Federico Kauffman Doig began his career at the Museo Rafael Larco Herrera as a security guard. Today he is president of that institution and one of the world’s most respected archeologists, as well as a delightful and engaging speaker! This program originally appeared on Televisión Nacional del Perú as part of the esteemed artistic series, Presencia Cultural.

Federico was something of a wanderer in his early days, and describes himself as having been a “pre-hippy.” His father, intent that his son be something other than a vagabundo, probed Federico for any hint of passion, any calling. “It’s called archeology!” he yelled upon hearing that the young man enjoyed exploring ancient ruins.

If you are not yet a fan of Señor Doig, you don’t have a pulse! His jungle expeditions have led to the discovery of everything from the anatomically-blessed Pinchudos statues to the giant upright mummies found in a site known as Carajía. We’re ready for an expedition!

Federico Kauffman Doig has received the highest title the Peruvian government gives in honor of cultural achievment, Amauta. Sweden and Austria have also bestowed him with awards and titles. So is he ready to join the ranks of jubilados? No way! He still explores cliffs 4000 meters high and has far too many unfinished essays to even consider it for un momentito.

Gonzalo is a Peruvian painter living in Germany. We had a great opportunity to visit him and talk about his life. Before learning about his work, let’s listen to the amazing tale of how he met his wife.

Let’s listen to more of this love story, starring a German woman and a Peruvian man on a date with destiny!

A member of the Quechua people from Peru shares with us a bit about the traditional use of the plant San Pedro, or "huachuma," which is thought to have medicinal and spiritual qualities that could help one get in touch with the cosmos, and oneself.

Javier de la Cruz from Cusco, Peru, explains to us why, having had the opportunity to travel to other cities, his hometown remains his favorite, and also gives us suggestions about other Peruvian tourist attractions.

Our top reporter stops by Peru’s capital and catches a ride with Ulises, a taxi driver/tourist guide/cop with a thorough knowledge of the city and a great willingness to share it. Ulises takes us to the Rimac area of Lima. Rimac means que habla (“that could speak”) in Quechua, a telling name for this telling ride!

Yabla is in the historic center of Lima, the capital of Peru, on a national holiday and a saint’s day, no less. If you’re going to be stuck in a bit of traffic on a tour, Lima’s famous Plaza de Armas is a great place to be. There’s so much to see: The presidential palace, a 16th century cathedral and more. Come see for yourself.