SACRED VALLEY CULINARY JOURNEY
PERU
Overview
Activity:
Hiking, Culinary, Historical
Length:
7 Days/6 Nights
Accommodations:
Luxury Villa
Guide Type:
Guided
Activity Level:
Moderate
Age Minimum:
18 years
Weather:
Avg. 73° F (low) / 45° F (high), rain some days
Elevation:
11,000-9,000 ft
Foodies, culinary buffs, Food Bloggers, chefs, nature lovers, Unite!
Do you enjoy dinner parties? Or learning about culture through food?
Imagine a week full of freshly grown food served at every meal. Laughter around the table and scenery as varied as the foods you will taste.
Peru is a nation known for its biodiversity. From the amazon, to mountaintop jungles, snowy peaks, plummeting canyons, rushing rivers, and sandy deserts with green oasis’s, Peru offers diversity unlike anywhere else on the planet. Its cuisine is bountiful in flavor and just as its cuisine is rooted in tradition, its landscapes are timeless.
In this part of the world you will feel like you have stepped back in time to meet these traditions in the present day. If you are looking to have your own Anthony Bourdain experience, this is you golden opportunity…..
"I think food, culture, people and landscape are all absolutely inseparable."-Anthony Bourdain
We will dive into the intersectionality of food and discuss the many crossroads we find, from the farm, to those in the field, the hands in the kitchen, to plateware, and the table itself. We believe, like Bourdain, food does not standalone.
Step onto the Inca terraces still being farmed today and sink your hands into the soil. Learn about the ways in which past farming techniques blend with modern.
Get technical as you sit down for a food experience that is backed by field research at the famed Mil Centro, featured in the Netflix series “Chef's Table.”
For those as curious as notable journalist Michael Pollan, you will have ample opportunities to trace the history of cooking. Come away with a global perspective on the act of eating laced with a deeper sense of community and connection to the land.
Every detail in our retreat focuses on our commitment to the local community, to experiencing culture, with the spirit of adventure. Rest well throughout your stay in a plush cozy bed where you only need to wander into the kitchen to be greeted with a smile and warm breakfast made by Marta. Our beautiful villa provides ample space for secluded reading and central gathering spaces for a family feel.
Step off of the beaten path to genuinely connect with local villagers, and take in the beautiful scenery not captured on all of the tourist postcards. Our immersive style gets you as close to local living without having to move in with them. Which means at the end of the day you will enjoy a hot shower with water pressure, not commonly experienced in the region.
Tucked into a quiet spot of town yet close enough to the markets you will have space to wander around secluded gardens and the option of venturing into town. Your guides Heidi and Colin have an intimate knowledge of the region and can guide you every step of the way. Whether you prefer their company exploring the town, or grabbing a map and venturing on your own, the option is yours.
We believe in supporting the locals, so we work directly with our guides in Peru to ensure they are supported and you are provided an authentic experience. We understand the dark side of tourism and do our best to do what we find to be the most sustainable. When we set out into the villages we do so to stand in solidarity with them and provide direct financial support, rather than exploit their culture, heritage, and craft. We are constantly asking questions on how we can work together to answer their needs while creating unforgettable experiences.
This trip is for you if you enjoy clean beds and hot showers, love eating delicious fresh food, like exploring culture and history, are looking for community, and want to hit fast forward by signing up for a trip where you don’t have to do the research on the region, entrance fees, train tickets, or plan your dining. All you need to do is show up and we will take care of the rest.
Activities, are between culinary experience and hiking. Due to the high elevation in the region even our day tours will require moderate fitness.
Book List: These are NOT required readings, but are offerings for stimulating discussion during your stay and relaxing reads.... "Cooked," by Michael Pollan, "Kitchen Confidential," by Anthony Bourdain, "Peru: The Cookbook," by Gastón Acurio, "Andina: The Heart of Peruvian Food: Recipes and Stories from the Andes," by Martin Morales, and "The Third Plate," by Dan Barber.
