Our most requested itinerary includes tastings throughout Quito, Cotopaxi, Otavalo, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cuzco!
Picnic by the Cotopaxi volcano, and make ceviche with a local chef oceanside. Taste the traditional flavors of pachamanca cooked in the ground, and then eat at El Central, the best restaurant in the world! Chocolate tastings. Cocktail classes. Indigenous kitchens and high end dining rooms. Lunch at the ruins and dinner in a museum. All possible here!
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WANT MORE INFO?
Email us: info@satedventures.com
As always, choose any dates. This is YOUR trip.
ITINERARY:
Day 1 -
International flight to Quito, Ecuador
Take your flight to Quito. Upon arrival at the airport, reception by our Sated Ventures team, and private transfer to your hotel. Welcome to Ecuador!
Casa Gangotena - luxury king room
Day 2 -
Quito
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After breakfast, meet your local guide for a private tour of the highlights in Quito, with our delicious Guayasamin Museum & Chocolate Tasting Experience. This morning we start the day with a visit to the neo-Gothic Basilica with its unique gargoyles and vertigo-challenging towers (if you dare to climb!) In Independence Square (Plaza Grande) we discover the cathedral and government palace with its colorful guards. Walking a short distance, we come to the impressive La Compania de Jesus Church, with its intricate stone carved façade and incredible gold-leafed interiors. Then we visit the nearby San Francisco Plaza and church, an area of the old town with an authentic indigenous ambience. Lunch is included in La Vid Restaurant overlooking the Plaza Grande.
In the afternoon we continue onto the Guayasamin Museum for a Chocolate & Art Experience which combines two legacies in one experience. Oswald Guayasamin is one of Latin America’s most celebrated artists. Enjoy a private tour of his home and its most intimate chambers guided by an art specialist from the museum. To’ak Chocolate, based in Ecuador, uses the oldest and rarest cacao variety on earth to make extremely limited editions of single-origin Ecuadorian dark chocolate. Its flagship edition was aged for four years in a French cognac cask and is considered the most expensive chocolate in the world. Enjoy a tasting and pairing of To’ak Chocolate, guided by a chocolate specialist and hosted in Guayasamin’s private wine cellar. Then back to your hotel.
Tonight, welcome dinner at Ecuador’s best restaurant Nuema, featuring a 16 course experience. Driver to and from the restaurant included.
Day 3 -
Quito - Cotopaxi - Quito
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Cotopaxi National Park Private Tour. This morning we headed south from Quito along the picturesque Avenue of the Volcanoes to the Cotopaxi province. In the local hacienda we are kitted out in chaps, ponchos and helmets before getting acquainted with our horses.
Our 2-hour horse ride through the beautiful stark paramo scenery takes us onto the foothills of the Rumiñahui Volcano, with panoramic views of Cotopaxi, Pasochoa Sincholagua Volcanos. This activity is suitable for beginners.
For a special treat, a beautiful picnic lunch will be arranged near a local mountain lodge.
After lunch we explore the Cotopaxi National Park where we can undertake an easy one-hour walk around the Limpiopungo Lake in the ever-present shadow of one of the world’s highest active volcanoes – the perfectly cone shaped, snow-capped Cotopaxi. As well as the immense and interesting geological features created by the volcano’s past eruptions, we are on the look-out for paramo wildlife including wild ponies, white tailed deer, Andean fox and the endangered Andean Condor. Return to Quito.
Day 4 -
Quito - Otavalo
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Today we are going to start our adventure journey to Otavalo, a beautiful ride enjoying the beautiful landscapes of the Ecuadorian northern Andean mountain range. Driving north towards Imbabura, “the lakes” Province, enjoy an exciting trip by tasting exotic fruits in the Guayllabamba valley. Cross the Equator Line at Cayambe, where on a clear day, it is possible to admire its majestic snow-capped mountain (5,790 m. / 18,996 ft), the world´s highest point where the Equator Line crosses. Here it is an ideal spot to try its famous salt biscuits with leaf cheese, a tradition of this region not to be missed. At the foot of Imbabura mountain enjoy the picturesque view of Ecuador’s largest lake - San Pablo.
Upon arrival, we will head into the indigenous Kawsaymi family and meet our charming host who will lead us in a culinary adventure. Kawsaymi – Ancestral Gastronomy Husband and wife team Claudia and Patricio, of a Kichwa Otavalean family, are dedicated to presenting experiences in ancestral gastronomy. Located in the Panecillo community, in the Parish of Quichinche, Canton Otavalo ‘Kawsaymi’ is Kichwa for “our living culture.” The word summarizes the family’s focus on promoting the original cuisine of their ancestry, and also presenting their customs to visitors in order to create playful, exciting, and one-of-a-kind experiences. Without a doubt, the gastronomy workshop is an original and unforgettable activity. It combines a variety of native flavors with the richness of natural products and their various preparation methods. In this typical home built with mud and terracotta, diverse culinary products are offered via an ancestral kitchen composed of the tulpa (fire pit) and brick oven in addition to a modern kitchen – including cooking techniques for beginner and intermediate cooks to advanced chefs. Allow Claudia and her family to prepare their recipes, give demonstrative and interactive classes, and end the workshop by enjoying the dishes you’ve made together.
