Inca Trail Porter Project

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, taking the first steps to change this. For the first time, Exodus porters were able to experience Machu Picchu, guided by a Quechua-speaking expert, giving them the chance to connect with a place they help so many visitors reach. Since then, 164 porters have visited the iconic site, and we’re proud to continue this important work, offering another 37 porters the opportunity through our Community Kickstart grant. It’s our way of honoring the resilience, humor, and spirit of the people who make every hike possible. 

To support initiatives like this and continue giving back to the communities that keep the Inca Trail alive, click below. 

Carried Away: Inca Trail Porter Project

In 2016, Jarlath McHale took on Peru’s most famous trek, the Inca Trail. In 2017, he went back to complete the same four day route – but this time as one of the porters who so inspired him first time round.