UJ #3 - Peru: A luxury destination

Laurent
Carrasset
Exclusive interview with the Regional
Director of Orient - Express
Peru:
A Luxury
Destination
Amazon - Pacific
The richest region
of South America.

CRAFTING MAGNIFICENT
EXPERIENCES IN PERU
ONE GUEST AT A TIME
"Morro El Encanto" (Enchanted

Rock), in the Amazon - Pacific region, has been a source of local legends since ancient times
limatours.com.pe
ujtravelmagazine.com
/limatoursperu

INDEX
14 /
Amazon – Pacific:
The richest region in South America. It’s up to you to
decide: Caral – Cordillera Blanca / Moche Route /
Chachapoyas / Pacific Ocean Beaches / The Amazon River.
34 / “THE FINDINGS OF THE MUMMIES
HAVE NO PRECEDENTS”
Adriana von Hagen, Peruvian journalist,
researcher, and writer.
50 / “THERE´S PLENTY OF ROOM FOR LUXURY TOURISM GROWTH”
Laurent Carrasset, Orient-Express Rigional Director.
54 / I AM PERU:
Everything you need to know about
alpacas and vicuñas.
Managing Director: Eduardo Pedraza / Design Director: Diego del Río / Publishing Director: Rubén Barcelli
/ Lead Designer: Enrique Gallo / Design: Genaro Calderón / Text: Ana Cecilia Deustua, Fiorella Palmieri,
José Arturo Rodríguez / Photo Editor: Eduardo Amat y León / Photography: Lima Tours - Comunica 2
Archive / Content, Design, Pre-press, Printing: Grupo Editorial Comunica 2.
4

Index
56 /
Peru:
A Luxury Destination
Accommodation, Cusine, Transportation, Shopping,
High-end entertainment.
76 / “PERUVIAN CUSINE IS NEITHER A BOOM NOR A
TREND IT IS A SOLID MOVEMENT”
Carme Ruscalleda, Spanish Chef.
82 / THERMIC-POWERED AND ECOLOGICAL
HOUSES IN WILLOQ
Lima Tours Foundation helps a Cusquean community
in a high Andean region in Perú.
86 / EXPAT
Petit Miribel, philanthropist and
entrepreneur, Sol y Luna owner, located
in the Sacred Valley in Cusco.
6

editorial
The best way to feel the Amazon: up close and personal.
In this our third issue of ULTIMATE JOURNEYS, Travel in Peru, we are
proposing the creation of a new destination brand:
“AMAZON-PACIFIC”, the richest region in South America, both culturally and
naturally, encompassing Northern Peru, Southern Ecuador and Colombia, and
Eastern Brasil. A territory with 5,000 years of heritage and mega-diversity, like
no other in the world, between the planet’s largest ocean and mightiest river.
We know that to “put a new destination on the map” is not easy, but Lima
Tours has accomplished tougher missions during our almost 60 years
promoting travel to Peru. And in this particular case, the travel content and
experience in the “AMAZON-PACIFIC” region is as enriching as any in the
world, we just need to communicate/promote it better, and the sexy new
brand name we propose should help.
Enjoy reading the “AMAZON-PACIFIC” section and judge for yourself. If you
become a believer, then we count on your support to tell the world about it.
The last few years have seen a quantum leap in the standards of travel
products and services in Peru. Today we are very competitive in the “high end”
segment of the market. The section PERU, A LUXURY DESTINATION,
highlights the best of the best throughout the country, and features an
exclusive interview with Laurent Carrasset, Orient-Express Regional Director
in Peru and leader of the “luxury movement” in our destination.
Happy reading and discovering!
Your Friends at Lima Tours
PS: as you may have noticed this issue is only in English. From now on,
ULTIMATE JOURNEYS will publish two editions in different languages,
English and Spanish, the bilingual edition is no more. An editorial improvement
to better serve our readers.
8

NEWS
Inkaterra
Hotel receives
environmental award
While in Torino, Italy, Inkaterra
Group president, Jose Koechlin,
received the Relais & Châteaux
2013 Environment Trophy,
honoring the group’s efforts
in sustainable tourism and
conservation in areas where
their hotels are located. Relais &
Châteaux is an NGO with 518
hotels and restaurants throughout
the world that stand out due
to their unique characteristics
and their commitment to the
preservation of the earth’s
ecosystem.
Lima Hilton Miraflores has
officially open its doors
A modern eleven-story building with wide open spaces for
social life and refined finishes which transport us into the city´s
colonial times, are all qualities of the brand new Lima Hilton
Miraflores venue, the first flagship hotel of the famous chain
which has arrived to the capital of Perú.
Localed in the exclusive district of Miraflores, this establishment,
addressed to mainly corporate travelers, has 207 rooms which
provide the guests of a luxurious, yet warm environment. This
five stars hotel offers among its facilities, wide conference
rooms, swimming pools, gourmet restaurants ( Local and
American gastronomy fusion), and personalized servise.
With an investment of 70 million US$, the opening of the
Hilton is an indicative of the hotel growth in Lima, which seeks
to consolidate as a business destination in the region.
10

News
A JW Marriott hotel
was inaugurated
in Cusco
After a long restoration process, this
North American chain inaugurated
its new hotel in the city of Cusco
this past November. The JW Marriott
Cusco boasts oxygenated rooms, a
300 square-meter spa, a heated
pool, both a wood and a steam sauna
and a jacuzzi. Despite it’s projection
of over 50% occupancy, this luxury
hotel will have more competition in
the coming years; predictions suggest
that there will be an estimated
250 million dollar surge in hotel
investments in Cusco by 2016.
Mistura by numbers
Lima’s 2012 Mistura Gastronomic Fair, celebrated last September, has been
deemed a total success. Located in Campo de Marte, the 11-day festival
summoned more than 500,000 visitors many of whom enjoyed the chancho
al palo (spit roasted pork), carapulcra (pork and potato stew), the anticuchos
(beef-heart skewers), and cebiches, among other delights. According to
Mistura’s Manager of Operations, Pedro Cordova, Mistura 2012 saw a 45%
increase in consumption compared to 2011. Which were the most popular
dishes? First place went to Makaton’s chancho al palo with a total of 31,628
servings sold. Second place also went to the well-liked chancho al palo,
however, this time it was Carlos Ramirez’s version – selling 29,815 servings. And
in third place came Ramadita Warmy with her combination of chancho al palo
with carapulcra, selling 22,301 servings.
2013: the year of quinoa
This year has been declared the ‘international year
of quinoa’ (IYQ), recognizing the Andean towns
that have maintained and protected this cereal as a
food product for both generations past, and those
to come. The IYQ was proposed by the Bolivian
government and supported by Argentina, Azerbaijan,
Ecuador, Georgia, Honduras, Nicaragua, Paraguay,
Peru and Uruguay, along with the FAO, and approved
by the United Nations Assembly in December 2011.
With the current resurgence of Peruvian gastronomy
– thanks primarily to fusion cuisine – quinoa is gaining
more supporters each day.
11

TIPS
Ernest Hemingway’s coastline
Cabo blanco, the refuge of the jet-set in the 50´s.
The beaches of Peru’s north coast have been visited by an array
of 20th Century icons such as writer Ernest Hemingway, and
legendary actors Marilyn Monroe, John Wayne, James Stewart
and Cantinflas – among others. In the 1950’s Cabo Blanco –
located in the Talara province – saw many jetsetters who spent
their days fishing and relaxing on luxurious yachts. In 1956,
Hemingway arrived with a group of people and stayed in the
Fishing Hotel of Cabo Blanco for 34 days. His days there began
with a 6am fishing trip, and ended with a glass of whisky in the
evenings. The Nobel Prize-winning author arrived in search of
a location in which to film the adaptation of his novel, The Old
Man and the Sea.
Meserizing sunset in the spa that enchanted Hemingway.
Tip: You too can visit Cabo Blanco – located at kilometer
1137 of the North Panamerican Highway.
To arrive by car from Lima, one drives 14 hours north until
reaching El Alto, a town located seven kilometers away
from the bay. Arriving by airplane from Lima, on the other
hand, takes a mere one-and-a-half hours. Cabo Blanco
is an ideal area for sport fishing since both cold and warm
water species co-exist there. Surfing is another popular local
sport, as Cabo Blanco has waves that attract surfers all
year ‘round. Hotel Inkaterra is planning to open their newest
lodging there in 2013. A luxurious refuge for eco-lovers, the
hotel will offer amenities for those interested in fishing.
Cusco: An ideal destination for mystical and spiritual travel
Travel inside the “Center of the World”.
This magical city whose name in Quechua means “bellybutton of
the world”, was the heart of the most important civilization of South
America, the Incan Empire. Cusco’s magnificent stone structures
showcase the culture’s focus on harmony with nature, sun and earth
worship and the indigenous rituals – like coca-leaf Reading and
shaman-led ayahuasca ceremonies – that made and continue to
make this city dynamic and attractive. According to esoteric beliefs,
since the beginning of the 20th Century, the magnetic center of
the world has been slowly shifting from the Himalayan Mountains
of Tibet, to the Machu Picchu area. This might explain the why the
whole world’s eyes seemingly are on Cusco these days, and why it
recently was recognized as one of the seven wonders of the world.
Tip: The Unno Spa – the biggest and most complete wellness
center in Peru - is located in the Sacred Valley within the Aranwa
Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness. It is a magical place infused with
traditional Incan spirituality. The spa offers hyperbaric chambers,
hydrotherapy pools, a Vichy shower and both meditation
and oxygenation chambers in its 2,500sq m area. The health
sanctuary provides alternative and traditional medicinal therapies
that utilize native plants like coca, muña, camu camu ,
aguaymanto, corn, and quinoa – the sacred foods of the Incas.
Aranwa is a very special place where one can come to find
physical and spiritual balance.
12

Tips
Beaches in the North of Peru offer year ‘round summer
Paradises in the edge of the Pacific.
Due to their approximation to the equator and the warm El
Niño current, Tumbes and the north of Piura enjoy eternal
summers and boast some of the most beautiful beaches in
the country. North of Piura one can find some magnificent,
warm-water beaches – a testament to the climatic and
geographic diversity Peru has to offer.
Tip: No place better to enjoy the warm waters and sunny skies
than Máncora, a beach paradise north of Piura made famous
by its optimal weather. Its excellent waves, lively nightclubs,
delicious restaurants and funky shops make Máncora the
preferred northern destination for surfers and young tourists
alike. If in search of a less-transited destination, try Vichayito
(Piura), Punta Sal or Zorritos (Tumbes) – all of which are located
just miles away from Máncora. The whole region offers quality
gastronomical options, with fresh cebiches, prawns, black clams
and other seafood-based dishes often on the menu.
The mesmerazing seaview which accompanies cyclists.
The Peruvian ocean is one of the
most bio-diverse in the world
Flora and fauna in all its splendor.
The wealth of marine biodiversity found in the Peruvian ocean can be
attributed to the presence of the two ocean currents that run through
it – the warm El Nino and the cold Humboldt Current. The cold Humboldt
Current – extending from Piura to Tacna – supports the existence of
numerous species from sea lions, to penguins, anchovies, and huge colonies
of seabirds, among many others. Going north from Piura to Tumbes, the El
Niño current brings with it prawns, clams, crabs, and delicious tunas.
Humpback whale watching is one of the main attractions of the Peruvian
coastline.
Tip: One of the most impressive spectacles the northern Peruvian ocean has to offer is Humpback Whale watching. These amazing creatures
make their migratory journeys between the months of August and October, swimming past a number of Piura beaches including Máncora,
Vichayito, Cabo Blanco and Punta Sal. The varying temperatures of the Peruvian ocean make this an ideal environment for the Antarctic
whales to reproduce and raise their young in. Various tour operators offer whale-watching boat trips during which spectators have the chance
to see these creatures swim, dive, and play with their young.
13

