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Inca Trail Porters: The Heart of the Journey
Machu Picchu, a breathtaking testament to ancient engineering, draws thousands of visitors from around the world every day. While hikers journey to witness the awe-inspiring views of this extraordinary citadel, there’s a group of remarkable individuals who make these journeys possible: the Inca Trail Porters.
Porters are the lifeblood of the Inca Trail. These dedicated individuals, native to the Andean region, carry up to 44 pounds of gear along the demanding, high-altitude paths—often exceeding 13,000 ft. Without their expertise and strength, many travelers would not complete the trek. When hikers reach the final stretch of the trail to Machu Picchu, porters often begin their descent to prepare for the next group, making their work both indispensable and physically grueling.
Despite their central role, most porters have never been able to visit Machu Picchu, a sacred site deeply connected to their cultural heritage, due to the cost of entry and the demands of their work.
The Inca Trail Porter Project
In 2017, we launched the Inca Trail Porter Project to give something back to the incredible porters who make the journey to Machu Picchu possible. For the first time, Exodus porters had the opportunity to visit the iconic site themselves; guided by a Quechua-speaking expert, they could connect with a place they help so many visitors reach. Since then, over 100 porters have experienced Machu Picchu first-hand. We’re proud to continue this meaningful initiative so by including a £20 contribution in the cost of your Peru tour, we can ensure new porters joining our teams are given the same opportunity. It’s our way of honoring the resilience, spirit, and generosity of the people who bring the Inca Trail to life.
To support initiatives like this and continue giving back to the communities that keep the Inca Trail alive, click below.

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