Xapiri Ground — Attraction in Distrito de Cusco

Soooo based on other reviews it looks like I’m the only client here that kind of missed the point of Xapiri, “art & café”.

Firstly I think their cacaos are 💯. I imagine that the exhibitions are great

The complication is that every time I come here, depending on who is working and what mood staff is in, their introduction to Xapiri varies, sometimes significantly. My first visit, I saw some tables, a functional cafe, wall mounted art, and a woman who responded to tell me I could order something.

Another time I visited and a different person gave me a long verbal introduction to a series of exhibitions as if Xapiri was a museum or gallery space… it turns out there are exhibitions upstairs and in other rooms, and we are welcome to visit them.

I continued to visit, spent hours reading on their benches, sometimes having conversations with other folks at the tables.

This week (after I had ordered and was googling around on my laptop) someone surprised me with a mandate that Xapiri is not intended to be a ‘coworking space’ which opened up a polite + professional but uncomfortable conversation about whether or not what I was doing with my laptop was against their restrictions. (Is it acceptable to read with my phone instead of laptop, does the fact that I’m reading about económics make this activity ‘work’ as opposed to an intellectual exploration that may be welcome in the context of a stereotypical, cliche interpretation of what is appropriate for a contemporary ‘art space’…. At 4 I’m supposed to do a call to counsel my girlfriend on her small business venture in Guatemala, but she’s my girlfriend and dialogue about cross-cultural and international conventions are common in this space… so would that call be abuse of this space as “coworking” or would it be a personal conversation and as such appropriate/welcome at Xapiri Ground, etc etc).

In the end she said that laptop use for extended periods create problems for the business due to table capacity, and that it is “not what the space is for” which I do think is completely understandable and fair, though her use of the words “not what the space is for” I think is illustrating the level of control that staff is actually trying to imply, but avoiding directly stating, which to me just felt uncomfortable to be around.

The problem is that staff made these statements after I had ordered, and as such I found myself financially imprisoned, trying to analyze and predict the ways that I might spend my time at this table to understand if I would inadvertently violate the intended culture of the organization… in the end I just paid and bounced to avoid the whole situation.

So, my point is, I think it would behoove everyone for the team at Xapiri to come to a clear consensus about what type of control or limitations they wish to ask of their customers, and be sure to clearly communicate those policies (or spirited introductions to the artwork!) to each of us equally upon entry so we understand their expectations.

That said, I wish them well in their mission to continue to bring exhibitions to the public, and again their cacao is...

Perched in the heart of Cusco’s enchanting San Blas neighborhood, Xapiri Ground offers more than just an exceptional cup of coffee or cacao—it delivers an experience that lingers long after you leave. Nestled above the city’s bustling center, this café and art space sits directly in front of San Blas’s serene waterfall fountain, where the sound of cascading water sets the perfect tone for reflection and inspiration.

San Blas itself is a place of magic, with its narrow, cobbled streets, whitewashed walls, and blue-painted balconies that seem frozen in time. Xapiri Ground captures the essence of this artistic neighborhood while offering something truly unique: a deep connection to the Amazon jungle and its people.

The cacao and coffee here are unlike anything you’ve tasted before. Whether it’s the velvety richness of their chocolate con macambo or the smooth complexity of a perfectly crafted flat white, every drink is infused with the spirit of the jungle. Even the details elevate the experience: cups handmade in traditional Amazonian styles, jungle-sourced wooden serving boards, and handwoven coasters that bring you closer to the artistry and craftsmanship of the Amazon’s indigenous cultures.

As you sip, you’re surrounded by a vibrant gallery of Amazonian art and history. The walls speak of stories long forgotten by the modern world, offering a glimpse into the lives and traditions of the jungle’s tribes. This isn’t just a café; it’s a living, breathing tribute to the Amazon, celebrating its beauty, resilience, and cultural significance.

The view from the café is as inspiring as what’s inside. Overlooking the charming plaza and the soothing waterfall fountain, you’re treated to a front-row seat to San Blas’s undeniable charm. The energy of the neighborhood, with its mix of artists, musicians, and travelers, mirrors the café’s mission of creativity and connection.

Xapiri Ground isn’t just a destination; it’s a sanctuary. Whether you’re journaling on the balcony, marveling at the art, or simply savoring your drink, this place invites you to slow down and immerse yourself in something bigger than yourself. If you find yourself in Cusco, don’t miss the chance to visit this treasure in San Blas—it’s where the past, present, and spirit of the Amazon...

Xapiri ground is a hidden gem with a purpose in the fashionable San Blas Area. Xapiri is an organization that works with the different indigenious groups in the Peruvian rainforest. Within the building (free entry) you find a great mix of galleries and (audiovisiual) exhibitions that bring you closer to the world of these groups. At the ground level, there is also a small coffee shop with has good selection of cacao based drinks with a few unusual specials and a selection of excellent pastries. My personal favorite drink is the "pae cacao", which is a cacao drink with a pinch of a (chili)pepper mix originating from the rainforest that gives it a nice kick. On the upper floor, you can find a nice shop with some artwork made by the indigenious groups. If you are interested in bringing a truly unique piece home that supports a cause, they have a wide selection that fits everyone's suitcase and budget. I would like to give special thanks to Jack for his expert explanation on the work of Xapiri and to Laura for the assistance in packing the Ceramic Gayo mask...