Peru

Peru

Peru is a magical destination, brimming with journeys within a single destination. Some people choose a more "sporty" Peru, others go for the gastronomy, and some, like my boyfriend and I, go to relax and be enchanted by the country's artisanal and textile world.

The script

1st day: Saturday

Sacred Valley

Pisac Market, Lunch at Hacienda Huayoccari, Hotel check-in and dinner at Forty Bistro.

• Visit the Pisac Market to buy Peruvian textiles and souvenirs. It's one of the best places to do so! Don't put it off.
• Lunch at the charming Huayoccari farm. The food was delicious, but the location is beautiful and worth it.
• Check-in at the Belmond Rio Sagrado Hotel.
• Dinner at 7:30 PM at Forty Bistro: A delicious restaurant with a cool atmosphere in the Sacred Valley. I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to leave the hotel and explore the nightlife, although the village doesn't have many entertainment or dining options.

2nd day: Sunday

Sacred Valley

Nilda Callañaupa Textile Center, Maras Salinera, Moray Archaeological Site and picnic at the hotel.

• We woke up, and before breakfast, I went to milk the alpacas at 8:00 a.m., a daily activity at the hotel. It's so cute, you have to go!
• Our guide picked us up at our hotel around 9:30 a.m., and we went to the Nilda Callañaupa Textile Center to see how the weaving is done at this highly traditional and well-known Peruvian organization. They preserve the country's textile cultural heritage and employ several weavers.
• Next, we visited the Salinera de Maras, a series of terraced salt pans located in Maras, offering a unique landscape and insight into the region's salt production. For those who enjoy photography, it's incredibly interesting and beautiful.
• Next, we headed to the Moray Archaeological Site, a set of circular platforms that served as an agricultural laboratory for the Incas, with a microclimate system. It's quite interesting and intriguing to learn about the history and ancestral agricultural practices.
• We had a delicious late-afternoon picnic in the hotel garden. Anyone visiting the Rio Sagrado Hotel should definitely request a lunch/snack like this; it's a truly delightful experience.

3rd day: Monday

Sacred Valley/ Cusco/ Machu Picchu

Vistadome train, Lunch at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, Machu Picchu and dinner at Mauka.

On the third day, we left the Sacred Valley and headed to the train station to Machu Picchu. We took the Vistadome train and thought it was great! But for those who prefer a more sophisticated experience, the Belmond Hiram Bingham train is the best option.

Arriving in the city, we met our guide and took the bus to Machu Picchu. There, we had lunch at the restaurant inside the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge. However, we recommend doing the experience the other way around, as the hike isn't as easy due to the altitude, and having lunch and drinks beforehand wasn't a good idea, let's just say.

Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The landscape upon arrival resembles something out of a Jurassic Park movie—that dense, lush green forest—a dream! And upon entering and hearing the full story behind the lost city, we were left speechless by the Inca civilization's ability to build a city with their engineering and ancient knowledge.

After a long day, we returned by train to the station, where our driver was waiting for us to go to Cusco, our next base in Peru.

4th day: Tuesday

Cusco

Cusco Imperial City, Ruins, Sulca Textile Museum and Dinner at Mauka

• We spent the day with our guide visiting the city of Cusco, its ruins, and the Sulca Textile Museum, the latter being the most enjoyable experience of the day. There, we saw again how weaving is done, visited the museum with its ancient weavings, and entered the alpaca and llama farm, where we were able to feed them.
• We returned to the hotel in the afternoon, walked around the center of Cusco, and I bought ponchos, bags, and accessories at the most charming and tasteful store in Peru, in my opinion, the Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco, which is part of the same organization we visited in Chinchero.
• We had dinner at the Mauka restaurant, inside the Belmond Monasterio. It was delicious, with a more sophisticated atmosphere.