Viewing List: These are NOT required films, but offerings for stimulating discussion during your stay and relaxing watchings..."Chef's Table," Netflix documentary series, "Cooked," based on Michael Pollan's book of the same title, "Parts Unknown," documentary series by Anthony Bourdain, "Botany's Desire," based on Michael Pollan's book of the same title.
Highlights
Learn how to cook Peruvian food with a local chef during a Cooking Class
Meet with local farmers who farm ancient Inca terraces today
Visit the mountainous Salt Mines of Peru
Participate in a traditional Pachamanca, earth oven, meal
Dine at Mil Centro, the brainchild of Michelin Star restaurant chef Virgilio Martinez
Settle in on your last night for a 5 course wine pairing dinner at the villa
Hike on the trails of the Incas, we have trail plans and trail guides that will take you off the beaten path
No worries about your Machu Picchu experience, we have all your tickets arranged
You don't need to worry about your entrance tickets, all entrance fees are included
Step back in time and experience archaeological sites that are still in use today
Connect with the local community and learn what life is like in the mountains by visiting traditional villages in the present day
Culinary delights are endless in this region, leaving you with satiated on more than one level
Explore the culture first hand by spending time with people who live it
You don't have to worry about what to eat, all meals are included
Itinerary
This itinerary is subject to change or shuffling of the daily schedule due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Arrival
Day 1: Sunday
October 20
We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the start of the trip which will minimize the risk of travel-related delays and to being to acclimatize.
If you choose to arrive early we are happy to arrange your transportation from the airport to your hotel, assist with hotel recommendations, or set up an extra tour. To have us handle all of the details of your additional days. Please, contact us.
We will contact you before departure to arrange your pick up details. Group transportation is provided from Cusco to the Villa in Urubamba. The van will leave from Cusco at 2pm for the 1.5hr drive to the villa. We will arrange to pick you up from the airport, hotel, or the main square.
Peruvian Cooking Class and Local Exploration
Day 2: Monday
October 21
Rise and shine and get to know this region of the Sacred Valley on foot.
Today will be spent in the center of the Sacred Valley and only a short walk or Tuk-Tuk ride into the town of Urubamaba, where we will be greeted by a chef, host, and guide for the day Eduardo. Eduardo is a local chef and manager providing Asian inspired Peruvian dishes that will have your mouth watering. Sure to be full of laughter with his humorous approach to life, we will set out into the local market to explore and learn about Peruvian cuisine. Head back into the kitchen and we will become the chefs learning the flavors and techniques that have national presence in the food scene.
Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Urubamba with your guides, head out on an afternoon hike, or take a siesta, before regrouping for yet another fabulous meal.
Ollantaytambo & Pachamanca (earth oven lunch)
Day 3: Tuesday
October 22
Rise and shine for a refreshing day in the Andes.
Greet the morning with a lovely breakfast in the kitchen, before preparing for a full day exploring the ancient city of Ollantaytambo. Known as the best surviving example of Inca city planning, with quaint cobblestone streets and homes that have been inhabited since the 13th century.
We will explore the ruins and present day shrine of Ollantaytambo situated in the heart of the village, weave our way through the wandering streets, and climb up to the Pinkuylluna grainery storehouses to see Ollantaytambo from a different perspective. While here we will take time to stretch, breathe, and take photos.
Just as we are starting to work up an appetite we will make our way back to the villa to enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal called the Pachamanca.
Urubamba has been an agricultural area since pre-Inca times and farming continues to be the main source of income for a large majority of the area’s population. Nestled within the mountains, the villa provides the perfect opportunity to learn about traditional and contemporary farming, as well as, primitive cooking techniques.
The Pachamanca, which translates to "earth oven" in the Quechua language, is a traditional Inca meal cooked on hot rocks. When it comes time to eat, we will gather around the outdoor seating area to savor this culinary delight as we take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Traditional Farm Visit
Day 4: Thursday
October 23
Ease into the morning with fresh, bold, Peruvian coffee.
