Passport to Folk Art Trips
Join a journey like no other.
IFAM Passport to Folk Art Trip participants have the exclusive opportunity to travel off the beaten path to meet master folk artists in their home countries. These small-group trips enable you to see a country through the eyes and hearts of the artists and their cultural surroundings.
The hands-on experiences, full-day discussions, and direct interaction with artists, folk art experts, and local guides provide a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience the history, heritage, and heart of the country.
Each trip includes a donation to the International Folk Art Market, allowing us to support opportunities for folk artists worldwide.
All trip donations are non-refundable.
“An incredible blend of art, tradition, history, food, and community. I could not have asked for more for my first trip to Peru. Such a wide variety of people and places, from the coast to the mountains. The trip offered surprising depth and meaningfulness that fit into just 12 days together.”
Lehuauakea – Peru 2024 Trip Participant
Upcoming Trips
Join our weekly newsletter, the Weekender, for a first look at newly added trips.
South Africa 2026
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Passport to Folk Art trips offer a unique and educational opportunity to explore South Africa’s cultural heritage and ecological wonders with a small group of 10 - 12 guests. Your participation also supports IFAM's mission to promote and preserve folk art traditions worldwide.
Prices Include:
Regional airport transfers
Accommodations
Local beverages
All meals
All tours and entrance fees
Expert English-speaking guides
Local transportation
Gratuities
Does Not Include:
$500 tax-deductible donation (made directly to IFAM)
International and regional flights
Required travel insurance
Spirits and specialty coffees
Room service
Personal expenses
Optional activities
Trip Activity Level
Average to moderate fitness level needed as travelers will be asked to walk on uneven surfaces, stairs without handrails, slippery trails, and limited or no access to elevators, etc.
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Start with some sight seeing in Cape Town at the Montebello Design Center and later see the beaded work at Monkey Biz and beautiful story cloths by Heartworks, both past participants at the International Folk Art Market.
Meet the owner of Home-Design Africa, who will give us an introduction to folk art in South Africa, and later have dinner with collector and gallery owner Elbé Coetsee to discuss South African art and her personal art collection.
Stop in charming Stanford to nosh at the award-winning Madre and visit the studio of Jero Revett, who practices the Japanese print-making tradition of gyotaku and cyanotype using octopus and fish.
Journey to Barrydale to tour the Barrydale Hand Weavers facilities and learn more about their high-quality, hand-crafted textiles and later take an afternoon game drive before overnighting at a game lodge.
Drive to Montagu to harvest fynbos on a farm and make products you can take home with you with the pros at Fijn Botanicals.
Fly to Durban to visit the colorful Friday Bead Market, meet members of the Woza Moya group, the wire basket weavers from MOIFA’s iNgqikithi yokuPhica / Weaving Meanings: Telephone Wire Art from South Africa exhibition, Zulu Gal Retro (famous in Santa Fe for her beaded glasses) and take a day trip to Eshowe to visit the Vukani Museum, seeing work from Folk Art Market artists like Jabu Nala, Angeline Masuku, and others.
Drive to Hluhluwe to stay at the Rhino Ridge Lodge to spot some of the Big Five. Venture to Hlabisa to meet IFAM artist Beauty Ngxongo and learn about the crafts being created in that area before flying to Johannesburg to visit the famous Kim Sacks Gallery among other sightseeing.
… And SO MUCH more! Your stays in boutique hotels and fabulous lodges along the way will provide the perfect place to relax and recharge after busy days spent exploring these wonderful communities!
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South Africa | September 3 - 18, 2026
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South Africa Trip Details:
$12,690 per person (double occupancy)
$1,500 single room supplement
$2,000 non-refundable deposit and $500/person tax-deductible donation to IFAM due at booking
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For more information and to reserve your spot, contact BJ Adventures:
Phone: 505.466.2289
Email: ahdina@bjadventures.com or
Peru 2026: Alpaca and the Southern Andes
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From Arequipa to the great waters of Lake Titicaca, onward to Cusco and the hidden villages in between, this 15-day journey is an intimate cultural encounter with Peru off the beaten path. Limited to just 10 travelers, we move through spectacular and little-seen corners of this living land.
Alpaca is our guiding thread across the Altiplano and southern Andes—a bridge into a world of weaving, creativity, and reverence. We follow the warm, woolly pathway of spun fiber through the bracing high air, weaving together ancient knowledge and modern lives.
In the old wisdom of the Andean people, alpaca was considered a sacred link between humans and Pachamama—our living Earth.
Along the way, we meet skilled artisans, entrepreneurs, and cultural activists whose hands keep tradition alive. We visit International Folk Art Market textile artists Timoteo Ccarita and Benita Ccana in their village of Pitumarca, as well as the renowned Nilda Callañaupa at the celebrated textile cooperative she founded in Cusco.
We’ll also encounter lesser-known masters of thread, such as grandmother Santusa Cutipa, whose knowledge and stories endure in a small village tucked deep within the southern Andes.
We begin in Arequipa, at the base of the great Misti volcano. The “white city” of stone is rich with history, vibrant markets, and extraordinary cuisine—and it remains the world center of alpaca wool production.
From here, we travel to the Colca Canyon, famed for its Incan terraces, condor roosts, hot springs, and exquisite embroidery traditions. Then onward to Lake Titicaca at 12,500 feet—mythical birthplace of Andean civilization and home to island cultures that feel like time capsules, where quiet pervades and no cars exist.
We visit Taquile Island, where the finery of men’s sacred knitted hats symbolizes their worthiness as mates, and we learn about the extraordinary floating reed islands built and lived upon for generations.
Across the Altiplano we encounter small villages rooted in a life of respect for the land—where there is a culture of alpacaboys rather than cowboys. Following ancient trade routes south to north, our journey ultimately arrives in Cusco, historic capital of the Incan world, where the creative arts of this deeply rooted culture come together.
Accommodations reflect the richness of the journey: from a 17th-century mansion-turned-hotel in historic Cusco, to a riverside spa retreat with hot springs and thatched roofs. Yet perhaps the most meaningful stay is a homestays with heart-centered family in an old alpaca estate, whose care and warmth offer something increasingly rare in the modern world.
This journey is layered with depth. It is about handmade textiles and the warm fibers that arise from the land—but most of all, it is about the creative expression of people who have always known how to listen to Pachamama for guidance.
We look forward to welcoming a small circle of travelers into this remarkable living tradition.
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Arequipa (October 10-12)
Your journey begins in the southern Peruvian city of Arequipa, often called the White City for the luminous volcanic stone used in its colonial architecture. Nestled beneath three dramatic volcanoes at 7,500 feet above sea level, Arequipa provides the perfect introduction to the Andes while allowing time to gently acclimate to altitude.
During your time here, you will explore vibrant local markets, museums rich with ancient textile traditions, and the historic heart of this UNESCO-recognized city. A highlight includes visiting the home and workshop of master embroiderer Natividad Condori, whose work reflects both ancestral traditions and the stories of migration in modern Peru.
Accommodations are in a beautifully restored 18th century historic property located in the heart of the old town. The journey begins with a welcome gathering and group dinner to orient and connect.
Colca Canyon and Yanque (October 13-15)
From Arequipa, you ascend into the highlands, traveling through the breathtaking landscapes of the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, home to alpacas, llamas, and wild vicuñas. The route crosses vast altiplano plains before descending into the Colca Canyon region, one of the deepest canyons in the world.
While based in the traditional village of Yanque, you will meet master embroiderers and artisan cooperatives, observe the majestic Andean condor soaring above the canyon, and immerse yourself in rural Andean life. Visits include community-based tourism initiatives in Sibayo, where you will learn alpaca spinning techniques, natural dye processes, and traditional textile knowledge directly from local artisans.
Your lodge overlooks the Colca River and offers natural hot springs, providing a restorative setting for time at altitude.
Lake Titicaca and Puno (October 16-18)
Continuing across the high Andes toward the legendary Lake Titicaca, you traverse dramatic mountain passes and archaeological landscapes, including the sacred funerary towers of Sillustani.
Based on the shores of the great lake, you will explore its cultural and spiritual significance by private boat, visiting the island of Taquile, where textile traditions are recognized by UNESCO for their cultural importance. Meetings with community leaders and master knitters offer rare insight into island life.
Additional exchanges include conversations with regional entrepreneurs, women-led textile businesses, and a private discussion with a historian and anthropologist exploring the social dynamics of the southern Andes and their impact on contemporary craft traditions.
Ñuñoa (October 19-20)
Your journey deepens as you travel north into the remote Altiplano toward the historic town of Ñuñoa. Along the way, you will meet nationally recognized master weavers and contemporary textile artists whose work bridges tradition and innovation.