14

15

sección Caral - Cordillera Blanca
Caral
Cordillera Blanca
From the shores of the Pacific Ocean to the highest peaks of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range, Peru’s northern
Coast-to-Highlands Route (Costa-Sierra) offers a variety of places to visit and activities to partake in, from
archeology to mysticism, extreme sports, naturalist and adventure tourism.
16

Caral - Cordillera Blanca
City of Caral.
Chavin nail head.
The monolitic Lanzon Stela at Chavin.
CULTURAl-HISTORIC
Caral, on Peru’s northern coast, is the
capital of the oldest civilization in the
Americas – a complex, pre-Incan society,
which at its height had almost 30 large
settlements. Its intriguing past makes
the Sacred City of Caral an obligatory
starting point from which to begin your
tour. Situated in the Supe Valley (province
of Barranca, 200 kilometers north of
Lima) this citadel was declared a UNESCO
World Heritage site in 2009 due to its
architectural complexity – including plazas,
atriums and pyramid-like structures – and
its urban area. Continuing north from Caral
about three kilometers, one arrives at the
Paramonga Fortress. Originally Chimú,
this 30-meter high pyramidal structure
is made up of four adobe platforms that
hold various rooms and hallways. After
taking in the views, the journey continues
towards the northeast into the heart of
the Andes Mountains. Chavín de Huántar,
located in the Huari province at 3.180
meters above sea level, was the religious
and mythical heart of the Chavín culture
and today is considered the culture’s
maximum architectural expression. This
theocratic, pre-Incan society excelled
in their astronomic, time and weatherrelated
knowledge, as well as their highly
developed economic infrastructure that
revolved around agriculture, cattle and
fishing. Above all, the Chavín were masters
in artistic pursuits such as sculpture,
ceramics, architecture and working with
precious metals. The Chavín de Huantar
site – originally a religious center – is
a testament to the Chavin people’s
exquisite architectural mastery, combining
temples, terraces, aqueducts, galleries
and underground walkways. Specialists
have likened the historical importance of
We are refering to
a pre-Incan
theocratic society,
which members
excelled in their
astronomical
knowledge
this site to that of Machu Picchu. Within
the ruins, one can find some impressive
vestiges like the lanzón monolítico – a
sculpture that stands five meters high and
whose anthropomorphic and zoomorphic
depictions represent the god Huiracohca,
as well as cabezas clavas, long, lithic
structures that evoke the Jaguar God.
Luxurious and mystical
Fifteen minutes from the sacred citadel of Caral stands the Empedrada Fundo, Hotel &
Spa. Open since last June, this hotel is designed for the high-end traveler. This elegant
and sophisticated 22-room property, located in a beautiful country setting, offers all
the amenities of a five-star hotel including a bar and lounge and a business center.
Bicycle or horseback rides, walks through the valley, picnics and both intermediate and
advanced hikes also are available.
17

Caral - Cordillera Blanca
NATURE
Apart from the array of adventure tourism options, the Cordillera
Blanca is also a promised land for nature-based tourism. The
Huascarán National Park – which spans the entire mountain
range – was declared a sanctuary in 1975 in order to preserve
its immense ecological wealth. The National Park houses the
Huascarán glacier, which at 6.788 meters above sea level, is
the highest peak in all of Peru, as well as 296 lagoons. It has
seven distinct ecological areas, each of which is laced with
microclimates. The Park is home to 779 identified species, 304
genus and 104 families of Andean flora - among them, the Puya
Raimondi and the Queñal tree. The reserve also is a habitat for
endangered fauna like Peruvian Mountain Cats, Spectacled Bear,
Vicuña, North-Andean Deer, Andean Condor and the Torrent Duck.
The 112 different bird species that have been recorded in the area
make it an ideal place for bird watching.
Something similar happens in
the Huayhuash mountain range,
made up of around twenty peaks
which are located along its 30
kilometers.
18

Caral
Module 1
ADVENTURE
There is no better destination for
adventure-lovers than Huaraz, the capital
of Áncash. This city is ideally located:
Smack-dab in the middle of the Callejón de
Huaylas valley, the heart of the Cordillera
Blanca mountain range. Surrounded by
glaciers, turquoise lagoons and gorgeous
mountains, Huaraz is a perfect setting
for adventure-sports like ice and rock
climbing, mountaineering, mountain biking,
paragliding and white-water rafting. Thus
it should come as no surprise that Huaraz
also is the location of annual international
mountaineering festivals. Huaraz also is the
departure point for one to multi-day hikes
into the surrounding forests and mountain
ranges. Remember: While there are
plenty of hikes for both experienced and
inexperienced hikers, it is essential to travel
with an experienced, local guide.
Further south, the more isolated
Huayhuash Mountain Range also offers
a wide range of mountain activities.
Accessing this destination requires
some effort. The complete trek around
Huayhuash traverse 180-kilometer through
terrains that reach 5000 meters above sea
level. Thus, the influx of tourists is low.
Nonetheless, Huayhuash is considered one
of the most beautiful mountain ranges in
Its a favorable
scenario for the
practicing of
sports such as, ice
and rock climbing,
mountain climbing,
mountain-bike riding,
skiing, downhill,
paragliding and
white-water rafting.
the world and is a destination that is well
worth the effort.
The entrance to the Huayhuash Reserve
begins in the small city of Chiquián, four
hours east of Huaraz, known as “The
Portal to the Mountains.” From here, one
continues down a path only transitable by
a 4x4 vehicle, until reaching the town of
Llamac, departure point for a spectacular,
multi-day hike through the mountains,
passing below glaciers and around various
lagoons. The best time of the year for this
hike is between May and September.
Timetable
Day 1
LIMA-HUARAZ
- CARAL: This civilization gave rise to the oldest
urban complex in the Americas and – upon
discovering that it was 5,000 years old –
re-defined the history of early settlements
on the continent. This finding makes early
civilizations in places like China, Egypt, India
and Mesopotamia seem contemporary in
comparison.
- HUARAZ: At 3052 meters above sea level,
Huaraz is the main city in the Callejón de
Huaylas, and is surrounded by the Cordillera
Blanca mountain range, which provides the
highest peaks in Peru. This city is the place
from which to commence some of the most
exciting journeys Peru has to offer.
Day 2
- LAGO QUEROCOCHA (3980 meters above sea
level) and the queñuales (Polylepis trees)
- CHAVÍN DE HUÁNTAR: Located at 3177
meters above sea level, this site was once the
capital of the Chavín culture (1200 – 200
BC). It is one of the oldest civilizations on the
continent and recognized as a UNESCO World
Heritage Site.
Day 3
- YUNGAY: This city was almost entirely buried
by a landslide when a chunk of the Huascaran
glacier broke off after a powerful earthquake
in 1970.
- PARQUE NACIONAL HUASCARÁN: Declared
a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. From here,
one can appreciate the Huascaran Glacier – the
highest mountain in Peru (6768 meters above
sea level) – and see the turquoise waters of
the Llanganuco lagoon (3850 meters above
sea level) created by the melting waters of the
glacier itself.
Day 4
- HUARAZ-LIMA
For more information: inbound@limatours.com.pe or contact your market specialist

sección

sección

Moche Route
Moche
Route
Experience the more than 2000 years of Moche history, traditions and
art that span the La Libertad and Lambayeque Departments of Peru;
lands of golden monarchs, pyramids and extensive forests. The culture’s
remarkable archeological and cultural legacies come alive in this travel
route through the Moche past.
22

Moche Route
CULTURAl-HISTORIC
This tour focuses on four, major archeological
sites. The first, the Huaca del Sol and Huaca
de la Luna, are both part of a structural
complex situated five kilometers south of
Trujillo, the capital city of La Libertad. The
Huaca del Sol is an adobe structure about 43
meters high, which archeologists believe was
used for administrative purposes. The huaca
has a stepped pyramid structure and includes
five large terraces, the largest of which is 80
meters long. The Huaca de la Luna lies roughly
500 meters from its counterpart. It also is a
huge, adobe structure, but is characterized by
superimposed temples, added to the huaca
at different times, suggesting that it was a
ceremonial center that underwent constant
renovations. Its superior platform houses a
series of rooms decorated with depictions of
human figures. On both the north facade and
the walls of the ceremonial plaza, there are
large murals and friezes painted in white, black,
red, blue and mustard.
Chan-Chan is the next stopping point of the
tour. Located northeast of Trujillo en route
to Huanchaco Beach, this adobe citadel was
declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO
in 1986, and is made-up of nine precincts,
or small walled cities. The complex was once
the capital of the Chimú civilization and
covers an area of approximately 20 square
kilometers, making it the largest adobe city
in the world.
The circuit continues on to the El Brujo
Archeological Complex, 60km north of
Trujillo in the Chicama Valley. This site is
composed of three main huacas: Prieta, Cao
and Cortada. The most important is the Cao
Huaca, where the burial site of an ancient
Moche ruler called the Dama de Cao, was
discovered. The site and its artifacts can be
seen in the Cao Site Museum. Archeologists
working on the site compare the influence
and importance of this young leaders to
that of another Moche ruler known today as
the Señor de Sipán, whose impressive tomb
and artifacts can be visited in Lambayeque,
the last stop of the journey. Then the
Museum of the Royal Tombs of Sipán,
where the burial site and lavish treasures
of the Señor de Sipán are displayed, is ten
minutes from Chiclayo.
Los Horcones de Túcume
This hotel is the rallying point for visiting the 26 pyramids surrounding the Purgatorio
hill. Los Horcones de Túcume, in Lambayeque, is a rural lodge that was built inspired by
local architecture and where guests can experience country life with delicious barbecues,
horseback riding and warm nights. Their rooms are complemented with terraces made of
mud and carob tree, giving the place an ancestral ambience.
23

