A scenic getaway turned into a nightmare in the Peruvian Andes after a tour bus carrying vacationers careened off a mountain road, killing at least nine people and leaving 15 others injured in a devastating crash.
The minibus, packed with roughly 25 tourists and guides, was traveling through rugged terrain near the towering 17,969-foot Rajuntay mountain when disaster struck. Authorities say the vehicle veered off the road and tumbled down a steep hillside, flipping over before coming to a stop.
Emergency crews rushed to the remote crash site about 10 miles from the popular trekking destination, where chaos unfolded. Images from the scene show the bus overturned, luggage and personal belongings scattered across the mountainside.
Peru’s Health Ministry confirmed the grim toll overnight, revealing that seven victims died at the scene, while two more succumbed to their injuries after being transported to nearby hospitals.
Fifteen survivors were rushed to multiple medical centers, with at least one person in critical condition. Victims were triaged on-site before being evacuated to facilities including the Hospital of Matucana and clinics in Casapalca.
Firefighters described a frantic rescue effort in difficult conditions.
“An emergency triage was immediately carried out to prioritize the most serious cases,” responders said, noting that victims were stabilized at the scene before transport.
The crash happened around 5 p.m. local time on a remote stretch of road known for its harsh terrain and limited infrastructure. Early reports suggest dense fog may have played a role, though an official investigation is now underway.
The route itself is considered treacherous — unpaved, narrow, and winding through high-altitude mountain passes — adding to the danger for vehicles navigating the area.
Officials have not yet confirmed the nationalities of the victims, leaving uncertainty over whether any foreign tourists were among the dead or injured.
The Rajuntay mountain region is a magnet for thrill-seekers and hikers, with many tours departing from Lima for overnight excursions. But the same breathtaking views that draw visitors also come with serious risks.
Now, what was meant to be an unforgettable adventure has turned into a deadly tragedy — and a stark reminder of the dangers lurking on some of the world’s most extreme travel routes.
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