Flavors of Peru
Get lost in Peru’s rich tapestry of history, food, and art
Peru is deliciously varied, deep, and mysterious in its flavors and history, and an anchor cuisine in South America. It’s a reflection of the myriad civilizations, cultures, flavors, altitudes, immigration, and scenery.
On this journey, start in the capital of Lima, truly a world-class foodie city and home to many of the top restaurants in South America. From the indigenous foods of the Amazon to the northern coast with its piquant stew, and the marriage of Japanese and Peruvian cultures, explore the markets while getting to know the guardians of Peruvian cuisine (the chefs and food artisans)–and a serious ceviche connoisseur.
Then fly inland, and up in altitude, to the Sacred Valley to a tierra governed by microclimates where the traditions and foods reflect their diversity. Encounter villagers in colorful traditional dress hawking freshly harvested Andean herbs at the weekly bartering market; feast with a Quechua community; spend time with friends at their hacienda whose family roots date back to the colonial days; and taste indigenous foodstuffs from the dozens of native tubers to ethereal Andean cheese and cuy, guinea pig, for the adventurous.
While in the Sacred Valley, make a pilgrimage to the “lost” Incan city of Machu Picchu—which needs no introduction. Return via a scenic train ride to colonial Cusco, a city that has been lost in time with its whitewashed facades and cobblestone alleyways. Once the center of Incan civilization, this Andean city still retains its authentic flavor. Dive into the markets, the ateliers, the temples, and just savor wandering those helplessly beautiful streets.