Your home for the next two nights is a family-run hacienda surrounded by expansive alpaca ranchlands. Here, life slows to the rhythms of the high plains. Visits include alpaca breeding operations, artisan associations producing hand-knit goods, and opportunities to learn about the environmental challenges facing pastoral communities in a changing climate.
Evenings are intimate and relaxed with shared meals, fireside conversations, and star-filled skies.
Cusco (October 21-23)
The final chapter of the journey leads to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Traveling through mountain passes where waters divide between Lake Titicaca and the Amazon basin, you follow the Vilcanota River into the Sacred Valley.
En route, visits include the archaeological site of Raqchi and the famed textile community of Pitumarca, where you will meet celebrated IFAM artists Timoteo Ccarita and Benita Ccana.
In Cusco, you will explore the city’s layered history through guided walks and time with the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco (CTTC), including a private exchange with founder and IFAM artist Nilda Callañaupa. Hands-on weaving experiences provide deeper understanding of Andean textile knowledge systems.
Your stay is in a historic colonial mansion converted into an elegant hotel in the heart of the city. The journey concludes with a farewell dinner celebrating the connections formed along the way.
Departure (October 24)
Departures may be scheduled anytime today from Cusco. Guests may return home or continue with an optional extension to Machu Picchu.
Accommodations
Arequipa (October 10-12): Hotel Casa de Melgar
Colca Canyon / Yanque (October 13-15): Colca Lodge
Puno / Lake Titicaca (October 16-18): Sonesta Posada del Inca Puno
Ñuñoa (October 19-20): Hacienda Esmeralda (Family Hacienda Stay)
Cusco (October 21-23): Costa del Sol Wyndham CuscoEach property has been thoughtfully selected for its atmosphere, comfort, and connection to local culture and community.
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October 10 - 24, 2026 (14 nights / 15 days)
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$6,200 per person (double occupancy)
Single supplement available for an additional $1,100. Plus a $500 tax-deductible donation to IFAM.Additional trip costs details available on partner website.
Maximum 10 participants.
Includes:
All Accommodations: 14 nights lodging based in double occupancy
Ground Transportation: In private bus and vans
Airport Transfers: Arequipa Airport to hotel/Cusco hotel to airport
Most Meals: Included meals per itinerary
Expert Peruvian Guide: Bilingual, Peruvian, knowledgeable
Tour Host: Your support before and during tour
All entry fees: To museums and archeological sites
Not Included:
Personal Expenses
Airfare: Arrange your flights to Arequipa and from Cusco. Contact us with any questions
Travel Insurance: Highly recommended
Tips to guide and driver
Alcoholic Drinks
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TO SECURE YOUR SPOT: book your trip through our partner’s website: Traditions Mexico
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS: Our Tour Host and coordinator is Hillary Freeman. Please feel free to contact her with any questions at hillaryfreemantravels@gmail.com or 650-400-1106
Kenya 2027: Experience the Art, Culture, and Wildlife of Kenya!
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This Passport to Folk Art trip brings you to Kenya for an immersive 10-day exploration of artistic traditions, cultural exchange, and extraordinary wildlife. The itinerary balances meaningful time with regional artisan communities alongside unforgettable experiences on the iconic savannas of East Africa, where elephants gather beneath Mount Kilimanjaro and lions move through the tall grasses of the Masai Mara.
Throughout the trip, travelers engage directly with artists whose creative practices sustain livelihoods and preserve cultural heritage. Visits to studios in Nairobi, Maasai women’s beading collectives, and village schools offer insight into the social impact of these traditions, while thoughtfully selected boutique hotels and safari lodges provide space to reflect and recharge after each day of discovery.
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Nairobi (4 days / 4 nights)
Begin your journey in Nairobi, Kenya’s creative and cultural hub. Spend several days visiting an inspiring range of artisan groups, including Kitengela Glass Blowers, Ocean Sole Workshop, Tharaka Women’s Weaving Group, and IFAM artisan Phoebe Lasoi Salau. Additional visits to artisan centers, galleries, and historic and contemporary restaurants provide insight into Kenya’s dynamic design and culinary scenes.Amboseli National Park (3 days / 3 nights)
Travel south to Amboseli National Park, set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Visit Beads of Esiteti, a former Folk Art Market artisan group composed of Maasai women whose beadwork traditions support their families and community. Time in their village includes learning about the group’s impact and visiting the local Esiteti Primary School. Daily morning and afternoon safaris offer opportunities to observe Amboseli’s renowned elephant herds and diverse wildlife.Masai Mara (3 days / 3 nights)
Continue to the legendary Masai Mara, known for its sweeping plains and extraordinary wildlife. Meet the Basecamp Maasai beading group and other regional artisans, and explore the park on daily safaris that highlight its famed big cat population and rich ecosystems.Optional Extension: Lamu Island (March 11–14, 2027)
Extend your journey with an optional three-night stay on Lamu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its Swahili culture, historic architecture, and dhow-lined waterfronts. Discover local artisan groups, stroll ancient streets, and enjoy coastal cuisine in this atmospheric island setting. Pricing available upon inquiry. -
March 1 – March 11, 2027
Optional Lamu Extension: March 11 – March 14, 2027 -
$13,290/person (sharing, based on
10 travelers)
$1500 single supplement
$1100 park fees
$850 regional flights (estimated)
$2000 non-refundable deposit and $500 donation to IFAM due at booking
Included
Airport Meet & Greet; airport transfers; accommodation in hotels as listed (or similar); local English speaking private guide and vehicle; tours and visits as listed in itinerary; all meals, local wine/beer, soft drinks and coffee; mineral water in the vehicle; gratuities
Not Included
International flights; charter flights (estimated $850); $500 tax deductible donation (made directly to IFAM); travel insurance (required); visa fees ; extra room nights pre/post core trip; optional tours or activities (eg: Sheldrick’s Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Center, Karen Blixen Museum); any meal or sightseeing tour other than those specified; cocktail drinks/ spirits/specialty coffees; room service; costs related to delayed or lost luggage; any item of personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, spa, etc.; vaccinations: yellow fever required; malaria prophylaxis— highly recommended; overweight baggage fees (due to the itinerary please contain weight to 44 lbs, preferably in duffle bags); park fees (non commissionable) $1100
Activity Level:
This trip requires an average to moderate fitness level. Travelers should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain, stairs without handrails, and surfaces with limited accessibility. -
For more information or to reserve your place, please contact our tour operator:
BJ Adventures
Phone: 505-466-2289
Email: ahdina@bjadventures.com or jean.zunkel@bjadventures.comSpace is limited to ensure an intimate and meaningful experience.
Uzbekistan 2027
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Journey back in time to the old quarter of Tashkent, visit World Heritage Site Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis in Samarkand or find antique ikat in the Samarkand Urgut Market, explore the historic sites of Bukhara, the walled city of Khiva, and see Rishtan Town and Margilan in the Fergana Valley region all while visiting artists, spice markets, charming inns and beautifully appointed hotels dressed in traditional Uzbek decor.
Most importantly this journey take you to meet IFAM master artists past and present:
Along side other local master artists and designers like Valentina Romanenko, Akhmad Arabov, and Rasuljon Mirzaakhmedov. Discover ancient embroidery techniques, ikat weaving, silk weaving, wood carving, carpets, ceramics, gold embroidery and so much more!
