Our Team
Erik Bayona
Founder and Owner
Erik Bayona is the founder of Kusa Treks, his lineage traces back to the Incas themselves. He grew up learning stories about Inca history and culture that have been passed down from generation-to-generation. He has traveled on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu over 400 times and is a resident expert on the tours and treks of Peru.
Erik has earned two university degrees, one in tourism and one in archeology. After graduating Erik worked on a cruise ship as a tour scout in order to travel the world to better understand global tourism.
In the past 10 years Erik has developed an incredible amount of knowledge and expertise as one of Peru’s best Trek leaders. Erik has led thousands of guests from around the world on various treks and tours across Peru. He has led groups consisting of: families with children, youth groups, students, world travelers and even a few international celebrities.
Erik has been interviewed by National Geographic for his work as a tour guide, and his treks have been featured in several publications. Erik has a deep understanding and unbridled enthusiasm for Peruvian culture, Inca history and the plant/wildlife indigenous to the Andes. His passion and knowledge are what set him apart as a guide and are what qualify him as the owner of Kusa Treks.
Erik’s 10+ years of planning and executing several hundred treks/tours has helped shape his vision for Kusa Treks; which he created to pursue his long-time dream of running a company that provides its guests with an unforgettable experience at each stage of their journey. Any trip planned by Erik is guaranteed to be a life-changing adventure and an experience you will cherish.
Erik currently lives in his home town of Ollantaytambo where he enjoys playing fùtbol and spending time with his wife and 2 children.
Michael
Co-Founder
Michael is an avid hiker and traveler. He met Erik on the Classic Inca Trail trek in Spring 2016. They had an immediate connection and, after completing the trek, Erik asked Michael to join him in the epic adventure of creating their own tour company.
Based in the United States, Michael now assists in customer service and specializes in helping travel agents, service trips, and educational tours.
Together with the team, Michael strives to give our clients a hassle-free booking experience and an incredible, life-changing trip to Peru.
Daniel
Director of US Operations & Customer Service
Daniel joined Kusa Treks in 2021 after the Covid-19 pandemic. Ever the outdoorsman, Daniel is passionate about travel, hiking, and sharing these amazing experiences with others.
Also based in the US, Daniel works as the Director of US Operations and Customer Service.
He is dedicated to upholding Kusa Treks' values by providing clients with an unforgettable journey in a hassle-free, sustainable, and personal manner.
