South America’s cultural heritage runs deep—from ancient civilizations and colonial artistry to contemporary design and Indigenous traditions that endure today. Whether it’s the weaving communities of the Andes, Amazonian cosmologies, or Lima’s modern art scene, these stories reveal the living identity of a continent.
In our Travel Journal, we uncover the people, places, and perspectives that bring South America’s cultures to life, offering insight into their artistry, symbolism, and timeless influence.
Described by former U.S. President Bill Clinton as “Woodstock of the mind,” the international Hay Festival is an illuminative gathering of thinkers from around the world. For the first time in 2015, and bi- annually moving forward, a Hay Festival sister celebration took place in Arequipa, Peru congregating some of the intellectual minds of South America. The most recent Hay Festival […]
Arequipa is famous for its statuesque white buildings in the colonial area of the city that give it the moniker ‘The White City of Arequipa‘. While most visitors concentrate their time there, few realise that you can see where these big, white stones come from by visiting La Ruta del Sillar, or The Sillar Route, on the outskirts […]
Peru is a country rich in cultural history, with ancient civilizations ranging from one of the oldest in the world – the Caral civilization that dates back to 3,200 BC – to the powerful Incan Empire from the 16th century. Last week the Aracari team visited the Pedro de Osma Museum, which helps explain some of the country’s deep […]
Maximo Laura is an award-winning tapestry weaver, internationally recognized as one of South America’s pre-eminent and most unique textile artists. Caroline, Maria Julia and I went to meet Maximo and learn about his work, driving out to his home and studio in San Martín de Porres, on the outskirts of Lima. At an address without a […]
Aracari offers guests unparalleled insight into Peru’s rich history and culture with our specialists guides – experts in their fields offering unique perspectives and wonderful company. Here we catch up with Lisy Kuon, a true expert on art and history in Cusco, who has been part of the Aracari family for many years. Lisy guides exclusively for Aracari in […]
As we celebrate Aracari’s 20th anniversary, Danielle went to meet and chat with another important piece in the Aracari jigsaw puzzle – John Alfredo Davis Benavides – one of Aracari’s top Peru specialists offering insider experiences in Lima as part of our ‘Into the Past’ city tours. John Alfredo Davis Benavides A name interwoven in Lima’s history. As […]
