Peru Culinary Tours at a Glance
Peru Culinary Influence
Peru Culinary Dishes
Essential Experiences
Travel Considerations
Safety & Accessibility of Resources
Travel with Zicasso
Peru Culinary Tours at a Glance
You can review these quick travel tips to make the most of your culinary vacation in Peru.
In recent years, Peruvian cuisine has made a household name for itself worldwide, from the refreshing lemon-lime flavor of ceviche to the touted health benefits of quinoa. Regardless of this recent leap in recognition, local culinary traditions span thousands of years. When you travel to Peru and bite into these delectable specialties, you'll also get an up-close look at the vibrant traditions that have inhabited this country since ancient times.
Culinary traditions in Peru vary greatly, from seaside towns to the rocky mountain cuisine. You can experience the beauty of Peru's gastronomic diversity by indulging in lemon-lime ceviche in Lima and savoring the hearty meat and potato dish known as pachamanca in the Andes.
Peru Culinary Influence
Get a glimpse of Peru's vibrant culture and history when you sample this country's diverse cuisine.
Just like its varied landscapes, Peru’s crops are also extremely diverse and include potatoes, quinoa, lima beans, sweet potatoes, peppers, maize, and tomatoes. Upon the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in the 1500s, the capital city of Lima began to diversify in terms of international cuisine. Today, Lima boasts worldwide-inspired cuisine, such as chifa, which is a cross between traditional Chinese and Peruvian dishes. The Spanish brought the potato crop back with them to Europe, which soon became a staple for Europeans.
Today, much of the Andes Mountains and the Amazon Rainforest remain largely isolated. Cities and villages alike boast quinoa and rice-based dishes, anticucho meat, thick-kernel corn, and an abundance of fresh fruits.
Peru Culinary Dishes
As you admire Peru's incredible landscapes and immerse yourself in the local culture, you should consider sampling these iconic Peruvian dishes to make the most of your culinary experience.
Ceviche: This lemon-lime seafood medley is a coastal favorite of Lima that has quickly made its way around the world. You can bite into the rich flavors of shrimp, onion, pepper, and tomatoes as they carefully marinate in citrus juice. You can sample this dish along the coast or participate in a private cooking class.
Pachamanca: Pachamanca is a Peruvian staple that hails from the Andean region of Peru. The dish is baked in an earth oven over hot coals that are buried beneath the ground. A rich blend of potatoes and spice-marinated meat is sure to delight your senses.
Cuy: For those with an adventurous palate, you can sample the most famous dish of the Andean region: cuy or guinea pig. It's served grilled, whole, and alongside potatoes and peppers. It is also considered a delicacy of the region. Cuy is most commonly found in Peru's Andean region.
Pisco Sour: Pisco sour has long been the national drink and local favorite. It also possesses a somewhat contentious history because Peru's neighboring country of Chile has also laid claim to the sweet drink. You can enjoy the blended masterpiece on the beach or during a private tasting class.
Fresh Fruits: It's impossible to speak about Peru's culinary excellence without giving proper merit to the variety of fresh fruit that can be found in all regions of the country. At open markets, you can sample favorites, such as the chirimoya and maracuya. You can enjoy freshly squeezed fruit juices too.
Essential Peruvian Culinary Experiences
You should take part in these essential experiences to enjoy Peru's culinary excellence as much as possible.
Custom Ceviche Cooking Class in Lima: You can roll up your sleeves and enjoy a customized ceviche cooking class alongside an expert chef. Together, you will chop onion, pepper, and tomato. Then, you will marinate the seafood to perfection before mixing the ingredients together and squirting it with a healthy dose of lemon and lime juice. You can also enjoy your dish on the waterfront.
Pisco Sour Tasting Event in Pisco: You can sip on Peru's refreshing national drink in the city of Pisco. You'll learn about the drink's history and shared pride between Peru and Chile, which has been a heated debate at times. A guide will lead you in a tasting before helping you make your own drink.
Traditional Pachamanca Dinner in the Sacred Valley: You can travel to the charming village of Chinchero, which is nestled among the Andes Mountains. After a tour of the beautiful village, you will have the chance to learn about the local culture, including traditional dyeing and weaving techniques. In the evening, you will gather around a campfire and indulge in an authentic pachamanca dinner.
Travel Considerations
You should acknowledge the packing considerations below for your Peruvian culinary tour.
Weather
The best time to visit the Andean region of Peru, especially Machu Picchu, is between the months of April and October. During these months, the weather is sunny and dry. If you do encounter rainy or otherwise indoor weather, you should consider visiting Lima's Larco History museum or Cusco Qorikancha Sun Temple. In the case of inclement weather, your Zicasso trip specialist will plan alternate activities.
Transportation
Most international flights arrive in Lima. From there, regional flights are available to popular destinations, such as Cusco, Arequipa, and Puno. Once in the city, adventurous travelers can make their way around via Peru's combi system, which is a public van/bus system.
For those with mobility challenges, private shuttle services are available in the city. Visitors should note that many of Peru's historic downtowns are paved with cobblestone, making them difficult to navigate. For any questions related to accessibility, Zicasso is there to help guide you in the process. Zicasso is here to assist travelers with mobility challenges so that you can see the sights, partake in the experiences, and stay at the accommodations that you desire.
