Returning to the land of the Incas for the 5th time meant I wanted to dive deeper into the destination, and discover some new ideas for our Sated itineraries. Peru is a treasure trove of off-the-beaten-path gems, warm people, and culinary gold. Here are my top 7 favorite experiences from this summer's visit:
-Karolina Guilcapi, founder of Sated Ventures
1.
A DAY WITH THE MISMINAY COMMUNITY
I have been involved with this indigenous village for many years. With over 100 families, each visit is a unique and special experience! There are opportunities to get hands on and cook the pachamanca ceremony with the chefs. We can hike to scenic overlooks and have shaman blessings. We can help work the fields, meet the animals, or play with the kids. We learn about the music, the clothing, and the culture of this very remote destination. A great glimpse into the life of the Andes!
2.
ROOFTOP COOKING CLASS
It is not a secret that Peru is the mecca for foodies. We take it a step further and have you participate in the fun! Imagine a beautiful professional kitchen, a top chef that knows the city like the back of her hand, and trying out recipes and ingredients that you may have never heard of before. Then enjoying your finished product from a rooftop overlooking the city. A dream! Using tweezers to arrange the final product, like a pro, was a highlight.
3.
MEETING THE POTATO WHISPERER
Manuel Choqque Bravo is a local celebrity, and a genius engineer of the super potato. World-class chefs clamor to get his product into their top restaurants. He has not only created a new species of a highly nutritious spud, but has now added potato wine and other delicacies to his menu. With special permission, we got to enjoy his homebase and learn all about the decade-long experiment he has been working on. Extremely passionate, this visit is a must stop for all foodies!
4.
HIKING THE INCA TRAIL
For lovers of hiking, it is often the journey itself that matters more than the destination. In Peru, that is not the case. Although the Inca Trail is spectacular in views, less visited ruins, and kind souls along the way, just knowing what is waiting for you at the finish line is a major inspiration to keep going. Walking into the Machu Picchu Citadel through the Sun Gate, just like the Incas did, is a once in a lifetime experience. The trail will challenge you, but finishing is an amazing feeling!
5.
THE PISCO EXPERIENCE
I often warn you to stay away from alcohol while exploring high altitude locations, and so offering a pisco sour drenched afternoon may sound out of place here. However, when Cuzco's top bartender ties an apron around you, and has you running around town for tastings, ingredients, and lots of laughs, it is so worth it - especially when you can choose mocktails over alcohol. The bartender will gladly Interchange between traditional Pisco cocktails and fabulous mocktails for you - making this a culinary experience for anyone who wants to see the city through a different lense.
6.
THE PEOPLE
Why do we keep coming back to Peru? The ancient people of this wonderful little country are such a big part of the Peru experience. Make sure to take some time and stop to chat, ask questions, share a moment, break bread together. After the luxury hotels are forgotten, and the food gone, it is the kind Peruvian faces that you will remember forever.
7.
THE FOOD!
It would not be a Sated experience without trying out some of the fabulous dishes Peru has to offer - from aji de gallina & lomo saltado in Cuzco, farm-to-table lunches in the valley, gold speckled desserts in Machu Picchu, and of course cuy - Peru's famous guinea pig. Buen provecho!
Are you ready to plan your adventure? CLICK HERE TO CONTACT US
Did you know that travelers often return to Peru 2 or 3 times? There are so many stunning places to add to your next itinerary! Here are just a few to think about:
AMAZON JUNGLE
AREQUIPA
NAZCA
LAKE PARON
LAKE TITICACA
COLCA CANYON
PARACAS
AGUAS TURQUESAS
VINICUNCA
HUMANTAY
and so much more...
Ready to plan your next visit? Email INFO@SATEDVENTURES.COM for free itineraries and ideas.
Happy travels!
Comentarios