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Day 1 – Tashkent (Aug 24)
Late evening arrival in Tashkent. Meet and greet at the airport and transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Tashkent.Day 2 – Tashkent (Aug 25)
Explore the old quarter and Khast-Imam Square to see one of the world’s oldest surviving Korans. Visit the studio of renowned embroiderer Madina Kasimbaeva, the Bibi-Hanum design studio founded by Muhayo Alieyava, the Museum of Applied Arts, and the ceramics workshop of master artist Akbar Rakhimov. Overnight in Tashkent.Day 3 – Tashkent to Samarkand (Aug 26)
Travel along the Silk Road to Samarkand. Visit the Ulugh Beg Observatory, the historic Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, and the atelier of textile designer Valentina Romanenko. Overnight in Samarkand.Day 4 – Samarkand (Aug 27)
Explore Registan Square and the Gur-Emir Mausoleum. Visit a traditional mulberry paper-making workshop, the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, and the Siob Market. Attend a silk carpet weaving demonstration. Overnight in Samarkand.Day 5 – Shakhrisabz Excursion (Aug 28)
Full-day excursion to Shakhrisabz, birthplace of Tamerlane. Visit the ruins of Ak-Saray Palace, historic mosques and madrassahs, and the embroidery studio of IFAM artist Gulnora Odilova. Return to Samarkand.Day 6 – Urgut Market (Aug 29)
Visit the renowned Urgut Market, known for antique textiles, suzanis, and ikat fabrics. Return to Samarkand.Day 7 – Samarkand to Bukhara (Aug 30)
Travel the Silk Road to Bukhara. Stop in Shafirkan for lunch in the home of master embroiderer Mukhabbat Kuchkorova before arriving in Bukhara.Day 8 – Bukhara (Aug 31)
Walking tour of Bukhara including the Ark Fortress, Poi-Kalon complex, Ismail Samani Mausoleum, and Lyabi-Khaus. Evening cultural performance and dinner.Day 9 – Bukhara Crafts (Sept 1)
Visit craft centers including a silk weaving workshop, the Bukhara Gold Embroidery Factory, the Museum of Blacksmith’s Art, and the Craft Center in a historic caravanserai. Enjoy a traditional pilaf cooking demonstration.Day 10 – Bukhara & Countryside (Sept 2)
Visit the Bakhouddin Naqshbandi Memorial Complex and the Sitorai-Mohi-Hosa Palace. Lunch and suzani embroidery demonstration with artist Akhmad Arabov.Day 11 – Bukhara to Khiva (Sept 3)
Drive across the Kizil-Kum desert to the Silk Road oasis city of Khiva.Day 12 – Khiva (Sept 4)
Explore the UNESCO-listed walled city Ichan-Kala. Visit woodcarvers, carpet weavers, and a UNESCO silk weaving workshop.Day 13 – Khiva to Nukus to Tashkent (Sept 5)
Travel to Nukus to visit the Savitsky Museum, home to a remarkable collection of Central Asian art. Evening flight to Tashkent.Day 14 – Tashkent to Rishtan to Margilan (Sept 6)
Drive to the Fergana Valley. Stop in Rishtan to visit ceramic master Rustam Usmanov, known for traditional ishkor glazed pottery. Continue to Margilan.Day 15 – Margilan (Sept 7)
Explore Margilan’s silk traditions. Visit master ikat weaver Fazlitdin Dadajanov and the craft center of weaver Rasuljon Mirzaakhmedov to learn about abrbandi ikat weaving.Day 16 – Margilan to Tashkent (Sept 8)
Visit a felt-making workshop and a traditional tandur bread-oven workshop before taking the train back to Tashkent.Day 17 – Departure (Sept 9)
Morning departure from Tashkent. -
August 24 - September 9, 2027 (17 days/16 nights)
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$8,290 per person (double occupancy)
Single supplement available for an additional $925. Plus a $500 tax-deductible donation to IFAM.Additional trip costs details available on partner website.
Includes:
Airport transfers, accommodations, all meals, local beverages, tours/ entrance fees, expert English speaking guide, local transport, train ticket (Margilan-Tashkent), assistance with visa process, gratuities
Not Included:
Regional flights (Nukus - Tashkent, $150); international flights; travel insurance (required); spirits and specialty coffees; room service; personal expenses; optional activities; camera/ video fees; visa; $500 tax deductible donation (made directly to IFAM) to secure booking
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Contact BJ Adventures: 505.670.5199
ahdina@bjadventures.com and jean.zunkel@bjadventures.com
TRIP ACTIVITY LEVEL Average fitness and mobility is needed as the trip will include standing and walking for extended periods of time, but typically on flat terrain. Stairways will sometimes be without handrails and elevators are not always available.
Guatemala 2027
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From the colonial streets of Antigua to the shores of Lake Atitlán and the highland villages in between, this 8-day journey offers an intimate encounter with Guatemala’s living Mayan traditions. Traveling as a small group, we explore a landscape of volcanoes, markets, and artisan communities where culture and creativity are woven into everyday life.
Textiles guide our experience, revealing stories of identity, heritage, and place. Using time-honored techniques, artisans create intricate weavings that carry generations of knowledge forward. Along the way, we meet International Folk Art Market artists including Amalia Güe, Lidia Lopez, and Mari Gray as well as the collective, Multicolores, whose work reflects both tradition and renewal.
We begin in Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage city rich in history and craft, before continuing to Lake Atitlán, where villages around the lake offer distinct artistic traditions. Visits to weaving cooperatives, markets, and cultural centers provide meaningful connection to the people and practices that define this region.
This journey is about history, music, textiles and tradition, but most of all, it is about the artists and communities who continue to share their culture with care and pride.
Please Note:
This trip will involve a moderate level of physical activity, which may require participants to walk long distances on uneven terrain and to climb stairs where no elevator options are available.
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Day 1 – Arrival / Antigua (March 4)
Arrive in Guatemala City and transfer to Antigua.Days 2–3 – Antigua (March 5–6)
Enjoy two full days based in the colonial city of Antigua. Visit local artisan studios and IFAM artists including Amalia Güe, Casa de Artes, and village weavers such as Lidia Lopez. Learn about traditional weaving techniques and contemporary design collaborations.Day 4 – Antigua to Lake Atitlán (March 7)
Travel to Lake Atitlán, surrounded by volcanoes and highland villages. Settle into your hotel overlooking the lake and explore the town of Panajachel.Days 5–7 – Lake Atitlán Region (March 8–10)
Spend three days exploring the villages around Lake Atitlán. Visit San Juan La Laguna for natural dye cooperatives and weaving traditions, Santiago Atitlán to meet the 13 Batz Cooperative, and connect with the women of Multicolores. Explore local markets such as Sololá and enjoy a cultural performance at the Sotzil Jay Cultural Center.Day 8 – Departure (March 11)
Transfer to Guatemala City for departure. -
March 4 - 11, 2027 (7 nights / 8 days)
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$5,175 per person, double occupancy
$1,300 single supplement
Plus a $500 tax deductible donation to IFAM
TRIP INCLUDES:
all meals
all lodging (3 nights Antigua / 4 nights Atitlan)
all ground (and boat!) transportation
all entrance fees and activities per itinerary
NOT INCLUDED:
airfare to and from Guatemala
tips for our excellent guide and drivers who will be with us the entire time
alcoholic drinks
personal expenses such as laundry, wifi, minibar, phone calls
travel insurance, strongly recommended
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TO SECURE YOUR SPOT: Please contact Peggy Gaustad, tour organizer at:
email: canyonpots@aol.com
telephone: 505 310-1356
Mexico: Chiapas 2026
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New IFAM Destination! Chiapas, Mexico.
November 11-18, 2026
The highlands of Chiapas are one of the most culturally rich realms of Mexico, which is saying a lot. These are the lands of the living Maya, the descendants of the elegant, ancient Mayan civilization, who are working everyday to balance between the endless flood of the modern world and the unfathomably rich cultural inheritance that continues to be part of their lives.
One of the ways the deep roots are kept vital in the modern world is through cultural arts such as weaving, pottery, jewelry and woodwork. IFAM has hosted artisans from the Chiapan highlands since its inception. Most notably, Pedro Meza of the 800 artisan strong Sna Jolobil collective. El Camino de los Altos, a long term, heart-centric collaboration between traditional Mayan weavers and French designers has also been a favorite.
More recently IFAM has hosted Juana Gomez, who creates stunning clay sculptures of sacred jaguars and Alberto Lopez, from the deeply traditional village of Magdalenas Aldama, who is working in a new way to bring recognition to his family's woven ancestry.
We will visit these leaders and artisans, and many more, in their home workshops, studios and galleries. We’ll meet marimba and mask makers, learn about the cultural importance of amber work, see how agave is turned into beautiful net bags in the old way, visit with young Mayan artists, meet wonderfully creative designers who bring freshness to timelessness, and taste chocolate in this land where it first came into being.
INCLUDED:
● Two professional, bilingual guides who take the role of informative and cultural ambassadors.
● All local transport in private van
● Entry and artisans fees per itinerary
● Tips for meals
● High quality, small group travel
● 7 nights lodging based in double occupancy
● All meals listed in the itinerary (one dinner on your own)
● 1 welcome cocktail with lunch and dinner
● Group transportation, Tuxtla Gutierrez Airport to San Cristobal de las Casas on Nov. 11
NOT INCLUDED:
● Airfare
● transport from San Cristobal back to the Tuxtla Gutierrez Airport
● Personal expenses such as minibar, laundry, extra drinks, etc.
● Tips to our spectacular guides and drivers who will be with us all week
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Our base will be a charming Michelin awarded boutique hotel in the old city of San Cristobal de las Casas. Red tile roofs, stone streets, pine forests and mist, street markets, good food and a town full of life. San Cristobal is one of the great, but lesser known gems of Mexico. Its beauty is enriched by the Mayan villages that surround it. Each one is a world unto itself, with specific ways of dressing, festivals and arts. We will visit several, and meet the people who are the pulse, both ancient and current, of this magical land.
INCLUDED:
● Two professional, bilingual guides who take the role of informative and cultural ambassadors.
