An Australian man tragically lost his life while trekking the Inca Trail near Machu Picchu in Peru.
Local reports indicate that the 53-year-old, identified as Mathew Cameron Patron, suffered a fatal fall from the well-traveled tourist path at approximately 2 p.m. local time on Wednesday.
Patron reportedly plunged down a steep embankment ranging between 400 to 500 meters while navigating the trail.
The Decentralised Directorate of Culture of Cusco released a statement explaining that Patron was on the final stretch of the Inca Trail, specifically the Wiñaywayna to Intipunku portion, when he tumbled into a ravine at a spot known as “50 Steps.”
The “50 Steps” refer to a perilously steep series of stone stairs that lead to the Sun Gate ruins.
Travel guides note that this section is also called the “monkey steps” because hikers often need to ascend using their hands and feet.
Rescue teams immediately began a search operation in a difficult-to-access area following the incident.
Items were found that may belong to Patron, the Decentralised Directorate of Culture of Cusco said.
His body was found and retrieved in the rescue operation on Thursday.
Nine.com.au has contacted the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) for comment.
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