LATAM Annual Conference 2025
DFK International is excited to announce our 2025 Latin America Annual Conference will be held in Cusco, Peru. DFK member firms should register here.
Spanish-speaking members can view the conference information here.
Located in the heart of the Andes Mountains, Cusco is a city that seamlessly blends ancient heritage with modern vibrancy. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, it remains a cultural treasure, offering a unique mix of stunning colonial architecture and inspiring archaeological wonders. As the gateway to Machu Picchu, Cusco is shaped by history, tradition and adventure - the perfect setting for collaboration, learning and building lasting relationships.
The conference will feature two days of engaging sessions, a gala that showcases the Peruvian culture, a city tour with breathtaking sites and plenty of opportunities for networking. An optional post-conference tour to the stunning sites of Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu is also available.
Conference Venue: Palacio del Inca, a Marriot Luxury Collection. Located at Plazoleta Santo Domingo 259, Cusco, Peru.
Discounted accommodations for the conference venue can be booked by sending an email to the following address: [email protected], and mentioning the following promotion code: Grupo DFK International.
Hotel Cancellation policy: Please note that the cut-off date for any changes or cancellations to the reservations is 21 September 2025. Any changes made to a reservation after this date will be subject to paying 100% of the total reservation cost.
For further information, please contact Amanda Bevington, Latin America Regional Officer, here.
Wednesday 1 October
18:00-21:00 - Welcome reception at Palacio del Inca
Thursday 2 October
8:00-12:00 - General session
12:00-13:00 - Lunch at Hotel Palacio del Inka
13:00-17:00 - DFK Mexico/Latin America breakouts
19:00-22:00 - Dinner at Tunupa: a culinary journey through the Andes with live music
Friday 3 October
8:00-12:00 - General session
12:15-18:15 - Lunch at Casona del Inka and City tour of Cusco.
Wednesday 1 October – Welcome Reception
Join us for an unforgettable evening in the historic courtyard of Hotel Palacio del Inka, once the renowned Casa de los Cuatro Bustos. This colonial mansion, built above ancient Inca foundations, has witnessed centuries of Cusco's history, blending Spanish and Inca influences in its architecture. Originally home to Juan de Salas y Valdez, the city's first mayor, its legacy remains a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Enjoy an elegant gathering with cocktails and expertly crafted canapés, surrounded by stone archways and the warm glow of candlelight. It's the perfect opportunity to connect, unwind and immerse yourself in the spirit of Cusco.
We look forward to welcoming you!
Dress code: Smart casual
Thursday 2 October – Walking Tour to Plaza de Armas with entrance to museums for accompanying guests
While the members gather in the general session, the accompanying guests will have the opportunity to experience a guided walking tour from the Hotel Palacio del Inca to the famous Plaza de Armas, a place full of history and culture. In this plaza, they will be able to see: the Cusco Cathedral, the Church of the Society of Jesus, the Statue of Pachacútec, among other museums, cafes, and craft shops.
The return to the hotel will be at 12:00 so that the accompanying guests can eat and socialise with the members before the afternoon group meetings.
Dress Code: Comfortable clothing, layers in case the temperature drops and comfortable shoes as it is a walking tour.
Dinner and a show at Tunupa Restaurant
Immerse yourself in the magic of Tunupa Restaurant, where history, cuisine, and culture come together in the heart of Cusco. Set in a stunning colonial space that reflects Inca heritage, Tunupa offers an elegant dining experience paired with a captivating Andean folk show.
As you enjoy your meal, vibrant costumes, rhythmic melodies, and traditional dances bring the spirit of Peru to life. The sounds of charangos and panpipes fill the air, transporting guests into a world of storytelling and ancient traditions.
At Tunupa, dinner is more than a meal - it's a celebration of the Andean culture.
Dress code: Smart casual
Friday 3 October - Lunch at Casona del Inka and City Tour of Cusco
Lunch at Casona del Inka:
Start your adventure with a delicious lunch at Casona del Inka. Enjoy traditional Peruvian cuisine while admiring the stunning panoramic view of Cusco and the majestic Andes mountains in the background.
1st stop of City Tour: Qorikancha
Visit the Temple of the Sun, once the most important temple in the Inca Empire. Take in the intricate stonework and the remains of the once-golden walls, reflecting the site’s historical importance.
2nd stop of City Tour: Sacsayhuamán
Explore this massive fortress known for its impressive stone walls. The engineering skills of the Inca builders are evident here and the panoramic views of Cusco from this vantage point are unforgettable.
3rd stop of City Tour: Q'enqo
Discover the labyrinthine tunnels and carved stone altars of Q'enqo. The site is rich in history, and it's easy to imagine the ancient ceremonies that once took place here.
4th stop of City Tour: Puka Pukara
Visit the "Red Fortress," which offers insight into the military strategies of the Incas. The terraces and watchtowers provide a glimpse into the past and the strategic importance of this site.
Final stop of City Tour: Tambomachay
End your tour at the "Bath of the Inca," a serene site with cascading water channels and tranquil pools. This place was believed to be a spot for rest and purification, and the sound of flowing water creates a peaceful ambiance.
This tour of Cusco is not just a journey through history; it's an experience that immerses you in the rich culture and stunning landscapes of the region. It's an adventure that you won't want to miss.
POST-CONFERENCE OPTIONAL TOURS
Saturday 4 October
Sacred Valley Tour Itinerary
7:00 AM - Departure from Cusco
Early Start: Begin your adventure with a scenic drive through the breathtaking Andean landscapes as the sun rises over the mountains.
First Stop: Chinchero Village
Discover the charm of Chinchero, known for its vibrant market and traditional weaving techniques. Explore the colonial church and ancient Inca ruins, all set against stunning mountain views.