Packing
When packing for Peru, you should bring shoes that are suitable for walking on uneven terrain and for extended periods of time. For visits that are concentrated in the city, durable walking shoes will suffice. For travelers who are hiking portions of the Inca Trail, you should bring hiking boots and basic camping supplies, including heavy-duty backpacks.
You should be aware that most of Peru's downtown areas are lined with cobblestone streets. It is best to avoid Roller to ease ground travel.
Weather Considerations
You should pack rain gear if traveling during the rainy season. You should also avoid traveling to Peru's Andean region during the rainy season because it will require a heavier load of rain gear to travel the Inca Trail.
Electrical Considerations
Peru operates on a 220-voltage at 60-hertz. Plugs are two-pronged, with flat or rounded ends. Travelers should bring plug converters with them. In some cases, USB adaptive plugs may be available.
Pharmaceutical Considerations
Pharmacies are readily available, especially in big cities. You should consult with your Zicasso trip specialist for local pharmacy recommendations.
Cultural Considerations
Public restrooms are common in large cities but may be sparse in small towns. You should consider carrying toiletries with you throughout the day because public amenities may be limited.
Travel Insurance
You’ve booked your dream vacation, now protect it with travel insurance. A wide range of factors can leave your vacation in limbo. Medical emergencies, inclement weather, and unexpected cancellations can cause turmoil for your trip, so in the unlikely event of a disaster, get the travel insurance coverage that provides peace of mind. To get a quote, visit our travel insurance page.
Flights Via Zicasso
Zicasso Air Desk is an international air ticketing service that eliminates the stress of finding and booking the right flights for your upcoming vacation by employing the same personalized service you can expect from planning a trip with Zicasso. Our competitive flight pricing, 24x7 Service & Support, and Complimentary Consultation of Routing vs. Pricing with an Expert Flight Specialist make finding the perfect flight for your trip effortless.
Travel Documents
Making sure that you carry the appropriate travel documents is essential when visiting Peru. For this reason, you should pack the proper paperwork to ensure the most pleasant and problem-free travel experience. Listed below are some of the most important documents to have on you while traveling in Peru:
- Personal medical information
- Pertinent information regarding any condition(s) from your doctor, especially any medication that you are taking
- Emergency contact information
- Passport
- Visa, if necessary
- Proof of airline tickets and reservations
- Customs forms and documents
- Hotel or accommodation reservations
- Travel and medical insurance (see above section regarding this)
Your Zicasso travel specialist will be able to provide requirements that are specific to your trip, although responsibility always lies with the traveler to ensure that all is in order. Travel requirements can and do change with little to no notice, so all are wise to stay updated as your trip nears.
Finances & Tipping
Credit cards are accepted in most large cities and at luxury restaurants and hotels; however, when visiting small towns, it's advisable to bring cash. ATMs are readily available in most cities in Peru but may be limited in small towns. Bartering is acceptable in outdoor markets or small shops, but it is not customary in reputable retailers. For any questions related to tipping hotel staff, guide, and restaurant staff, you can speak with a travel specialist for specific guidelines.
Safety and Accessibility of Resources
You should be aware of the following safety and health measures to ensure an enjoyable and safe trip to Peru.
Today, Peru is considered to have a moderate level of crime. In heavily populated areas, most crime consists of petty theft. Tourists should use caution and keep a close eye on their personal belongings. You should travel with a money belt or store valuables in an inner coat pocket.
Crime Rate
The crime rate in Peru is at a moderate level. Crime in heavily populated areas is limited mostly to petty thefts. Tourists should be wary of traveling at night or visiting isolated areas.
Things to look out for
Travelers should be aware of pickpockets, especially when boarding public transportation or gathering in heavily populated areas.
Medical & First Aid
It's recommended to travel with all necessary prescription medications. In the case that you need to visit a pharmacy, you can speak with your hotel staff or your Zicasso trip specialist for advice. Likewise, in the case of an emergency, you can also speak with your Zicasso specialist for local urgent care recommendations.
It is recommended that all international travelers consult with a primary care physician prior to travel. The above information is not intended as a substitute for personalized guidance from a doctor.
Water & Food Safety
Tap water should be avoided. You can travel with bottled water or boil water as you go. In addition, you should be wary of market produce, which is likely washed in tap water.
You should avoid eating street food. It is advised to indulge in local favorites that are inspired by street food staples at restaurants that adhere to strict food preparation standards as opposed to the street food stands themselves.
It is wise to limit your alcohol consumption at high altitudes because tolerance levels lessen.
Travel with Zicasso
Traveling with Zicasso ensures an enjoyable and immersive culinary tour of Peru's very best without the hassle of planning the logistics yourself.
When planning a luxury vacation, every detail matters, which is why our approach is different. We will match you with leading travel specialists who are the most qualified to make your dream trip happen. They know their country better than anyone, and each travel specialist in Zicasso’s network is among the finest travel agents and tour operators, comprising the top tier of the industry. Experience the wonder of an exceptional itinerary crafted just for you.