We will head into the heart of the Sacred Valley to meet with a local Peruvian and Guide who will lead us off of the beaten path to feel the pulse of the past in the present. We take great pride in supporting the locals through authentic experiences where the villagers benefit from our visit.
Take an opportunity to see what life is really like in their shoes. Connect with locals with our guide as an interpreter as you speak with people who only know the native language of the Incas, Quechua (prounounced, KEHchewa). Have an opportunity to explore local ancient ruins set outside of the typical tourist path. Not only view, but explore the steep terraced mountains built by the Incas and used for farming today. Our guide Jennifer will welcome us onto her own farm land to learn about the native crops and storage practices.
Machu Picchu Day Trip
Day 5: Friday
October 24
With the sun brimming over the mountains we will have an early start as we take the first train to Aguas Calientes. A short ride to the train station and we will begin our epic journey.
Enjoy stunning views as we wind through the mountains aboard the luxurious Inca Rail train. During our journey sip on coffee or another refreshing beverage while you snack on a complimentary treat.
Once we arrive in the gateway village to Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes, we will board a tour bus to make our way through the switchbacks up to the entrance to Machu Picchu. As a group our guide with take us through the rich history of this historical landmark and one of the major wonders of the world. After which you will have the opportunity to explore on your own: walking to the Sun Gate or Inca Bridge*.
We will all gather together at a specified time to catch the bus back down the mountain and travel by train to the valley of Ollantaytambo. Our day will conclude was we gather together in the living room of the villa.
*If you are interested on tagging on the beautiful Huayna Picchu or Mountain Machu Picchu experience at an extra cost please let us know as soon as possible. These offerings must be booked at the same time we book your Machu Picchu ticket and typically fill up months in advance as space is limited, so the earlier the better.
Salt Mines/Moray/Mil Centro/5-Course Wine Pairing Dinner
Day 6: Saturday
October 25
We will greet the day with an early breakfast to set the tone for a culinary finale of a day.
After breakfast we will be picked up by our local guide to journey through the Sacred Valley to the Salineras de Maras (salt mine), then on to Moray (archaeological agricultural site) where we will enjoy a rare dining experience.
Journey to the Salineras de Maras a pre-Inca salt mine made up of about 3,000 small wells. These terraced ponds are both breathtaking and functional. Today this is a cooperative managed by local families. You will have an opportunity to learn how salts are harvested here daily.
Next, a further breathtaking 15 mile drive with the beautiful snow capped Chicon and Veronica mountains in the Cordillera Vilcanota as a backdrop we will continue through to Moray.
Step back in time to the archaeological site of Moray where we will visit the Inca agricultural greenhouse or laboratory. Notably, a mysterious site where the Incas were thought to study agriculture, we will meander around these beautiful terraced amphitheater-style valleys.
After learning about the past, we will explore the present agricultural research taking place at restaurant Mil Centro. Mil Centro gain much notoriety from the Netflix series “Chef’s Table,” featuring this restaurant's chef, Virgilio Martínez, at this and his other Michelin Star earning Peruvian restaurant Central, located in Lima.
After an impeccable dining experience, not to be forgotten, take a deep breath and enjoy the beauty and bounty of Peru as we journey through the quaint town of Maras back to Urubamba.
If you didn’t think this food experience could be topped, settle into a late dinner back at the villa. This five-course catered wine pairing will surely make you not want to pack your bags.
Departure
Day 7: Sunday
October 26
You will say farewell to your guides at 10:00 AM at the Villa in Urubamba. You will take the 1.5 hr ride back to Cusco to the airport or to your next hotel to continue exploring Peru.
Venue & Pricing
Shared Triple: Twin Bed
Set in the middle of the mystical Andes and very close to the archaeological wonders of the Incas, surrounded by an awe-inspiring landscape and an incredibly tranquil environment
Located inside a luxury complex, a 1 acre property full of flower gardens. Enjoy the comfort of an exclusive hotel and the independence and freedom of your own house.