Moche Route
GASTRONOMY
The culinary traditions of La Libertad and
Lambayeque are some of the most varied in Peru.
Transferred almost directly from ocean to table,
the fresh seafood at the heart of this cuisine is
one of its defining characteristics, with dishes
that range from the more traditional grouper or
black-clam cebiches, to tasty sudados (stewed
fish with yucca, aji and tomatoes), or the filling
majarisco (mashed green plantains with shellfish
sauce). Meats, tubers, vegetables and a variety of
spices also are part of the local menu, resulting in
a complete, generous and flavorful gastronomic
experience. Favorite non-fish dishes from the La
Libertad region are cabrito con frejoles (stewed
lamb in fermented corn liquor, served with canary
beans), shambar (soup made with wheat, meat,
assorted beans, and green onions), pepián de pava
(turkey stew with rice, corn and aji), sopa teóloga
(turkey and/or chicken soup with moistened
bread, potato, milk and cheese), cecina con yucca
(dry, salted beef or pork cooked with yucca),
ajiaco de cuy (a guinea pig, potato, cheese and aji
stew) and frejoles a la trujillana (black beans with
sesame seed and chili pepper). Where cocktails
are concerned, the large production of sugar cane
in the region yields fine high quality, aged cane
liquor – better known as rum.
The gastronomic festival continues in
Lambayeque, where the best-known, local dish is
seco de cabrito (stew made of tender, baby goat
meat marinated in chicha de jora and served with
beans), followed by arroz con pato a la chiclayana
(duck cooked in black beer with cilantro). Other
local specialities include tortilla de raya (egg tortilla
made with dehydrated stingray meat), chinguirito
(cebiche made with dried fish), espesado (a thick
stew made with corn, meat, yucca, pumpkin
and cilantro) and conejo asado (roasted rabbit),
to name a few. For dessert, try the popular King
Kong, a layered cookie spread with caramel-like
manjarblanco. almost as large as the famous
Hollywood gorilla it is named for.
DINING WITH AN OCEAN VIEW
Famous for its fish and seafood
dishes, Big Ben is a classic, upscale
restaurant located on Huanchaco
Beach. This restaurant’s success
comes from the variety of succulent
seafood dishes it serves, like
cangrejos huanchaqueros reventados
(its Huanchaco-style crab) and the
filete de ojo de uva a la plancha
(sea bass filet on the grill). It is
its dedication to innovation that
led Big Ben to occupy the second
place slot of the 2012 Summum
Guide award for Best Restaurant in
Trujillo. The restaurant also offers a
variety of cocktails and wines that
allow for perfect pairings. Big Ben
is the kind of place where lunches
– accompanied by a spectacular
view of the ocean speckled with
traditional caballitos de totora (reed
fishing boats) – become magical,
unforgettable moments. Big Ben
is located on Avenida Larco 1182,
Urbanización El Boquerón.
DINING MADE A FIESTA
Enjoy the best of the northern gastronomy at Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet Restaurant. A local
favorite since it opened 29 years ago, Fiesta is a culinary reference point for the region. Here,
eating a cabrito con tacu tacu (stewed lamb with refried rice and beans) or some yuccas rellenas
de lomo fino (yuccas stuffed with beef loin) is a religious experience thanks to the array of
sensations each dish releases. Fiesta is the pioneer of gourmet restaurants in Lambayeque and
its generous menu, which offers more than 80 dishes per day, creates new flavors by combining
rescued traditional Moche recipes with the adventurous ingenuity of chef Héctor Solís. With its
excellent service and large, elegant rooms, Fiesta takes its dining experience to the next level.
Visit Fiesta at Avenida Salaverry 1820.
24

Timetable
Day 1
Caral
Module 2
NATURE
While foreign tourists traditionally think of
the north as Peru’s sun, sand and archeology
vacation, the region also offers a variety of
nature- based activities. The Private Chaparrí
Conservation Area, located in the Chongoyape
district, 75 km from the city of Chiclayo, is an
indisputable example of a coastal ecological
paradise. This reserve spans over 34,000
hectares, and houses over 250 animal species
such as the Guanaco llama, Pava Aliblanca
turkey and the Spectacled Bear; birds including
the Andean Condor, reptiles, amphibians and
fish. Both the Pava Aliblanca and the Spectacled
Bear are in danger of extinction. As far as flora
and vegetation are concerned, Carob and
Hualtaco and Sapote trees, Cactus and Overos
abound. Lambayeque’s Ferreñafe province
also is home to the Bosque de Pómac Historic
Sanctuary, an area in which dry-forest flora
and fauna species are protected, and where 36
pyramids from the Sicán culture are located.
This sanctuary is an ecologically unique forest
in which coastal-desert vegetation species like
Carob, Guarango and Zapote trees, as well as
Vichayo bushes can be found. It is also the
natural habitat of certain fauna like anteaters,
squirrels, iguanas, foxes, ferrets, snakes and
varieties of birds. It is precisely the range of wild
animal species that make this area ideal for
nature-tourism activities, such as bird watching.
CITY TOUR TRUJILLO
- HUACAS DEL SOL Y DE LA LUNA: These
archeological complexes, which include two
large truncated pyramids, were inhabited by the
Moche in the years 100 and 900 AC. The walls
of these temples are covered with depictions of
the various anthropomorphic deities this culture
worshiped, among them Aiapaec – the most
ferocious and feared of all.
- CHAN-CHAN, Chan-Chan – which means “Sun-
Sun” – was once the administrative and social
center of the Chimú culture. It is not only the
largest mud-made city in the world, but it was
also the most populated area of the north-coast
from 600-700 AC.
- HUANCHACO: A classic northern beach
previously inhabited by the Mochica, who
developed reed fishing vessels called caballitos
de totora that continue to be used today,
keeping this millenary tradition alive.
Day 2
- DAMA DE CAO: This site proves to be one of the
most important political and religious centers
from the time of the Moche culture, between
the years 100 and 750 A.C. Their impressive
artistic capabilities are displayed in the raised
murals that adorn the walls of the pyramids, as
well as the burial site of the Señora de Cao – a
25 year-old dignitary with tattoos of spiders and
snakes covering her skin.
- LUNCH AT FIESTA, Perú Gourmet
- VISIT TO TÚCUME: Spanning over 200 hectares,
this complex houses 26 large pyramids among
plazas, large walls, patios and canal systems. It
suggests a well thought out city development
plan and a complex social structure.
- HORCONES OVERNIGHT: Just steps away from
the 26 pyramids that surround the magical El
Purgatorio hillside.
Day 3
- SIPÁN MUSEUM, Where all the findings from
the Señor de Sipán royal tombs excavation site
are researched, restored and kept.
- LIMA
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sección

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Chachapoyas Kingdom
Chachapoyas
Considered the gateway to the northeastern high jungle, Chachapoyas boasts natural reserves,
lagoons, waterfalls, archeological sites and impressive landscapes.
28

Chachapoyas Kingdom
CULTURAl-HISTORIC
The next leg of the journey leads to Chachapoyas, en route to
Kuélap – the famous archeological site. Considered by some to
have been a military fortress and by others, an administrative and
cultural center used by members of the Kuélap civilization, Kuélap is
located at 3,000 meters above sea level in the high-jungle, 35km
south of the city in the Luya province. It houses 505 multi-leveled
structures in its interior. Considered one of the major archeological
sites in Peru and on an equal par with Machu Picchu, Kuélap has
enormous historic, cultural and architectural significance, covering
an area three times larger than Egypt’s Great Pyramid. From its
20-meter-high walls, to its walled alleyways, Kuélap is a mysterious
and wondrous archeological treasure. West of the fortress one can
find the Gran Vilaya archeological complex. In these six hectares of
land, there are roughly 5,000 circular and rectangular, limestone
structures. Take Note: Among the urban centers that make up Gran
Vilaya, La Escalera is a pre-Incan path that connects the town
of Belén to Pirquilla – an archeological zone that is part of the
historical site, though it is camouflaged and somewhat overgrown
by vegetation.
For those who have the time and physical stamina, a hike to the
Lagoon of the Condors is a spectacular end to the trip despite the
extremely difficult access. Remember: Local guides, horses and
porters must be contracted for this 3 to 5 day excursion. Apart
from observing the archeological remains in the area, which are
located on a cliff-side, one can also enjoy the isolated, unspoiled
wilderness. The six mausoleums onsite act a testament to the
importance of the funerary rituals practiced by the Chachapoya
people. Whether or not you visit the ruins themselves, you can
still get an excellent sense of the experience at the Leymebamba
Museum in Leymebama. About 200 mummies and objects found
around the Lagoon are on display, making this very professional
museum definitely worth a visit.
29

Chachapoyas Kingdom
ADVENTURE
Visitors to Kuelap should be ready for a lot
of walking. A newly installed, paved walkway
leads from the parking lot to the ruins in
about 20 minutes. Rest stops en route allow
a minute to catch one’s breath and enjoy the
dramatic scenery. Once at the site, though,
the spectacular views and almost intact
archeological remains are memorable.
The region also counts with two, resourcerich
lagoons: Pomacochas and El Porvenir.
The former, located in the Bongará Province,
spans an area of three kilometers and is
about 100m deep. It is located two hours
from Bagua going down the Marginal de la
Selva highway, and lends itself to activities
like swimming, fishing and boating. The latter
is situated in Bagua, covers an area of 1.5km,
and is ideal for the same kinds of activities.
The Alto Mayo Valley is a great place to enjoy
hikes along the lush, tropical hillsides, and
one must not miss the impressive Paccha and
Gera Waterfalls.
Another sublime spectacle is the one
that the birds in the Abra Patricia Private
Conservation Area put on for their guests.
Experts agree that this is one of the best
places in the country for bird watching.
Tanagers, partridges, long-tailed sylphs,
In the Altomayo
Valley it is
possible to go for
walks along the
breathtaking hills,
which are covered in
tropical greenery,
a must-do is the
spectacle given by
the Paccha and Del
Gera waterfalls.
hummingbirds, owls and quetzals are only
some of the many species that inhabit this
area. There are also tour options like the socalled
Coffee Route and Orquid Route. Both
begin in Moyobamba, capital of the San
Martin department. In Tarapoto one can visit
the Laguna Azul and spend the day engaging
in an array of water sports. The Lagoon is
located in the El Sauce district, 16km from
the Huallaga River. The Laguna Venecia,
fours kilometers from Tarapoto, is surrounded
by palms and has a developed touristic
infrastructure that includes a dirt bike circuit.
Other typical Amazonian activities include
jungle hikes, nighttime canoe trips, visits to
artisanal centers, sport fishing, Pink-Dolphin
spotting, rappelling down waterfalls and visits
to various different native communities.
GASTRONOMY
Chachapoyas is not only known for its
pre-Incan buildings, lagoons, dances
and festivities, traditional Chachapoyas
gastronomy also stands out and many
tourists who visit the region end up returning
to their homes packed with typical local
products like chetino or molinopampa
cheese, breads, mote, chochoca and green
beans. Despite the fact that Chachapoyas
cuisine is not that well known, nor that
sophisticated, local dishes such as purtumote
saltado (boiled beans and corn), juane
(chicken and rice mixed together and
wrapped in a banana leaf), tamal (mashed
corn filled with either meat or cheese,
wrapped in banana leaves), as well as
the local cheeses and breads are fresh
and delicious. Soups and locros (squash
stews with potatoes and cheese) are an
excellent option. Other typical dishes are
arrolada meat (boiled beef loin stuffed
with onions, ground beef, olives and boiled
eggs) chipasmute (stewed beans and sweet
corn), guinea pig with potatoes, yucca
juane (mashed yucca and chicken wrapped
in banana leaves), and stuffed plantains.
There is also a variety of typical liquors from
the region, which include guarapo (maize
beer), chuchuhuasi (an herbal liquor made
from chuchuhuasi leaves), pur-pur (made
from cordial, fruit and seeds), and mora
(blackberry) liquor.
30

