Meet Sofia Arce: Founder and Visionary Behind Intense Peru
At Intense Peru, we pride ourselves on delivering boutique travel experiences that immerse our clients in the rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture of Peru. At the heart of this mission is Sofia Arce, our founder and an inspiring figure in the Peruvian tourism industry. Her passion for creating meaningful journeys and commitment to empowering women have elevated Intense Peru into a leading name in luxury travel.
Sofia’s Journey: From Inspiration to Innovation
Sofia’s love for travel and Peruvian culture inspired her to create Intense Peru. Reflecting on her journey, Sofia shares:
“I wanted to create unforgettable travel opportunities for visitors, ensuring high-quality service while showcasing the ancient wisdom of our ancestors, who revered ‘Pachamama’ (Mother Earth) in unique ways.”
Over the years, her vision has evolved. Intense Peru began as a company offering shared group itineraries and has since grown into a boutique premium travel service focused on private tours and 4-5 star accommodations.
Challenges and Triumphs as a Female Entrepreneur
Sofia has faced unique challenges as a female entrepreneur in Peru:
“When I started, I worked mostly with men. It was difficult for some to take direction from me, and at times, they would even change my orders as they saw fit. Over time, I’ve built a team that is now predominantly women, who share my dedication to excellence.”
Sofia also highlights some of the barriers women in the tourism industry face:
“Women guides in Peru often face challenges such as lower wages, longer working hours, and having to share accommodations with male colleagues during out-of-town services. At Intense Peru, we’re changing that by offering better opportunities and fostering a supportive environment for women.”
Empowering Women and Communities
Sofia sees her leadership as an opportunity to empower women and local communities:
“There are no formal forums or associations for women in the Peruvian tourism industry, so it’s up to us to lead by example and create opportunities.”
Intense Peru’s impact extends beyond its staff to the local communities it partners with. By setting high operational standards, the company helps vendors across Peru adapt and thrive:
“Our main success factor is operational excellence. We ensure our clients return home with authentic and unforgettable experiences, while our local partners grow alongside us.”
Memorable Moments and Achievements
Intense Peru has celebrated several milestones under Sofia’s leadership. A proud achievement was designing and operating customized incentive trips for a U.S. law services firm for three consecutive years before the pandemic.
Another highlight is the company’s expansion into new destinations, such as Uyuni, the largest salt desert in the world located in Bolivia. Collaborating with its sister company, Intense Bolivia, the team creates seamless journeys across two countries, allowing clients to acclimate gradually to higher altitudes.
Additionally, Intense Peru has added iconic routes like the Inca Trail, Choquequirao, and Lares to its offerings, providing even more diverse and immersive experiences for travelers.
What Makes Peru Unique? Sofia’s Reflections
When asked what surprises travelers most about Peru, Sofia points to the country’s biodiversity:
“Many find our jungle experiences in the Tambopata National Reserve even more fascinating than Machu Picchu. Two-thirds of Peru is rainforest, representing about 15% of the planet’s green area.”
She also emphasizes the warmth of the Peruvian people:
“I hope travelers take home a deep appreciation for the warmth of our people, the vibrant colors, and the richness of our ancient culture and history.”
A Vision for the Future
Sofia remains focused on innovation and growth:
“We aim to grow in the luxury segment, delivering even more exceptional travel experiences to our clients.”
By introducing unique destinations and tailor-made tours, Sofia ensures every journey with Intense Peru leaves a lasting impression.
Get to Know Sofia Through Her Passions
Sofia’s personal interests greatly influence the experiences Intense Peru offers:
“I love traveling in comfort and with prompt assistance, which I ensure for our clients. Every tailor-made itinerary reflects this dedication.”
She finds fulfillment in making an immediate impact on her clients’ experiences:
“What I love most is creating opportunities for clients to experience the magic of Peru in ways that are both authentic and memorable.”
Experience Peru with Intense Peru
Under Sofia’s leadership, Intense Peru is more than a travel company—it’s a gateway to the soul of Peru. Whether you’re exploring Machu Picchu, trekking the Andes, or delving into the Amazon, Sofia’s vision and passion ensure every trip is a journey of discovery and connection.
Ready to embark on your next adventure?
Contact us to craft your personalized travel experience today.