Enjoy nightly fires in the fire place or unwind in the three person hot tub with unforgettable vistas. In the heart of the Scared Valley: At a lower altitude than Cusco (2850 m.a.s.l. – 9350 f.a.s.l.), allows for a much better altitude adaptation.
Bed Type: Twin
Bathroom: Ensuite Bathroom with toilet and shower
Accommodates: up to 3 ppl
**Bookings are per person, if you are traveling with someone, please indicate this on booking form. And complete the booking process for each of you.
$3,000 pp Single
5% of Each Purchase Goes Into the Betty Jean Scholarship Fund
Shared Triple: Double Bed
Set in the middle of the mystical Andes and very close to the archaeological wonders of the Incas, surrounded by an awe-inspiring landscape and an incredibly tranquil environment
Located inside a luxury complex, a 1 acre property full of flower gardens. Enjoy the comfort of an exclusive hotel and the independence and freedom of your own house.
Enjoy nightly fires in the fire place or unwind in the three person hot tub with unforgettable vistas. In the heart of the Scared Valley: At a lower altitude than Cusco (2850 m.a.s.l. – 9350 f.a.s.l.), allows for a much better altitude adaptation.
Bed Type: Double
Bathroom: Ensuite Bathroom with toilet and shower
Accommodates: up to 3 ppl
**Bookings are per person, if you are traveling with someone, please indicate this on booking form. And complete the booking process for each of you.
$3,100 Single
5% of Each Purchase Goes Into the Betty Jean Scholarship Fund
Large Bedroom: Shared or Private
Set in the middle of the mystical Andes and very close to the archaeological wonders of the Incas, surrounded by an awe-inspiring landscape and an incredibly tranquil environment
Located inside a luxury complex, a 1 acre property full of flower gardens. Enjoy the comfort of an exclusive hotel and the independence and freedom of your own house.
Enjoy nightly fires in the fire place or unwind in the three person hot tub with unforgettable vistas. In the heart of the Scared Valley: At a lower altitude than Cusco (2850 m.a.s.l. – 9350 f.a.s.l.), allows for a much better altitude adaptation.
Bed Type: 1 double, 1 sleep sofa/futon
Bathroom: 2 External Bathrooms, 1 with a toilet and 1 with jacuzzi
Accommodates: up to 2 ppl
*This bedroom includes an external balcony overlooking the mountains
$3,700 pp Single
$3,300 pp Double
5% of Each Purchase Goes Into the Betty Jean Scholarship Fund
**Bookings are per person, if you are traveling with someone, please indicate this on booking form. And complete the booking process for each of you.
Master Bedroom: Shared or Private
Set in the middle of the mystical Andes and very close to the archaeological wonders of the Incas, surrounded by an awe-inspiring landscape and an incredibly tranquil environment
Located inside a luxury complex, a 1 acre property full of flower gardens. Enjoy the comfort of an exclusive hotel and the independence and freedom of your own house.
Enjoy nightly fires in the fire place or unwind in the three person hot tub with unforgettable vistas. In the heart of the Scared Valley: At a lower altitude than Cusco (2850 m.a.s.l. – 9350 f.a.s.l.), allows for a much better altitude adaptation.
Bed Type: 2 double, or joined for 1 queen
Bathroom: Ensuite Bathroom with toilet and shower
Accommodates: up to 2 ppl
*This bedroom includes an internal balcony overlooking the living room
**Bookings are per person, if you are traveling with someone, please indicate this on booking form. And complete the booking process for each of you.