● All local transport in private van
● Entry and artisans fees per itinerary
● Tips for meals
● High quality, small group travel
● 7 nights lodging based in double occupancy
● All meals listed in the itinerary (one dinner on your own)
● 1 welcome cocktail with lunch and dinner
● Group transportation, Tuxtla Gutierrez Airport to San Cristobal de las Casas on Nov. 11
NOT INCLUDED:
● Airfare
● transport from San Cristobal back to the Tuxtla Gutierrez Airport
● Personal expenses such as minibar, laundry, extra drinks, etc.
● Tips to our spectacular guides and drivers who will be with us all week
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NEW IFAM DESTINATION! CHIAPAS, MEXICO
November 11 - 18, 2026
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TRIP COST: 8 Nights, 7 Days
$4,550 - double occupancy
$ 935 - single supplement
Plus a $500 tax-deductible donation to IFAM
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TO SECURE YOUR SPOT: please contact tour leader, Peggy Gaustad. Space is limited.
Email: canyonpots@aol.com Telephone: 505-310-1356
Mexico: Oaxaca 2026
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Oaxaca: Folk Art & Food
September 21 - 28, 2026This trip will be a culinary delight !
We will spend 7 nights in the magical city of Oaxaca. From here we will not only explore the rich fabric of the city, but also its neighboring villages where we will visit with master IFAM artists old and new. Our trip will take us out of the city for a portion of each day experiencing the artistry, cuisine and beauty of rural Oaxaca.
In addition to the abundant array of folk art, we will experience the exceptional cuisine for which Oaxaca is so famous, from elegant restaurants to the soulful, flavor rich food from the countryside.
Trip Includes:
all accommodations
most meals, per itinerary (one dinner on your own)
ground transportation
entry fees, per itinerary
two expert local guides at all times
one welcome cocktail at dinner
Not Included:
domestic and international airfare
transportation to and from airport
trip insurance, strongly recommended
tips for our excellent guides and bus driver
personal expenses such as minibar, laundry, wifi, extra alcoholic drinks, etc.
Itineraries are subject to change
Please note: This trip will involve a moderate level of physical activity, which may require participants to walk long distances on uneven terrain and to climb stairs where no elevator options are available.
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Trip Highlights:
• New this time around will be a trip to Proyecto Seda in the mountain village of San Pedro Cajones, a community with a history of silk weaving that dates back centuries.
• Spend the morning at the bustling Tlacolula market and lunch at a nearby mescal maker's farm.
• Visit the extraordinary ruins of the UNESCO Site, Monte Albán.
• In addition to the abundant array of folk art, we will experience the exceptional cuisine for which Oaxaca is so famous, from elegant restaurants to the soulful, flavorful food from the countryside. This trip will be a culinary delight!
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September 21 - 28, 2026
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Trip Cost: 8 Nights, 7 Days
$4,900 - double occupancy
$ 895 - single supplement
Plus a $500 tax-deductible donation to IFAM
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To secure your spot: please contact trip leader Peggy Gaustad. Space and single rooms are limited. Our last Oaxaca trip filled in a day.
email: canyonpots@aol.com
cell phone: 505 310-1356 .
Past Trips
Peru 2026 - Great Masters
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Simply said, this 13-night, 14-day journey is a visit with master artisans in a spectacular country. This is deep and ancient Peru. Culture and Place. A true and intimate immersion into a vibrant land. For more information, please click here.
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Trip Highlights:
We will meet with the legendary activist and artisan, Nilda Callanaupa, in her village of Chinchero; Shipibo artisan, Olinda Silvano in her Lima workspace; folk potter Artemio Pomo in his family workshop. We’ll learn from the creatives at Warmichic about how they are using clothing design to counter discrimination against rural emigrant women and the designers at Amapolay who fuse present and past in their works to raise awareness of Peru’s powerful indigenous legacy. IFAM has been honored to host all of these artisans in Santa Fe!
Yet Peru is endless! We’ll dive into a hands-on retablo making workshop in Ayacucho, visit a jewelry artisan in Cuzco, learn how alpaca are sheared in Patacancha, see the making of story-telling tapestries, cook up an iconic Peruvian lunch and try our hand at weaving. We will peer into the past as we explore ancient temples and ceremonial centers, learn rich stories with museum visits and fully enjoy the delights of humanity in the plazas, eateries and markets of Peru.
The setting for all this goodness could hardly be more stunning. We journey from the edge of the Pacific Ocean to mesmerizing valleys bounded by the spirit-infused peaks of the Andes. With three included internal flights, our path takes us through the colonial and bohemian neighborhoods of Lima to the ancient capital of the Inca, Cuzco; A gem among gems. We’ll explore the off-the-beaten-path cultural hub of Ayacucho and spend time in the Sacred Valley in the ancient Incan town of Ollantaytambo with its incan stonework, ancient canals and our hotel in the midst of an organic farm.
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Apr 11 - 24, 2026
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COST
$5,950/person (double occupancy), plus a $500 per person tax-deductible donation to IFAM
TOTAL: $6,450
$1,100 single supplement
$1,500 non-refundable deposit due at booking
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FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO SIGN UP CONTACT Hillary Freeman at
or 650-400-1106
.
Japan 2026: Honoring 1,000 Years of Art, Culinary and Spiritual Traditions
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Journey through Japan’s three ancient capitals - Asuka, Nara, and Kyoto - to experience over a thousand years of artistic, spiritual, and culinary traditions. Meditate with a Rinzai Zen priest, witness a sunrise drumming ritual at Hasedera Temple, and explore UNESCO sites including Tenryuji, Saihoji, Todaiji, and Kofukuji. Visit the Kawai Kanjiro Memorial Museum, the Miho Museum, and experience a rare Takigi Noh performance illuminated by firelight. Connect with master artisans through hands-on workshops in papermaking, indigo dyeing, and sumi ink. Enjoy regional cuisine, meet local farmers, stay in a historic Gion ryokan, and conclude with a Shinto blessing at Asuka Shrine.
Designed for travelers seeking authenticity and depth, this small-group trip (maximum 12 guests) reveals Japan’s art heritage from the inside out through its people, its rituals, and its reverence for beauty in everyday life.
Trip Highlights
Explore Asuka, Nara, and Kyoto through Zen meditation, sunrise rituals, UNESCO temples, and a rare firelit Takigi Noh performance revealing Japan’s enduring spiritual and cultural heritage.
Create handmade washi, dye indigo with a traditional vat, and learn sumi ink making from generational masters through intimate workshops.
Savor kaiseki and regional dishes, meet heirloom rice farmers, and stay in a historic Gion ryokan once home to maiko and geiko for an authentic cultural experience.
This journey is guided by artist and cultural producer Maki Aizawa, whose lifelong dedication to preserving and reimagining Japan’s art forms provides rare access to the country’s creative heart.
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Kyoto (May 11–14)
Your journey begins in Kyoto with a group orientation on May 11. Spend four nights immersed in the city’s cultural and artistic heritage. The first two nights are based at Hotel Granvia Kyoto, offering comfort and convenience at the city’s center. On May 13–14, you’ll settle into the historic Gion district at Shiraume Ryokan or Ryugin, intimate inns known for their elegance and deep connection to Kyoto’s traditional geiko and maiko culture.Nara (May 15 - 16)
On May 15, travel to Nara for a two-night stay in a traditional machiya townhouse in the charming Naramachi district. This portion of the journey brings you closer to some of Japan’s most ancient temples and rituals, offering a serene and historically rich setting.Asuka/Uda (May 17–19)
The adventure continues in ancient Asuka, one of Japan’s earliest capitals, where you will spend three nights surrounded by pastoral landscapes, heritage sites, and local craftsmanship. Accommodations in the Asuka/Uda region offer an intimate connection to rural Japanese life and the region’s deeply rooted cultural traditions..Departure (May 20)
Enjoy breakfast together before arranged airport transfers for those departing that morning.Accommodations
Kyoto (May 11–12): Hotel Granvia Kyoto
Gion, Kyoto (May 13–14): Shiraume Ryokan / Ryugin
Nara (Naramachi) (May 15–16): Machiya
Asuka / Uda(May 17–19)
Each property has been thoughtfully selected for its atmosphere, comfort, and connection to local culture.
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May 11 – May 20, 2026 (10 nights / 9 days)
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$9,500 per person (double occupancy)
Single supplement available. Plus a $500 tax-deductible donation to IFAM.Maximum 12 participants.
Includes:
Lodging and most meals
All ground transportation, starting from our hotel in Kyoto and concluding in Asuka, with transfers to the airport included for those flying home that day
Entrance fees and scheduled activities
Gratuities for artists and specialists per itinerary
Not Included:
International airfare to and from Japan
Alcohol and personal expenses
Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
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TO SECURE YOUR SPOT: please contact tour leader, Maki Aizawa.
Email:maki@makiaizawa.comTelephone: 707-338-2003
Artist, designer, and cultural producer Maki Aizawa was born in Sendai, Japan, and raised within the living traditions of kimono-making. Her lifelong dedication to the preservation and revitalization of Japanese arts has led her to curate projects bridging past and present, Japan and the world. Through her nonprofit organization amu: weaving together arts, cultures and communities, Maki continues to champion the artisans who sustain Japan’s creative spirit.
