Our Story
BORN IN THE MOUNTAINS. BUILT BY EXPERIENCE.
Some journeys begin with a destination. Ours began with the mountains. In the Sacred Valley of the Incas, our story began with Daniel, a Quechua man who grew up amid the Andes, its traditions, and its communities. At 18, he began working as a porter on the Inca Trail while studying tourism in Cusco. At 21, he became a licensed guide and discovered that the most meaningful journeys are not only about places but also about people, connection, culture, and shared experiences. That belief became the foundation of Peru Hikers.Today, we continue to share Peru through the eyes of those who call it home, creating small-group, authentic, and responsible journeys supported by a dedicated local team. From the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu and the great trails of the Andes, our roots remain at the heart of everything we do
If you give, you get.
PERU HIKERS
Local Roots. Exceptional Guides. Journeys That Change You
HIS JOURNEY
Quechua Roots → Inca Trail Porter → Licensed Guide → Bolivia Experience → Best CEO Recognition → Founder of Peru Hikers
MEET THE FOUNDER
FROM THE SACRED VALLEY. SHAPED BY EXPERIENCE.
Daniel is a Quechua man from the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a licensed tour guide, and the founder of Peru Hikers.His journey in tourism began at just 18 years old, when he worked as a porter on the Inca Trail while studying tourism in Cusco. Working in the mountains gave him a firsthand understanding of the trails, the people behind every journey, and the dedication required to create meaningful travel experiences.At 21, Daniel became a licensed tour guide and began sharing his knowledge of Peru with travelers from around the world. Over the years, his professional journey also took him to Bolivia, where he gained experience in Andean tourism and broadened his understanding of the region.His dedication and leadership were later recognized with an opportunity to travel to Canada, where he was recognized as a Best CEO. The experience gave him the opportunity to connect with people from different cultures, exchange ideas, and gain a broader perspective on international tourism, leadership, and hospitality.These experiences helped shape his vision for Peru Hikers: a company rooted in local knowledge, genuine hospitality, and authentic experiences.For Daniel, Peru is more than a destination. It is home, heritage, and a way of life.Inspired by his Quechua roots and a deep respect for Pachamama — Mother Earth, he believes that travel should go beyond sightseeing. It should create connections, support local communities, respect the land, and give travelers the opportunity to experience Peru through the eyes of people who call it home.Today, Daniel continues to lead Peru Hikers with the same spirit that started his journey — sharing the Andes, connecting cultures, and creating journeys that stay with travelers long after they return home.
HIS JOURNEY
Quechua Roots
Raised in a high-altitude Andean community, learning sacred mountain traditions, ancestral languages, and deep respect for Mother Earth from an early age.
Inca Trail Porter
Beginning the trail journey from the ground up. Mastering the physically demanding work of the mountain crew, fostering a lifelong devotion to porter welfare.
Licensed Guide
Completing rigorous academic training in tourism, Andean archeology, local history, ecology, and professional high-altitude wilderness first aid.
Bolivia Experience
Broadening mountaineering expertise across borders, guiding challenging high-altitude ascents across Bolivia's rugged Cordillera Real.
Best CEO Recognition
Earning outstanding leadership recognition for eco-tourism development, authentic hospitality practices, and maintaining the region's best team working conditions.
Founder of Peru Hikers
Establishing a premier, locally-owned agency dedicated to empowering local native guides, supporting mountain communities, and curating life-changing expeditions.
MEET OUR TEAM
MEET THE ELITE INCA WARRIORS. THE PEOPLE BEHIND YOUR JOURNEY
Our team comprises certified wilderness first responders, native Quechua guides, and master culinary camp chefs who call the High Andes their home. Born and raised in communities along the Classic Inca Trail, they carry generations of mountain wisdom, oral history, and deep-rooted respect for Pachamama (Mother Earth). When you trek with us, you are guided by the true guardians of these sacred paths.
The Pillars of Our Journeys
MEET OUR TEAM
MEET THE ELITE INCA WARRIORS. THE PEOPLE BEHIND YOUR JOURNEY
Every unforgettable journey through the Andes has a team behind it. At Peru Hikers, our trekking and travel team is proudly known as the Elite Inca Warriors — a dedicated group of local professionals who bring experience, knowledge, strength, and genuine hospitality to every journey. The name Elite Inca Warriors represents more than physical strength; it reflects the spirit of the people who work behind every adventure: commitment, resilience, teamwork, respect for the mountains, and pride in our Andean heritage. From the first preparation before your trek to the final moments of your journey, our team works together to make your experience safe, comfortable, personal, and memorable.
