Impactful Travel

21/02/2025

Last Friday, we had the privilege of attending “Raíces y Rutas de la Ruta Turística Ausangate” in Cusco, an event that highlighted the inspiring achievements of a project that, for six years, has been developing responsible, community-led tourism in the breathtaking foothills of Apu Ausangate and the majestic Vilcanota Mountain Range. 🏔️

Led by (Asociación Jesús Obrero) and its partners, this initiative has empowered and trained local communities in Cuyuni, Andamayo, Pacchanta, and Yanacancha to share their landscapes, cultural heritage, and traditions with visitors. Whether it’s hiking alongside llamas, marveling at the turquoise waters of the 7 lakes, or savoring the region’s renowned cheeses, this route offers experiences for every traveler.

Sustainable projects like these are at the heart of what we do, and we’re thrilled to announce that soon, you’ll find two incredible Ausangate experiences on our platform! Can’t wait? We can already include them in our custom trips—just ask!

21/02/2025

24/01/2025

Our cooking class in Cusco often begins at the market—San Pedro or Cascaparo. At first glance, it’s the colorful variety of foods that draws you in, but it’s the stories of the women behind the stalls that stay with you long after you leave.

Exploring the market with Selia, our guide, you’ll meet some of the women in these pictures. Many grew up learning the trade at their mothers’ sides, later stepping in to continue the legacy after their mothers passed. Their stories are ones of resilience and traditions carried through generations.

Depending on what you’re cooking that day, you might stop at Angelica’s for the perfect potato or at Hilda’s for the most colorful vegetables. You’ll then continue the cooking class back at the restaurant Mama Seledonia, where you’ll put everything you’ve learned at the market into practice and enjoy a typical meal with the most lively company!

Join our cooking class in Cusco by booking through this link: https://impactful.travel/tour/cooking-class-in-cusco/

10/01/2025

Coffee tastes better when it’s made with purpose! ☕✨

Save this list of cafés in Cusco making a difference for your next visit!

08/01/2025

Last weekend, we had the pleasure of joining our partners at Better Places at the Vakantiebeurs voor Bijzondere Reizen fair (Holiday Fair for Unique Travel) in Amsterdam!

This vibrant annual fair draws travelers in search of unique, tailor-made adventures that promise life-changing experiences. Our team was there showcasing everything Peru has to offer in this regard! To our surprise, many visitors didn’t realize just how diverse Peru truly is. From fusion gastronomy and ancient archaeology to breathtaking nature and rich cultural heritage, Peru offers endless possibilities for every kind of traveler!

These fairs play a key role in promoting the importance of responsible travel and in bringing people closer to this way of exploring the world.

“As Guido, our co-founder, said: ‘The true takeaway from the event was seeing a room full of people eager to learn about Peru, marking a much-needed growth in travelers’ interest in visiting this beautiful country.”

06/01/2025

Sue, one of our recent travelers, has just returned from her adventure in the Andes of Peru with us, and here are her top highlights from the journey!

From Sue’s feedback, it’s evident that what truly makes a destination or activity unforgettable is the people—especially for those traveling solo.

If you’re a first-time solo traveler, don’t be afraid! We’ll be right there by your side to guide, support, and share in the adventure. Traveling solo opens up incredible opportunities to connect with locals and build lasting friendships along the way!

30/12/2024

We’re grateful to have been part of this meaningful initiative, helping bring some holiday cheer to the Sibayo community in Peru.

It’s wonderful to see people coming together to ensure that everyone who wishes to can celebrate the season!

20/12/2024

☕ For seven years, Three Monkeys Coffee has been redefining specialty coffee culture in Peru. Born from the passion of three friends—Diego, Neto, and Iván—who started with a coffee bike and a mission, the company has grown into a movement. With deep roots in Cusco’s coffee-growing regions, they’ve worked tirelessly to bridge the gap between farmers, roasters, baristas, and consumers, championing traceability and sustainability.

In 2024, Three Monkeys made an exciting leap by opening a modern café in Cusco’s historic center. Drawing inspiration from the textures, colors, and landscapes of Peru’s coffee regions, the café brings this vision to life. From design to flavor, every detail celebrates the journey from farm to cup. This new project has earned them a finalist spot in the prestigious Sprudge Awards for Outstanding Design Achievement (Café/Roasting Facility), a global recognition of excellence in coffee. 🏆

Be part of something special! Vote for Three Monkeys Coffee in the Sprudge Awards and come experience the café that’s redefining coffee culture.