Her insight and relationships open doors that most travelers never see—offering an experience of Japan that is deeply personal, heartfelt, and transformative.
Ghana, Togo & Benin 2025 (SOLD OUT!)
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Passport to Folk Art: Ghana, Togo & Benin
November 4 - 16, 2025
Meet with master folk artists, visit local workshops, traverse exciting markets, and reflect in cultural centers. We’ll explore bustling cities, palm-fringed beaches, and tiny fishing villages alike, and experience the electricity of festivals and the healing magic of Voodoo, drumming, and dances in this still largely untraveled part of Africa. Get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
Trip Highlights:
Visit Accra, the capital of Ghana to see historic neighborhoods and a “fantasy coffin” workshop, Kane Kwei with Eric Adjetey Anang. These whimsical, handcrafted coffins are made in any shape (cars, fish, etc.) to send people off in style. These are now collected worldwide.
Meet Nomodo Djaba–better known as Cedi–in Krobo to see where he creates the recycled glass beads that have become so well known at the annual International Folk Art Market.
Stop in Kumasi, the spiritual capital of the old Ashanti Kingdom.
Learn about the colorful Adrinka cloth, decorated with dye from the bark of Adinkera aduru in a village known for its production.
Meet the Global Mamas community and attend a batik workshop on the Cape Coast.
Venture to Sogakope to see amazing fashions at the Artists Alliance Gallery, Gallery 1957, and more.
Wander the Le Palais de Lome art center in Lome before traveling to a remote village near Grand Popo to join a Voodoo ceremony. Continue traveling in Grand Popo to take in the Villa Karo, a Finnish African Cultural Center and later attend a Zangbeto dancing mask ceremony!
Talk with contemporary artists at the Zinsou Foundation in Ouidah after a somber visit to the Portuguese Fort, a museum about the West African slave trade.
Take a private boat to visit the largest stilted city in Africa, Ganvié, where daily life unfolds in canoes before driving to Cotonou and being plunged in the chaos of the city’s rhythms…
And SO MUCH more! Your stays in boutique hotels along the way will provide the perfect place to relax and recharge after busy days spent exploring these wonderful communities.
To view the detailed itinerary, please click here.
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Click here for the full itinerary.
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November 4 - 16, 2025
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COST $10,290/person (sharing) for 6-9 travelers
$8,990/person (sharing) for 12 travelers
$1,800 single supplement
$1,500 non-refundable deposit due at booking
TRIP ACTIVITY LEVEL Average to moderate fitness level needed as travelers will be asked to walk on uneven surfaces, stairs without handrails, slippery trails, and limited or no access to elevators, etc
INCLUDED Regional airport transfers, accommodations, all meals except 1 free day, local beverages, tours/entrance fees, expert English speaking guides, local transport, gratuities
NOT INCLUDED International flights, required travel insurance, spirits and specialty coffees, room service, personal expenses, optional activities
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FOR MORE INFO CONTACT BJ Adventures at 505.466.2289 or jean.zunkel@bjadventures.com or ahdina@bjadventures.com
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From Arequipa, to the great lake of Titicaca, to Cusco and hidden villages in between, this 14-day journey is an intimate encounter with Peru off-the-beaten path. Limited to only 12 passengers, our travels takes us through unusual and spectacular corners of this living earth. Alpaca is our bridge across the Altiplano and southern Andes and into a culture of weaving, creativity and reverence.
We follow the silky warm thread of spun alpaca wool through the bracing air of the high Andes, weaving together ancient knowledge and modern times. In the old wisdom ways of the Andean people, alpaca was considered a bridge between humans and Pachamama, our living earth.
As we travel we meet skilled artisans, entrepreneurs and activists. We visit IFAM textile artisans, Timoteo Ccarita and Benita Ccana, in their village of Pitumarca as well as the renowned Nilda Callañaupa at the textile cooperative she founded in Cusco. We’ll also meet lesser known experts of thread, like grandmother Santusa Cutipa, whose hands and knowledge keep the old stories alive in a small village in a far corner of the southern Andes.
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Click here to see the full itinerary!
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Sep 29 - Oct 12, 2025
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PAYMENT DETAILS
TRIP PRICE-$5,150 per person double occupancy, PLUS a $500 per person tax deductible donation to IFAM that needs to be made directly to IFAM (see below) for a tax deductible receipt.
-Booking requires two steps:
-STEP ONE ) Pay a $500 tax deductible donation to the International Folk Art Market by clicking on this link. Once there find the "My Donation is For" box and select "Peru Alpaca", and fill out the rest of the information. (This deposit is non-refundable unless a replacement is found.)
-STEP TWO) After paying the donation, complete the booking process on this site using the green "select" button, where you'll pay a $1,000 deposit to secure your spot.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT-$950 - single supplement fee if you'd like to secure a single room. LIMITED AVAILABILITY AND MAY NOT BE POSSIBLE IN ALL THE TOWNS WE STAY IN.
- Final payment is due by June 29th, 2025
CANCELLATION POLICY
Refund fee in the event of cancelation :
-91 or more days – $350 administration fee. This fee is in addition to the $500 non-refundable donation to IFAM.
-31-90 days – 75% of tour fee refunded
-30 days or less – No refund
HIGH ALTITUDE TRAVEL
Most of our travel happens between 7,000’ and 12,500’. We will spend several days at 7,000’ allowing our bodies to get used to the thin air before heading higher. We request that you do your due diligence beforehand to be 100% certain you are physically up for travel at these elevations.
SHORT HIKES
There will be walking throughout the trip, sometimes on cobbled streets or trails. Most walks are on fairly flat terrain and will generally range between 30-90 minutes. When we visit the island of Taquile there is climbing to get to the top of the island as well as walking from place to place on the island. It is gorgeous but requires a moderate degree of physical stamina. Likewise our explorations of the cities of Arequipa and Cusco will be on foot. Easy pace, stopping from time to time. Please contact us with any questions regarding these walks.
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Click Here to Secure Your Spot
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Call or email Hillary Freeman at hillaryfreemantravels@gmail.com or 650-400-1106
Mexico City 2025 (SOLD OUT!)
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Join the International Folk Art Market and Peggy Gaustad on a journey to Mexico City including a very special private dinner at the home of Frida Kahlo Museo Casa Azul
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Trip Highlights:
Spend your first 3 nights in the very heart of the city at the Hotel Zocalo Central. Out your front door learn about the extraordinary history of Mexico: from the visible ruins of the ancient Aztec city at El Templo Mayor; to the remarkable murals of Diego Rivera at the Secretariat of Education complex; to the Metropolitan Cathedral and the magnificent Bellas Artes; all within a few blocks from each other.Visit the "IFAM of Mexico City" at a gathering of the country's best artisans, known as Original. Currently in its third year, this is a blockbuster exhibit of more than 400 artists which takes place in the former Presidential residence in Chapultepec Park. Many IFAM artists will be participating.
Visit to the city's wealth of museums: the Franz Meyer, Anahuacalli, Museo de Arte Popular and the crown jewel, Museo de Antropologia.
Enjoy a wonderful morning on the canals of Xochilmilco where will be serenaded by mariachis. Spend our last 4 nights in Coyoacán, a municipality of Mexico City which has retained much of its village like atmosphere. Here we will visit the exquisite home of IFAM artist, Carla Fernandez, and her contemporary artist husband, Pedro Reyes.
Bid farewell to the City with a magical private evening at the Museo Casa Azul, the former home, and now museum, dedicated to the life of Frida Kahlo. This rare and elegant experience will be a memory to treasure for a lifetime!
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November 12 - 19, 2025
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COST
$5,880/person, double occupancy
$775, single supplement
Pricing includes a $500 tax deductible donation to IFAM.
Space is limited.
Please note that itineraries are subject to change. This trip will involve some walking on rough terrain and climbing stairs where no elevator option is available.
INCLUDEDAll accommodations for 7 nights/8 days
All meals per itinerary (one dinner on your own)
Two expert guides
Ground transportation
Entrance fees to museums, historic sites and performances as per itinerary
Transportation to and from Mexico City airport
Welcome cocktail at lunch and dinner
NOT INCLUDED
Roundtrip airfare from Mexico City
Trip cancelation insurance, strongly recommended
Tips for local driver and guides
Personal expenses such as laundry, phone, internet service, mini bar, after hours entertainment
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TO SECURE YOUR SPACE: Please contact Peggy Gaustad, tour organizer and leader at:
email: canyonpots@aol.com telephone: 505 310-1356
Oaxaca City 2025 (SOLD OUT!)
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Peggy returns to Mexico in December to visit the beautiful City of Oaxaca with its many talented artists, and a finale on the beaches of Huatulco!
