Australian Hiker Jordan Yap Found Dead in Peru Weeks After Disappearing on Solo Mountain Trek

An Australian man who vanished during a solo hiking trip in Peru has been found dead nearly a month after his family last heard from him, bringing a heartbreaking end to an extensive search.

Jordan Yap, 30, from Melbourne, Australia, was last seen on September 14, 2026, when he set off on a planned 10-day hike through the remote Huayhuash mountain range in Peru. Before beginning the trek, he reportedly told his family that he would be off the grid for the next 10 days.

Initially, his family expected him to return as planned. However, their concern grew when Yap failed to check into a hotel in Lima on September 23 and subsequently missed a scheduled flight to Cusco.

His family and friends began organizing search efforts, working with a local mountain rescue team to determine what had happened. The search focused on the rugged mountain region, known for its dramatic peaks, remote trails and challenging terrain.

According to reports cited by PEOPLE, Yap’s body was discovered on October 9 near the village of Machaycanch. His family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a social media statement the following day.

“With a heavy heart we are so sorry to tell you Jordan has been found, and he did not survive,” his loved ones wrote, while thanking the people who had contributed to the search and supported their efforts.

Yap’s father, Vinh Dao, previously explained that the family became alarmed when his son missed his planned check-in and flight. The family had initially hoped he might simply be delayed somewhere along the remote route.

The Australian government also confirmed that it was providing assistance to the family following Yap’s death in Peru.

In their farewell message, his loved ones asked people to remember him as a vibrant person who brought immense joy to the lives of those around him.

The circumstances surrounding his death have not been fully detailed in the report. His passing serves as a painful reminder of the risks associated with hiking alone in isolated mountain environments, where difficult terrain and limited communication can make emergencies especially challenging.

Source: PEOPLE