Awamaki offers alternative tours for visitors who want an authentic Andean experience. Tours to the community of Patacancha offer the chance to experience and learn about Andean indigenous culture, while at the same time contributing to its survival and to the well-being of rural indigenous women and their families. The tour takes 4 hours and includes:

-transportation to the community
-an English-speaking guide
-demonstration of the traditional weaving process, explanation of traditional natural dye methods and traditional Pallay (textile designs)
-a visit to a traditional Quechua home
-the opportunity to purchase textiles directly from the weavers

NOTE:
For groups of six or more a delicious traditional Pachamanca (underground earth oven) lunch can also be arranged.

On a Quechua Community Visits it is possible to take a weaving lesson:

Receive an introduction to the ancient Andean art of backstrap weaving from one of our weavers. An Awamaki staff member or volunteer will accompany you to introduce you to your weaving teacher and get you started on the fundamentals of backstrap loom weaving. The aim is to complete a pulsera (bracelet) to take home!

Pricing:
Price per person Community visit: $40 or s/110
Price per person Community visit + weaving lesson: $55 or s/150
Price per person Community visit + Pachamanca: $55 or s/150
Price per person Community visit + weaving lesson + Pachamanca: $70 or s/190

Visitor Comments
“Best thing we’ve done in Peru.”
“Knowledgeable and respectful guides who convey an important sense of need to support the traditions of the communities.”
“Outstanding experience – everyone should participate in the opportunity to appreciate traditional, diverse culture. Thank you!”

NEW!!!: Awamaki is now offering 10-day Andean textile immersion workshops first scheduled for April 2012. See "Cultural Immersion Program" for more information.

For more information, or to make a booking, please email tours@awamaki.org