El Niño's Soggy Shadow on Modern Pilgrimages The El Niño weather phenomenon has long been a force of nature in South America, bringing drought or deluge depending on the Pacific Ocean's whims.
In Peru, its latest iteration is disrupting carefully planned visits to Machu Picchu. This ancient Inca citadel has lured tourists and pilgrims with promises of spiritual rejuvenation amidst breathtaking landscapes.
However, El Niño rains have forced authorities to close access until further notice, not just disrupting scenic vistas but also highlighting a deeper issue: how we approach experiences like Machu Picchu.