OUR GUIDES
YOUR LOCAL CONNECTION TO PERU
Our guides are the heart of the traveler experience. Many have spent years exploring the trails, archaeological sites, communities, and mountains of the Cusco region. They don't simply lead the way — they interpret the landscape, explain the history, share local traditions, and help you understand Peru beyond what you see in a guidebook. A Peru Hikers guide knows when to slow the pace, when to encourage you, and when to simply let you enjoy the moment. Whether you're walking the Inca Trail, Salkantay, or Lares, exploring the Sacred Valley, or discovering Machu Picchu, our guides bring together professional knowledge and local perspective. They are your hosts, storytellers, problem-solvers, and companions along the way. Their mission: to help you experience Peru through local eyes.
OUR PORTERS
THE STRENGTH BEHIND THE TREK
Our porters are an essential part of the Elite Inca Warriors and among the people who make our trekking experiences possible. They carry essential equipment, camping supplies, and other materials through challenging mountain terrain, helping prepare and maintain the camps that support travelers throughout their journey. Their work requires exceptional endurance, organization, teamwork, and knowledge of the trail. They often work behind the scenes, but their contribution is fundamental to the experience. From preparing camp after a long day of hiking to making sure essential equipment is where it needs to be, they help create the comfort and support travelers depend on in the mountains. At Peru Hikers, we believe the people behind every journey deserve respect, recognition, and appreciation. They are not simply carrying equipment. They are carrying an essential part of your journey. Their mission: to provide the strength, support, and teamwork that help make your trek possible.
OUR HORSEMEN
STRENGTH, EXPERIENCE & RESPECT FOR THE MOUNTAINS
Our professional horsemen play an essential role on selected trekking routes. Working in some of the most demanding landscapes of the Andes, they manage and care for the horses used to transport equipment and supplies, helping our trekking operations run smoothly in remote mountain environments. Their work requires experience, physical strength, patience, responsibility, and a deep understanding of the terrain and animals. They know the mountain routes, weather conditions, terrain, and rhythm of Andean trekking. Their role goes far beyond transporting equipment; they are an essential part of the team that supports our travelers and keeps our mountain operations organized. Their mission: to keep the journey moving while caring for the horses and respecting the mountain environment.
THE SOUL OF THE TRAIL
Meet Our Support Expedition Crew
OUR TREKKING CHEFS
THE FLAVORS OF THE ANDES ON THE TRAIL
Great trekking deserves great food. Our trekking chefs transform fresh ingredients into delicious, nourishing meals even in remote mountain camps. Their work begins long before the first meal is served: they help plan menus, organize ingredients, prepare equipment, and coordinate meals around the trekking schedule. From hearty breakfasts before a challenging hiking day to warm dinners after hours on the trail, they make sure travelers have the energy they need to continue. Whenever possible, our menus incorporate Peruvian and Andean ingredients, allowing food to become another part of the cultural experience. Our chefs understand that a meal on the trail is more than something to eat; it is a moment to gather, relax, share stories, and recharge. Their mission: to bring the flavors and warmth of Peru to the mountains.
OUR DRIVERS
SAFE JOURNEYS BETWEEN EVERY DESTINATION
Your journey doesn't begin when you reach the trailhead. Our drivers are part of your experience from the moment you leave your hotel, providing transportation between Cusco, the Sacred Valley, trailheads, train stations, hotels, and other destinations, helping travelers move comfortably and safely throughout their itinerary. Our drivers know the roads of the Cusco region and understand that mountain transportation requires patience, responsibility, and attention to detail. They are often among the first members of our team travelers meet — and an important part of the smooth coordination behind every trip. Their mission: to get you where you need to be safely, comfortably, and on time.
