It is not news that in recent years our trends as travelers have changed dramatically. Those of us with more independent and adventurous looks have stopped focusing solely on complying with a list of attractions to visit to start looking for closer connections with people from other places, their cultures and, of course, their food. With this, a new type of trip has emerged: gastronomic tourism.

Food has always been an extra attraction in our trips, but not necessarily the main axis of these. However, we have begun to realize that gastronomy is one of the most intimate and culturally charged aspects of societies, so turning it into that main axis opens the doors to experience the world in unique ways.

Food tourism is the act of traveling for a taste of place in order to get a sense of place.
– Erik Wolf, Executive Director, World Food Travel Association

Why choose a gastronomic trip?

Gastronomic or culinary tourism involves more than just eating in popular restaurants in the cities you visit: what is special about these trips is the focus on cultural immersion through activities such as tastings, cooking classes, visits to food festivals and farming centers that allow the traveler to fully absorb the essence of the place through its gastronomy.

In many places they are even dedicated to educating travelers about local production and the impact it has on the region’s economy, finally generating the enjoyment of local culture and food hand in hand with greater awareness of their importance in the progress of their communities .

And because nobody knows their country better than a local, they are the ones who are in charge of guiding you through the experiences. Thus, amore intimate contactwith the best kept secrets of its gastronomy is generated. Under this approach, the ways to access other worlds are endless, and each trip will always be unique and authentic!

Peru: the ideal gastronomic destination

Gastronomic trips have gained such popularity that in 2012 the WTA (World Travel Association) created the award for Best Culinary Destination in the World, and since that year Peru has not ceased to be the winner of such recognition.

The variety present in our gastronomy is the product of the sum of its own factors such as geography, biodiversity and traditions that even precede Inca times, and external ones, such as the multicultural heritage given the mergers with cultures from the rest of the world throughout history.

Preparation techniques such as Pachamanca are the product of the mixture of our ancient knowledge with methods and supplies brought by Spanish conquerors, and famous dishes such as Lomo saltado or Chaufa are possible thanks to the Chinese migration and the precious spices that they brought with them. Thus, what makes our cuisine special is not only the convergence of influences from other cultures, but our creativity and passion to give it the well-served touch that characterizes us so much.

Our country has become the culinary epicenter worldwide. The variety of flavors and ingredients, many even unique to the region, as well as the stories behind our dishes are increasingly attracting all those travelers in search of experiences out of the ordinary and full of life.

From local markets to award-winning restaurants, the essence of Peru is the same: food and drink prepared with love for the enjoyment of the world.

So go ahead and get to know Peru from gastronomic tourism! Get to know our itineraries or contact us to plan a trip that suits your interests and tastes.