Why Book with Tunqui Expeditions

Why Book with Tunqui Expeditions?

1. NUMBER ONE INCA TRAIL PROVIDER IN PERU

Tunqui Expeditions is the #1 tour operator for all treks leading to Machu Picchu, especially the Inca Trail. This is due to the superior quality of our service and our unwavering dedication to our team and community. The Inca Trail requires extensive logistics, all handled by our expert team so you can focus on the breathtaking views and your journey.

2. 100% LOCAL COMPANY – LOCAL STAFF, LOCAL OWNERS, 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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

10. 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.

11. PREMIUM 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.

12. 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.

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. 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.

16. FIRST 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.

17. OXYGEN 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.

18. 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!