People, Flavors, and Cultures of the Andes

Today we will meet you at the Lima airport and transfer you to your hotel.

Our charming chef and host will take you on a local cooking adventure that sets off with a visit to her favorite farmers’ market. After buying all the necessary ingredients, our host opens the doors to her home to teach you how to make three scrumptious Peruvian meals, as well as an emblematic pisco-based cocktail. After lunch, head to Barranco, the bohemian heart of Lima. This district is home to the most prominent art galleries, cultural bars, and live music shows. Its neighborhoods—facing towards the Pacific Ocean—preserve the enticing allure of its architecture, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th century. Dinner tonight will be in a contemporary creole taberna, a homage to the soul and flavors of Peruvian home cooking, and the recipes that live on in old notebooks.

We will pick you up to take our flight to Cusco early in the morning. Upon arrival, our team will welcome you at the Cusco airport, and from there, you'll be transferred to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. You will start by visiting Pisac, a charming little town famous for its artisanal market. Later, you will head to Yanahuara to visit a traditional Cusco home, where you will learn how some Andean vegetables are grown and will be able to participate in the daily tasks of a family-owned small farm. You will also share a delicious lunch with organic ingredients harvested directly from the farm. Before returning to the hotel, you will stop at a traditional “chichería” to taste the Chicha de Jora (maize beer) and learn about its importance in the Andean culture and the preparation techniques.

After a hearty breakfast, the long-awaited expedition to Machu Picchu begins. An hour and a half ride by train, followed by half an hour ride by bus, to arrive at the citadel for a guided visit that lasts three hours on average. Enjoy stunning views, and learn about the Andean living and traditions, as you travel back in time.

The plan today combines history and adventure: You will have a bike ride through the Andean plateau, between the circular terraces of Moray and the salt pans of Maras. Finally, a downhill stretch of road will bring you back to the Sacred Valley.

In this gastronomic experience, you will learn about the work of a brilliant agricultural engineer born into a local farmer family who decided to turn tubers into the centerpiece of Peruvian gastronomy. It’s been 15 years since Manuel started working on the organic genetic improvement of Andean potatoes to turn them into tubers that are rich in antioxidant minerals, among other nutritional properties. He has also managed to turn oca (a tuber rich in antioxidants and natural sugar) into a wine-like alcoholic beverage that you are going to love.

In the company of your private tour guide, you will visit San Pedro Market—the heart of Cusco’s gastronomy —to delve into the wonder of Andean delicacies, by tasting tamales, chicharrones, native fruits, cheese, and bread, among other flavors. Later, visit the highlights of the City of Cusco, strolling across the Main Square, visiting the opulent Qorikancha, and wandering around San Blas neighborhood to access the secrets only available to locals.

At the appropriate time, we will take you to Cusco airport for your flight back to Lima.