Locally Owned and Operated...Why it Matters

At Kusa Treks, we take great pride in being a locally owned and operated trekking company. This isn’t just a tagline—it’s at the core of everything we do. But why does it matter? What does it mean for you as a traveler, and how does it impact the communities we work with?

Supporting the Local Economy & Empowering Communities

Unlike large, foreign-owned tour companies, Kusa Treks ensures that the money you spend directly benefits the people of Peru. We hire local guides, porters, chefs, and staff, all of whom are paid fair, livable wages. This not only improves their quality of life but also helps sustain their families and communities. When you book with us, you’re investing in people who call these mountains home—not outside corporations.

But our commitment goes beyond just hiring locally. We actively invest in training programs for our staff, ensuring they have opportunities to develop their skills and advance their careers. Many of our guides started as porters and, through education and experience, have worked their way up to leadership roles. This commitment to empowerment helps break cycles of poverty and creates sustainable opportunities for future generations.

Authentic, Meaningful Experiences

Being locally operated means we know our destinations inside and out. Our guides are not only trained professionals but also individuals who grew up in the very regions they now showcase. They share firsthand knowledge, personal stories, and cultural insights that can’t be found in a guidebook. This level of authenticity enriches your experience and creates a genuine connection between you and the places you visit.

Our deep-rooted local connections allow us to offer unique experiences that other companies simply can’t. Whether it’s visiting a remote Andean village, participating in a traditional ceremony, or dining with a local family, we ensure that your journey is immersive and meaningful. These interactions go beyond sightseeing—they allow travelers to understand and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Peru.

Sustainable & Ethical Travel

Operating locally allows us to make sustainable choices that protect the environment and preserve cultural heritage. When we can, we source food and supplies from local vendors, use eco-friendly practices, and give back to the communities we work with. Our efforts extend beyond tourism—we actively support village initiatives, such as providing school supplies to children and helping women in Chinchero create and sell homemade goods.

Sustainability is at the forefront of everything we do. We strive to minimize our

environmental footprint by implementing responsible waste management practices and educating travelers on how to trek responsibly. Our goal is to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes without negative impacts from tourism.

The Extra Effort to Stay Local

Being a locally operated company takes effort. It would be easier to outsource staff, buy supplies from large chains, or partner with foreign-owned businesses. But we choose to do things differently. We take the time to form relationships with local farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs to ensure that our operations contribute to the community’s well-being.

For example, the food we serve on our treks is sourced from nearby farms, ensuring fresh, organic, and locally grown ingredients. This not only provides a better dining experience for travelers but also supports small-scale farmers who might otherwise struggle to compete with industrial agriculture. Every decision we make is intentional, designed to uplift the people and places that make our treks special.

What This Means for You

When you travel with Kusa Treks, you’re not just signing up for a trek—you’re becoming part of something bigger. Your journey helps sustain local economies, preserve traditions, and empower people. You get an unforgettable adventure while knowing your trip has a positive impact.

Choosing a locally operated company means choosing ethical, sustainable, and responsible travel. At Kusa Treks, we believe that tourism should benefit everyone involved—from travelers to locals to the environment. Join us on an adventure that truly makes a difference!

How You Can Support Local Tourism

As a traveler, you have the power to make choices that positively impact the places you visit. Here are some simple ways you can support local tourism:

• Book with locally owned companies – Choose tour operators, hotels, and restaurants that are owned and operated by people from the region.

• Shop at local markets – Instead of buying souvenirs from mass-produced stores, purchase handmade goods from local artisans to support their craftsmanship.

• Respect cultural traditions – Take the time to learn about and respect local customs.

• Minimize your footprint – Follow Leave No Trace principles, use reusable water bottles, and be mindful of your impact on the environment.

Every small action adds up to make a big difference. When you travel responsibly, you help ensure that destinations like Peru remain vibrant, sustainable, and welcoming for generations to come.