Why Book with Tunqui Expeditions

At Tunqui Expeditions, every journey begins with passion, experience, and a deep love for the Andes — values inspired and led by our founder, Silvio Tunqui.

Born and raised in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Silvio grew up surrounded by majestic mountains, ancient traditions, and the living legacy of his ancestors. His dream was to share the beauty of his homeland with the world — and to do so with authenticity, respect, and excellence. Today, that dream lives on in every trek we organize.

When you book with Tunqui Expeditions, you’re not just choosing a tour — you’re joining a family-run company built on integrity, expertise, and genuine hospitality. Silvio and his dedicated team personally ensure that every detail of your adventure is handled with care, from your first inquiry to your arrival at Machu Picchu’s Sun Gate.

Our guides are local professionals, certified in mountain safety and first aid, and trained to offer not only expert leadership but also meaningful cultural insights. Every trek we lead reflects Silvio Tunqui’s philosophy: travel with purpose, respect the Earth, and celebrate the Inca heritage that continues to inspire travelers from around the globe.

With Tunqui Expeditions, you don’t just walk the Inca Trail — you walk it with people who call it home.

The #1 Inca Trail Provider in Peru

Tunqui Expeditions proudly stands as the leading tour operator for the Inca Trail and other treks to Machu Picchu. Our reputation is built on exceptional service quality, deep local expertise, and an unwavering commitment to our team, travelers, and community.

The Inca Trail is one of the world’s most iconic trekking experiences — a journey that requires precise logistics, expert coordination, and genuine passion. At Tunqui Expeditions, our experienced team handles every detail, allowing you to focus entirely on what matters most: the breathtaking landscapes, ancient Inca ruins, and the personal journey that unfolds with every step.

Small groups, big experiences

We believe in offering a more personal and meaningful adventure. That’s why all our treks are conducted in small groups of up to 12 travelers.
This ensures individual attention, a close-knit group atmosphere, and the flexibility to move at a comfortable pace — all while minimizing our impact on the fragile Andean ecosystem.

Our small-group approach guarantees that your guide can truly connect with each traveler, share deeper insights about Inca culture, and provide the level of care and attention you deserve.

Fresh, organic meals on the Trail

Your journey deserves nourishment that matches the experience. Our professional mountain chefs prepare delicious, organic meals using locally sourced ingredients from the Sacred Valley.
Each dish is crafted to be nutritious, energizing, and flavorful, giving you the strength to conquer the trail while supporting sustainable agriculture and local farmers.

From warm quinoa breakfasts to freshly prepared Andean specialties, dining on the trail with Tunqui Expeditions is an experience in itself — authentic, healthy, and unforgettable.

100 % Local company – Local Staff – Local Owner – Local Operators

Tunqui Expeditions is a locally owned and operated company based in Cusco, Peru. Our office is just half a block from the main square, making it easily accessible. We never outsource our tours—even if we have a small group, we run it ourselves. Tours are never canceled unless a natural disaster occurs.

  • All our staff is from Cusco.
  • They are highly trained, responsible, and punctual, ensuring the best quality service.

Simple & clear booking system

Our easy-to-use booking system allows you to secure your tour effortlessly. You will receive a detailed invoice within 24 hours, clearly outlining your reservation. Our dedicated sales team is always ready to answer your questions.

Pre-trek briefing

Join us at our conveniently located Cusco office for a 45-minute trek briefing before your camping trek.

  • Time: 6:30 PM
  • Duration: 45 minutes
  • Led by: Your trekking guide
  • Purpose: Address last-minute questions & distribute duffel bags carried by porters.

Free duffel bags, Backpack covers, Ponchos,& Personal porter

Unlike most competitors, we do not charge extra for a personal porter. To ensure maximum comfort, we include this service at no additional cost.

  • We provide a duffel bag (7kg/15lb) for personal items.
  • Free backpack covers to keep your belongings dry.
  • Reusable rain ponchos to reduce waste.

Hotel-to-hotel service

We pick you up directly from your hotel before the trek and return you to your hotel afterward.

  • Exclusive service: No other company offers this!
  • Cusco’s narrow streets make transportation difficult, but we go the extra mile to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Incredible meals

From Day 1 breakfast to your last morning meal, we include delicious and healthy food.

  • We accommodate all dietary restrictions.
  • The only meal not included is the final lunch in Aguas Calientes after visiting Machu Picchu.

Well-paid staff

We take care of our team by offering fair wages so they can live comfortably.

  • Our guides, chefs, and porters are happy, dedicated, and proud of their work.

Porter welfare

Our porters have one of the toughest jobs on the Inca Trail. We ensure they receive:

  • Fair wages
  • Safe and comfortable sleeping accommodations in Cusco & soon in the Sacred Valley.
  • Free hiking gear, including:
    • Trekking belts
    • Boots
    • Warm jackets
    • Down sleeping bags
    • High-quality tents

Gender equality

Tourism is Cusco’s #1 industry, but many jobs have historically been limited to men.

  • We launched the Women’s Empowerment Initiative in 2018 with our first group of female porters.
  • By 2019, this number had grown fivefold, and we continue expanding.
  • We ensure a safe and comfortable work environment where men and women work side by side with mutual respect.

Premiun equipment

We provide high-quality gear to ensure maximum comfort:

  • Spacious Eureka tents (for 4 people but shared by only 2).
  • Therm-a-Rest air mattresses.
  • Black Diamond trekking poles.

Private portable toilets

Public toilets on the Inca Trail are often dirty and poorly maintained.

  • We provide eco-friendly portable toilets exclusively for our groups.
  • Available at breakfast, lunch, and dinner stops.

Satellite phones, oximeters & blood pressure monitors

We are the only company to carry these important safety devices on all our treks.

  • Satellite phones for emergency communication (or to call your family from the mountaintop!).
  • Oximeters & blood pressure monitors for altitude-related health checks.

Socially conscious

We care deeply about our community and environment.

  • We donate part of our revenue to social projects for our porters and their families.
  • We provide:
    • Medical & dental services.
    • Warm clothing and boots.
    • Fun activities & celebrations for children.
  • In 2023, we funded a full-time teacher to teach English, Literature, and Mathematics to 150 children in the Llullcha community.

Environmentally friendly

We always keep Pachamama (Mother Earth) in mind.

  • ZERO plastic use – everything is reusable & recyclable.
  • We conduct clean-up treks throughout the year.
  • We have planted over 10,000 queuña trees in 5+ villages in the Sacred Valley & Ausangate region.
    • Queuña trees protect soil & water in the mountains.

Firt aid kits

Our guides are highly trained in safety & emergency procedures.

  • Each guide carries a fully stocked first aid kit, including:
    • Prescription medications (as required by law).
    • Thermometers, oximeters, and blood pressure monitors.
    • Bandages and essential medical supplies.
  • We recommend bringing personal medication for added convenience.

1Oxygen tanks

Each guide carries a full oxygen tank.

  • At over 4,200m (13,800ft) altitude, breathing can become difficult, but we are always ready to help.

The best staff

Above all, what truly sets us apart is our passionate team:

  • Expert guides
  • Skilled chefs
  • Dedicated porters
  • Hardworking office staff
  • Fast & courteous drivers

We believe every question should be answered with a “yes” and a smile.

  • As the owner of Tunqui Expeditions, I am honored to work with such an incredible team.
  • Meeting travelers and learning from our clients is a privilege.
  • We love sharing stories of our ancestors and home with you!