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.
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.
Carolina Irauzqui – Holistic Travel Designer
Carolina has been traveling with her parents ever since she was a child, and has always loved exploring new places. Recently, in her adult years, she has begun to redefine Travel as a means for not only fulfillment, but also for spiritual growth and personal development. Ever since her first solo travel trip in 2021, Carolina has begun to see travel as a way to reconnect to herself more, embrace the unknown, and learn about spirituality through various cultures. From temples and water rituals in Ubud to Fire Ceremony’s and Ceremonial Cacao in Guatemala… Each place she has visited left her with a new sense of connection, and ability to weave the knowledge and ancient practices she learned from each place into her daily life. Now, as the new holistic travel designer at Yampu Tours, Carolina’s goal is to help other spiritual seekers create their dream trip!
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.
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.