Alpaca Expeditions has been named Peru’s Leading Tour Operator 2026 at the World Travel Awards, its fourth win in the category and fifth World Travel Award overall. The honour recognizes the company’s contribution to Peru’s tourism industry and its commitment to experiences rooted in local knowledge, cultural heritage and close ties to the communities it serves.
“This award belongs to our entire team, particularly our guides, porters, and chefs, many of whom come from the same Andean villages I grew up in”, said Raul Ccolque, founder of Alpaca Expeditions. “I started on these trails as a porter. Today, travel advisors know they are in good hands with our team who take care of their clients on the ground every step of the way. For 2027, our message to trade partners is simple: talk to us early, and we’ll handle the rest”, Ccolque added.
The award comes as Peru earns six honours at the 2026 World Travel Awards for South America, including South America’s Leading Destination, Leading Culinary Destination and Leading Cultural Destination, while Machu Picchu remains the continent’s Leading Tourist Attraction.
Alongside the classic Inca Trail, Alpaca Expeditions offers the Salkantay, Lares, Ausangate and Choquequirao treks, a new seven-day route combining the Inca Trail and Salkantay, and luxury, private and women-only departures. The company also offers train-based tours to Machu Picchu, as well as multi-region packages adding the Amazon and Lake Titicaca.
As a direct local operator, Alpaca Expeditions runs every part of the experience with its own guides, chefs, porters and equipment, offering small groups of two to 20 guests, private departures and custom itineraries. Its Business Partner Program for travel agencies, outbound tour operators, schools and special-interest groups offers partner rates, a dedicated B2B team and support in securing Inca Trail permits.
Inca Trail permits are issued by the Peruvian government in limited numbers and sell out quickly for the peak season (May to September). Advisors with clients planning 2027 travel are encouraged to check availability and reserve early.