Caral
Module 3
NATURE
Timetable
Day 1
Called the ceja de selva (eyebrow of the
jungle) in Spanish, this area is known for
its beautiful mountains, clear waters and
verdant valleys. The Gocta Waterfall is one
of the most spectacular nature-tourism sites
in the Amazon region. At 771-meters high,
the falls has gained worldwide recognition
and thus is a very popular tourist stop. The
Lagoon of Condors, mentioned above, also
is on the list not because of its mausoleums,
but rather because of its greenish-blue
waters and the spectacular views the valleys
and mountains that surround it. This area also
is home to The Orchid Paradise, an outdoor
orchid museum located in the Bongará
province which houses over 2,500 varieties
of orchids. Additionally, there is the Chigliga
Waterfall, located in the Shipasbamba-
Bongará zone. This waterfall is actually
made up of seven separate falls that come
together to make a 75-foot expanse. A
huge diversity of flora and fauna live here
including the gallito de las rocas (Cock of the
Rock), el colibrí cola de spatula (Spatula-
Tailed Hummingbird) and el oso de anteojos
(Spectacled Bear).
Marvellous Spatuletail Hummingbird
There is also the
orchid paradise,
where there are
more than 2500
varieties of this
flower.
The Bagua Province also has a lot to offer.
Travelers who enjoy camping can visit the
Numparket and Chinin waterfalls or the El
Porvenir Lagoon. For the more adventurous
tourist, there are the Cabiopitec and La Palma
caves. The protected forests of the Alto Mayo
valley, located in San Martin, also provide a
natural paradise where one can find varieties
of birds and animals like the Andean Bear and
Andean Dwarf Deer, as well as a vast diversity
of orchids and bromeliads. The beautiful
Huaylla Belen valley has a remarkable
diversity of ecosystems and has thus become
a must for those eco-fans who are headed to
the Gran Vilaya.
- CHICLAYO: Transfer to the Gocta Lodge, from
where you can appreciate one of the highest
waterfalls in the world: the Gocta Waterfall.
Day 2
- KUÉLAP: An important Peruvian archeological site
constructed by the Chachapoya culture, Kuélap
is located on a mountain-top and built behind
protective stone walls over 20 meters high.
- LEYMEBAMBA
Day 3
- MUSEO LEYMEBAMBA: Inaugurated in June of
2000, it houses more than 200 mummies and
funerary offerings from the Chachapoya culture.
- KARAJÍA: A grouping of sarcophagi or coffins
that follow the funerary traditions of the
Chachapoyas. Over 2.5 meters tall and given
human forms, these relics were found on the
edge of a calcareous rock, facing Karajia abyss.
- GOCTA LODGE
Day 4
- TRANSFER FROM GOCTA TO SAUCE LAGOON IN
TARAPOTO.
During the journey, one has the chance to see:
• Laguna de Pomacocha (The Lagoon of the
Pumas)
• Abra Patricia (Patricia Pass): Home to the
marvelous Spatula-tailed hummingbird
• Tarapoto: One of the main tourist hubs and
commercial cities of the Peruvian Amazon.
• Laguna Sauce
Day 5
- FULL DAY AT SAUCE LAGOON with the following
optional activities:
Boating, ATV riding, Mountain Biking, Water
Sports, Spas
Day 6
- AHUASHIYACU WATERFALL
- TARAPOTO
- LIMA
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Chachapoyas Kingdom
Secrets of the Utcubamba Valley
The Chachapoyas Culture, which flourished between 1,100A.C. and 1,350 A.C., has been recently re-discovered
by the world and continues to dazzle with its complex cities, its mysterious religion and its veneration of the
dead. Set along the Utcubamba River, the mysteries and history of this pre-Incan culture unfold within each
archeological site.
A CHICLAYO
1 KARAJIA
The sarcophagi of Karajia are
elaborate mud sculptures
approximately two meters tall. The
heads of the sculptures are decorated
with a ‘trophy’ cranium, the faces are
flat and wide and the rest of the
structure’s body is covered in
geometric designs. These
‘purunmachos’, as called by the local
peoples, rest on the edge of a rocky,
lime-stone cliff – looking out into the
abyss – as if they were left there to
watch over the development of life
below, from the very summit of
death.
1
2 VILLAGE OF THE DEAD
Located in an area that is considered
virtually inaccessible, these ruins
bring together both round and
square funerary sarcophagi that
spread over an area of
approximately one hectare. This
mud cemetery housed the bodies of
the highest rulers of the
Chachapoyas culture.
BAGUA GRANDE
KARAJÍA
Valle
Belén
BAGUA
2 PUEBLO DE
LOS MUERTOS
LAMUD
Cruzpata
Cohecha
SHOLON
Colcamar
Luya
Pedro Ruíz
8
N
Catarata
de Gocta
La Pitaya
11
YALAPE
Pomacochas 3
A TARAPOTO
Huancas
CHACHAPOYAS
Levanto
9 MACRO
3 POMACOCHAS
Pomacochas, a beautiful, 12
square kilometer lagoon is located
at 2,150 meters above sea level,
in a town by the same name. Its
navigable waters ripple in vivid
tones of greens and blues, and a
variety of plants grow on its
shores including reeds and vines.
4 OLAN
This housing complex is divided into three areas: North, south, and central. The north zone
has circular platforms and decorated houses with balconies and different types of trim. The
south area contains at least three towers – the tallest of which is roughly five meters high.
In the central area, one finds a construction that has been conserved in a perfect state and
exhibits fine stonemasonry.
Unpaved road
Provincial capital
12
GRAN VILAYA
KUELAP
Choctámal
Longuita
María
7
REVASH
10
5
LA CONGONA
Trekking 2 horas
Tingo
Santo Tomás
Río Uctubamba
Magdalena
EL CHILLO
OLLAPE
La Jalca
Ubilón
Yerbabuena
4
OLÁN
San Pedro
Montevideo
6 Leymebamba
Museo
Trekking trail
Paved road
Archaeological Sites
Capital district
Other towns
Río Marañón
Balsas
LA PETACA
DIABLO HUASI
LAGUNA DE
LOS CÓNDORES
13

Chachapoyas Kingdom
5 KUÉLAP
6 LEYMEBAMBA
This giant, carved-stone city was constructed on the top of a mountain
during the 12th Century A.C. The site, surrounded by high walls, is
believed to have been a food production administrative center. Kuélap’s
interior houses 400 rooms (some of which have friezes on the walls),
This museum displays a variety of remains from the Chachapoyas
culture, as well as other, smaller cultures that inhabited the Utcubamba
Valley. Among the pre-Incan relics there are funerary bundles that
include weavings, ceramics, wooden objects and quipus.
defensive towers, and a castle located on the highest terrace, which
might have functioned as a dwelling for those in charge of the area.
7 REVASH
8 GOCTA WATERFALL
This funerary center is made up
of various chullpas (tombs) one,
two or three stories high. The
mausoleums, which have
double-pitched roofs, sit upon
balconies outside of caves, which
dot the side of the mountain
where the site is located. Inside
the caves are ochre-colored,
Measuring 540 meters high,
this waterfall is the fifth
highest in the world. This
torrent – made up of two falls
– was unknown to the world
until 2005, when German
explorer Stefan Ziemendorff
discovered it during an
expedition.
primitive cave-drawings that
depict animals and people.
9 MACRO
10 LA CONGONA
This pre-Incan housing complex – located 50 meters from the banks of
the Utcubamba River – is made up of five platforms that hold both huts
and towers, constructed in stone and mud. Archeologists have also
uncovered various platforms and foundations of houses decorated with
friezes that depict rhomboids, as well as with niches in the walls. These
In its north zone, this archeological site has 30 circular constructions
with friezes of stylized waves. These rooms, however, are partially
covered by dense vegetation. The south sector houses 34, less decorated
structures, as well as a long rectangular structure (16 meters long x six
meters wide) with six trapezoidal-shaped doors.
constructions are thought to have housed more than 100 people during
the early development of the Chachapoyas culture.
11 YALAPE
Having been strategically built on the summit of the
Puma Urko Mountain, these archeological ruins are
made up of 250 circular constructions, all of which
are decorated with high-relief friezes. This urban
center was built out of mud and stone by the
Chachapoyas people.
12 GRAN VILAYA
This archeological complex is made up of roughly
5,000 buildings, spread over six hectares. The
structures are both circular and rectangular, made of
limestone, and decorated with friezes depicting
humans and animals representing the serpent, the
puma, and the condor.
13 LAGOON OF THE CONDORS
Over 200 funerary bundles – all displaying
diverse gold and craft offerings – were found
at this Lagoon located 2,600 meters above
sea level. These mummies belonged to the
Chachapoyas culture and are currently on
display at the Leymebamaba Museum.

34
Adriana von Hagen

Adriana von Hagen
Adriana von Hagen
“The Discovery
of the mummies
at the Laguna de
los Condores is
unprecedented”
Peruvian journalist,
researcher, and writer
In Peru’s northeast region – located between the mountains and the jungle – lies the
department of Amazonas, an extensive territory once dominated by the Chachapoyas.
This pre-Incan culture has for centuries been given a secondary role in Peruvian history.
However, this ancient society has gained much more attention and admiration lately,
with the recent rescue and revaluation of some of the most stunning Chachapoya
architectural complexes, like the fortress of Kuélap – a stone structure dating back
to the year 1000. Among the most surprising Chachapoya finds, are the tombs of
Leymebamba – around the Lagoon of Condores – where hundreds of mummies were
buried in six chullpas (stone funerary towers). These centuries-old chullpas were hidden
by thick vegetation until being discovered by grave robbers and eventually rescued by
the authorities. The Peruvian journalist, researcher and writer Adriana Von Hagen is one
of the main developers of the Leymebamba Museum, where these archeological finds
are currently housed and exhibited.
35