5th day: Wednesday

Cusco

Hike to Vinicunca Mountain and dinner at Cicciolina's

Note: Unfortunately, we didn't make it as planned for this day, as I contracted Salmonella and spent the day in the hospital in Cusco. However, by the end of the day, I was feeling better and returned to the hotel to rest, and that evening I even managed to go out for dinner. The next day, we continued our trip as normal.

Intended programming:

"Meet the driver at the hotel reception at 5:30.

Our adventure begins south of Cusco, passing through small Andean towns and admiring the beautiful landscape, for about 2.5 hours until reaching the community of Chillihuani (4,600 meters above sea level), located 4,600 meters above sea level. In Chillihuani, we'll begin our uphill hike for about 1.5 hours to reach the Vinicunca Mountains (5,036 meters above sea level), also known as the Mountain of Seven Colors. We'll have the chance to admire the Red Valley from a beautiful viewpoint located very close to the site. From there, you'll have a magical view and be free to take as many photos as possible. After enjoying the view and recharging our batteries, we'll begin the descent back down the same route for approximately 1 hour to Chillihuani, where our transport awaits us. On the way back to Cusco, we'll stop in Cusipata for lunch.

Minimum altitude: 4,626 meters.

Maximum altitude: 5,036 meters.

Distance: 8 km. (uphill and downhill).

Approximate walking time: 1h45 uphill and 1h downhill.

Difficulty level: Demanding.

Meals included: breakfast and lunch. "

Try going to the San Pedro Central Market and eating corn with fresh cheese. Cusco is known for its good street food snacks.

Dinner: Even though I was sick, I managed to muster the energy to have a light dinner at Cicciolina's at 7:30 pm. We loved the restaurant! The food was delicious and the place was super cool.

6th day: Thursday

Cusco and Puno

Board the Belmond Andean Explorer Train, Raqchi archaeological site and sunset.

• We started the day with breakfast at Belmond Monasterio and then we were taken to the Anden Explorer Train, the best part of the trip, with our first destination being Puno!
• After being welcomed by the Belmond team, with all their unparalleled friendliness and politeness, we settled into our cabin, which was super comfortable and spacious, with a double bed, armchairs and a private bathroom.
• Afterwards, we walked around the cars to see the entire train and had a delicious lunch in the dining car.
• We made our first stop to visit the Raqchi archaeological site.
• In the afternoon, we stopped at La Raya, the highest point on the route and the border between Puno and Cusco. From there, we enjoyed the beautiful view of the snow-capped Chimboya Mountain.
• Back on board, we had some drinks in the carriage where all the guests stay to socialize, play games and relax, and then we had dinner.
• The train continued its journey until reaching the Puno or Lake Titicaca station, where we spent the night, with the train stopped.

7th day: July 26th Friday

Lake Titicaca

Train and Tour of the Islands of Lake Titicaca: Uros and Taquile.

• We started the day with an early breakfast and then visited the islands of Uros and Taquile. That day, we crossed the waters of Titicaca and sailed to mythical places where time seemed to stand still. This was my favorite part of the trip, besides the train experience itself.
• Our first stop was the floating islands of Uros, a group of approximately 40 islets made entirely of totora—a natural reed that grows around the lake. The residents invited us to learn about their traditional way of life and customs. It was fascinating to learn how they build their islands and boats from essentially a single aquatic plant.
• After the visit, we headed to a private spot on Taquile Island, Collata Beach, to have lunch, watch traditional dances, and see/buy local crafts.
• Finally, we returned to the train station for afternoon tea and then boarded the train to Arequipa. Along the way, we enjoyed a cocktail reception and a delicious dinner. Then, the train stopped at Saracocha Lagoon, where we spent the night and saw the starriest sky I've ever seen!

8th day: Saturday, July 27th

Arequipa

Train, sunrise in the mountains, Sumbay cave, Colca and flight to Lima.

Our day started bright and early, at 5:00 a.m., watching the sunrise over the mountains where the train was stopped, around a campfire and coffee. It was truly special and beautiful! I felt sorry for those who didn't wake up, because I'm not going to lie, it's just lazy, lol. Especially in the cold of the mountain ranges, but all the activities like this were well worth it!

