Mountain Lodges of Peru stands today as a mindful and innovative player in the tourism industry of Peru. Operating in and around the Machu Picchu region, they have always run their own race by choosing a more meaningful course, far from the flurry of cheap and cheerful operators. Their deeply entrenched love for the mountains and Andean communities shows through the transformative experiences on offer to their guests and through their inspiring community partnerships.
MLP began their journey towards a more sustainable business model in 2006 when they sponsored the creation of Yanapana, a not-for-profit association committed to reducing extreme poverty in the Andean Highlands. Yanapana supports a range of essential activities from nutrition enhancement, infrastructure projects at local schools, as well as funding and training local entrepreneurs. They also engage in child sponsorship and medical programs that cover prevention, detection and treatment.
But they wanted to do more. So, in 2012 they began a joint-venture with the community of Huacahuasi, aptly named Kuska Purispa – ‘Walking Together’. The Huacahuasi Lodge was built upon community land and opened in 2014. Through joint ownership, training and employment opportunities, local people have become “active investors in local development projects for the long-term benefit of all”.
MLPs genuine approach to transformative adventure travel has been felt by visitors and community partners alike. The tourism industry took notice earlier this year when they were awarded 5th place for the World’s Best Tour Operators 2017. We hope their spirit of positive change inspires travellers to travel deeper and causes ripples throughout the travel industry!
