slide nights

Bookings & reservations are coordinated by West Australian, Ariana Svenson who is a journalist and currently pursuing Masters studies in the Development of third world nations. Her thesis is about high Andean communties and she spends portions of her time while in Peru in these communities (out of phone/email contact). Her work with Apus Peru is limited to Reservations and therefore when you arrive in Cusco, briefings and organisation is coordinated by Fely Callanaupa (below).

Left: Ariana enjoying the highly recommended Festival de la Virgen del Carmen, 15 July and below, washing her feet in the river after a strenuous Colloritty pilgrimage

Our guides

Willy Tunguipa is an extremely experienced Inca Trail and alternative treks guide. Known as "Big Willy" passengers all enjoy his sense of humour and Andean rituals on the trail. He speaks Spanish, Quechua and English and leads many of tours.

After several years working on the Inca Trail, Felix Gonzales gained his Tourism degree. He was instrumental in establishing Apus Peru and researching and doing expedition trips for new routes. From Quillabamba, Felix is passionate about the high jungle region, as well as loving the mountains!

Left: Felix climbing to a glacier in the Sinakara mountain and below, climbing to the Qollor Riti pilgrimage.

Ruben Baca, known as "the man" is an important part of the Apus Peru family, he is essential in assisting with administration in Cusco. He often departs as assistants on tours and is known for his extensive knowledge of Andean festivals. He speaks Quechua and Spanish.

Left: Ruben at the Qollor Riti pilgrimage and below at the Q'eswachaka bridge.

Our cooks

Herbert Saire has been working with Apus Peru since their first trips and is famed for his ability to put tents up quickly as well as his delicious food!

below: Herbert in front of Ausangate mountain and right, on the riding horse, Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek

Hilda Callanaupa is currently working with Apus Peru as she is in her last semester of a tourism degree. She believes that by working as a cook she learns about the different alternative routes and also has an opportunity to learn English.

Left: Hilda in front of the glacier at the Qollur Riti Pilgrimage, which occurs every May and September.

Administrative support

Most of our visitors at one stage or another meet Fredy Callanaupa who plays an indispensable role in the Apus Peru team. From the jungle town of Quillabamba Fredy is currently studying English and tourism with the plan of becoming a guide. He does many transfers and pick ups around Cusco as well as coordinates all equipment, ensuring its in good shape.

Right: Fredy visiting the Chullpas of Ninamarca, en route to Paucartambo and Manu National Park

Driver

Mario Leuva is present on nearly all Apus Peru journeys as our reliable and well liked driver.

He is pictured here with a local en route to Paucartambo (left) and on the tropical inca trail/ inca jungle trail (below)