Adriana von Hagen
T
ell us, how did you arrive
at Leymebamba, in the
Chachapoyas province?
I’ve been living between Lima
and Chachapoyas for the last
15 years, and I also constantly travel to
other places. I settled there while working
on the investigations after the mummies
were found and I participated in the creation
of the museum, across from which I built
a house. The people who would come visit
always needed somewhere to stay, and thus
the Kentitambo hotel was born, with its
two rooms available for small groups. It was
conceived with the help of Lima architects
as an extension to my house. Some day
we’ll expand. The KentiCafé is open and
currently functions as the museum’s café.
How has the experience of working in
Leymebamba been for you?
It’s been an incredible experience. I work with
local people, many of whom had never seen
bathrooms with hot water before they began
working here. They are trained to work in
houses, and the hotel is virtually an extension
of a house. It has not been difficult to train
them. The food that we offer is all made with
local ingredients and most of it is harvested
from our very own vegetable garden. The
fieldwork and archeological investigations
have been difficult. We had to move in and
out on mules. When I arrived, there was only
one phone and very limited Internet access.
I was the only person using the internet at
the time (1997). The area has seen a lot of
progress. We have more amenities, like taxis
for example. We are much more connected.
What has been the biggest challenge
with the museum?
The financing is expensive. Recently, the
influx of tourists has dropped because the
route from Cajamarca – the main access route
to Leymebamba – is closed. Tourists usually
visit Chachapoyas, the Gocta waterfalls and
Kuélap, but if they only have a few days,
they don’t end up making it to Leymebamba.
Without access to Cajamarca we lose tourists
who are enjoying the local circuit
Why is the discovery of the tombs in the
Lagoon of Condors important in terms of
better understanding the Chachapoyas
culture?
In cultural terms, the discovery of the
mummies has no precedent. The organic
“Mummies are fascinating for turists”, Adriana claims.
matter has been amazingly preserved.
Before the discovery – partly because of the
difficult access to the area – it was thought
that the Chachapoyas were a smaller,
isolated culture. What we know now is that
they played an important role within the
Incan empire. They were the trade suppliers
of the resources found in the lower-jungle
areas, like feathers, honey and vegetablebased
dyes. Evidence of their contact with
other cultures prior to the Incan period has
also been found.
How were the mummies found?
In the 1990’s, grave robbers and cattle
farmers saw the chullpa on the other side of
the Condor Lagoon, and on their free days,
they would loot it. But, because it’s such a
small town, soon-there-after the police found
out and confiscated the material. Based on
what was confiscated, we began the rescue
project and inaugurated the museum.
In what ways has the museum positively
impacted Leymebamba - its neighboring
town?
The arrival of tourists who come to visit the
museum has allowed for the town to grow
both in infrastructure and importance. There
are new businesses, restaurants and hotels. In
that way, it’s put Leymebamba on the map.
The Amazonas department has some
beautiful land in the Utcubamba Valley.
Do you think that that area has the
same potential for tourism development
as Cusco’s Sacred Valley?
It might be similar to what the Sacred Valley
was like 50 years ago – much before the
invasion of tourism that we see today. The
good thing about the Utcubamba Valley
is that few people visit it, thus there’s still
the potential of setting up a sustainable
travel project. The correct word to describe
it would be ‘unspoiled.’ Wherever one
visits, it’s always nicer when that place isn’t
invaded by tourists. In Chachapoyas, the
only operating hotel chain that has decided
to take the risk is Casa Andina.
As a cultural researcher, what is the
importance of the Kuélap Fortress? Do
you thinks it’s valid to sell this site as the
Machu Picchu of the Peruvian jungle?
Although there is no doubt that this is an
important and impressive site, we are still
waiting on the results of the work executed
by archeologists over the last 20 years
in order to determine the magnitude of
Kuélap for the Chachapoyas culture. It is
one of the few archeological sites in the
area that has been extensively excavated
and restored, and that also offers areas
open to the public. Unfortunately, Kuélap
is often compared to Machu Picchu even
though the two sites are very different. One
has to consider that the Incan architecture
and their style of working the land was
36

Adriana von Hagen
The Kentitambo Hotel.
The hummingbird, is one of the species of birds
which birdwatchers admire.
much more intricate, and that both places
were built at different moments in time.
They should not be compared. In terms of
infrastructure, Kuélap needs to be operated
as a tourist site, complete with bathrooms
and other key services.
What other tourist attractions can be
found around Kuélap?
Apart from visiting the Chachapoyas
archeological sites, Leymebamba is an ideal
area for bird watching and nature lovers. For
example, one can find a variety of orchid
species. There are also adventure tourism
options. There are two-week horse-riding
trips offered to explore Leymebamba’s
neighboring towns, with camping along the
way and visits to different lagoons, etc.
You suggested that Leymebamba is an
emerging town. What do you think is
needed to better the services offered to
tourists?
In order to better the visits, the local guides
need to be better informed and more of
the research about Chachapoyas should be
published. There is also a lack of quality
lodgings. These don’t have to be luxurious,
just clean, comfortable, and inviting. The
deforestation in the area should also be
ceased immediately. One of the things
we’ve focused on in Kentitambo is planting
trees. The area where the hotel is located
used to be just bare hillside with rocks.
“The good thing
about the
Utcubamba Valley
is that not many
people go there
and we are still
in time to lead
a sustainable
tourist project.”
“Leymebamba is
an ideal area
for birdwatching
and for those
who want to see
nature in all its
splendour.”
Another problem is access. There is an
airport in Chachapoyas, but at the moment
there are no operating flights, so we hope
that begins to work soon. Although the
roads are in better shape, it is still at least an
eight-hour trip from any of the access cities.
What is the biggest attraction of the
museum for visitors?
Tourists seem to find the mummies quite
fascinating. They are located on a scaffold
structure in a room with a large viewing
window. It’s not a macabre but instead
fascinating. The entrance fee is S/.15.
Ideally the mummies would still be in their
tombs around the lagoon, but unfortunately
the grave robbers would loot them. The
ancient ‘Chacha’ would usually go visit
the dead there. They would change their
wrappings and would take them food and
drinks.
Lastly, what would you tell those who
are thinking about going to visit Kuélap,
Leymebamba and the general Amazonas
department?
That they have the great opportunity of
visiting a region that still maintains its
original beauty and that hasn’t been altered
by tourism. Its a place for those who
wish to hike, explore and get to know the
attractions that the Peruvian jungle has to
offer, as well as the Chachapoya archeology
– which is unique.
37

Pacific Ocean Beaches
The beaches
of the North
The Peruvian north enjoys and endless summer. But, its popularity comes not only from its breath-taking
beaches, transparent waters and year 'round sunshine, but also from the innumerable nature-based activities
and gastronomic delicacies it offers.
38 38

Pacific Ocean Beaches
NATURE
It all begins in La Libertad, at the famous
Huanchaco Beach, 13 km northeast of the
city of Trujillo. This beach is popular with
surf professionals and surf enthusiasts alike
for its great waves and lively atmosphere.
Huachaco is also renowned for its caballitos
de totora, the traditional reed fishing boats
that are still constructed and employed
by the local population for both fishing
and sport. What else can one visit? The
dock, artisan center and the colonial Virgen
del Perpetuo Socorro Church are all great
options. Take detour off at the 613 km of
the Panamericana Norte, which leads to
Puerto Chicama - in the Paiján area. This
port-town beach is considered a favorite spot
by surfers, as it offers the longest left-wave
in the world. Ninety kms north of Trujillo,
one arrives at Pacasmayo, a beach and bay
often frequented by fishermen that boasts
a tranquil, shallow sea. One of this town's
main attractions is its XIX century dock, from
which tobacco used to be exported. The
lovely lighthouse also is worth a visit, or take
some time to brush up on your kite-surfing
skills while here. When leaving Pacasmayo,
Pimentel Beach, 20 minutes from Chiclayo,
is the most famous and frequented of the
beaches in the Lambayeque area due to its
welcoming ocean, interesting architecture
and undeniable charm. Playa Etén - referred
to by locals as Dream Beach - is another
good alternative if in search of a nice beach
and calm waters. Farther north in Piura, the
Continues in page 40.
Vichayito Bungalows &
Carpas by Aranwa
This lodging service gives you the
chance to enjoy a priviledged view of
the sunset and succulent dishes made of
seafood products brought from Mancora
which is located just a few minutes from
there. Aranwa Vichayito creates an exotic
experience with its nine bungalows and
twenty-six Bedouin tents which let
you enjoy the beach in its natural state.
However; the comforts of this exclusive
chain of hotels are not left behind. You
will come across a restaurant, a bar and
a spa which will turn you trip into a
relaxing time.
Luxury on the beach
Trujillo’s only boutique hotel can be found in the town of Chicama. About 45 minutes north of
the Trujillo airport, the Chicama Surf Hotel & Spa, known for its style, offers its guests a relaxing
experience in its fine, rustic ambiance. With both garden and ocean view rooms and personalized
attention, the hotel also boasts a varied menu - which includes wines, cocktails and delicious
food. There also is an assortment of activities for both children and adults such as surfing classes,
visits to archeological sites and a first-class, on-site spa. All this guarantees to please even the
most demanding guest.
39

Pacific Ocean Beaches
beachfront city of Máncora, made famous
by its legendary waves, attracts surfers from
around the world. The surf is at its best
from November to January. Additionally,
thanks to its proximity to the equator, the
water all along the northern coast is warm
with year 'round temperatures of 24-28
degrees celsius. Between August and October
visitors have a special treat as an estimated
1000 Humpback Whales migrate to the
warm waters of the Peruvian north coast to
reproduce after a 7,000km journey from the
Antarctic waters. Whale watching tours are
available throughout the season.
Tourists to the Máncora area who are looking
for calmer waters can visit Las Pocitas, a
small beach spotted with small natural pools
where one can spend the day enjoying the
sunshine. Two great hotel options in this
area are the DCO Suites, Lounge & Spa, and
the Vichayito Bungalows & Tents, both of
which are located about 20-minutes from
Máncora. Five minutes to the south of Las
Pocitas is Los Órganos, an attractive, relaxing
place, far from the noise and commotion of
the highway. This beach offers three ideal
places for surfing: Casablanca, El Codito
and Organitos as they are called locally. If
interested in following in the footsteps of
celebrated author Ernest Hemingway, make
your way over to Cabo Blanco, in the Talara
province, and try your luck at Black Marlin
fishing.
It is impossible to go from Piura to Tumbes
without stopping by the Cerros de Amotape
National Park, which is shared by both
departments. This park is the best-preserved
dry, equatorial forest in the entire Pacific
region and houses a huge variety of both
flora and fauna. An ideal habitat for various
orchid varieties, the area also is home
to Carob, Hualtaco, Charán, Sapote and
Hawthorn trees, and many animal species
like Giant Sloths, Andean Condors, ocelots,
Boa Constrictors and the endangered
American Crocodile. Following your visit,
make a stop in Zorritos - a white sandy
beach with soft, constant waves. A short
distance away, in the same Contralmirante
Villar Province, is Punta Sal, thought to be
one of the most seductive destinations on
the north-Peruvian coast. Here, the sun and
the calm atmosphere seem never to fade and
the warm waters make it an ideal location
for activities like sport fishing and snorkeling.
The Hervideros Thermal Baths are also worth
a visit as their iodine-filled mud is thought
to have medicinal properties that benefit all
who bathe in them.
Four kilometers away from the city of Tumbes
thrives Puerto Pizarro - a bustling porttown
that serves as the departure point for
boat trips through a region of mangroves,
formed by marshes that become navigable
channels when the tide comes in. From here,
fishermen extract the infamous conchas
negras (black clams), which are known for
their aphrodisiac qualities. During the tour,
visit the islands of Amor (love) and Hueso
de Ballena (whale bone), which have some
of the most popular beaches in the area.
If feeling more adventurous, stop by the
Criadero de Cocodrilo de Tumbes (Tumbes
Crocodile Farm). Here, one can observe these
reptiles at all stages of development.
GASTRONOMY
Seafood is the culinary star of this area of the
country. Being steps away from the ocean,
fish and seafood dishes - in a seemingly
endless variety of presentations - dominate
the menus of all the main restaurants,
offering surprisingly sophisticated gastronomic
options. In La Libertad, one can enjoy a
delicious ajiaco de camarones (shrimp,
potatoes, aji and onion stew) or a cebiche
a la Trujillana (Trujillo style cebiche), made
with cabaya (dried, salted fish), limejuice,
and spicey ají limo. Piura’s culinary attributes
- like its outstanding quality seafood - have
led to its international recognition. The local
limes and fresh grouper, for example, make
the cebiche from Piura one of the most
sought after in Peru. Máncora’s gastronomy
also deserves special mention. Besides the
exquisite seafood offerings, Máncora’s cuisine
incorporates other exciting ingredients,
creating dishes such as seco de chabelo (dried
The attributes of
the Piuran lime
and the freshness
of the grouper, for
example, make the
Piuran cebiche one
of the most
coveted.
beef stew with sweetened bananas), guiso
de cecina con platano amasado (dry, salted
pork with mashed plantains) and cabrito tierno
macerado en chicha de jora y vinagre (tender
lamb stewed in fermented corn alcohol and
vinegar). The cuisine in Tumbes also stands out
due to the variety and quality of its fish and
seafood-based dishes. One can enjoy both local
and national dishes in this city, like the cebiche
de conchas negras (black clam cebiche),
majarisco (mashed green bananas with shellfish
sauce), sudado de conchas negras (black clams
stewed with onions, tomato, aji, and other
ingredients), and the unforgettable leche de
pantera (Panther’s milk - the juice from the
ceviche de conchas negras).
40