$3,800 pp Single
$3,400 pp Double
5% of Each Purchase Goes Into the Betty Jean Scholarship Fund
What's Included
Peruvian Cooking Class
Cultural Culinary Dining Experience at Mil Centro
Traditional Farm Visit
Food Experience: 5 course Wine Pairing Dinner
Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket
Bus Ticket to Machu Picchu
Train Ticket to and from Machu Picchu
Drinking water
Snacks- if you have specific snack preferences you are encouraged to bring those items
Transportation to and from the villa
Private Transportation throughout the trip
Licensed Local Peruvian Guide Fluent in English & Spanish
Outer Edge Travel Guide
All Meals
Accommodations- 6 nights
Licensed Local Peruvian Guide Fluent in English & Spanish
Entry Fees into historical sites listed in itinerary
Exclusions
Travelers Insurance
Extras and gratuities
Optional climb to Huayna Picchu, Moonngate, or Machu Picchu Mountain at Machu Picchu
Personal hiking gear including backpacks, trekking poles
Flights to and from Peru
Vaccines or Health Insurance
MEET YOUR GUIDE
Heidi
Heidi is an experienced international traveler having been to 5 continents and explored 7 different countries. She seeks adventures off of the beaten path and craves intimate cultural experiences.
On her way to Patagonia with a stop over in Peru, she ended up staying for 2 months making her way into the Andes, the Cordillera Blanca mountain range, and deep into remote parts of the Amazon only accessible by boat or plane.
Heidi has been teaching yoga for over 8 years. She focuses on making yoga practical, approachable, and pertinent. The heart of her practice is living yoga and using time on the mat for deep insights and investigation into the mind and body.
She has a passion for the outdoors and is certified in Wilderness First Aid and CPR, as well as a liscenced trail guide. Heidi combines mindfulness practices, and ancient techniques to reconnect with nature in the modern world.
MEET YOUR GUIDE
Jennifer
Jennifer is a native to the Peruvian Andes. She lives in Ollantaytambo with her family and takes great pride in what the region has to offer.
Pursuing her dreams of sharing her culture with others while bettering her family she made the commitment to become a guide. One of the ways Jennifer amazes us is the fact that she learned English and became fluent within 8 months.
She shares the same ethical commitment to sustainable tourism and we are thrilled to parter with her.
Outer Edge Travel: Peru
Trip Details
How to Get There:
FLY INTO:
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)
MEETING LOCATION:
You will be picked up from either the airport or your hotel. Arrival details will be shared prior to arrival to ensure pick up.
You will be driven 1.5 hr to Urubamba to the Villa. Transportation details will be shared after booking.
MEETING TIME:
2PM
Saying Farewell:
FLY OUT OF:
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)
DEPARTURE LOCATION:
After departing from the Villa, you will be driven 1.5 hr to Cusco to continue to explore or take your flight home.
DEPARTURE TIME:
11AM
All Details:
ARRIVING:
We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the start of the trip which will minimize the risk of travel-related delays and to being to aclimatize. We recommend that you fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ).
If you choose to arrive early we are happy to arrange your transportation from the airport to your hotel, assist with hotel recommendations, or set up a tour.
To have us handle all of the details of your additional days. Please, contact us.
DEPARTING:
You will say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Villa in Urubamba. You will take the 1.5 hr ride back to Cusco to the airport or to your next hotel to continue exploring Peru.
PLANNING YOUR ADVENTURE
BOOKING:
If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to one of our international trips, a deposit is due at the time of booking.
If booking one of our international trips within the 90 days of the arrival date we require payment in full.
Payment Schedule Information
WHAT IF I HAVE TO CANCEL?
We understand, life happens. If you need to cancel or change a tour, please reach out right away.
Prior to speaking with us, please review our cancelation policy to help answer any questions you might have.
TRAVEL PROTECTION
ONCE BOOKED:
As soon as you are fully booked you will receive a confirmation email with trip details. Two weeks prior to the trip start date we will reach out with a request for your arrival details. One week prior to the trip start date you will receive an email containing any last minute information you need to know prior to arrival.
See our recommended Gear List, to assist with packing.
We require proof of Travelers Insurance including Health Coverage 90 days before the trip start date. We recommend this purchase is made upon booking with us.