Cleaner Every Day: The Transformation of the Inca Trail

Introduction to the Inca Trail

Machu Picchu, the ancient city of the Inca Empire, attracts around 160,000 tourists each year, along with guides and workers who help lead these explorers. Last October, Paul Garrido, a seasoned leader at Intrepid, was asked a thought-provoking question by a visitor: 'Where do all those single-use plastic ponchos go?'

This inquiry sparked a deep reflection on how to handle plastic waste along these historic paths. Particularly during the dry season on the Inca Trail, many people purchase $1 plastic ponchos that often go unused.

Changing Mindsets

Fernando Rodríguez, Intrepid's director in Peru, shared that the company has recognized its responsibility to protect the environment. Since 2021, Intrepid has partnered with the Peruvian Minister of the Environment to implement positive changes aimed at reducing single-use plastics (SUP).

They initiated plastic-free trips on the first day and gradually extended these practices to multi-day treks. This initiative not only benefits the environment but also minimizes waste for the teams working along the trail.

Progress in Reducing Plastic Waste

To date, Intrepid has reduced its single-use plastic consumption by 90%. With approximately 2,000 visitors trekking the Inca Trail each year, this reduction can make a significant impact.

Maritza Chacacanta, a Quechua woman and trekking manager for Intrepid, has played a vital role in this process. Alongside Robert Franco, a second-generation Quechua porter, they have developed innovative solutions to replace plastic packaging with reusable containers.

Creative Solutions for Food Transportation

They collaborated with a local company providing organic food in recyclable packaging. This not only helps protect the environment but also ensures safe products for tourists. Another challenge was finding suitable containers for transporting foods like spaghetti, which require protection during long journeys.

Special Guests and Social Initiatives

The team has also begun collecting used cooking oil to donate to social organizations and support the local community. They are actively involved in projects to build schools for children in Poques using eco-friendly bricks made from recycled plastic.

Join the Movement

Fernando encourages all tour operators on the Inca Trail to join the mission of environmental protection. He believes that focusing on environmental campaigns benefits not only the planet but also creates greater community value.

“People need to see the value of protecting the environment, and we are ready to lead in this effort,” Fernando asserts. These initiatives not only transform Intrepid's image but can also bring about positive changes for local Quechua communities.

Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers:

• Visa: Vietnamese travelers need to obtain a visa before traveling to Peru. You can apply online or through an embassy.
• Getting There: Currently, you can fly directly from Vietnam to Lima and then take a domestic flight to Cusco.
• Cost: Round-trip tickets from Vietnam to Peru are approximately 20 million VND, depending on when you book.
• Best Time to Visit: The best time for trekking the Inca Trail is from April to October, when the weather is dry and pleasant.
• Exchange Rate: 1 USD is approximately 24,000 VND.

For more information, refer to: Intrepid Travel