An Australian trekker who was last seen on a remote South American hiking trail has been found dead, his family have said.
Jordan Yap, 30, last made contact with friends and family on 14 September ahead of a planned 10-day solo trek along Peru’s Huayhuash mountain range, 400km north-east of Lima.
In a social media post on Saturday, his friends and family said “with a heavy heart we are sorry to tell you Jordan has been found, and he did not survive”.
“We want to thank everyone who has helped; friends and family, the contributors, the search teams, the police, the many groups we engaged with who gave their time and effort, everyone who helped to share on social media. We are appreciative of all of you.
“Please remember Jordan as the vibrant man he was, and for the immense joy he brought to so many people’s lives.
“Rest in peace Jordan – from your friends and family.”
The Melbourne man was last seen near the beginning of his trek across the Cordillera Huayhuash circuit, which is regarded as a challenging, high-altitude trek through the remote Andes mountains. His friends and family regarded him as a very experienced hiker.
His friends and family became concerned after he failed to make contact on his estimated return date, failed to check back into the Krusty hostel in Huaraz and missed a scheduled flight from Lima to Cusco.
The avid trekker misplaced a satellite beacon he was travelling with days before he set off on the 120km hike, raising further concerns.
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The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has been contacted for comment.
– with AAP
