Peru: A Vibrant, Modern Culture Enriched by Its Ancient Past

A strong start in Lima

Our Peruvian adventure began in the vibrant city of Lima, where we were fortunate to have the insightful Blanca as our guide. She shared her deep knowledge of Peru's rich history, particularly the fascinating pre-Incan civilizations that laid the foundation for the Incan Empire. We explored the captivating Larco Museum, a treasure trove of ancient artifacts, and the stunning Monastery of San Francisco, a historic religious complex.

Our stay at the lovely Hotel B, a Relais & Châteaux property, was equally wonderful. The hotel's modern art collection and charming Barranco neighborhood provided a vibrant backdrop to our exploration of Lima's cultural scene. We also indulged in a fantastic mixology class at Hotel B, learning about the history and flavors of Peruvian cocktails.

A cultural immersion in the Sacred Valley

Our next stop was the Sacred Valley, a breathtaking region nestled in the Andes Mountains. We were fortunate to stay at the luxurious Sol y Luna, another Relais & Châteaux property. This oasis boasts lush gardens framed by the majestic Andean mountains, a full-service spa, horse stables and two excellent restaurants. Each room is a spacious casita, appointed in a rustic Peruvian style, offering comfort and tranquility.

We embraced the region's rich artistic heritage and agricultural traditions. We visited a women's cooperative, witnessing the intricate process of traditional weaving. We also participated in a ceramic painting experience with the beloved Peruvian artist, Pablo Seminario. We also explored local farms, where we were treated to farm-to-table lunches that could rival any NY restaurant.

Machu Picchu: A spiritual experience

The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly Machu Picchu. We spent two days exploring this iconic Incan site, marveling at its stunning feats of architecture and engineering as well as the breathtaking views. The spiritual energy of the Incas and their reverence for Pacha Mama (Mother Earth) was palpable.

Cusco: A colonial gem

In Cusco, we stayed at the historic Palacio del Inkas, a luxurious hotel housed in a beautifully restored colonial mansion. From here, we explored the heart of the Incan Empire, visiting ancient ruins, charming local markets and indulging in delicious Peruvian cuisine. The city's rich history and stunning architecture were truly awe-inspiring.

A delicious finale

Our trip concluded with a surprise gastronomic tour in the trendy Barranco neighborhood of Lima. We visited several very local spots and sampled a variety of Peruvian dishes, from ceviche and chaufa to pisco sours.

AndeanLux was fantastic to work with — creative and responsive. We were all thrilled with the extraordinary experience they curated for our family. Their knowledgeable guides and personalized service made our trip truly unforgettable.

Peru has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The pride and commitment to maintaining their cultural traditions is evident throughout the country. There is so much to learn and explore that one trip is not enough — it really offers something for everyone.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Peru page.