Caral
Module 4
ADVENTURE
Timetable
The Peruvian north is so versatile that
it lends itself to virtually all activities.
Hikes and horseback rides through the
beautiful scenery and under the warm
sun are some of the more popular
activities in the area as are a wide
variety of water sports practiced in the
many charming beaches. The Manglares
National Sanctuary in Tumbes lends
itself to boating trips. Tourists can also
enjoy mountain biking through the
impressive Tumbes Reserve or Batán
Grande, and hikes through the Pómac
Forest or the Cerros de Amotape
National Park. Mountain climbing lovers
can get their fix in the Huancabamba
and Morropón (Piura) mountainsides.
As for sandboarding, the Sechura and
Virú deserts are the perfect places
to glide through the sand. Lastly, for
those who enjoy being airborne, areas
such as Nueva Esperanza (Tumbes),
Huancabamba and Ayabaca are the
perfect spots from which to engage
in thrilling hang gliding or paragliding
adventures.
DCO Suites, Lounge & Spa
This exclusive hotel was built under the
premise that the ocean would be the
center of attention of this idyllic beach.
Therefore; all of its areas face the ocean.
Its decoration is chic yet soothing, DCO
is an oasis of tranquillity and privacy for
the guests. Has six suites and a master
suite equipped with terraces for an
excellent sunbathe. Apart from the DCO
Gourmet restaurant and the lounge with
a privileged sunset view, and the spa,
the hotel also offers marine excursions
for whale watching, and tours to get to
know the nature of the beach.
Day 1
- LIMA - PIURA:
• Piura - DCO Suites: A boutique hotel with
a view of the Pacific Ocean, located south of
the heavenly Máncora beach – northern Peru’s
surfing mecca. This area has become a place
for relaxation, sun, beach, sea and good food.
Day 2
- HUMPBACK WHALE WATCHING: These
cetaceans migrate from the cold waters of
Antarctica to the north-coast of Peru where
they reproduce and raise their young. During
this tour, it is possible to witness these
magnificent creatures jumping, swimming
and diving. One might also be so lucky as to
spot the young whales enjoying their first
days of play, whilst being carefully observed
by their enormous mothers. (Whale-watching
season: August to October)
Day 3
- ENJOY A RELAXING DAY
• The following activities are optional.
• Zip-lining
• Surfing classes
Day 4
- DCO Suites - Tumbes.
- TUMBES-LIMA.
For more information: inbound@limatours.com.pe or contact your market specialist

42
Pacific Ocean Beaches

Pacific Ocean Beaches
Whale
watching
A breathtaking spectacle in the warm waters of Piura. Between the months of August
and October, more than a thousand humpback whales travel from Antartica to the
coastline of Peru to reproduce; this is a must-do, you will get to see them play, jump,
and make pirouettes. You wil be able to enjoy them more during the morning, but the
boats (which are provided by a private company or by the hotel) are available
throughout the day. After this period of time these cetaceans head back to the cold
waters of the south until the next year.
43

Amazon River
Amazon river
The green blanket of the Peruvian Amazon is the perfect place to reunite with nature and its infinite flora and
fauna. There, in the most oxygen-rich area on earth, begins the Amazon River, the largest river in the world and
one of the 10 Wonders of the Natural World.
44

Amazon River
NATURALEZA
The specialists´
projections point out
that eco-tourism will
grow between 15
to 20 percent in the
upcoming three
years.
The high temperatures in the Amazon region
nurtures the lush vegetation, keeping it
green all year 'round. This makes it one of
the most biologically varied areas on the
planet, with numerous species of flora and
fauna found only in this region, and many
more plants and animals that have yet to
be discovered. Inspired by this diversity, the
Peruvian government, through SERNANP,
the Servicio Nacional de Áreas Naturales
Protegidas por el Estado: (National Service
of State Protected Areas), has named certain
areas of the Amazon protected zones
because of their geographic characteristics
and/or the assortment of flora and fauna
that they host. The most important
protected zones are the Rio Abiseo National
Park (Juanjui, San Martin) and the Matsés,
Pacaya Samiria and Allpahuayo Mishana
Reserves, all of which are located in Loreto.
These ecosystems house such animals as
the lizard, jaguar, wild boar, tapir, capybara,
Boa Constrictor, anaconda, deer, monkey,
sloth, turtle and parrot , among others.
Endangered species include the Peruvian
Jaguar, Black Lizard, Amazon Manatee,
different types of river turtles, the River
Otter, Red Macaw, Pink dolphin and Paiche
(a large, river fish). Estimates suggest that
the percentage of ecology- based tourism
in this region will grow a 15% to 20%
in the next three years thanks to the fact
that the Amazon River and rainforest were
named Wonders of the Natural World in
2011. What few people know, however,
is that the Amazon River is actually born
from a melting glacier in Arequipa called
Mismi, more than 5,600 meters above sea
level, and that it has over 100 tributaries.
Throughout its extensive journey through
Peru, this river changes names, and is
called the Apurímac, Ene, Tambo, Ucayali
and Marañón. Once it arrives in Brazil, it
becomes the Solimões River until it merges
with the Negro and Manaos Rivers, after
which it goes back to its original name, The
Amazon. The Amazon River flows out into
the south-Atlantic ocean. It is interesting
to note, that, according to famous
oceanographer Jacques-Yves Cousteau,
"there are more species of fish in the
Amazon than in the Atlantic ocean.”
LUXURY ON THE RIVER
The most original, lavish and enjoyable way to ease into the Peruvian Amazon and
become familiar with all it has to offer is by taking a luxurious Delfín Amazon Cruise.
The six -year-old company operates in the Pacaya Samiria Reserve on its two boats,
The Delfín I and the Delfín II. The degree of quality, comfort, cuisine and experience is
spectacular on both the Delfin I and II. The Delfín I offers two suites and four double
rooms, all with fine wooden finishes and outstanding quality linens. The Delfín II, on the
other hand, has 14 large, comfortable suites, allowing larger groups the chance to enjoy
this destination in a degree of extravagance that few have the privilege to experience.
Both vessels have ample terraces from which one can enjoy the views.
45

Amazon River
GASTRONOMY
Diverse, exotic and original: Those are
words that define the cuisine of this region
of Peru, which offers a combinations of
local meat like the wild boar and huangana,
and Amazon fish such as paiche (considered
the second biggest fresh-water fish in the
world), gamitana, dorado (mahi-mahi)
and bagre (catfish), with a wide variety of
unique fruits and vegetables. One typical
Amazon dish is motelo, or turtle meat,
which is used to prepare sarapatera soup
which is cooked in the turtle shell on the
grill. Core jungle ingredients also include
a wide variety of ajies (chili peppers)
including charapita, ayuyo, pucuna and pipi
de mono; different aromatic herbs, and
the bijao (banana) and pijuayo (peachpalm)
plants. One of Peru’s best-known
advocates of jungle food products is chef
Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, whose restaurants
incorporate these exotic ingredients and
have set a trend for other restaurants in the
country to follow. Popular jungle dishes are
juanes (rice, chicken pieces, egg, olives - all
Among the
traditional
ingredients we can
find the Amazonian
chillies, such as
the charapita, the
ayuyo, the pucuna,
and the pipí de mono;
aromatic herbs, and
plants like the bijao
and the pijuayo.
wrapped in banana leaves and cooked on
a skewer), tacacho con cecina (mashed
plantain balls with dry, salted pork jerky),
inchicapi (soup with chicken, peanuts,
yucca, and cilantro), timbuche (fresh fish,
cilantro, and whipped-egg soup), and
chonta (heart of palm) salad.
These dishes are common in all the areas
of the jungle, including the high-jungle in
which meat from mountain animals is a
regular ingredient, however, the preparations
vary from region to region. For example, in
San Martin locals serve avispajuane, which
has the same characteristics as the regular
juane, but it is made without egg and with
ground pork. Other zones have developed
particularly popular dishes, demanded by
locals and tourists alike. In Pucallpa - the
capital of Ucayali, for example, many
people enjoy patarashca (fish wrapped in
banana leaves, char-grilled). In terms of
fruits, those more representative of the
jungle include aguaje, sauco (elderberry),
maracuya (passion fruit) and camu camu.
Banana is often used in these areas to
create el chapo - a typical drink given to
young children due to its high nutritional
value. And of course, there are the
aphrodisiacs: beverages typically made with
rinds, fruits and other local ingredients,
macerated in distilled cane liquor, and
given names like quita calzón (underwear
remover), salta para atras (jump back), siete
raices (seven roots), huitochado, uvachado
and chuchuhuasi (these last three named
after particular ingredients they contain).
46 46

Caral
Module 5
ADVENTURE
In the Peruvian Amazon adventures lie
around every corner. Hot all year ‘round
with temperatures ranging between 32 and
40 degree celcius, a visit to this dense,
tropical forest is considered by many to
be an essential tourist experience, not
necessarily because there are archeological
sights to be seen, but rather because the
expansive natural beauty of the area never
ceases to amaze. Bird watching tends to
be one of the most satisfying activities in
the region. There are roughly 806 different
species that inhabit the Peruvian Amazon,
making this area a dream destination for
American and European bird enthusiasts.
The simple act of hearing the sounds of the
jungle tends to have mesmerizing effect.
Listening to the songs of the birds mixed
with the sounds of the vegetation rustling
in the wind and the calls of innumerable
Going into the
tropical forest
is an experience
considered to
be mandatory
due to its nature
that won´t stop
suprising us.
animals is an experience totally unique
to this region. Incredibly, the Amazon
is one of the areas with the most
biodiversity on the planet and there still
is so much more to discover.
El Delfín Timetable
El Delfín is a luxury cruise that sails the
Amazon River. It has two vessels that offer
comfort and adventure.
Day 1
- IQUITOS
• Transfer to Nauta, from where you embark on
the boat and begin the navigation down the
length of the two largest tributaries of the
Amazon River – the Ucayali and the Marañón –
as well as the Amazon River itself.
Day 2
- Voyage down the majestic Ucayali River, the
longest tributary of the Amazon River.
- Magdalena Village: A small community composed
of only 10 families. After meeting the town’s
inhabitants – which include many playful and
enchanting children – your guides will take you
through the jungle to a spectacular lagoon from
which you can appreciate the famous victoria regia.
Day 3
- Hike through the jungle surrounding the
Hatum Posa village, where you can observe its
inhabitants as they go about their daily tasks,
and learn about how they came to cultivate
plants and trees in order to generate income.
- At the end of the day, we will board the boats
and navigate down the Pacaya River – from #1
Forest Ranger Station to the Yanayacu Lagoon –
where you’ll be able to appreciate the abundant
wildlife that hides in depths of the jungle.
Day 4
- Navigation down-river on the Ucayali.
- Visit the Puinahua town, where we will take a
short, educational walk through the riverside
community. Your guide will show you how these
fishing and agricultural communities live.
Day 5
- IQUITOS
• Weather and time permitting, we will have one
last chance to witness the lifestyle of another
Amazonian town, the river-community Belén,
from the comfort of the boats.
- LIMA
For more information: inbound@limatours.com.pe or contact your market specialist

