Each step you take on the Inca Trail is made possible by the incredible dedication and strength of our porters. These men, many of whom come from small highland communities in the Sacred Valley, are the true heroes of the journey. Without them, the experience of trekking to Machu Picchu would not be possible. They carry tents, cooking supplies, food, and equipment—sometimes up to 25 kg—all while navigating steep and rugged terrain with remarkable speed and endurance.
But our porters are more than just carriers. They are guardians of their culture, storytellers, and natural-born mountaineers who have walked these trails since childhood. Their deep knowledge of the Andean landscape, the weather, and traditional Quechua customs adds a rich and authentic layer to every trek. Many of them speak Quechua as their first language, and some are now learning English to better connect with our visitors and share their unique perspectives.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we are deeply committed to fair treatment and respect for our porters. That means we provide them with proper clothing, quality footwear, warm sleeping bags, and nutritious meals—just like what we offer our guests. We also ensure they are paid fairly and on time, with wages that reflect the importance of their role and the challenging nature of their work. Our goal is not only to support them during the trek but to help them improve their lives and those of their families back home.
We are proud to follow and exceed ethical guidelines established for porter welfare. In addition to fair compensation, we rotate shifts to prevent overwork and prioritize health and safety on every expedition. Many of our porters return year after year because they trust Tunqui Expeditions to treat them with dignity and care. Some have even been with us since the beginning, becoming leaders and mentors for younger members of the team.
Over the years, we’ve seen porters rise through the ranks—starting as assistants and becoming chefs, guides, or even trip coordinators. We actively encourage this growth, offering training and support for those who want to build a long-term career in tourism. By choosing Tunqui Expeditions, you’re not only supporting sustainable travel but directly contributing to the development of these hardworking men and their families.
When you trek with us, we invite you to get to know our porters. Share stories, laugh together, and witness their incredible spirit firsthand. Many of our travelers tell us that connecting with the porters was one of the most meaningful parts of their journey. After all, reaching Machu Picchu is not just about the destination—it’s about the people who help you get there.
Our porters come from generations of highland families who have lived in harmony with the Andes for centuries. Their deep connection with nature, Pachamama (Mother Earth), and the sacred Apus (mountain spirits) is part of their daily life. This spiritual bond gives them a profound respect for the land we walk on, and they carry this respect into every step of the journey. As you trek alongside them, you’ll notice their quiet reverence for the mountains—and perhaps feel inspired to walk more mindfully yourself.
Being a porter is not just a job; it’s a proud tradition that’s passed down through families. Fathers often bring their sons along to learn the value of hard work, responsibility, and teamwork. It’s common to see young men joining the team, full of energy and eager to contribute, while older porters share their wisdom and experience. This generational exchange keeps the spirit of the Inca Trail alive and thriving.
While trekkers sleep under the stars or enjoy their meals, our porters are already preparing for the next stage of the hike. They rise before dawn, pack up camp in record time, and reach the next site ahead of the group to ensure everything is ready. Their discipline and coordination are unmatched. Everything runs smoothly thanks to their careful planning and relentless effort, often invisible but always essential.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we don’t just talk about responsibility—we live it. We are part of a growing movement in Peru that promotes ethical tourism practices. We strictly follow government regulations and participate in porter welfare initiatives. This includes limiting the weight each porter carries, ensuring access to medical care during treks, and providing insurance coverage for every member of our porter team. When you hike with us, you’re joining a journey that values people just as much as the destination.
We believe that knowing who’s behind your experience adds meaning to your adventure. That’s why we make time during the trek for you to meet our porters, hear their names, learn about where they’re from, and understand what motivates them. Many guests leave the Inca Trail with not just photos and memories, but lasting friendships and deep admiration for these unsung heroes.
Our porters often express how grateful they are for kind and respectful trekkers. A smile, a thank you, or simply recognizing their work can go a long way. We encourage our guests to take part in our porter appreciation moments at camp—whether it’s sharing a coca tea, taking a group photo, or participating in our traditional farewell ceremony on the last day. These small gestures create moments of real human connection that are remembered long after the trek ends.
