Last month, we shared with you an exclusive preview of our brand-new wellness itinerary. The details of this unique wellness experience have been crafted by Marisol and her team, alongside the natural healing experts at Willka T’ika and the owner of Willka T’ika wellness retreat – Terry Cumes. Since then, we have been thrilled at just how many people within the Aracari community and beyond have been in touch to express their joy at discovering the option for luxury wellness travel in Peru. It was our belief that natural healing would become much sought after as international travel resumes, so we are delighted to have anticipated the trend so accurately. Our wellness itinerary is now open, welcoming travelers keen to rejuvenate and reset. But of course – with Aracari, the power of travel is truly transcendental. So, as well as extraordinary travel experiences in Peru, we also endeavour to bring Peru to you. Our experts – including Aracari Travel Designer Joanna Bossowska, who visited Willka T’ika in April – have collaborated Willka T’ika’s team of 19 Quechua farmers in order to share an exclusive glimpse into some for the herbal remedies used by generations of indigenous communities. For everything from stomach cramps to sprained ankles, this is ancient knowledge comes straight from the Sacred Valley direct to you: Mate de muña and other natural remedies for mountain sickness or soroche Travelers who arrive in the Sacred Valley immediately feel the effects of the extreme elevation. This can cause what is known by the locals as soroche, or mountain sickness. Many travelers are welcomed with a cup of mate de coca, an excellent remedy for soroche. However, being so connected to local experts – Aracari’s team know of another herb that doesn’t have the same stimulant properties as the coca leaf. Mate de
Last month, we shared with you an exclusive preview of our brand-new wellness itinerary. The details of this unique wellness experience have been crafted by Marisol and her team, alongside the natural healing experts at Willka T’ika and the owner of Willka T’ika wellness retreat – Terry Cumes. Since then,…
As more people across the globe look to shrubs, herbs and other vegetation for their natural wellbeing benefits, Aracari is anticipating a boom in traveling for wellness. After decades of working closely with local communities, we know that in Peru, making a return to Mother Earth’s own linctus cabinet is nothing new here. Peruvians have long cultivated crops for their medicinal and healing properties, and in fact - many of our guides are themselves encyclopaedias of knowledge on the properties of locally grown flora and fauna. In the coming months, we predict many travelers will look to countries like Peru, choosing to journey in search of wellness travel retreats and wholesome experiences, which offer a sanctuary from their modern busy lives, especially after the stress and seclusion caused by numerous lockdowns. For Aracari’s longstanding hotel partner and owner of the premium wellness retreat Willka T’ika - Terry Cumes, this is welcome news. A premium wellness retreat in the Sacred Valley Aracari has had a strong relationship with Carol and Terry Cumes for a number of years. Founded in 1995 by Carol Cumes, Willka T’ika has become a pioneer of natural wellness in Peru. Marisol and her team have visited the wellness center more than once, while curating experiences in the Sacred Valley. Each visit has been a source of great inspiration, discovering more of the natural benefits of plants, flowers and native shrubs growing in their Seven Chakra Gardens. The grounds of which are tended to by no fewer than 19 Quechua farmers – who have continued the ancient practices of their forefathers, using medicinal plants to treat all manner of ailments. In fact, it is this Seven Chakra Gardens, which has become the focus of a brand new Aracari wellness itinerary developed in partnership with our friends at
As more people across the globe look to shrubs, herbs and other vegetation for their natural wellbeing benefits, Aracari is anticipating a boom in traveling for wellness. After decades of working closely with local communities, we know that in Peru, making a return to Mother Earth’s own linctus cabinet is…
One of Peru’s best kept secrets is the exquisite, handmade collectables produced here. From cotton to clay, the country is rich in raw materials and for generations, Peruvians have harvested these bountiful resources. Cultivating and creating – molding natural materials into expressions of Peruvian identity or talismans of spiritual and historical significance. Yet it is Aracari’s belief that the artisanship found in Peru is more than artistic creation; it’s a crossover of artistry and ingenuity. How to weave textiles to be striking and sturdy, or how to sculpt pottery that is decorative and durable. And although some of the practical necessities might have faded, the appreciation for the craft has not. Aracari has always been close to the Peruvian art and craft scene. Today the country’s artists are some of the world’s leading visionaries. They all inherit artistic legacy of their ancestors – even if some elements have been brought into the 21st Century. Partnering with a number of these creatives has meant Marisol and her team are able to connect our guests with remarkable experiences; the chance to visit studios, enjoy private exhibitions guided by the artist themselves and participate exclusive workshops. If you’re curious about handmade Peruvian art and craft, here’s the insider guide to what you can expect, exploring artisanship with Aracari. Textiles From the brightly colored patterns of Andean fabrics, to premium garments produced in organically grown, naturally dyed pima cotton and vicuña wool, Peru’s textiles are some of the world’s most renowned. Each step of the process, from natural dyes to the faming of the animals, is part of craft that has been honed over generations. Many of guests have journeyed to Peru with Aracari looking to discover more about these highly sought-after textiles, and it’s been a pleasure to connect travelers with some
