South American Explorer

Our members are interesting people, and they do interesting things. Each edition we ask one of our intrepid members to tell us about themselves and what they are doing. This month, the lovely Kylie was found relaxing at the Cusco clubhouse.

Name : Kylie Quave

Age : 26

Nationality:  United States

Current Location:  Cusco, Peru

Profession :  PhD candidate in anthropological archaeology

Where were you before you arrived in South America?

I was living in Dallas, Texas, working on a PhD in archaeology (and itching to come back here!).

Why are in you travelling in South America?

I’m completing archaeological excavations and early colonial documentary research on the Inca and their royal estate economy for my dissertation.

What are you planning to do on your trip?

Though I’m mostly working in the campo or in the laboratory, I’ve also been visiting new regions of Perú and Ecuador I didn’t know before. Most frequently, I travel to see archaeological sites.

Where is the best place you have travelled in South America so far?

My absolute favorite part of South America so far is the Chachapoyas region of Perú. It’s a cloud forest and so the coffee is excellent and you can’t beat juanes and wild boar jerky. It’s also off the beaten path and full of places to discover. You’ll feel like Gene Savoy in an instant.

What are you looking forward to most on your trip?

I’m especially anxious for my time in Lima at the end of this year. I’m going to use it as a jumping-off point to visit Huánuco Pampa and other out-of-the-way places.

What has been the most challenging moment of your trip so far?

The three-day walk to Espiritu Pampa in the Vilcabamba region was wonderful, but the trip back to the village where we were excavating was the real challenge. With two days in three vehicles, I had a hard time suppressing my motion sickness after four days of drinking from mountain springs.

How did you hear about South American Explorers?

I had visited the SAE clubhouse a few years ago in Cusco, but it wasn’t until a friend living in Lima gave me a glowing recommendation for membership that I joined.

What positive effect has South American Explorers had on your trip in South America so far?

I’ve made a lot of personal connections through SAE where I otherwise would have been isolated here in Cusco. I’ve met really unique and impressive people. It’s nice to be able to check out the calendar during the week and know there’s an event awaiting you!

Finally, but most importantly, why do you make the time to travel? Why is it important to you?

I’m constantly learning from the local people and the other travellers I meet. We all need and have a responsibility to be aware of the world outside our comfort zone. If I could make a career out of travelling, I totally would. Oh, wait…

We are very fortunate that Kylie has offered to lead a SAE field trip to her archaeological site, near the Inca ruins of Moray in the Sacred Valley in August. Keep tuned for details or email the Cusco clubhouse on cuscoclub@saexplorers.org