Vote today! https://sprudge.com/sprudge-design-awards-finalist-voting-form-260937.html

16/12/2024

A year ago, we began highlighting our Impact Heroes—individuals who inspire us with their dedication to responsible tourism and whom we’re proud to support in various ways. This month, we’re celebrating Nelly Alagón and her team at “Jardines de Mandor” near Machu Picchu! 🌿🌸

Founded in 1998 by Nelly with the help of her family and volunteers, Mandor is a family-led conservation initiative just 4 km from Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes). It’s dedicated to protecting biodiversity, with vibrant botanical gardens, orchids, and the stunning Mandor Waterfall.

Perfect for birdwatching and outdoor adventures, Mandor also offers cozy cabins and camping for those seeking a deeper connection with nature.

Sadly, this year, landslides and flooding caused major damage. Despite the struggles, Nelly and her team are determined to rebuild this magical place. 💪 If you’re heading to Machu Picchu, don’t miss the chance to explore Mandor and support their efforts. If you’re far away, you can contribute to their GoFundMe to help them recover and thrive.

11/12/2024

Today is Mountain Day 🏔️, and we feel they deserve a special dedication on our feed, as they are the highlight of so many of our tours.

We believe treks are the perfect way to discover the mountainous landscapes, with breathtaking views and the chance to connect with ancestral cultures. This is why we offer a variety of options for all abilities and preferences. Whether you want to homestay in mountain communities, discover hidden lagoons, or uncover archaeological treasures, we can find the perfect match for you.

Browse through our website or reach out to us, and let us craft your dream journey to the mountains of our incredible destinations!

28/11/2024

🇵🇪 In our previous update on our partner’s Better Places anniversary, the group continued their adventure, exploring our favorite spots in Peru. After bidding farewell to the breathtaking Colca Canyon, the excited travelers set off for the renowned Lake Titicaca!

Although Lake Titicaca is a popular tourist destination, few venture beyond the well-known spots. In reality, the lake is home to several unique communities, each with its own traditions and way of life. From the exceptional textile craftsmanship of Taquile to the fishing traditions of the Chimu people on their islands, the diversity is astounding. It’s a rare and authentic opportunity for travelers to discover the true essence of this magical lake.

Slide through to discover some interesting facts about some of the places the group visited! 📸✨

22/11/2024

We know that traveling can feel a bit intimidating, especially for women, but don’t let that hold you back from exploring the world!

We’ve had the joy of guiding tons of adventurous women—some of them solo travelers—on unforgettable trips. We’re here to make your journey worry-free, helping you plan a safe and exciting adventure while offering support every step of the way. Whether you’re looking for travel tips or need a little help along the way, we’ve got your back, so you can focus on having fun and making memories! 🤝

Here’s a glimpse of what you could be experiencing—swipe to enjoy some incredible photos from Karin and Alessandra’s unforgettable trip to Northern Peru! With our expert guides ensuring their safety and comfort, they explored the ancient Kuelap fortress, hiked to the stunning Gocta Waterfall (one of the world’s tallest!), and immersed themselves in local coffee culture. They also discovered hidden ruins in Rodríguez de Mendoza and wrapped up their adventure in the peaceful jungle of San Roque de Cumbaza.

If you’re still feeling unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re here to help you plan your dream trip, making sure it’s stress-free and you’re in the best hands every step of the way. ✨

19/11/2024

🎄 This Christmas, why stick to the same old routine when you could have an unforgettable adventure?

Traveling during the festive season is a chance to embrace new traditions, enjoy unique customs, and visit incredible destinations—often with fewer crowds. For those who love the warmth of a homey Christmas, we’ll arrange a local homestay where you can experience the spirit of the season in a whole new way. Whether you’re with family, friends, or exploring on your own, we’ll handle the planning, so you can skip the stress and focus on the magic of the holidays.

Make this Christmas one to remember—reach out to us and start planning your holiday adventure!

14/11/2024

These past few days have been such an uplifting experience for our team! 🌟

With some of us always on the move, it’s so refreshing to come together and celebrate what we love most—working as one. We kicked off our team building in Las Qolqas, one of our favorite spots to enjoy the incredible tradition of Pachamanca. For those who aren’t familiar, Pachamanca is an ancient cooking method where food is slow-cooked in an underground oven using hot stones and local ingredients. While the food is cooking, we’re surrounded by music, laughter, and good vibes, making the whole experience even more special.