After discover the secrets of the ecuadorian gastronomy we invite you to engage with one ancestral tradition “the dream catchers” at our Nayla Art Workshop. Nayia Art Workshop - Dream Catchers The origin of dream catchers is known to be North American, although the art form currently extends from North America to the south of Chile. However, in Ecuador, objects very similar to the original dream catcher have been found hung in ancient houses thus indicating prior cultural exchanges between the Eagle (North American natives) and the Condor (South American natives). Meander through an outdoor exhibition of dream catchers of various sizes and designs to an indoor showroom and workshop. Discover the implication of harnessing the positive energies of the Pacha Mama or Mother Earth through the natural materials used to construct each of these amulets. After a fantastic and unique tour we will return to our Hotel Otavalo.
Hotel Otavalo - king premium room
Day 5 -
Otavalo
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Otavalo Market - today we will dedicate some time for the largest indigenous market in South America. The city of Otavalo is located in the center of various indigenous communities, rich in culture and traditions. Here is where vendors proudly offer a stunning variety of weavings such as the famous ponchos, among other textiles like rugs, mittens, and scarves. This market is like a rainbow due to the colors of the textiles exhibited. Without a doubt, it is an ideal place to find handicrafts, jewelry, and another artisan craftwork. We will continue to the San Clemente Community project near Ibarra for a very special local pachamanca lunch. Afterwards, rest at your hotel.
Day 6 -
Otavalo - Lima, Peru
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At the appropriate time, check out of the hotel and enjoy a scenic drive to the Quito airport for your flight to Peru. Reception at the Lima airport by the Sated Ventures team, and private transfer to your hotel.
Tonight, if available, dinner reservations at El Central, the best restaurant in the world! Driver arranged.
Hotel B - atelier room
Day 7 -
Lima
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Lima City Tour with lunch inside the Larco Museum - half day private tour
You will visit the modern and colonial parts of Lima, known as The City of Kings, starting at the districts of Miraflores and San Isidro, and passing along a “huaca” or sacred pre-Inca site, before heading to the Historic Center. There, you will walk along some of the most historically important streets of the city, leading to the Plaza de Armas, where you will have some time to take pictures of the amazing colonial architecture that surrounds it. You will also have the chance to take a peek into an iconic building that has served Lima’s citizens for centuries and continues to be an important landmark. Then you will visit the impressive Convent of Santo Domingo, an astonishing building with colonial style. After exploring the Historical Center, you will head towards the Larco Museum, which houses the incomparable Treasures of Ancient Peru private collection.
After our visits, time to rest before we meet up again for the Lima Gourmet by night private experience. Kick the night off by enjoying a Peru food tour that starts with a swanky beachfront cocktail at sunset accompanied by a fusion of flavors representing Lima’s traditions. Head up the cliffs and into the past as you tuck into an array of delicious Peruvian dishes at the famous Huaca Pucllana restaurant surrounded by spectacular views of pre-Incan ruins. You’ll no doubt swoon just as other past guests like Mick Jagger, Gene Simmons, Julia Louis-Dreyfuss as well as numerous heads of state and members of the royal family. Here you’ll try the best of top chef Marilú Madueño’s take on Peruvian recipes with another menu specially designed only for our guests. We will then head to the bohemian neighborhood of Barranco for the last stop. In a house full of color and culture, we will lose ourselves in the culinary world with a creative and exclusive menu featuring the signature cuisine of a local chef accompanied by a delectable dessert. Finally, take a nighttime stroll with a quaint walking food tour in Lima, around the bohemian Barranco neighborhood. You’ll get much more than a feel for Peruvian culture on this gourmet tour of Miraflores and Barranco!
Tonight, if you still have an appetite, we will reserve a dinner table for you at one of Lima’s best restaurants such as Mayta. Private driver included.
Day 8 -
Lima - Cuzco - Sacred Valley
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After breakfast and checking out, meet your guide again as we transfer you back to the airport in your private car. Take your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, meet our Cuzco Sated Ventures team as we whisk you away to the Sacred Valley. Altitude is lower here, making acclimation much easier.