Afterwards, we returned to the train for breakfast and went to the next and last stop before the end of the train journey, a mini trail and the Sumbay cave.

This cave, although just a wall, boasts preserved cave paintings! I'd never seen them in person before, and I thought it was interesting that they included them in the itinerary.

Afterwards, we returned to the train to go to the station and go to the airport, heading to Lima.

9th day: July 28th Sunday

File

City Tour with our guide, Larco Museum and Astrid & Gaston Lunch

Our day in Lima was super short and rushed. Our guide picked us up early at the hotel to go to the Larco Museum, which was one of the best and most interesting museums I've ever visited. Anyone visiting Lima shouldn't miss it!

Afterwards, we took a stroll around the city to get a quick overview of the main neighborhoods, as we had a reservation at Astrid & Gaston restaurant right next door. We booked the tasting menu and loved it! But I think the à la carte menu alone would have been a great way to experience the award-winning restaurant, as we only had a few hours in the city and spent a good portion of it there.

Afterwards, we went to the Barranco and Miraflores neighborhoods. We walked around and popped into several little shops and galleries to explore.

Afterwards, we headed to the hotel to pack our bags and return to Brazil early the next day.

10th day: Monday, July 29th

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Post-breakfast transfer

Flight back to Sao Paulo.

The Hotels

During our visit to Peru, we stayed at Belmond hotels for most of the trip, with the exception of Lima, where we stayed at the Pullman Miraflores hotel, which I would not recommend because, although comfortable, it lacks charm and good taste.

Belmond

• Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado, Valle Sagrado : A retreat in the Sacred Valley, with its lush gardens on the banks of the Urubamba River.
• Belmond Hotel Monasterio, Cusco : Located in a former 16th-century monastery, it offers a historic experience in the heart of Cusco.
• Belmond Hotel Nazarenas : Also located in Cusco, next to the Belmond Hotel Monasterio, this boutique hotel is located in a restored 16th-century convent and offers the same impeccable service of the Belmond chain and a historic atmosphere in the heart of Cusco.
• Belmond Andean Explorer : An incredible train that runs through the Andes, offering a breathtaking journey between Cusco, Puno, and Arequipa. Definitely the highlight of the trip! For those who love photography, like me, it's a must-see.
• Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, Machu Picchu : The only hotel located near the entrance to Machu Picchu, offering accommodations with spectacular views and an exclusive experience next to the sacred city, perfect for those who want to explore the archaeological site with tranquility and proximity.
• Belmond Miraflores Park, Lima : Located in the Miraflores neighborhood, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with impeccable service and a sophisticated atmosphere.

We also recommend, in partnership with the travel agency Embarque With Us, the following hotels for your stay in Peru:

• Explora : Ideal for an adventurous trip, it offers immersive experiences in the Sacred Valley and on the trails of the Cusco region.
• Inkaterra : A charming and traditional Peruvian hotel chain with seven accommodation options throughout Peru. It combines luxury with sustainability and Peruvian culture, surrounded by nature.
• Titilaka : A boutique hotel on the shores of Lake Titicaca in Puno, perfect for those looking for an unforgettable and comfortable stay.
• Sol y Luna : Charming Relais & Chateaux hotel in the Sacred Valley, surrounded by gardens and with accommodations that reflect the beauty of Andean culture.
• Hotel B : Charming and artsy boutique hotel in Lima.
• Country Club Lima Hotel : Traditional hotel located in the San Isidro neighborhood of Lima. Elegant, with impeccable service and an excellent location for exploring the city.

To Do

A summary of the trip's main activities:

1. Pisac Market

Sacred Valley

Located in the Sacred Valley, the Pisac market is famous for its handicrafts, textiles, and local products, ideal for those who want to experience Andean culture and take home authentic souvenirs.

2. Nilda Callañaupa Textile Center

Chinchero / Sacred Valley

A project to preserve traditional Cusco textile techniques, where you can see and learn about the art of weaving and natural coloring, practiced by generations of Andean women.