OUR TRIP COORDINATORS
THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE EVERYTHING COME TOGETHER
Behind every successful journey is a team working quietly behind the scenes. Our coordinators organize the many details that travelers don't always see — reservations, permits, train schedules, transportation, accommodations, meals, equipment, guides, and communication with the field team. They monitor your itinerary and coordinate with different members of the Elite Inca Warriors so that every part of your journey connects smoothly. When plans need to change because of weather, transportation, schedules, or unexpected circumstances, our coordination team works quickly to find solutions. Their mission: to make the complicated details feel simple for you.
OUR TRAVEL & CUSTOMER SERVICE TEAM
HERE BEFORE, DURING & AFTER YOUR JOURNEY
Your relationship with Peru Hikers begins before you arrive in Peru. Our travel team helps you choose the right experience, answers your questions, assists with preparation, and keeps you informed before your journey begins. From your first inquiry to your final day in Peru, our team is here to provide clear communication, practical advice, and personal assistance. We know that planning an adventure in another country can come with many questions, which is why we don't want you to feel like a booking number. You are a traveler we are preparing to welcome. Their mission: to make planning your Peru adventure as personal and stress-free as possible.
WHY TRAVEL WITH PERU HIKERS?
LOCAL ROOTS. GENUINE CONNECTIONS. JOURNEYS THAT CHANGE YOU.
Peru is more than a place to visit — it is a place to experience. Travel with people who know the Andes not simply as a destination, but as home. At Peru Hikers, every journey is shaped by local knowledge, genuine hospitality, and the dedicated people behind it — from our expert guides and Elite Inca Warriors to our trekking chefs, drivers, coordinators, and local partners. We don’t just want you to see Peru. Please connect with it.
100% LOCALLY OWNED
Born in Cusco. Rooted in the Andes. Our story begins here. Peru Hikers is a locally owned and operated Cusco tour company built by people who know, love, and call this region home. Our deep connection to the Andes gives us a genuine understanding of its landscapes, traditions, communities, and culture — so when you travel with us, you travel with people who call Peru home.
ELITE INCA WARRIORS
ONE TEAM. ONE PURPOSE. THE STRENGTH BEHIND EVERY ADVENTURE
Our Elite Inca Warriors are the people behind every Peru Hikers journey. Our local guides are the heart of your experience, sharing their culture, Andean heritage, and Inca wisdom. Alongside them, our chefs, porters, field specialists, and skilled horsemen work together to handle every essential detail on the trail. Together, they power every adventure we create.
SMALL GROUPS & PRIVATE TOURS
Your journey should feel like your own. We believe the best experiences leave room for spontaneity, conversation, and connection. Our small-group and private journeys offer a more personal experience, greater flexibility, and a pace that feels comfortable for you. Take your time, ask questions, stop for a photograph, enjoy the view, and connect with your guide. The journey is yours.
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
Travel with respect. Leave a positive footprint. The Andes are home to generations of people, traditions, and communities. We believe tourism should respect that heritage and create meaningful connections with the places we visit. Our journeys help support local guides, porters, horsemen, chefs, drivers, artisans, families, and Andean communities, while encouraging respect for local culture and the natural environment. Because when you travel responsibly, your journey can become part of something bigger.
HIGHLY RATED BY TRAVELERS
The best stories are the ones our travelers tell. Every traveler arrives with their own expectations and leaves with their own story. Guests from around the world have shared their experiences with Peru Hikers through platforms such as Tripadvisor, reflecting the personal service, teamwork, and memorable moments they experienced along the way. Their words mean more to us than a number. They remind us why we do what we do.
SAFETY & PERSONAL CARE
Feel supported from the first conversation to the final goodbye. Adventure should challenge you — but you should never feel alone. Our team carefully coordinates the details behind your journey, from transportation and accommodations to permits, meals, trekking logistics, and communication between our field teams. Our guides and support teams remain attentive throughout your experience, helping you feel informed, supported, and cared for along the way. Because the little things matter. Your experience matters.
AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES
Don't just visit Peru. Experience it. Machu Picchu is extraordinary. The Andes are unforgettable. But Peru is much more than its famous places. Walk through mountain landscapes, meet local people, taste Andean ingredients, discover ancient traditions, listen to stories, share moments around a table, and experience the rhythm of life beyond the tourist trail. We create journeys that invite you to look closer, travel deeper, and connect more meaningfully with Peru. Come for the places. Leave with the stories.