The rest of our time was a perfect mix of delicious lunches and inspiring brainstorming sessions, as we worked together to shape the future of Impactful Travel and continue improving for our clients and our team. We’re beyond grateful for our dedicated, talented team—it truly feels like family. ❤️

12/11/2024

Our Chocolate and Coffee Route to Machu Picchu has become a traveler favorite, and we’re constantly finding new ways to make it unforgettable!

Carla, our passionate travel designer in Peru, recently joined a group of travelers on this unique three-day route to Machu Picchu, which winds through breathtaking Inca trails and remote farming communities. Her goal? To experience every moment firsthand and ensure it meets our high standards!

🍫 They met Julia at her chakra (farm), where she walked them through the process of making chocolate from bean to bar, serving it with fresh fruit from her garden. She’s also passionate about medicinal plants and loves sharing her herbal garden with visitors. Next, they visited Alejandro and his coffee trees, where they learned the intricate process of making coffee and roasted beans for a warming cup. ☕ Both Julia and Alejandro preserve these traditional practices, keeping ancient knowledge alive.

“I wanted to check out the route to see the magic behind one of our favorite programs to Machu Picchu,” Carla said. “And it really is a jackpot: incredible views, connecting with local farmers, learning ancient techniques, and then on the third day, you’re at Machu Picchu. 🏞️ What more could you want from a real experience in the Andes of Peru?”

Want to experience it yourself? Visit our website for all the tour details!

08/11/2024

More on Better Places’ Anniversary—exploring Arequipa and Colca Canyon! ✨

The journey continued in Arequipa, the famed “White City,” where elegant sillar architecture—crafted from bright white volcanic stone—adds a beautiful glow to the streets and keeps them cool and resilient against the region’s frequent earthquakes. After soaking up Arequipa’s unique charm, the group set off on a scenic journey to Colca Canyon, spotting wild vicuñas grazing along the high plains. Known for their soft, highly prized wool once reserved for Incan royalty, these elegant animals are now protected in their native habitat! 🦙

Arriving in Colca, the group had the experience of watching wild condors soar above the canyon. These majestic birds hold deep cultural significance in Andean mythology, symbolizing the connection between the heavens and the earth. Beyond the wildlife, Colca revealed archaeological gems like ancient terraces carved into the hillsides—ingenious constructions that remain vital to local farming. The adventure wrapped up with a horseback tour through the valley, offering views of the erupting Sabancaya volcano—a truly unforgettable experience.

Next stop: Lake Titicaca! 🏞️ Stay tuned for highlights from one of Peru’s most iconic landscapes.

05/11/2024

🌶️ Peru is a foodie paradise, where ancient traditions meet modern creativity! From the freshest seafood in the Pacific to the rich flavors of the Andes, every dish tells a story. Lima, the culinary capital of South America, mixes indigenous ingredients with influences from all over the world—think Spanish, African, and Asian twists on Peruvian classics! It’s no wonder Lima’s top restaurants are recognized worldwide!

We’ve picked some of our favorite dishes and the best spots to try them in Lima! From coastal classics to fusion favorites, these are the must-try bites that showcase the best of Peruvian flavors. Slide through and save your top picks for your next trip to Peru! 🇵🇪

🍛 Want more food inspiration? Click the link in our bio to check out our Restaurant Tips Peru blog for even more must-visit spots!

29/10/2024

The adventure celebrating Better Places’ anniversary continues! ✨

Leaving Lima’s buzz behind, our group set out on a magical journey through the heart of the Inca Empire. First stop: Vicos—a hidden gem in the Andes with a story close to our hearts. Here, Pablo and his family welcomed us with open arms, sharing their traditions, like the Pachamama meal—a beautiful celebration of gratitude to the earth. 🌍 Vicos is where our co-founder Guido found the inspiration for Impactful Travel 22 years ago, and we’re honored to keep this connection alive by sharing these traditions with our travelers today.

The adventure continued with an epic trek along ancient Inca paths, led by llamas just like in the old days! 🦙🏔️ This breathtaking route winds through landscapes rich in history, each step taking us closer to our destination: Chavín de Huantar. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Chavín was a powerful ceremonial center over 3,000 years ago, drawing priests and pilgrims seeking wisdom and guidance. With its intricate stone carvings and maze-like tunnels, Chavín was the heart of ancient Andean spirituality and cultural exchange.

Slide through to catch some special moments from this part of the journey. Keep an eye out for what’s next!