3. Maras Salinera

Maras / Sacred Valley

A set of terraced salt flats dating back to Inca times, located in Maras, offering a unique view and insight into the region's salt production.

4. Moray Archaeological Site

Sacred Valley

An impressive set of circular terrace farming platforms that served as an agricultural laboratory for the Incas, located in the Sacred Valley, with a microclimate system.

5. Machu Picchu

The iconic Inca city, located high in the Andes, is one of the most visited and impressive destinations in the world, offering a combination of natural beauty and historical importance.

6. Imperial City of Cusco

Cusco

The ancient capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco combines Inca ruins, colonial architecture, and rich local culture, making it a great starting point for exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

7. Sulca Textile Museum

Cusco

The museum showcases the history and art of Andean weaving, with displays of clothing, rugs, and other items made using ancient techniques.

8. Vinicunca Mountain Trail

Base in Cusco

Known as Rainbow Mountain, this trail takes visitors through a surreal landscape of mountains colored by their unique mineral composition, offering a challenging hike and spectacular views.

10. Islands of Lake Titicaca

Puno

The floating islands of Uros, made of totora, and the Taquile Islands offer an immersion into the indigenous traditions of high Peru, with boat trips and visits to local communities.

11. Larco Museum

File

Located in Lima, the Larco Museum displays a vast collection of pre-Columbian Peruvian art, including ceramics, textiles, and gold and silver objects, making it one of the most important museums in the country.

To Eat

Restaurants

Sacred Valley

Forty Bistro : Modern restaurant offering dishes influenced by Peruvian and international cuisine in a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere.

El Huerto - Belmond Rio Sagrado : Located in Belmond Rio Sagrado, it offers authentic Peruvian cuisine, focusing on fresh, organic ingredients from the Sacred Valley region.

MIL - Food Lab and Interpretation Center : Haute cuisine restaurant in the Sacred Valley, led by chef Virgilio Martínez, focused on local ingredients and innovative techniques.

Cusco

Mauka : Restaurant in Cusco that offers a unique gastronomic experience with dishes prepared from Andean ingredients and traditional techniques.

Cicciolina’s : Restaurant and bar in Cusco, famous for its Peruvian and international-inspired fusion cuisine, with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

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Astrid & Gastón : Iconic restaurant in Lima, with traditional dishes of contemporary Peruvian cuisine, run by the famous chef Gastón Acurio.

Central : Fine dining restaurant in Lima, run by chef Virgilio Martínez, known for his approach to exploring Peruvian biodiversity in innovative dishes.

Maido : Michelin-starred restaurant in Lima, led by chef Mitsuharu Tsumura, offering a unique fusion of Peruvian and Japanese flavors with a creative approach.

Kjolle : Modern restaurant in Lima, created by chef Pia León, highlighting local Peruvian ingredients with a contemporary and innovative approach.

Cosme : Peruvian and international cuisine restaurant in Lima, with a menu that blends tradition and creativity, using fresh, local ingredients.

To Buy

• Traditional Textile Center of Cusco

@centrotextilecusco

Organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of traditional Cusco textiles, offering authentic pieces made using ancient techniques, as well as workshops and exhibitions.

• Kuna

@kunaofficial

This brand specializes in alpaca and vicuña clothing and accessories, offering high-quality pieces with contemporary and traditional designs that highlight the richness of Peruvian fibers. A great place to buy basic essentials!

• Alpaca Sun

@solalpacaperu

A brand that creates products from alpaca wool, promoting sustainability and working with local communities.

• Ayni

@ayniuniverse

A brand that values fair trade and sustainability, offering clothing and accessories made from alpaca and other natural materials, with contemporary designs and respect for Peruvian tradition.

• DPT

@dperutextil

A brand focused on producing high-quality Peruvian textiles using traditional techniques and natural fibers, offering clothing and accessory collections that celebrate Peru's cultural heritage.