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Trip Highlights:
You’ll begin with 5 nights in the magical city of Oaxaca and its neighboring villages where you will visit with Master Artists who have participated at IFAM over the years, among them Don José Garcia, Remigio Mestas, the Vazquez family of weavers, Don Habacuc Avendaño, and the Red Clay Ladies of San Marcos Tlapazola whose pottery tradition dates back centuries.Spend the morning at the bustling Ocotlán Market for a pure infusion of Mexican culture.
Visit the extraordinary ruins of the UNESCO Site Monte Albán and the city's exquisite museums.
Experience the exceptional cuisine for which Oaxaca is so famous from the humble, earthy country kitchens to the city's Michelin star restaurants.
Our final 2 nights will be on the beautiful Oaxacan coast in Huatulco where we will have the unique opportunity to travel by boat to the coves where the famous purpura pansa sea snails live.
Here we will see how artist Don Habacuc and his family have, for centuries, extracted the purple dye from these delicate creatures before gently placing them back on the rocks. Our journey will end in Huatulco with flights available to the US from the Huatulco International Airport.
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December 2 - 9, 2025
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Details:
COST
$4,750/person, double occupancy
$750/person, single occupancy
Pricing includes a $500 tax deductible donation to IFAM.Space is limited. Please note that itineraries are subject to change. This trip will involve some walking on uneven, cobblestoned streets and climbing stairs where no elevator option is available.
INCLUDED
All accommodations for 7 nights/8 days
All meals per itinerary (one dinner on your own)
Two expert guides
Ground transportation
Entrance fees to museums, historic sites and performances as per itinerary
Transportation to and from Mexico City airport
Welcome cocktail at lunch and dinner
NOT INCLUDED
International airfare
Trip cancelation insurance, strongly recommended
Tips for local driver and guides
Personal expenses such as laundry, phone, internet service, mini bar, after hours entertainment
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To Secure Your Spot: Please contact tour organizer and leader, Peggy Gaustad
email: canyonpots@aol.com cell phone: 505 310-1356
Oaxaca 2024 (SOLD OUT!)
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Oaxaca: Folk Art & Food
October 16 - 23, 2024We will spend 7 nights in the magical city of Oaxaca. From here we will not only explore the rich fabric of the city, but also its neighboring villages where we will visit with master IFAM artists old and new. Our trip will take us out of the city for a portion of each day. Some of the villages we will be visiting are San Marcos Tlapazola, Teotitlan del Valle, Tlacolula, the Ocotlan Valley, Yanhuitlan and Teposcolula.
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:
• Spend the morning at the bustling Tlacolula market.
• Visit the extraordinary ruins of the UNESCO Site, Monte Albán as well as a private visit to the Tamayo Museum which houses the artist's exquisite collection of pre-Columbian objects.
• In addition to the abundant array of folk art, we will experience the exceptional cuisine for which Oaxaca is so famous, from elegant restaurants to the soulful, flavor rich food from the countryside. This trip will be a culinary delight.
Please note: This trip will involve a moderate level of physical activity, which may require participants to walk long distances on uneven terrain and to climb stairs where no elevator options are available.
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Full itinerary sent after inquiry.
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October 16 - 23, 2024
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$4,700 - per person, double occupancy (which includes a $500 tax-deductible donation to IFAM)*
$875 - single room supplement
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TO SECURE YOUR SPACE OR FOR MORE INFORMATION: please contact tour organizer and leader Peggy Gaustad. Space is limited. Our last Oaxaca trip filled in a day.
EMAIL: canyonpots@aol.com
CELL: 505-310-1356
Provence 2025
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In May of 2025, IFAM Passport trips will be returning to Provence for a ten day journey exploring local markets and medieval hilltop villages, sampling delicious Provençal food, and visiting artists who keep multi-generational traditions alive.
We'll begin our journey in Nice, the jewel of France's beautiful Côte d'Azur, where we'll visit medieval coastal towns, sample distinctive Niçoise culinary specialties, explore a 19th century perfumery, and then make our way to St. Remy which we'll use as our base for the next week. Our daily explorations will take us through the Provençal countryside, where we'll check out quaint villages, food destinations, and a variety of arts and artists including renowned Plumassière (feather artist) Prune Faux, potter Alain Brifa and a variety of textile artists, basket weavers, printmakers, and more. We'll have ample time to shop in the region's exquisite markets, and we'll sample a whole lot of great food — from home cooked Provençal meals, to world-class bistro dining, to visiting chocolatiers and cheese artisans. It's a journey to please the senses.
Trip highlights include:
Traditional arts, crafts, and culinary markets in quaint Provençal towns
Access to local arts traditions that only IFAM can offer
The coastal botanical gardens at Èze and the Fragonard perfumery
Traditional bistro dining in the old town of Nice
The stunning white cliffs and blue waters at the Calanques
An in depth journey through the history of Provençal fabrics and ribbons with Ruth Ribancourt, editor of Faire magazine
The home studio of Plumassière Prune Faux
The red and yellow ochre cliffs and pottery traditions of Roussillon
Gordes — considered by many to be the most beautiful Provençal town on market day
An unforgettable dining experience at Michelin Star restaurant Le St. Estève, which looks out over Cezanne's beloved Mt. Ste. Victoire
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Full itinerary sent after inquiry.
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May 9 - 18, 2025
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$7300/person double occupancy
Single supplement available. -
If you're interested in joining us on this journey into the living art traditions of this incredible region, email josh.schrei@gmail.com for more details!
Japan 2024
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Japan: 1,000 Years of Art, Culinary, and Spiritual Traditions
April 18-27, 2024
Trip highlights:
Explore three major Japanese capitals - Asuka (538-710), Nara (710-794) and Kyoto (794-1185, also known as the Heian Period).
Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites - in Kyoto: experience Tenryuji, Saihoji, Kinkakuji, and Ginkakuji; in Nara: visit Horyuji, Todaiji, Kofukuji, Kasuga-Taisha and Gangoji.
Enjoy a private tour of the Japanese spirit world by Kyoto mask maker and IFAM artist, Junya Kouno. The group will experience a special Yōkai Costume Parade in Kyoto that recreates the medieval procession of a hundred otherworldly spirits.
Experience the stunning setting, sounds, and gardens of Hasedera Temple, outside Nara. As the sun rises over Hasedera’s serene, mountain-enclosed temple precincts, we join the priests in their daily drumming ritual. This ritual has been practiced every single day over 1,000 years to this date.
While visiting Osaka, the group will experience a private performance of traditional Japanese Bunraku puppets by IFAM artist and master puppeteer, Kanroku and his company, Mokugu-sha.
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Full itinerary sent after inquiry.
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April 18-27, 2024
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$7,950 per person, double occupancy, based on 11-12 participants
$8,450 per person, double occupancy, based on 8-10 participants
$1,000 single supplement
Plus a $500 tax deductible donation to IFAM
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TO SECURE YOUR SPACE OR FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Please contact Maki Aizawa, Tour Curator/Leader
EMAIL: maki@makiaizawa.com / PHONE: 707.338.2003
This trip is designed for both first-time and seasoned travelers to Japan.
eSwatini 2024
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The Kingdom of eSwatini (formerly Swaziland) is bordered by Mozambique and South Africa. At no more than 120 miles north to south and 81 miles east to west, Eswatini is one of the smallest countries in Africa. Despite this, its climate, topography, and offerings for visitors are diverse. eSwatini has managed to hold on to that “slow-down, this is Africa” feeling. On this adventure you will: Tour Swazi Candles, Gone Rural, Khokho Design, Nswenya Glass, Tintsaba Crafts, Coral Stephens Handweavers, Madwa Weaving, Malandela’s Lifestyle, Manzini Market, Mantenga Lifestyle, Ngwenya Glass Complex with their founders and managers to learn how their work is bringing beauty to the world and improving artisans lives.
Learn about the history of conservation efforts in the country from noted conservationist Ann Reilly and visit the country’s best known nature reserve, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary to see the fruits of her family’s labor (and former farmland) first hand.
Go on a game drive for amazingly intimate encounters with animals like hippo, crocodile, zebra, blue wildebeest, kudu, nyala, bushbuck, impala, blesbok, reedbuck, warthog, grey duiker and three species of mongoose Hear about the history and archaeology of the country from cultural heritage specialist Bob Forrester. Forrester designed and directed the complete reconstruction of the Swaziland National Museum and created the Bulembu Museum among other things.
And more!
Your stays in boutique hotels and ecolodges offer will provide the perfect place to relax and recharge after days spent exploring.
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Full itinerary sent after inquiry.
