With picturesque landscapes and a vibrant array of cultural traditions, Peru is a destination that keeps you moving from one incredible vista to the next. We believe in the importance of empowering rural Peruvian women and their communities through responsible travel. This is why we work with responsible travel agencies like Peru for Less.

 

 

Promoting travel while keeping sustainability in mind, Peru for Less is a boutique travel agency that has designed customized trips to Peru that enrich travellers’ understanding and connection with Peru for over 20 years. Awamaki is pleased to be Peru for Less’ Top Pick for Artisan Tours in the Sacred Valley.

Our founder, Kennedy Leavens, was featured on their Passport to Peru lecture series to talk more about the work and impact of Awamaki in rural villages in the Sacred Valley.

Kennedy tells the story of Awamaki and the artisans who weave their stories into exquisite tapestries. She discusses how fair-trade practices and sustainable tourism are empowering the communities, preserving their rich cultural heritage, and generating income for female artisans and their families.

“Tourism as it was could be a really destructive force, so we worked with the artisans to develop a program that would make tourism a more beneficial force that the artisans had more control over and more say in how it went.” – Kennedy Leavens

Check out the full video to hear Kennedy speak about weaving practices from the Sacred Valley, tell the story of Graciela, the daughter of master-weaver Asunta, and explain the socioeconomic setting of these beautiful and isolated communities. She also answers an informative Q&A period that touches on land ownership in the Sacred Valley, the meaning behind Awamaki, and how you can visit the communities Awamaki works with when travel resumes safely again.

Visit www.Peruforless.com for more information on how to include an Awamaki tour in your dream Peru itinerary.