José Irauzqui – President and Co-Founder
Born in Peru, José traveled from a young age with his parents around Latin America and later went to boarding school in Switzerland and traveled extensively around Europe and Asia. In 1990 José earned a law degree in the UK and went back to Peru until 1998 when he met Monica, his future wife and co-founder of Yampu, during a trip to New York; their first trip together was to Machu Picchu. It turned out to be a life-changing experience. Shortly after, José and Monica were married, moved to New York City, and began to create their travel website.
Monica Irauzqui – Vice President and Co-Founder
Monica is the co-founder of Yampu Tours with her husband José Irauzqui. Monica is an expert in family travels, always bringing her kids, ages eleven and thirteen on her trips; Monica loves what she does and being able to do it with her family! Monica is the authority at designing themed itineraries including culinary, spiritual, adventure, experiential, girls’ trips, and sightseeing tours. All tours are compiled with well-trained and knowledgeable experts leading the way. Monica also has a refined eye and memory for special places, hotels, eco lodges, and boats that will thrill the pickiest of travelers.
Stephanie Rudolph – Regional Sales Manager & Groups Coordinator
Stephanie has worked in travel for over 26 years and during that time has collected a wealth of experiences and knowledge. Whether driving solo across South Africa, trekking in Peru, snorkeling with sharks in Ecuador, learning to weave in Bali, or dancing the night away in Rio, she continues to collect insider tips and ideas that she can share with her clients and groups to make each trip unique. She crafts once-in-a-lifetime trips for her clients, fine-tuning each itinerary to specifically fit each traveler’s own individual travel style. Stephanie is also Yampu’s Galapagos expert, and group guru, so whether you are interested in the local art scene or exploring the great outdoors, she will work with you to create the perfect experience.
Linda Gardner – Air Coordinator
Linda has been working in the travel industry for several years. At Yampu Tours she is the primary flight contact using resources to find the best flights available to match the client’s itinerary, schedule and budget.
Richmond Te – Operations Assistant
Richmond was born in Manila, Philippines and was raised in a mixed Filipino and Chinese family. His father lives in Taiwan and Richmond grew up in Manila with his mother. At the age of 19, he joined the BPO as a chat support representative, he excelled in the role and received several awards and recognitions. Every year Richmond gives himself time to explore local destinations to witness and experience the different traditions and cultures outside of Manila. A year from now, his goal is to start exploring internationally. First in his list is Japan. Outside of work you would find Richmond playing basketball and hanging out with his friends. He screams, Y.O.L.O.! and is always on the lookout for new adventures.
Pablo Irauzqui – Sales Consultant
The newest member of Yampu Tours, Pablo, is the son of Jose and Monica. Pablo got the travel bug while traveling with his family during their trips, especially hiking in Peru, African safaris, and the American West. Upon graduating, he enlisted in the Marine Corps Infantry and served four years, leaving honorably as a Corporal. Since his service, he has begun working at Yampu Tours, where he exemplifies the utmost professionalism, quality, and integrity. He is dedicated to creating the best experiences with impeccable logistical planning and attention to detail. His motto is, no excuses only solutions.
WILFRED VALENZUELA – DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST
Wilfred Valenzuela, born in Pangasinan, Philippines, has made his mark in the field of digital marketing over the past six years. With a passion for connecting brands with their target audiences, Wilfred has honed his skills in various marketing strategies, helping businesses thrive in the competitive online landscape. Outside of work, he finds solace in the thrill of motorcycle riding, the intensity of basketball, and the discipline of taekwondo. Guided by his motto, “Keep Moving Forward,” Wilfred is constantly seeking new challenges and opportunities for growth in both his personal and professional life.
Venus Nevado – Operations Assistant
Venus was born and raised in the Philippines. She loves traveling with her family and exploring the outdoors and nature. If given a chance to travel out of her country, the three places on her bucket list are Maldives, Egypt & the Vatican. She started working as a customer service representative way back in 2013, where she handled various accounts from tech, sales, travel & health. Then she started working in the travel industry in 2016, where she got fascinated with how amazing the world is and got hooked from then on. Working with the Yampu team and with her deep passion for work, she is consistently fueled to provide clients with extraordinary and memorable travel experiences.