Cuyaqoc Wayi Gear and Guide Initiative

Cuyaqoc Wayi, located in Vicos, Peru, is a unique community organization comprising 17 families that provide homestays and activities for tourists. Their purpose is not just to share their high Andian culture, but to create meaningful connections with travelers and provide economic opportunities for the youth and young adult community members. By preserving and sharing unique cultural experiences, Vicosians are contributing to the richness and diversity of the global tourism landscape.

Situated at the base of Huascaran, the second tallest peak in Latin America, and bordering the Huascaran National Park, the village of Vicos attracts numerous visitors seeking outdoor adventures and cultural immersion. Many come here to trek, camp, and experience nature.

In addition to the Peruvian Andes cultural activities, the Cuyaqoc Wayi members would like to help grow their tourism programs by offering trekking and hiking opportunities and the equipment needed to provide hiking and camping trips.

Our project has a dual purpose: to enrich the tourism offerings in our village and to create lasting economic opportunities for our community's youth. By introducing trekking and camping experiences, we aim to attract a broader spectrum of visitors interested in outdoor adventures, thereby boosting tourism revenue.

Moreover, by involving local community members as guides, cooks, and hosts for these trips, we are fostering economic growth and stability within the village, ensuring the long-term success of our initiative.

The beneficiaries of this project are manifold. Firstly, our community members stand to gain economic opportunities through employment in various roles related to the trekking and camping experiences. Secondly, visitors to our village will have the chance to explore the stunning natural landscapes of the Peruvian Andes while engaging with the rich cultural heritage of our community through homestay experiences and interactions with local guides. With the funds allocated towards purchasing equipment for hiking and camping trips, we plan to invest in high-quality gear such as tents, cooking supplies, and safety equipment.

The Cuyaqoc Wayi members will develop hiking and trekking programs with photos, itineraries, and prices to publish on our social media and website and distribute to tour operators in Huaraz, where most tourists come. 

The community organization elders will work with the youth to train them and help prepare them to offer hiking, camping, and trekking programs, as well as teach them how to cook for tourists.  

This investment will ensure the safety and comfort of our guests and contribute to the sustainability and longevity of our tourism initiatives, ultimately benefiting both our community and the visitors we welcome.