Peru · Cooking

6-Day Peru Culinary and Cultural Tour with Machu Picchu

6 Days Round trip from Lima Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Savor Lima's culinary scene with Pisco Sour, ceviche classes, and a city tour
02 Explore Cusco's historical marvels, including Sacsayhuaman and the Temple of the Sun
03 Enjoy a hands-on Peruvian cooking class and market tour in vibrant Cusco
04 Discover the Sacred Valley and explore the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu

Experience a captivating 6-day culinary and cultural journey through Peru, combining Lima's vibrant food scene with the ancient heritage of Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Enjoy hands-on experiences such as ceviche and Pisco Sour classes, a market visit, and a Peruvian cooking lesson in Cusco. Along the way, discover historic landmarks, remarkable Inca sites, and the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu. This expertly guided adventure blends flavors, history, and tradition at every step.

This expertly guided adventure blends flavors, history, and tradition at every step.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Cusco, Lima, Machu Picchu, Urubamba

Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrive in Lima and Begin Your Peruvian Gastronomic Adventure

Arrive in Lima, the vibrant capital of Peru.
Meet the local team at the airport for a warm welcome and transfer to your hotel.
Relax and explore the city at your own pace, soaking in the energy and culinary buzz of Lima.

Meals included: None
Overnight: Lima

Day 02

Explore Lima's Gastronomic Delights and Historical Wonders

Begin your day with a culinary adventure at a fine restaurant overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Participate in a hands-on Pisco Sour demonstration and learn to prepare traditional ceviche.
Enjoy a gourmet Peruvian lunch with ocean views.
Embark on a guided city tour featuring Love Park in Miraflores, Huaca Pucllana ruins, the historic Main Square, Government Palace, and the San Francisco Catacombs.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Lima

Day 03

Fly to Cusco and Discover Ancient Inca Sites

Transfer to Lima Airport for your flight to Cusco (flight not included).
Receive a traditional coca tea upon arrival to help with acclimatization.
Explore the city's highlights with visits to the Cathedral, Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucará, and Tambomachay.

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Cusco

Day 04

Join a Cusco Cooking Class and Continue to the Sacred Valley

Visit San Pedro Market and browse colorful stalls of fresh produce.
Learn about local ingredients and head to Tunupa Restaurant for a cooking class.
Prepare trout ceviche, lomo saltado, and suspiro a la limeña with expert guidance.
Enjoy your self-made dishes and sip on a classic Pisco Sour.
Drive to the Sacred Valley and settle in for the night amidst tranquil landscapes.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Sacred Valley

Day 05

Explore Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas

Wake early and board the train to Aguas Calientes.
Ascend to Machu Picchu and explore the sacred citadel with your guide.
Discover temples, plazas, and terraces surrounded by cloud-kissed peaks.
Savor lunch with scenic views before returning to the Sacred Valley by train.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Sacred Valley

Day 06

Depart from Cusco with Lasting Memories

Transfer to Cusco Airport for your departure.
Reflect on an unforgettable journey filled with culinary discoveries and historical exploration.
Carry home recipes, memories, and a new appreciation for Peru's culture and cuisine.

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: None

Where this trip takes you

San Pedro Market, Huaca Pucllana ruins, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Lima 4 cities · 6 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Standard category hotels (2.5-3 stars)
All guided tours with an English-speaking guide
Meals as specified in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
Private transportation for airport transfers (Airport - Hotel - Airport)
Peru Rail train ticket in Expedition class: Ollanta / Aguas Calientes / Poroy
Group tour activities with shared transportation

What's Not Included

International flights
Domestic flights (from Lima to Cusco)
Travel insurance
Optional excursions and activities not mentioned in the program
Meals not mentioned in the program
Personal expenses and tips
Alcoholic beverages
International airport fees, if applicable

What to bring

Passport (valid for 6+ months) plus copies
Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones and ruins
Daypack for daily excursions
Layers for cool Lima mornings, warm days, and chilly Cusco nights
Rain jacket, especially from November to March
Sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and SPF 50 or higher due to the high altitude
Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated at altitude
Power adapter Type A or B with 220V
Camera or phone plus a portable charger for Machu Picchu photos
Altitude medication such as soroche pills or coca tea to help in Cusco
Hand sanitizer and a small first-aid kit
Cash in Soles for markets and tips, as cards are accepted in cities
Empty snack bag for market spices and coffee souvenirs
Stomach medications in case of reactions to new flavors

Know before you go

Must-haves: Passport with at least 6 months' validity. Carry cash in Soles and copies of important documents.
Altitude: Cusco sits at 3,400 meters. Hydrate well, rest on the first day, and drink coca tea to help.
Health: Bring altitude medication, stomach pills, and strong sunscreen due to high UV exposure.
Packing: Include layers for hot days and cold nights. Pack a rain jacket and comfortable walking shoes.
SIM card: Purchase one at Lima Airport. Claro and Entel offer the best coverage.
Water: Drink only bottled water. Avoid ice and tap water.
Food: Try ceviche. Ask for "sin picante" if you prefer no spice.
Machu Picchu: Pack light. The train allows a strict 8kg carry-on limit.
Tipping: Tip 10% at restaurants and around $3-$5 per day for guides.

Logistics