aaron-paiva-leyton-2026-2

Aaron

Paiva Leyton

19 years of experience
Lima Peru / Michigan USA
Peru

Contact Options

It's not the destination but the journey

About

“Let’s explore and savor the beauty of Peru together! I’m Aaron, the heart behind TOURGUIDEPERU. Since 2002, I’ve shared the Peru I love through my eyes—its landscapes, flavors, and warm-hearted people.

With a degree in Business Administration from San Martin University and an Official Guide License, I bring a unique perspective to every adventure. My journey also took me to California, where I refined my English and helped American students discover Peru.

When the pandemic hit, I adapted by creating virtual tours, sharing my videos of Lima, Cusco, and Machu Picchu, along with live commentary. I also turned “My Mother’s Kitchen” into a virtual cooking experience, allowing everyone to try authentic Peruvian recipes.

Now based in Michigan, I’m excited to restart our adventures in Peru and introduce new experiences for travelers across South America. Let’s embark on this journey together!”

Tours Offered & Destination Knowledge

Cultural/Specialty ToursExperience HostFood & Drink ToursLocal GuideMulti-Day Tour Director/LeaderPrivate ToursTour Business Owner/Operator

- Lima Tour & Culinary Experience 

- Multi Day tour / trip to Peru including Machu Picchu

- Concierge / Tour Manager

Fun Fact!
The best place to socialize is at my kitchen's table
Hobbies & Interests
Vinyl records, old school video games, i can spend a good time walking around Best Buy, Chef & Party host.

Virtual Tour Experience

During 2020 & 2023 i was very happy to deliver virtual tour of Lima, as well as cooking classes over the platform Zoom. My biggest accomplishment on this field is my Virtual Show of Peru. A pre-recorded video that I narrated it LIVE with the possibility to the viewer to have question in real time. Nowadays I have been screening this show with LIVE Audience which is being an amazing experience and as it was intended.

Testimonials

A great walking tour of old Lima and Barranco
Sep 2024 • Solo - Frank M
Aaron knows his home city well, his English is excellent. He knows the history and the food and the shopping and can tailor a tour to your interests. Aaron was also in touch before I arrived with suggestions for accommodations and transport from the airport. Full endorsement. Incredible, tailored experiences in Peru!

Most unforgettable vacation in Peru
May 2024 • Couples - Sue A.
Two weeks of adventure in Peru was made very memorable with Aaron’s thoughtful and careful planning. Other than knowing we wanted to visit Machu Picchu, we didn’t know much about what else to do, or where to begin. In the end, we just knew we wanted to experience the core of Peruvian culture (and cuisine!), but also a bit of the road less travelled. Aaron and his team made it happen, in spite of some of the curve balls we (and a 24hr flight delay) threw at them. Professional and knowledgeable. Highly recommended!

 

Best guide for Peru
Sep 2023 • Couples - robsmrczek
We just completed a fantastic trip to Peru with Aaron as our guide. This trip was 6 years in the making as prior plans were disrupted 3 times due to hurricane, pandemic, and political unrest. Through it all Aaron maintained great communication and attention to our desires that resulted in an amazing visit to Lima, Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu and a rain forest Inkaterra lodge.

We started in Lima where the highlight was a delicious dinner at Aaron’s mothers house. The local dishes were expertly prepared while we drank pisco sours that were also freshly mixed. Having personal interaction with locals is the best travel experience.

We then ventured on to Cusco and the sacred valley where the transfers and hotel arrangements were seamless. Aaron’s experience and network of knowledgeable colleagues provide worry free travel so you can just relax and enjoy every stop along the way. The Maras salt mines and the weaving demonstration in Chinchero were very interesting. And the llamas, alpacas and guinea pigs were very fun to see. (Viewing only. No cute little animals were consumed on this trip)!

Of course the main attraction was experiencing Machu Picchu and climbing Huayna Picchu. Aaron and his colleagues provide expert support from the time you step out of your hotel, ride the winding bus route and then hike the archeological site. No matter how high your expectations are for this visit, they will be exceeded!

Based on Aaron’s recommendation, our last few days in Peru were spent at Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica. This property is located in the rain forest and provided some great food and encounters with beautiful macaws, parrots and jungle foliage. And for the more adventurous, sightings of howler monkeys, tarantulas and caymans are guaranteed!

In summary, we would highly recommend Aaron to anyone planning a trip to Peru. Over the past 6 years he has become a friend and last month provided us with an amazing experience that would not have been as enjoyable without him. It is clear that Aaron truly loves his country and is very enthusiastic about sharing that feeling through his personal guide service.

 

Details

Gateway Airport(s)

MBS, FLL, DTW, MIA, LIM, CUZ

Licenses

Training

CENFOTUR - Centro de formacion en turismo

Language(s)

English, Spanish

Additional Education

- Official Licensed Guide in Peru
- English as a Second Language program - California State University - San Bernardino 
- Bussines Administration - San Martin University- Lima

General Availability

Available all year around

Photo Album