
Our Porters at Mundo Hike on the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
You’ve probably heard of the porters—essential workers who ensure an unforgettable experience on this iconic journey. They carry on their backs all the necessary equipment for the trek, including tents, cooking gear, food, tables, benches, utensils, gas tanks, dining tents, kitchen tents, and sleeping bags. Their invaluable contribution allows you to fully enjoy your adventure to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu.
The Art of Cooking on the Inca Trail
Among the porters, one team member stands out: the cook. This skilled professional prepares delicious meals using basic equipment, even under challenging conditions. Their dedication ensures you stay energized throughout the Inca Trail.
Where Do Our Porters Come From?
Our porters come from highland communities near Cusco. They speak both Quechua and Spanish and possess a profound knowledge of the area and its history. Their work, as essential as it is admirable, reflects the legacy of the ancient chasquis—the messengers of the Inca Empire who traversed long distances to deliver messages and goods.
Porter Load Limits on the Mundo Hike
At Mundo Hike, we strictly adhere to load limits. Each porter carries a maximum of 15 kilograms of company gear and 5 kilograms of personal belongings. This policy ensures their safety and well-being while performing their vital role.
Caring for Our Porters’ Well-being
We deeply care about the well-being of our porters. Therefore, we provide them with the following benefits at no additional cost:
- Health insurance.
- Proper clothing (fleece jackets, raincoats, shirts, hats, and beanies).
- Specialized gear (trekking boots, water bottles, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and lumbar belts).
We always prioritize their health, comfort, and safety on every expedition.
Commitment to the Porter Worker Law
At Mundo Hike, we rigorously comply with the law regulating porter labor conditions on the Inca Trail Network. Here are the key points of our commitment:
- Formal employment relationship: All our porters are employed under private labor contracts, ensuring their labor rights and full protection.
- Minimum age and load limits: We hire only individuals over 18 years old and respect the load limits—up to 20 kg for men and 15 kg for women.
- Work hours and rest periods: We observe a maximum workweek of 48 hours and enforce mandatory rest periods of 5 days between shifts to preserve their physical and mental well-being.
- Supervised working conditions: We provide essential resources for their safety, such as nutritious meals, suitable clothing, sleeping gear, and tools that facilitate their work.
Mundo Hike is committed to guaranteeing fair, dignified, and safe working conditions for our porters, who are fundamental to the Inca Trail experience.