One of Peru’s best kept secrets is the exquisite, handmade collectables produced here. From cotton to clay, the country is rich in raw materials and for generations, Peruvians have harvested these bountiful resources. Cultivating and creating – molding natural materials into expressions of Peruvian identity or talismans of spiritual and…
As a wellness destination, Peru has it all. Ancient mountains, tropical beaches, high-altitude lagoons, and lush rainforest create an idyllic setting for some truly unadulterated rest and relaxation. Tailormade wellness experiences are something we've acquired much experience over the years, so if you're feeling burned-out and looking for new ways to nourish your mind and body, here's some inspiration to guide your next wellness adventure. 1.Attend A Traditional Andean Ceremony In our busy modern lives, we have few moments to re-connect with mother earth and focus on what we're truly grateful. For centuries Andean communities have paused to give thanks and share their future hopes in a ceremony called the Pago a la Pachamama (a.k.a 'The Offering To Mother Earth'). Led by a local Shaman, high in the mountains, it's one of our favorite experiences to organize for travelers. Learn More 2.Retreat To Watch The Hummingbirds Sol y Luna is a blissful getaway in the heart of the Sacred Valley, and one of the most relaxing hotels in Peru. Located off the main tourist trail, amid a charming meadow-scape, guests always savor the hotel's mountain views, and enjoy gentle strolls that can be had through Sol y Luna's heavenly grounds. Even on a short stay, the perfume of wildflowers and an array of colorful hummingbirds under crisp blue skies leave all our guests feeling truly unwound. Learn More 3.Watch Humpback Whales in Northern Peru Between August and October is typically the best time of year to go humpback whale watching in Peru. These magnificent ocean creatures are known for their blissful song and awe-inspiring acrobatics. If you're looking for an experience that will spark inspiration and reinvigorate your connection to nature - this spectacle is a must. Furthermore, we can recommend a handful of hidden beach houses and private accommodation
As a wellness destination, Peru has it all. Ancient mountains, tropical beaches, high-altitude lagoons, and lush rainforest create an idyllic setting for some truly unadulterated rest and relaxation. Tailormade wellness experiences are something we’ve acquired much experience over the years, so if you’re feeling burned-out and looking for new ways…
As we enter 2021, the Aracari team looks forward (perhaps more than ever) to a new year of unforgettable adventures. Seeking inspiration from the past experiences of our Travel Designers, we decided to ask a few of them to share their ultimate, all-time favorite, travel recommendations. All of which can be arranged by Aracari for you, as part of your next trip to Peru. First up, adventure specialist Mark Green, here’s how he answered: 'The Ausangate Trek is the highest trek in Peru. It takes you through some of the country's wildest scenery and is the perfect opportunity for travelers to get off the beaten track. For me, the trek was a life-changing experience. I will never forget the stunningly diverse and dramatic landscapes, the cost accommodations, and the privilege of sharing the trail with a dedicated and friendly team from the local Andean communities.' When we asked Aracari Travel Designer, Monica Szepesy, to tell us of her most treasured travel experience, like many of us, she was drawn to reminiscing about the very last trip she took before lockdown. "Tucked away in the Sacred Valley, near the village of Lamay, is a community that offers a wonderful community-based experience centered around a plant found only in that region - the Achupalla. After a short and beautiful drive into the mountains, we were greeted with music and several members of the Yachaq community, including the Mayor. We were dressed in traditional clothing, before taking a short walk further up the mountains to where the Achupalla plant grows. With a spectacular view of the Andes mountains, we were treated to a demonstration of the plants; harvest, and informed of many of its uses. A local "Curandero" - Healer, elevated the experience with an overview of the common medicinal plants in the area - and why
As we enter 2021, the Aracari team looks forward (perhaps more than ever) to a new year of unforgettable adventures. Seeking inspiration from the past experiences of our Travel Designers, we decided to ask a few of them to share their ultimate, all-time favorite, travel recommendations. All of which can…