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August 31 - September 14, 2024
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$7490/person (sharing) for 8
$8390/person (sharing) for 6
$1150 single supplement$1,500 non-refundable deposit due at booking ADD-ON COST
$2190/person (sharing) for 4
$975 single supplement -
FOR MORE INFO CONTACT
BJ Adventures at 505.466.2289 ahdina@bjadventures.com
Peru 2024
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Peru: Culture & Place
March 13 - 24, 2024Simply said, this 12-day journey is a visit with master artisans in a spectacular country. This is deep and ancient Peru. Culture and Place. A true and intimate immersion into a vibrant land.
We will meet with the legendary activist and artisan, Nilda Callañaupa, in her village of Chinchero; Shipibo artisan, Olinda Silvano in her Lima workspace; folk potter Artemio Pomo in his family workshop. We’ll learn from the creatives at Warmichic about how they are using clothing design to counter discrimination against rural emigrant women and the designers at Amapolay who fuse present and past in their works to raise awareness of Peru’s powerful Indigenous legacy. IFAM has been honored to host all of these artisans in Santa Fe!
Yet Peru is endless! We’ll dive into a hands-on retablo-making workshop in Ayacucho, visit a jewelry artisan in Cuzco, see how alpaca are sheared in Patacancha, turn cacao into our own chocolate bars, see the making of story-telling tapestries, cook up an iconic Peruvian lunch and try our hand at weaving. We will peer into the past as we explore ancient temples and ceremonial centers, learn stories with museum visits and fully enjoy the delights of humanity in the plazas, eateries, and markets of Peru.
The setting for all this goodness could hardly be more stunning. We journey from the edge of the Pacific Ocean to mesmerizing valleys bounded by the spirit-infused peaks of the Andes. Our path takes us through the colonial and bohemian neighborhoods of Lima to the ancient capital of the Inca, Cuzco; A gem among gems. We’ll explore the off-the-beaten-path cultural hub of Ayacucho and spend time in the Sacred Valley in the ancient Incan town of Ollantaytambo with its Incan stonework, ancient canals, and our hotel in the midst of an organic farm. We journey through Lima, Cuzco, Ayacucho, Ollantaytambo, and villages in between. This trip includes three internal flights.
HIGH ALTITUDE TRAVEL AND TRIP CONDITIONS
Most of this trip’s travel happens between 9,000’ and 11,000’. We will spend several days at 9,000’ allowing our bodies to get used to the thin air before heading higher. We request that you do your due diligence beforehand to be 100% certain you are physically up for travel at these elevations. This trip also requires a moderate level of phsical activity. There will be urban walks of several miles on uneven surfaces, steps at archeological sites and occasional trail walks of up to several miles. We will travel on winding mountain roads and on occasion be standing for extended periods of time while watching demonstrations of listing to presentations.
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Full itinerary sent after inquiry.
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March 13 - 24, 2024
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$5,900 - per person, double occupancy (which includes a $500 tax-deductible donation to IFAM)*
$765 - single room supplement
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Peru Fine Folkart is custom designed for IFAM and operated by Traditions Tours/Eric Mindling. Our Tour Host and coordinator is Hillary Freeman.
TO SECURE YOUR SPACE OR FOR MORE INFORMATION: Please contact Hillary Freeman, tour organizer at hillaryfreemantravels@gmail.com or 650-489-1054.
Peru 2025 - Great Masters (SOLD OUT!)
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Simply said, this 12-night, 13-day journey is a visit with master artisans in a spectacular country. This is deep and ancient Peru. Culture and Place. A true and intimate immersion into a vibrant land. For more information, please click here.
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Trip Highlights:
We will meet with the legendary activist and artisan, Nilda Callanaupa, in her village of Chinchero; Shipibo artisan, Olinda Silvano in her Lima workspace;folk potter Artemio Pomo in his family workshop. We’ll learn from the creatives at Warmichic about how they are using clothing design to counter discrimination against rural emigrant women and the designers at Amapolay who fuse present and past in their works to raise awareness of Peru’s powerful Indigenous legacy. IFAM has been honored to host all of these artisans in Santa Fe!
Yet Peru is endless! We’ll dive into a hands-on retablo making workshop in Ayacucho, visit a jewelry artisan in Cuzco, see how alpaca are sheared in Patacancha, see the making of story-telling tapestries, cook up an iconic Peruvian lunch and try our hand at weaving. We will peer into the past as we explore ancient temples and ceremonial centers, learn rich stories with museum visits and fully enjoy the delights of humanity in the plazas, eateries and markets of Peru.
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March 22 - April 3, 2025
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COST
$5,950/person (double occupancy), plus a $500 per person tax-deductible donation to IFAM
TOTAL: $6,450
$1,100 single supplement
$1,500 non-refundable deposit due at booking
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FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO SIGN UP CONTACT Hillary Freeman at
or 650-400-1106
.
Mexico City 2023 (SOLD OUT)
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Join the International Folk Art Market on a journey to Mexico City including a very special private dinner at the home of Frida Kahlo, MUSEO CASA AZUL.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS: 7 Nights, 8 Days
Spend 3 nights in the very heart of the city at the Hotel Zocalo Central
Out our front door learn about the extraordinary history of this country: from the visible ruins of the ancient Aztec city at the Templo Mayor; to the remarkable murals of Diego Rivera at the Secretariat of Education complex; to the Metropolitan Cathedral, Zocalo and Palacio Nacional; all within a few blocks from each other
A wonderful morning on the canals of Xochilmilco where will be serenaded by mariachis.
A two-night excursion to the State of Tlaxcala, visiting picturesque towns and haciendas, and seeing a variety of artisans working in the age-old practices of sarape making, delicate pepeinado embroidery, Talavera pottery, and the rich cuisines of the area.
Returning to the city, we will spend our last 2 nights in Coyoacán, a municipality of Mexico City that has retained much of its village-like atmosphere. Here we will visit the exquisite home of IFAM artist, Carla Fernandez, and her contemporary artist husband, Pedro Reyes, who is having a one-person exhibit at SITE Santa Fe this February.
Our farewell dinner will be a magical private evening at the Museo Casa Azul, the former home, and now museum, dedicated to the life of Frida Kahlo. This rare and elegant experience is something not to be missed!!!
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Full itinerary sent after inquiry.
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October 12 - 19, 2023
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$5,280 per person double occupancy
$685 - single supplement
Plus a $500 per person tax-deductible donation to IFAM.
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TO SECURE YOUR SPACE: Please contact Peggy Gaustad, tour organizer and leader at:
email: canyonpots@aol.com telephone: 505 310-1356
Please Note:
This trip will involve a moderate level of physical activity, which may require participants to walk long distances on uneven terrain and to climb stairs where no elevator options are available.
Oaxaca 2024 (SOLD OUT)
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Spend 4 nights in the charming city of Oaxaca and its neighboring villages where we will visit with master artists who have participated at IFAM over the years, among them Don José Garcia, Magdalena Pedro Martinez, the Vazquez family of weavers and the women of San Marcos Tlapazola whose red clay pottery tradition dates back centuries.
Spend the morning at the bustling Ocotlán market.
Visit the extraordinary ruins of the UNESCO Site, Monte Albán and the city's exquisite museums.
Experience the exceptional cuisine for which Oaxaca is so famous.
Travel to the Isthmus of Tehuantepec for 2 nights where we will be immersed in the textiles of this region, a style made famous by Frida Kahlo. We will learn about the food and dance that is particular to the Istmo and be treated to a Tehuano fashion show.
Our final 2 nights will be on the beautiful Oaxacan coast in Huatulco where we will have the unique opportunity to travel by boat to the coves where the famous purpura pansa sea snails live. Here we will see how the artists have, for centuries, extracted the purple dye from these delicate creatures before gently placing them back on the rocks. Our journey will end in Huatulco with flights available to the US from the Huatulco International Airport.
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Full itinerary sent after inquiry.
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February 6 - 14, 2024
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- $4350 double occupancy
- $620 single supplement
Plus a $500 tax-deductible donation to IFAM
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To Secure Your Spot: Please contact tour organizer and leader, Peggy Gaustad
email: canyonpots@aol.com cell phone: 505 310-1356
Guatemala 2023 (SOLD OUT)
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Join Peggy Gaustad and the International Folk Art Market on a spectacular journey to a magical land, including visits with some of our most treasured artists.
Our 7-night, 8-day excursion will take us to a land of volcanoes, rainforests, ruins, and rich Mayan traditions, including a unique and varied cuisine and a wealth of folk art!
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:
3 nights in the lovely city of Antigua, where we will enjoy a visit from Market artist, Amalia Güe. Amalia, along with her beautiful children and huipiles, will travel from her village in Alta Verapaz to spend time with us.
While in Antigua we'll visit IFAM artists, old and new: Casa de Artes, a family-run store specializing in premier Mayan folk art; the indigo natural dye studio of Olga Reiche; Lidia Lopez and the village weavers of Aguas Calientes; and Mari Gray who owns the studio of Kakaw Designs.
