Disability and Accessibility in Cusco: perspective from a fit girl

As I’ve walked the streets of Cusco the past several days, tripping over uneven cobblestones and climbing up mismatched stairs, I’ve found myself complaining about how hard it is to get from point A to point B in comparison with my life in the U.S. I knew that this was an “athletically based” trip, but I thought that as an athlete as and someone who works out regularly, I wouldn't have any problems. But in Cusco, my body has been struggling to keep up with Cusco’s terrain— both urban and rural.

Now, this got me thinking. If I— a considerably fit individual— can have so much trouble navigating the streets of Cusco, what about those people who aren’t as physically fit? How do people with wheelchairs, crutches, other walking assistance or disabilities navigate the streets of Cusco? I noticed that I haven't seen any people with these conditions. But of course, they must exist. Disabilities are not limited to Europe and North America. So what do people with disabilities in Cusco do, then? I don't know. 

After a few Google searches, I learned that Peru is trying to become more accessible to those with disabilities– but is only targeting tourists. Since 2019, Machu Picchu claims to be wheelchair accessible. Moreover, tour group companies are beginning to advertise tours that are specifically for travelers with disabilities. While these are important and necessary measures, they are not nearly enough. Peru focuses more on accessibility for tourists than for its own citizens. Of course, this sin't surprising considering much of Peru's economy depends on tourism. But it is important that the citizens are getting the attention they need, too.

Peru has a long way to go, but it is a leader in accessibility programs in South America. I can only hope that it will lead other South American countries into becoming more accessible while becoming more accessible in itself.