As Explorandes marks its 50th anniversary in 2025, the company is celebrating another major milestone: the induction of its founder, Alfredo Ferreyros, into the Latin American Travel Association (LATA) Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor, awarded during LATA’s annual parliamentary reception at London’s House of Commons on March 11th, recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to, and lasting impact on, the growth and success of travel within the region.
Widely considered the “father of adventure travel” in Latin America, Ferreyros’ journey began in 1974 when he guided a group of German travelers along the then-unknown Inca Trail. His passion for the Andes led him to establish his company, Explorandes, in 1975, pioneering responsible tourism in Peru and beyond. Since that time, Ferreyros has worked tirelessly to elevate industry standards, founding the Peruvian Association of Adventure and Ecotourism, and advocating for safety, sustainability, and cultural preservation in tourism.
A true visionary, Ferreyros was ahead of his time in recognizing tourism’s environmental impact. In 2000, he implemented a then-groundbreaking initiative to eliminate single-use plastics from Explorandes’ operations – long before sustainability became a mainstream industry focus. His commitment to responsible travel has influenced countless operators and continues to shape the future of adventure tourism.
“I am honored by my induction into LATA’s Hall of Fame,” said Ferreyros. “When I started Explorandes 50 years ago, neither the industry nor our destination had any inkling of what adventure travel meant. Over the years, we explored and opened ancient trails in remote corners of Peru, always striving to create authentic and respectful experiences. This recognition is deeply meaningful, and I want to thank everyone who has supported us all these years. I am deeply appreciative for being recognized for developing an activity that has given me such great purpose in life.”
Founded in 1975, Explorandes is a pioneer in sustainable adventure tourism, offering immersive hiking & trekking, nature & wildlife, and cultural experiences across Peru’s most stunning landscapes. From the iconic Inca Trail and the remote wonders of Choquequirao to Amazon cruises and high-altitude adventures in the Andes, the company specializes in unique, low-impact journeys that connect travelers with nature, history, and local communities.
As Explorandes moves forward through the next 50 years, Ferreyros’ legacy remains firmly embedded in the company’s DNA, inspiring future generations to continue his work in responsible tourism.