Fresh Water
Dolphin
T
his peculiar-colored aquatic mammal inhabits the Amazon
waters surrounded by a halo of magic, mystery and lore. As
legend goes, the pink dolphin was originally a young,
indigenous warrior whose beauty and strength sparked the jealous fury
of the gods. Thus, he was transformed into a dolphin and condemned to
live in the rivers of the jungle. The cetacean is said, however, to recover
his human form at nights and wander the riverbanks, enchanting the
women he comes across. Dressed all in white, with a hat covering the
breathing hole on his head, he flirts and enamors without scruples. It is
thought that no woman is capable of escaping his charm. After a
passion-fueled night, he disappears back into the river, leaving behind his
impregnated lovers.
In its animal form, the Pink Dolphin measures up to three meters and
weighs roughly 125 kilograms, making it is the largest freshwater
dolphin. Aside from its curious pink color, this dolphin also has a
particularly small dorsal fin, differentiating it from other dolphin species.
These extremely playful creatures can be found in the Amazonian river
basins and streams. However, one must always be aware as one never
knows when these beautiful beasts might transform into dangerously
tempting lovers.

50
Laurent Carrasset

Laurent Carrasset
Miraflores Park Hotel room, located in Lima.
“There is still room
to grow in the luxury
travel market”
LAURENT CARRASSET regional director of Orient-Express.
Imagine a hike through the Inca Trail accompanied by a
masseuse, with stays in lodgings equipped with hot showers,
gourmet food, and high-quality wines; or perhaps an
exquisite picnic on the Moray Inca terraces; or a trip down
the Amazon river in a cruiseship with all the most luxurious
comforts. These – as well as many other alternatives – are
some of the tours now available in various regions of Peru,
which currently offer an excellent and varried choice of
destinations to satisfy even the most demanding visitors.
Laurent Carrasset, the leader of the British collection of
hotels and trains in our country, recounts the level that Peru
has reached in this sector in the last few years.
51

Laurent Carrasset
¿
How would you define luxury
tourism?
The luxury tourist is one who
determines their travel destinations
based on the commodities they seek: first
class lodgings, top quality restaurants,
and excellent modes of access. When a
destination is able to offer all of those things,
it becomes an option for the luxury traveller,
who – once there - will go in search of new
and unforgettable experiences. To be qualified
in this category requires a huge commitment
on behalf of the company, as they must
constantly be anticipating all the details that
these demanding travellers might take note
of. The working personnel must to be willing
to meet the high service standards that come
with being a luxury hotel. And to be at this
caliber, there have to be certain certifications,
like the Leading Quality Assurance (LQA) – a
company that specializes in auditing and
inspecting the service and the standards of the
luxury hotel industry; and the Safety Quality
Food (SQF) – which certifies the quality of the
food, beverages, and hygiene.
What is the profile of a tourist who
chooses high-level tours?
A 50% of the time, the high-level Orient
Express tourist in Peru comes from the
Unites States and will generally stay for
seven days, during which they visit two cities.
However, we also receive many tourists from
Great Britain, Australia, Brazil, and Japan.
European tourists generally stay between 10
and 14 days, and visit more than two cities,
due to their different vacation calendar and
the lengthy travel distance. The average age
of these tourists is usually between 50 and
60 years old, with an average expenditure of
US$5,000 or more per trip.
What does a traveller expect when they
choose to stay in a five-star hotel?
An excellent service, in which the staff
is cordial and attentive to their needs.
The hotel rooms and amenities must be
impeccable – in optimal condition, and very
“Very exclusive and
breathtaking tours
are offered to the
most demanding
tourist in Peru.”
well equipped. Another important factor
is the food: the restaurant should offer
gourmet dining, and a varied list of fine
wines and liquors.
What are the main attractions that our
country offers to a tourist who looks for
exclusivity and comfort in their travels?
One of the options that the luxury traveller
enjoys the most is Orient Express’ Hiram
Bingham train, it being an extraordinary and
exclusive way to travel to Machu Picchu.
The Hiram Bingham train is decorated in
52
Exquisite brunch served on board of the Hiram Bingham train on its way to Machu Picchu.

The Monasterio Hotel has luxurious spaces decorated with paintings from the Cusquean School of Arts.
the same fashion as the Pullman trains of
the 1920’s - with bronze detailing, an open
bar, and an observation coach where one can
enjoy the ride in the open air. It also serves a
gourmet brunch and dinner for the passengers.
Another enjoyable experience for travellers
is the opportunity to visit and dine in an old
colonial house – like, for example, the Hacienda
Huayoccari in Cusco, which offers a spectacular
view of the Sacred Valley. Or the Casa Aliaga
– located in Lima’s colonial center – which has
been preserved in excellent condition. The
Casa Garcia – in Miraflores – offers guests the
chance to meet decedents of the family who
still inhabit the beautiful mansion and are
happy to share tales of the family’s history.
How do you judge Peru’s current
attempts to attract these types of
tourists? Is the government helping to
promote luxury in Peru?
In 1999, when Orient-Express entered
into the Peruvian arena, a luxury niche was
created in the travel industry, which has
considerably expanded throughout the last
decade. This is something I am very happy
about. Nonetheless, there is still room for
growth in this market in terms of service
and infrastructure development. PromPeru
has been executing some great work in this
market segment, participating in luxury fairs
like the ILTM, Virtuoso, and Travel Week,
among others. They have also been putting
together tourism showcases in different
cities, solely directed at the luxury market,
which are backed by PromPeru’s press
department, attracting much international
media specialized in luxury.
What Peruvian destinations offer
experiences of similar quality standards?
Apart from Machu Picchu, Cusco, and Lima,
Peru has three other destinations for the
luxury traveller: Lake Titicaca – a mystical
attraction that offers lodging in the Titilaka
hotel; Paracas – which offers a variety of
activities and opportunities to explore the
bay and surrounding sand-dunes from the
Libertador Luxury Collection Hotel; and lastly,
the jungle – an adventure destination which
can be comfortably approached from a
luxury cruise trip down the Amazon river.
Are the exclusive tours and destinations
offered in Peru of the same caliber as
those in other parts of the world?
Yes. Peru offers various exclusive tours that
amaze even the highest-level tourist. It
is important to create unforgettable travel
moments, like – for example – a gourmet,
out-door picnic lunch with comfortable seats
and tables amongst the corn crops of Moray,
where we even set up a portable bathroom
for the passengers comfort.
In comparison to other countries, does
Peru offer affordable prices for a highlevel
tourist?
The prices in Peru are very affordable
when compared to those abroad. Here, for
example, one can dine at the finest gourmet
restaurants and drink imported wines for very
comfortable prices.
What kind of unimaginable exclusive
services can one find in Peru?
Hiking in the Andes proves to be a very
popular activity amongst travellers, but many
people are surprised to learn that we offer
luxury hiking for the convenience of our more
demanding travellers. For those who fall into
this category, we suggest that they partake
in the luxury Inca Trail hike, for example, in
which we offer masseuse services, gourmet
food and wines, and the rest-stops are fully
equipped with hot showers.
53

54

entrevista
55

A Luxury Destination
PERu:
A LUXURY
DESTINATION
Accommodation, Cusine, Transportation, High-end
entertainment, and Shopping: five areas, which
have been separated in sections, which define the
new luxury tourism offer in the land of the Inkas.
Peru is a country where not only the traveler will
be amazed by its imposing past and legendary
landscapes, but it is also capable of satisfying
high-end travelers.
56

A Luxury Destination
57

Luxury Hotels
PALACIO Nazarenas
Facilities
55
Services
Specialized services:
- Concierge
- Swimming pool
* Radiant floor heating
system
After an extensive four-year remodeling,
this restored XVI century convent has
re-opened its doors as one of the most
exclusive hotels in the world. Located
in Plaza Nazarenas, Cusco, this Orient
Express gem provides guests with a
relaxed, luxurious atmosphere from which
to enjoy their experiences as they discover
ancient Peru. The 55-suite boutique hotel
belongs to the Z Collection: luxury suites,
each of which are defined by a unique
characteristic. An arch from colonial times,
an Inca stone wall, and friezes from the
Spanish viceroyalty art period are just
some of the eye-catching treasures that
can be found within each suite.
The hotel’s restaurant, Senzo, is run by
Peru’s young star chef Virgilio Martinez.
Presenting traditional regional dishes in
innovative ways, Martinez has designed a
menu fit to please even the most refined
palates.
All the relics found during the excavation
of the hotel are currently on display in
the hotel’s library. This space provides the
perfect atmosphere in which to sit and
converse about Cusco’s history, art and
culture, with the local shaman, sommelier,
and historian who are on staff and ready
to address any and all curiosities.
Facilities and Services
SUITES
RESTAURANT
BAR
HANDICAP
ACCESS
CABLE TV
SATELLITE TV
INTERNATIONAL
DIRECT DIALNG
INTERNET
AND WI-FI
IPAD
HEATING
AND AIR
CONDITIONING
MEDICAL SERVICES
OXYGEN
OXYGEN-ENRICHED
AIR CONDITIONING
ROOM
SERVICE
SPA
SAUNA
CHAUFFEUR
PARKING LOT
CONFERENCE
ROOM
BUSINESS
CENTER
READING
ROOM
SOUND
SYSTEM
CONCIERGE
LAUNDRY
SERVICE
SWIMMING
POOL
TERRACE
HAIRDRESSING
BOUTIQUE
MONEY
EXCHANGE
SAFE BOX
EXCURSIONS
CHILDREN’S
ACTIVITIES
EXTREME
SPORT
GYM
THEATRE
ART
GALLERY
58