Discovering Exploring Maras, Moray and Chinchero
En route to our hotel, you will enjoy a panoramic visit of the Maras salt mines, where the finest salt in the world is extracted: Maras salt. Then, you will head to Moray, a fascinating archaeological site in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. You will visit its huge concentric terraces, which the Incas used as a botanical laboratory. Afterwards, you will head to Chinchero to enjoy a visit to a traditional Andean town, with a panoramic view of Chinchero´s Church, which was built by the Spanish in 1607 and remains standing until today. Continue with the visit to the Chinchero ruins, where you will find an important Inca center in which terraces and aqueducts were built.
Lunch will be provided at Iskay Maras home, a reservations only farm to table experience. Afterwards, rest at your hotel, and enjoy dinner here.
Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba - Superior Deluxe Room with dinner
Day 9 -
Sacred Valley
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Iconic Sacred Valley: Misminay and Ollantaytambo - full day private tour
You will leave your hotel in Cusco and head to the Raqchi viewpoint, from where you will have an impressive view of the Sacred Valley. Then, you will visit the Misminay community, where the residents will give you a warm welcome with music and typical dances. Here, you will participate in preparing lunch with the community, using local products and the pachamanca ceremony. After the meal is prepared, sit with the community to break bread and share stories - a truly remarkable moment!
At the end of your meal, you will head to the town of Ollantaytambo, where you will find one of the most representative architectural complexes of the ancient Inca Empire and one of the few places where the Spanish conquerors lost an important battle. You will tour the town, visit the ruins and see the Inca’s wonderful architectural work. Before leaving, you will stop at the traditional town market, where you will have the opportunity to buy some local handicrafts. Overnight at the hotel and have dinner here.
Day 10 -
Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu
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Breakfast at the hotel, then at the scheduled time, you will be transferred from your hotel to the Ollantaytambo train station. Board the scenic Vistadome Train to Machu Picchu and enjoy the glass dome ceiling. The natural beauty of the surroundings makes the train ride the best way to start your visit. Upon arrival, meet your guide and enjoy the ruins together! Our porters will meet you at the station and handle the luggage, so that you can focus on visiting the citadel.
You will visit one of the most important tourist destinations in the world: Machu Picchu. This visit will, without a doubt, be one of your most memorable experiences. After you reach the top, you will take a tour of Machu Picchu, learning the history and mysteries of one of the Seven Wonders of the World. And, with amazing sceneries all around, you will surely have more than one spectacular photo-op. Then, it’s back to Aguas Calientes. Lunch included in the village, and tonight, dinner at your hotel.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo - Superior Deluxe Room
Day 11 -
Machu Picchu - Cuzco
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Early this morning, meet with your guide to return to the ruins for a sunrise return to the ruins. Today you have the opportunity to climb up to Mount Huayna Picchu (2490 meters), Quechua for “Young Mountain”, on the eastern side of the Central Cordillera. The trail is steep and parts of it include several sections of stone staircases carved directly into the mountainside. For those who prefer a little less thrill, we encourage the easier trail on Huchuy Picchu - options can be discussed prior to arrival.
After the sunrise visit, enjoy dinner at the famous Sanctuary Lodge at the top of the mountain before heading back to the village. Free time to explore the small town and market, then you will ride the famous luxury Hiram Bigham train with dinner onboard. Finally, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
JW Marriott El Convento Cusco - deluxe room
Day 12 -
Cuzco
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Day to sleep in. You deserve it! This afternoon, City Tour Cusco, with San Pedro market and nearby archaeological sites. Meet your local guide to explore Cuzco together - You will visit the city of Cusco, known as the Imperial City and declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Here you will start your tour at the iconic San Pedro market, a local market where you can explore the colors, flavors and traditions of modern Cusco. The visit continues with the Koricancha Temple, an ancient Inca palace and cult center of the Sun God, above which the order of the Dominicans built a church, which remains standing to this day.
You will continue ascending to the Fortress of Sacsayhuaman, an impressive example of Inca military architecture. Afterwards, you will explore Q’enqo archeological site, where important Inca ceremonies took place. Finally, you will arrive at the Plaza de Armas (main square), where you will visit the Cathedral, the most important temple in the city.
Finally fully acclimated, end the tour with our Cuzco cocktail visit. Visit 3 of our favorite restaurants in the Imperial City, to learn about local recipes of cocktails, while enjoying great atmosphere, landscapes and delicious appetizers that match perfectly the prepared drinks.
Afterwards, dinner reservations at Chicha, Cusco’s top restaurant. Driver to and from the restaurant will be arranged.
Day 13 -
Cuzco - Lima - Home
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Breakfast and check out, then private transfer to the Cuzco airport for your flight to Lima. Here connect with your international flight home.
WANT MORE INFO?
Email us: info@satedventures.com
Safe travels from Karolina & Carlos Guilcapi, founders of Sated Ventures.
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