Episode 1
Peru
hosted by
Surfer Chef
Monique Kitamura
Special Guest
Sofia Mulanovich
Peruvian Three-time World Surfing Champion
SURF · TRAVEL · FOOD · CULTURE
Surf
Discover world-class waves, legendary surf breaks, and the people who make each destination unforgettable.
Travel
Explore stunning coastlines, hidden gems, and unforgettable adventures in every destination.
Food
Experience authentic local cuisine, from celebrated chefs and vibrant markets to family-run favorites.
Culture
Meet the people, traditions, and stories that reveal the true spirit of every destination.
Special Guest
Sofia
Mulanovich
Sofía Mulanovich, born in Punta Hermosa, Peru, is a pioneering Peruvian surfer and three-time World Surfing Champion, recognized as the first Latin American woman to win a World Title.
Early Life and Origin
Sofía Mulánovich Aljovín was born on June 24, 1983, in Punta Hermosa, Lima, Peru, a coastal town known for its surf culture. She comes from a family of Croatian heritage, with her father and older brothers being surfers, which introduced her to the sport at a very young age.
Growing up in a modest family, she was exposed to the ocean early, developing a deep connection with the sea and local surf culture. Her upbringing was influenced by Peruvian coastal traditions, indigenous heritage, and a community-oriented environment that emphasized hard work, respect for nature, and cultural values.
Surfing Career and Achievements
Sofía began surfing as a child and quickly demonstrated exceptional talent. By age 18, she was competing on the World Surf League Championship Tour, finishing her rookie year ranked World No. 7 in 2003. Her career highlights include:
- 2004 World Surfing Champion: She won three out of six World Championship Tour events, becoming the first Latin American woman to win the World Title and the first Peruvian to win a CT event.
- ISA World Championships: She won the ISA World Surfing Games twice, in 2004 (Salinas, Ecuador) and 2019 (Miyazaki, Japan), making her the only Latin American surfer to achieve this feat.
- Other Major Wins: Victories include the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, U.S. Open of Surfing, and recognition in the Surfer Poll in 2004 and 2005.
- Hall of Fame Inductions: She was inducted into the Surfing Hall of Fame in 2007 and the Surfing Walk of Fame in 2015, becoming the first South American to receive these honors.
- Sofía maintained a top-five ranking for seven consecutive years and was runner-up in 2007, demonstrating consistent excellence on the international stage.
Contributions and Legacy
Beyond her competitive achievements, Sofía has made significant contributions to surfing and her community:
- Surfing Academy: In 2015, she founded the Proyecto Sofía Mulanovich, a surfing academy in Punta Hermosa for youths from all backgrounds, promoting both technical skills and environmental awareness.
- Environmental Advocacy: She actively promotes ocean conservation, marine ecosystem protection, and sustainable practices within the surfing community.
- Role Model: As a trailblazer for Latin American surfers, especially women, she has inspired generations and elevated Peru’s presence in global surfing.
Episode 1: Peru
Show Materials
Peru Locations
Filming locations include Lima, Chicama, Punta Hermosa, Pico Alto, and Trujillo, along with renowned and hidden surf breaks throughout Peru’s northern and southern coastlines. The journey also explores archaeological wonders, vibrant local markets, authentic street food, and engaging conversations with the people who bring Peru’s culture to life.
Potential Viewership
Bloomberg Television
0Mil+
Over-Air Television
0Mil+
Streaming Digital & Social
Global
Partners
Guest Starring
Featured Guests
Owners of Central Restaurant
At the heart of Lima’s culinary scene is Central, the award-winning restaurant led by chefs Virgilio Martínez and Pía León. Recognized as The World’s Best Restaurant, Central showcases the extraordinary flavors, ingredients, and biodiversity that have made Peru one of the world’s premier culinary destinations.
Director at El Brujo
José Ismael Alva Chancos serves as Director of Research at the renowned El Brujo Archaeological Complex, one of Peru’s most significant historical sites. A respected archaeologist and curator, he led the acclaimed exhibition Huauque: Symbols of Power in Ancient Peru, offering unique insight into the country’s rich cultural heritage and ancient civilizations.
La Mar Restaurant
Chef Gastón Acurio is one of Peru’s most celebrated culinary ambassadors and the visionary founder of La Mar, the internationally acclaimed cevichería renowned for serving some of the finest ceviche in the world. His passion for showcasing Peru’s rich culinary traditions has helped elevate Peruvian cuisine onto the global stage.
For Cusco and Machu Picchu
Knowledgeable local guides will lead viewers through the history and wonder of Cusco and Machu Picchu. Featured experts may be selected to align with the interests and specialties of participating sponsors and partners.
Travel Peru
Peruvian Culture & Cuisine
