Gourmet Peru

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Lima

Arrive in Lima at any time.

Days 2-3 Pisco/Ica/Nazca (2B,L,D)

An early start takes us down the coast towards Pisco, where we take an included tour to the Ballestas islands, a haven for seabirds and sea lions. Continuing south, we tour a local winery and see giant sand dunes before finally arriving to Nazca. Take an optional flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines then visit a fascinating Pre-Inca cemetery in the Nazca Desert. In the evening we assist in the preparation of a thousand year-old tradition: a "Pachamanca", an ancient ceremony akin to the Polynesian meal of burying a variety of delicious treats wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooking them with pre-heated rocks buried in the ground. Board a nightbus bound for Arequipa on the night of day 3.

Day 4 Arequipa (B,D)

Arequipa is Peru's second-largest city and is surrounded by the Andes lying at the foot of El Misti volcano. The city enjoys a wonderful spring-like climate year-round, and also has its share of local culinary delights. Enjoy an included cooking class to experience these pleasures first-hand.

Days 5-6 Cuzco (2B)

Take a short flight deeper into the Andes to Cuzco, the heart of the Inca civilization and cultural mecca. Explore this beautiful colonial city with its nearby ruins, cobblestone streets, museums and churches. There are plenty of great handicrafts and shops and several restaurants to enjoy.

Day 7 Ollantaytambo (B)

We leave early in the morning by private bus and travel with a local guide through the Sacred Valley to visit ancient Inca sites, including the picturesque town and ruins of Ollantaytambo. From here we have the opportunity to assist in making "chicha", the fermented corn-based beer, which has been made in various forms throughout the Andes for hundreds of years.

Day 8 Aguas Calientes (B,L)

In the morning we head out to a nearby farm where we cook our own Pachamanca! We return to Ollantaytambo to catch an afternoon train deeper into the Sacred Valley to the town of Aguas Calientes, at the foot of Machu Picchu.

Day 9 Machu Picchu/Cuzco (B)

Rise early to take advantage of viewing Machu Picchu in the early morning light. This is the best time to view the 'Lost City of the Incas'. Our local guide will provide a detailed interpretation of the Inca history before other tour groups arrive at midday. Leave for Cuzco by train in the afternoon.

Day 10 Lima (B,L)

Fly back to Lima. What would a trip to Peru be without mastering another famous Peruvian dish - ceviche! Learn from the experts and enjoy this fresh seafood dish. Enjoy one final night out on the town.