Santa Teresa Monastery with Director Franz Grupp

Santa Teresa Monastery 1

Arequipa is easily one of the most charming cities in all of Peru, home to gleaming-white historic buildings made from volcanic ash, sillar, grand religious monasteries, and a rich cultural scene – hosting the annual literary Hay Festival. One of the city’s key attractions is Santa Teresa Monastery, a living-museum where cloistered…

Santa Catalina Monastery, Arequipa

santa catalina monastery (11)

The highlight of a visit to Arequipa is the Santa Catalina Monastery, one of the most impressive colonial religious buildings in Peru. The large convent is a ‘city within a city,’ covering over 20,246 square meters (218,000 square feet) and preserving the characteristics of 16th and 18th centuries, with narrow…

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…

Pedro de Osma Museum

Pedro de Osma Museum with Aracari_ Team Photo

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…

Maximo Laura – Master Peruvian Weaver

Maximo Laura - colorful depection of birds

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…

Lisy Kuon Specialist Guide in Cusco

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…