There are one billion people [in the world] with disabilities,” highlighting the need for accessible travel options. He summed up the situation by stating, “But there’s not one main travel company dedicated to these users.”
To facilitate these tours, Wheel the World employs specially designed foldable wheelchairs. As Navarro explained, “These wheelchairs are crafted with only one wheel and two long sticks, resembling a wheelbarrow. The frame is a mix of steel and aluminum, much like a bicycle, making them lightweight and portable.”
However, it’s notable that this innovative wheelchair is not self-propelled, meaning that a travel companion must assist in navigating through the breathtaking Incan site.
In order to keep costs manageable, Wheel the World collaborates with individuals and organizations to acquire and store wheelchairs in diverse locations around the globe. This initiative allows travelers to access the equipment without extra costs or logistical challenges related to transportation.
According to Wheel the World’s official website, a multi-day tour to Machu Picchu is priced starting at $1,490. This comprehensive package includes accommodations, meals, transportation, and wheelchair equipment, although flight costs are not included. Notably, this price aligns with what an able-bodied traveler might expect for a comparable tour of this iconic site.
The debut of full tours for Machu Picchu is slated to commence in March. For those who seek additional travel options, Wheel the World extends its offerings to various locations in Chile and Mexico, with plans for further expansion in the near future.
