My name is Silvio Tunqui, founder and lead tour guide of Tunqui Expeditions. I proudly built this company from the ground up with the support of my parents. I am a local tour operator based in Cusco, and in 2025, Tunqui Expeditions became an officially authorized Inca Trail operator.
Although we are a young company, my journey in tourism began long before that. Since 2017, while studying at a tourism institute in Cusco, I worked my way through the industry. My first experience came at a very young age, accompanying my father as a porter on the Inca Trail for over two years with prestigious international companies such as G Adventures and Intrepid Travel, gaining valuable experience operating the Inca Trail at a high level. That experience shaped my understanding of the real conditions behind tourism.
Thanks to my dedication and initiative, I transitioned into office roles within a travel agency, working in operations, reservations, and as a guide assistant. After completing my studies, I became a fully certified professional tour guide.
During my years of training, I also worked in hotels in Cusco, where I strengthened my language skills, customer service, and my ability to truly understand travelers’ needs and expectations.
As I continued working as a guide on the most iconic routes to Machu Picchu, I began to notice something that deeply concerned me. Many companies prioritized profit over people. Porters were often not treated with the respect they deserved, and during high season, some groups were too large—sometimes exceeding 16 passengers—leading to poor service, limited food, and overcrowded campsites that were not designed for such numbers.
From my experience, I learned that the Inca Trail does not require large groups to be successful. In fact, the best experiences happen in small groups. A group of up to 8 travelers with 2 expert guides allows for better attention, safety, and flexibility. For example, if a traveler becomes unwell, one guide can assist them back while the other continues safely with the group toward Machu Picchu.
This vision inspired me to create something different.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we focus on quality over quantity:
We truly believe that small details make a big difference. Smaller groups allow us to deliver a much higher level of care, connection, and overall experience.
I founded Tunqui Expeditions to offer something more meaningful than a typical tour. Our goal is to create experiences that connect travelers with nature, culture, and local communities in a genuine way.
We want our guests not only to visit Peru, but to truly experience the richness of Andean culture, spirituality, and traditions—while also enjoying the incredible diversity of Peruvian gastronomy.
We are also deeply committed to sustainability and community support. We organize clean-up campaigns, reforestation initiatives, and provide school supplies and books to children in local Andean communities. We believe that tourism should create a positive impact and contribute to the future of our people.
I come from the Andean community of Poques, located at 4,000 meters above sea level in the Cusco region. My roots are deeply connected to the mountains, the traditions, and the spirit of this land.
I began by offering authentic experiences in my local community of Poques, where my mother raises llamas and alpacas. This was the true beginning of my vision—sharing real Andean life with travelers. At the same time, I created my own website, specializing in trekking experiences to Machu Picchu, combining my family’s deep connection to the Inca Trail as porters and chefs with my professional experience in tourism.
In 2026, we officially began operating treks to Machu Picchu, with a clear goal: to provide high-quality service through sustainable and responsible travel—guided by our motto, THE REAL GREEN ADVENTURE.
One of our most special experiences is the Hike with Llamas and Alpacas, where travelers can visit my community, meet my family, and connect with our traditions. This full-day experience includes hotel pickup from Cusco or the Sacred Valley, a scenic hike alongside llamas and alpacas, and a traditional local gastronomy experience, including cuy al palo.
This is how Tunqui Expeditions was born—a dream rooted in family, culture, and a deep respect for nature. 💚
Tunqui Expeditions is more than a company—it is a dream, a responsibility, and a commitment to doing tourism the right way.
And this is only the beginning. 💚
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