Second Stop: Moray Agricultural Terraces
Explore the mysterious circular terraces of Moray, believed to be an ancient agricultural laboratory. These unique formations showcase the ingenuity of Inca farming practices.
Third Stop: Maras Salt Mines
Witness the incredible sight of thousands of salt pans cascading down the hillside. Learn about the traditional methods of salt extraction that have been used for centuries.
Lunch Break: Los 3 Mosqueteros del Valle in Urubamba
Buffet Lunch: Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at Los 3 Mosqueteros del Valle, featuring a variety of Andean dishes.
Fourth Stop: Ollantaytambo:
Explore the impressive ruins of Ollantaytambo, a former Inca stronghold with massive stone terraces and breathtaking views. Wander through the charming town, which retains its original Inca layout.
Final Stop: Pisac
Conclude your tour with a visit to Pisac. Browse the bustling market for unique souvenirs and crafts, then hike up to the ancient ruins for panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
Return to Cusco at 7pm:
Return to the hotel in Cusco where you will be able to unwind and relax before Sunday's trip to Machu Picchu.
Sunday 5 October
Machu Picchu Tour Itinerary
5:00 AM: Start your day with a delightful buffet breakfast at Hotel Palacio del Inca, fueling up for the adventure ahead.
5:50 AM: Board the bus and enjoy a scenic ride to the train station.
6:40 AM: Embark on the Vistadome Observatory train. Enjoy:
· Panoramic Views: Expansive windows offer breathtaking views of the Andean landscapes.
· Observation Carriage: Open-air carriage lets you feel the wind and take in the scenery without barriers.
· Cultural Experience: Enjoy live traditional music and dance performances in the bar carriage.
· Comfort and Snacks: Relax in comfortable seats and enjoy delicious snacks made from Andean ingredients. *Anything consumed on the train is at the cost of the delegate.
10:10 AM: Arrive at Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM: Explore the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu with a guided tour. You could see the:
· Temple of the Sun: The sacred site dedicated to the Sun God.
· Intihuatana Stone: The ritual stone believed to be an astronomical clock or calendar.
· Room of the Three Windows: Featuring impressive stonework and panoramic views.
2:30 PM: Return to Aguas Calientes and enjoy free time to wander the charming town and have lunch. *Lunch is not included in the tour cost.
5:10 PM: Head back to the train station.
5:27 PM: Depart on the return journey
9:40 PM: Arrive back at Hotel Palacio del Inka
Total Cost for Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tours: $353 USD. This cost includes all transportation to and from Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, bilingual tour guide and a buffet lunch in Urubamba (Sacred Valley).
Anyone interested in going on the post-conference tours must make an initial payment of $50 USD directly to the tour guide before June 15, 2025. This is due to the limited availability of entrance tickets for Machu Picchu. When the date draws closer the tour guide will evaluate if we can extend this cut-off further. Please contact Amanda Bevington at [email protected] for more information, payment instructions and contact information for iAndes Perú Viajes.
Javier Benítez
"Happiness is the decision to enjoy your journey."
Javier Benítez is a renowned happiness coach with 25 years of experience, founder, and CEO of Sé Feliz Academy, an institution that has trained over 300,000 students in both in-person and virtual formats. As a speaker and author of 12 books—including *Why Is Happiness So Difficult for Us?, Practices to Build Your Happiness, and Be Happy for Free—he has dedicated his career to guiding individuals and organisations in problem-solving and goal achievement.
In addition to his role as a professor at Universidad del Pacífico and UTP, Javier specialises in various coaching fields, including personal development, professional growth, sports coaching, relationship coaching, career transition, and mentoring young individuals. His methodology is based on three key pillars—Happiness, Coaching, and Negotiation & Conflict Resolution—which allow him to provide effective tools for personal and professional transformation.
"I am a learner, and I want to remain one because the day I believe I know too much about something, I will stop learning."
Alfredo Eduardo Thorne Vetter
Alfredo Thorne is a Principal Director at Thorne & Associates, an advisory firm specialising in economic and financial advice, and a Partner at Global Source Partners. Among its clients are mutual and hedge funds and firms seeking to maximise value to their shareholders. He is a member of the Institute of the Americas Advisory Board, an Op-Ed columnist at El Comercio, a newspaper in Lima; at Latin American Advisor, a publication of the Inter-American Dialogue; and at Americas Quarterly, a publication of the Council of the Americas in the US.
Since 28 July, 2016, and through 23 June, 2017, he was appointed Minister of Economy and Finance by the President of Peru, Pedro Pablo Kuczynski. He was also the Governor of Peru at the World Bank Group and the Inter-American Development Bank. Before taking office, he was an Independent Director of the Lima Stock Exchange, of Prima AFP Pension Fund, and a member of InPeru’s Advisory Committee. In addition, he is the founder of Thorne & Associates, an economic, financial, mergers and acquisitions consulting firm with operations in Latin America. He previously served as Managing Director of Investment Banking at Banorte-Ixe Financial Group; and Managing Director of Research for Latin America at the Global Research Department at J.P. Morgan Chase Bank. During that time, Latin Finance magazine awarded him as Mexico’s best economist in the years 1997, 1998, 2000, 2001, and 2009; and Latin America’s best economist from 2001 through 2009.
Before, Mr. Thorne was a Senior Economist at the World Bank, with great experience in most Central European countries, including Russia and Kazakhstan. His last appointment was Senior Economist for Mexico. Alfredo Thorne graduated from Oxford University in 1987, where he obtained a DPhil in Economics. Furthermore, he also holds an MPhil in Economic Development from the University of Cambridge, and a License and BA in Economics from Pontificia Universidad Católica.