Australian Tourist Dies After 1,500-Foot Fall While Hiking Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

A hiking trip to one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites has ended in tragedy after an Australian tourist fell to his death while trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru.

The victim, identified as Matthew Paton, was found dead on Thursday evening local time after falling into a ravine during the challenging mountain hike.

Reports say the 52-year-old father of three fell between 400 and 500 metres (about 1,300 to 1,600 feet) on Wednesday afternoon while navigating a difficult section of the trail.

Paton was travelling with his wife on a long-planned trip to Peru, where he intended to complete the iconic 42-kilometre Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu, a world-famous Incan citadel.

The trail, which climbs to altitudes of about 4,200 metres (13,800 feet), is known for its steep terrain, narrow paths, and unpredictable weather conditions that often challenge even experienced hikers.

According to Victoria Police, where Paton served since 2009, he was deeply passionate about travel and exploring historical sites and cultures.

In a statement, the family described him as an adventurous man who had long dreamed of visiting Peru and had even learned Spanish in preparation for the journey.

They also expressed devastation over his death, calling the loss “shattered” and “surreal.”

“Everyone is bereft,” the family said, adding that he was “always up for an adventure.”

Victoria Police confirmed that his family members were travelling to Peru following the incident, as they come to terms with the tragedy.

Police leadership in Australia also paid tribute to Paton, with Chief Commissioner Mike Bush describing him as a “wonderful, caring person” whose loss has deeply affected colleagues.

Paton was reportedly preparing for a promotion to senior sergeant next month before the fatal accident occurred.

The Inca Trail remains one of South America’s most popular trekking routes, attracting thousands of tourists each year to Peru’s ancient ruins and mountainous landscapes.

Authorities have not yet released further details on the circumstances of the fall, and investigations are expected to continue.