4 nights at the lovely Hotel Atitlán overlooking the majestic Lago de Atitlán from where we'll explore the town of Panajachel and the villages along the lake. We will meet with the artists of Multicolores, a group of over 50 women rug makers who have participated at IFAM for several years to the delight of thousands.
Travel across the lake to explore San Juan la Laguna, home to IFAM painters, Angelina Quic and Antonio Coche, natural dye cooperatives, and coffee and cacao farms.
Visit the colorful and famous market at Chichicastenango. After a lavish lunch of traditional foods, we'll stop by the workshop of some local mask makers before heading back to Panajachel for dinner and music at the ever-popular, Guajimbos.
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Full itinerary sent after inquiry.
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December 2 - 9, 2023
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TOTAL: $4,900
$4,400 per person, double occupancy
$680 single supplement
Plus a $500 tax deductible donation to IFAM
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TO SECURE YOUR SPACE OR FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Please contact Peggy Gaustad, tour organizer at:
email: canyonpots@aol.com
telephone: 505-310-1356
Provence 2023 (SOLD OUT)
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Join IFAM Associate Producer Josh Schrei and local Provençal arts experts for ten days exploring the vibrant arts and markets of Provence. We’ll start off with two days in Nice, where we’ll visit the acclaimed Chagall and Matisse museums and stay at the exquisite Palais de la Mediterranee.
Then we’ll head to the heart of Provençe for a week of market hopping and arts exploration in Aix and Saint Remy. Join us as we visit quaint medieval towns and pay homage to a varied regional arts tradition that includes ceramics, traditional basket weaving, fabric design, printmaking, glassblowing and more.
We’ll also celebrate the culinary treasures of the region, as we sample local olive oils, cheeses, wines, and chocolates. After a long year, this fabulous getaway will be a welcome treat for the senses.
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Full itinerary sent after inquiry.
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May 12 – 21, 2023
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Total: $7,500
$7,000 + $500 donation to the International Folk Art Market.
Single supplement available. Includes all accommodations, meals, entry fees, gratuities, and travel within France.
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To secure a spot or for more trip information, please contact Josh Schrei at josh.schrei@gmail.com or (505) 919-9530.
Guatemala 2022
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• 3 nights in the beautiful city of Antigua, with a visit from IFAM artist, Amalia Güe. Amalia, along with her beautiful huipiles, will travel from her village in Alta Verapaz to spend time with us.
• Visit to Casa de Artes, a family-run store specializing in premier Mayan folk art; the indigo natural dye studio of Olga Reiche; and the village weavers of Aguas Calientes.
• 4 nights at the lovely Hotel Atitlán overlooking the majestic Lago de Atitlán from where we’ll explore the town of Panajachel and the villages along the lake. Met with the artists of Multicolores, a group of over 50 women rug makers who have participated at IFAM for several years to the delight of thousands.
• Traveled across the lake to explore San Juan la Laguna, home to many painters, natural dye cooperatives, and coffee and cacao farms.
• Visited the colorful and famous Sunday Market at Chichicastenango and the workshop of some local mask makers before heading back to Panajachel for dinner and music at the ever popular, Guajimbos.
Mexico City 2022
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• Spent 4 nights in the historic center of Mexico City at the newly opened Hotel Zócolo Central from where we’ll explore all that this extraordinary city has to offer in terms of museums, murals, folk art and food.
• Behind the scenes visit to the folk art collections of the Museo de Arte Popular and Fomento Cultural Banamex in the glorious Palacio Iturbe.
• A wonderful morning on the canals of Xochilmilco where will be serenaded by mariachis, followed by an afternoon at the famous Bazaar Sabado in San Angel.
• A two day, one night excursion to the State of Mexico visiting the picturesque weaving town of Malinalco, famous for their finely made rebozos, the iconic Mexican shawl.
• 2 nights in Coyoacán, a municipality of Mexico City which has retained much of its village like atmosphere, with a visit to the exquisite home of IFAM artist, Carla Fernandez, and her contemporary artist husband, Pedro Reyes.
• A magical farewell dinner and private evening at the Museo Casa Azul, the former home, and now museum, dedicated to the life of Frida Kahlo.
India 2022
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• The local handicrafts, fabrics and tribal arts surrounding Bhuj, including the Qasab-Kutch Craftswomen’s collective, the world-renowned Khatri block printing studio, and the Khatri tie-dye workshop.
• The opportunity to study with local artists and try your hand at block printing and embroidery.
• The sun temple of Modhera, one of only two sun temples in India.
• Rani-Ki-Vav, one of the finest examples of ancient stonework in all of India
• The markets and textile museums of Ahmedabad
• Agashiye rooftop restaurant, one of the best restaurants in India!
• A safari into the Little Rann wildlife sanctuary, home to unique native flora and fauna.
• The white city of Udaipur with its gorgeous lakes and palaces.
Oaxaca 2022
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• Visited the homes of several IFAM artists including potters Marisela Gomez and Manuel Reyes, the weaving family of Don Isaac Vazquez and jeweler Yesenia Salgado Tellez.
• Toured the temples, palaces and plazas of Monte Alban, one of the earliest cities of Mesoamerica, dating back to 500 BC.
• Traveled to the Mixteca Alta for two nights where we will be exposed to the markets and artisans of this unique, remote area including the village of San Pablo Tijaltepec where the women make beautiful, intricate blouses using an age old pickup weave technique. The work of these women has inspired the clay work of Marisela and Manuel.
• Stopped at San Augustin Etla where we toured the old textile mill which is now an art center created by renowned artist, Francisco Toledo, enjoyed the legendary food of Oaxaca, from upscale restaurants to salt of the earth home cooked meals.
Morocco 2022
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• Stayed in extraordinary 4 and 5 star boutique hotels across Morocco.
• Daring dinners like those at NUR in Fez, recently featured in the New York Times.
• Europe’s gateway to Africa and guardian of the Strait of Gibraltar.
• Wandered the “blue pearl” of the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen.
• Viewed imposing Roman ruins: the House of Orpheus, the Forum, the Triumphal Arch of Caracalla, and more in Volubilis.
• Walked the labyrinths of the ancient Fez Medina and Mellah (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), experiencing the aromas of sacred spices and foods, and bustling alleyways that overflow with beautiful Berber wares.
• Visited IFAM artist Amina Yabis and the women’s association she founded to see firsthand how hand-woven buttons have provided economic opportunities for their community.
• Visited IFAM master weaver Khadouj Boufi who founded the Hana Women’s Association, and immerse yourself in their gorgeous boucherite rugs that are made using age old techniques while using discarded, up-cycled fabrics.
• Enchanting drive through the striking countryside of the Atlas Mountains.
• Experienced the mosques, palaces, and lavish gardens of beautiful, bustling Marrakech.
• Met other contemporary artists like jeweler Amina Agueznay.
• Behind-the-scenes tour at the Musée d’Art Contemporain African Al Maaden!
Uzbekistan 2022
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• Journeyed back in time at the old quarter of Tashkent, Khast-Imam Square to see one of the oldest surviving Korans before visiting embroiderer Madina Kasimbaeva with her dark red “Palak” designs, Muhayo Alieyava’s Bibi-Hanum for contemporary apparel with Uzbek textiles, the Museum of Applied Arts and ceramicist Akbar Rakhimov.
• Visited the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis of Samarkand, A UNESCO World Heritage Center, where elaborately decorated buildings that date to the 1300s reflect the development of the monumental art and architecture of the Timurid dynasty, and Valentina Romanenko, a famous textile designer known for her rich blends of silk, painting and embroidery.
• Sightsaw around the beautiful Registan Square and its imposing madrassahs, before making paper with local artists.
• Visited the biggest mosque in Samarkand – Bibi-Khanum and the colorful and frenetic Siob Market that is nearby.
• Found an antique ikat or embroidery at the Urgut Market before meeting ceramists at the Urgut Ceramic School.
• Continued on the Silk Road to Bukhara to visit the famous embroiderer Farkhod Ramazoznov.
• Packed in more of the beautiful artisan traditions of Bukhara by visiting a silk weaving workshop, the Bukhara Gold Embroidery Factory, the Museum of Blacksmith’s Art, and much more!
• Explored the historic walled city of Khiva visiting woodcarvers, carpet weavers and UNESCO silk weavers. Visit Nukus to see the Museum of Igor Savitskiy, where wondrous works of art from the Karakaplak people are housed.
• Enjoyed unique Uzbek dining experiences (including making pilav with locals) while staying in charming inns and hotels that are beautifully appointed with traditional Uzbek decor.
Mentor to Market
Mentor to Market Programs (M2M) provides training, workshops, skill building, peer-to-peer learning, and long-term support that helps folk artists improve their livelihoods and participate effectively in the global marketplace.