A Culinary Journey Through Peru
Peru is a must-visit destination for any foodie. In 2023 it was included in National Geographic's list of the top gastronomic destinations in the world. On this bespoke foodie tour of Peru, you will learn how to cook Peruvian cuisine with an acclaimed local chef, eat in the country’s best restaurants, and meet Peru's celebrated 'Potato Whisperer', Manuel Choqque. We've also included the cultural highlights of Lima and the Sacred Valley, including a visit to Machu Picchu.
Scroll down for more details and as with all our itineraries, we can adapt these to meet your individual requirements.
Day 1 Arrival Lima
Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be escorted by car to your accommodation in the Miraflores district.
The remainder of your day will be spent at leisure.
Day 2 Lima
Your culinary adventure begins with a visit to a local market with a renowned Peruvian chef. Visit the local market to buy fresh ingredients to prepare your meal at her apartment later that day.
In the afternoon enjoy a guided tour of Lima, where you’ll witness the colonial and modern sides of this city.
In the evening, dine at Central, by chef Virgilio Martinez - recently named no. 1 in the World's 50 Best Restaurants (2023) or Japanese / Peruvian fusion restaurant Maido, named no. 8 in the same list.
Day 3 Lima – Cusco (Sacred Valley)
After breakfast you’ll fly to Cusco and be transferred to the Sacred Valley. As Cusco is a high-altitude city, spend the rest of today acclimatising and relaxing at your hotel.
Day 4 Sacred Valley
Your tour of the Sacred Valley begins at Pisac, which enjoys a mix of Incan and colonial influences, before continuing to the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo. Spend time exploring the ruins of the ancient Inca town, before visiting a chicheria, where you can sample corn beer, chicha, made for centuries according to a traditional recipe.
For lunch, dine at the renowned MIL restaurant, chef Virgilio Martinez's second restaurant which strictly uses produce from the surrounding area. Feast on an 8-course tasting menu overlooking an ancient Inca site.
In the evening, enjoy a Peruvian feast while watching a traditional Paso horse show. Sample meat and fish grilled over coals, served with local vegetables, salads and fresh sauces.
Day 5 Sacred Valley
Today’s morning excursion takes you on a cycle ride through the Sacred Valley. Pass through local communities and stop for a picnic and cold beer along the way.
In the afternoon, you'll meet the famous 'Potato Whisperer' Manuel Choqque. Born in Cusco, Manuel Choqque is an agricultural engineer listed in the 50 Next of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants as one of the young talents shaping the future of gastronomy. This is an intimate experience with Manuel and his family on his farm, where you will be introduced to and savour the potatoes with novel colours, flavours, and textures that are revolutionizing Peruvian cuisine.
Day 6 Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu - Cusco
Today you’ll leave the Sacred Valley and head to Machu Picchu enjoying spectacular landscape views from the train as you climb towards the citadel, then join your guide to explore the ruins while learning about the history and mythology of this sacred site. Later take the train to Cusco.
Day 7 Sacred Valley - Cusco
Your morning begins with a visit to a local market in Cusco to collect ingredients for your cookery lesson. Your lesson takes place on a rooftop overlooking the city, where you’ll learn to make traditional Peruvian dishes, which you’ll enjoy for lunch.
In the afternoon explore the city at leisure or relax at your hotel.
Day 8 Cusco
Today you’ll visit the temple complex at Tipon, where you’ll see some of the best examples of Inca stone masonry. Enjoy a one-hour hike to the site or drive along a dirt track, before wandering around the ruins.
In the afternoon you have the option of visiting Pikillacta to see some pre-Incan ruins, and stopping at Andahuaylillas to see a 16th century church filled with golden altars and beautiful murals and paintings.
Day 9 Departure
Today you’ll be escorted to the airport for your onward journey.
- Discover the colonial and modern side of Lima on a private guided tour
- Enjoy a typical Peruvian feast while watching a Paso horse show
- Meet Manuel Choqque, one of the world's most celebrated producers,
- Explore the magnificent Inca site of Machu Picchu
- Learn how to make traditional Peruvian dishes at a cookery class in Cusco
- Dine at some of the world's best restaurants in Cusco
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AUTHENTICTravel your way with Lightfoot. We’ll take you into the heart of each destination and introduce you to the people and places that reveal the true essence of a country. With our trusted local connections, we create holidays that immerse you in culture, history, and everyday life. Far from the crowds, always deeply authentic.
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PERSONAL Your journey is as unique as you are. We take the time to understand what inspires and excites you, creating 100% tailormade itineraries that reflect your personality, interests, and holiday aspirations. Our bespoke holidays are designed to elevate every moment of your travel experience.