Hotels
LA CASONA INKATERRA
Facilities
11
Services
Specialized
- Inkaterra Shop
- Waiting Room
Specialized
- Thermal floors
- Baby Sitter
Over 500 years of history come together in
this Inkaterra boutique hotel, located in Plaza
Nazarenas. This mansion was the first Spanish
construction in Cusco in the XVI century and
thanks to a careful renovation, it still boasts
some of its original majestic qualities in its
colors, murals, and traditional stonework. Its
main design elements are adobe, plaster, glazed
ceramic tiles, fire and water.
The Casona Inkaterra is the first Relais &
Chateaux hotel in Peru. It offers its clients 11
elegant suites equipped with stone fireplaces,
heated floors and giant bathtubs. In addition,
the extravagant hotel includes a living room
area, a dining room, a massage and therapy
room, and a Reading room, among other
luxuries. As if that weren’t enough, the
concierge service offers a number of exciting
city excursions and activity options for those
interested.
SOL & LUNA LODGE SPA
The Sol & Luna Lodge Spa is an oasis of luxury and comfort in the
midst of Urubamba’s Sacred Valley. The hotel stands out with its unique
details, like artist Patrick Manning’s colorful stained-glass windows in the
Yacu Wasi Spa, clay murals painted by Federico Bauer, and candelabras
designed by Jamie Liebana. The Premium and Deluxe suites count with
chimneys in both the bedrooms and living rooms, heated floors, private
gardens, terraces, LCD TVs with satellite cable, Wi-Fi Internet, and a
bathroom with a tub and a Spanish style shower.
The exquisite experience this boutique hotel offers extends to its
restaurant Killa Wasi, in which the talent and creativity of chefs Nacho
Selis and Pedro Miguel Schiaffino culminate in an explosion of tastes,
smells, and colors, using the freshest regional products. The hotel also
includes Rancho Wayra, a space that provides the perfect setting for
traditional rituals, like the delicious pachamanca (the cooking of meats
and vegetables in an earthen oven with the aid of hot stones), and the
folkloric shows that delight children and adults alike.
Facilities
48
Services
Specialized
- Themal floors
- Yoga and Taichi lessons, Cooking lessons,
Pottery lessons, Horse-back riding
* Mountain-bike riding, Tandem flight,
Lagoon Kayak, All-terrain vehicles
59

Hotels
ARANWA CUSCO BOUTIQUE
Originally established by the dean of Cusco’s cathedral
and the writer Clorinda Matto de Turner, this XVI century
mansion has now been converted into the exquisite
Hotel Aranwa Cusco Boutique. Mixing the mansion’s
traditional aesthetic with modern technology, the hotel
offers romantic details like its stone entranceway, with
contemporary commodities like oxygenated rooms,
Wi-Fi, and heated floors. Its 43 rooms are decorated
in a ‘colonial chic’ style, with antique furniture, crystal
chandeliers, alpaca rugs, and down comforters.
Facilities
43
Services
Specialized
- Themal floors
TAMBO DEL INKA A LUXURY
COLLECTION RESORT & SPA
One can begin their journey to Machu Picchu from the very
door of the Tambo del Inka Luxury Collection Resort & Spa,
as it is the only hotel that has its own, private train station.
Designed by the renowned Miami-based architecture studio,
Arquitectonica, the hotel boasts high ceilings, stonewalls, and
beautiful red and fuchsia weavings. Part of the Libertador
hotel chain, the hotel counts with 128, elegantly decorated
rooms, which offer 400-thread count sheets, LCD TVs, and
amazing views of the surrounding nature.
Tambo del Inka’s restaurant, Hawa (‘sky’ in Quechua),
pays tribute to the traditional foods of the region, bringing
together the best of the new-Andean cuisine with
international classics, using local vegetables and fruits.
Facilities
Specialized
Specialized
128
Services
- T´ikariy Office
- Separate shower
and bathroom
60

Other Luxury Hotels
Cusco
• Hotel Libertador Palacio del Inca Cusco
• J.W. Marriott
• Hotel Monasterio
• La Lune One Suite Hotel
• Casa Cartagena Boutique Hotel & Spa Luxury Properties
Machu Picchu
• Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
• Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel
• Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge
Sacred Valley
• Hotel Río Sagrado Resort & Spa
• Aranwa Valle Sagrado
lima
• Country Club Lima Hotel
• JW Marriott Lima Hotel
• Hilton Lima
• Miraflores Park Hotel
• Westin Lima Hotel &
Convention Center
• Swissôtel Lima
Caral
• Empedrada Fundo Hotel & Spa
Colca - AREQUIPA
• Las Casitas del Colca
Paracas
• Hotel Paracas Libertador, a Luxury Collection Resort
Puno
• Titilaka Lodge
• Isla Suasi Luxury Hotel Casa Andina Private Collection
Túcume - LAMBAYEQUE
• Los Horcones de Túcume

Gastronomy
Summum Awards 2012
Peruvian
Gastronomy’s
Gala Event
Peru’s Academy Awards of local cuisine. By way of surveys, guests, frequent
diners, experts, and gourmands are able to rank the best restaurants in Lima,
as well as other regions like Cusco, Arequipa, Chiclayo, and Trujillo. When it
comes to food, Peruvians know their stuff.
This year, creativity and product knowledge
were recognized at the Summum Awards
2012, held in July at one of Barranco’s
most beautiful old mansions. The prizes
for Lima’s top three restaurants were
awarded to young chef Virgilio Martínez
and his restaurant Central in first place,
the sophisticated Rafael Osterling and
his restaurant Rafael in second, and the
dedicated Gastón Acurio and his restaurant
Astrid & Gastón in third.
María Rosa Arrarte, the president of the
Lima Tours Board of Directors, is the advisor
of these awards. For the last five years,
her company - Ideas & Más Ideas – has
not only organized the events surrounding
the awards, but also the publication of
the guides in which the results are printed.
Meanwhile, Ipsos Apoyo – the number
one national pollster – has been executing
the online surveys, sending them out to
over 6,000 people, including gourmets,
gourmands and restaurateurs. Lima Tours
has been a constant and important sponsor
of these awards, as has VISA.
The awards are given out during an exciting
‘gastro-party’ that brings together all the
top chefs and restaurateurs of the country.
This year, the event was Andes-themed
and products from different cities in the
country’s interior and southern regions were
given the spotlight.
One of the most coveted prizes is for “Best
New Restaurant.” This year’s winner was
Maras by chef Rafael Piqueras, located in
the Westin Lima Hotel.
The Summum Awards are not limited to
restaurants in Lima. Over time they have
also grown to include other Peruvian
regions recognized for their tasty cuisine,
like Cusco, Arequipa, Chiclayo and Trujillo.
Gastón Acurio’s Chicha Restaurant has been
voted Summum’s Best Restaurant in both
Arequipa and Cusco, while the restaurant
Fiesta remains number one in both Chiclayo
and Trujillo.
62

Gastronomy
Restaurants with a view
Cala
An ample space with a sea-front view that
combines a restaurant, bar, and lounge, Cala offers
its diners an experience unique to Lima. Its dishes
vary from the more traditional Peruvian recipes,
to Mediterranean, to fresh seafood using local
ingredients. Started by Alfredo Aramburú, it is now
his son - José Alfredo Aramburú - who takes charge
in the kitchen. Located off of La Costa Verde on
the Barranquito beach, Cala provides the perfect
balcony to watch the sea and the swimmers,
fishermen, and surfers who frequent it by day – and
then enjoy the sunset at the end of the afternoon.
Address: Circuito Vial Costa Verde, Espigón B2, Playa
Barranquito
Tlfs. 252-9187 / 99 824*7326
La Rosa Náutica
Inaugurated in 1983, this emblematic
restaurant has defined quality gastronomy since
it’s beginning, while constantly innovating its
menu and staying relevant to times as they
change. Built over the ocean and serenaded
by the constant rolling of the waves, this
restaurant’s menu is structured around the
wealth of seafood found in the local waters,
and complimented by traditional Peruvian meat
and poultry dishes. Classical and elegant, La
Rosa Náutica also offers its guests a selection
of showcase jewelry and crafts.
Address: Espigón Nº 4, Circuito de Playas, Miraflores
Tlf. 445-0149
Huaca Pucllana
Bearing the same name as the pre-Columbian
ruins it is located infront of, The Huaca Pucllana
Restaurant offers tours to those diners who wish
to learn about the mysteries surrounding this
architectural monument. The food served at the
Huaca Pucllana is a reinterpretation of typical
Peruvian creole cuisine as developed by the chef
Marilú Madueño, combining local flavors and
ingredients with modern culinary techniques.
The ruins aren't the only doorway to the past,
however, as the restaurant itself is located within
a colonial house, bringing together three periods
in one space.
Address: General Borgoño Cdra. 8 s/n, Miraflores
Tlf. 445-4042
Hotel restaurants
Connected to the city
Perroquet
Within the elegant and emblematic Country
Club Lima Hotel lies the Perroquet - a
restaurant that holds both its food and
decor to the same caliber of sophistication.
The menu has been put together by the
experienced Jacinto Sánchez, who combines
innovation with tradition in each dish on the
menu, as well as in the Peruvian creole and
international buffets offered on Sundays.
Lomo saltado (Peruvian beef and pepper
stir-fry), seco de cabrito (stewed lamb), beef
tournedo, ceviche, artichoke ravioli…there’ s
something for everyone.
Address: Los Eucaliptos 590, San Isidro
Tlfs. 611-9000 / 611-9007
Maras
This restaurant, located in the Westin Lima
Hotel, got its name from the prestigious
salt-flats found in the Urubamba valley,
recognized for the distinctive flavored
salt harvested there. Maras has gained its
reputation as a result of its modern take
on the typical flavors of Peruvian cuisine,
offering new experiences for the palate.
Chef Rafael Piqueras plays with sophisticated
culinary techniques as a way to intensify the
flavors of each dish, making every bite a
whole experience.
Address: Las Begonias y Amador Merino Reyna,
San Isidro
Tlfs. 201-5000 / 201-5023
Mesa 18 by Toshiro
Located within the Miraflores Park Hotel
– Mesa 18 completely changed upon the
arrival of chef Toshiro Konishi. The subtlety
and elegance of Konishi's Japanese cuisine
has given this establishment an entirely new
personality, bringing it up amongst the top
restaurants in Lima. Surrounded by a beautiful
garden, one has the opportunity to enjoy
Peruvian dishes - like lomo saltado (beef stirfry)
and arroz con mariscos (rice with shellfish)
- alongside traditional Japanese delights like
tempura and sashimi. Experience a fusion of
flavors expertly executed by Toshiro.
Address: Av. Malecón de la Reserva 1035, Miraflores
Tlf. 610-4000, anexo 224
63

Gastronomy
Regional Restaurants
Fine dining across the country
The best of Lima
AREQUIPA
Chicha by Gastón Acurio
Bringing together traditional flavors and
local ingredients, such as fresh water shrimp,
this restaurant aims to renovate the typical
Arequipeñan cuisine. The classic rocoto relleno
(stuffed hot pepper) opens the way for other,
more innovative dishes – like the delicious
swordfish in nikkei broth with oyster sauce and
crunchy mung beans, served with seafood fried
rice. As for desert, the queso helado (sweet
cheese ice-cream) competes with the purple
corn crème brulée. The restaurant itself casts
a modern light on the typical architecture of
the region – its large spaces and stone patio
complimented by the minimalist décor.
Address: Santa Catalina 210, Cercado, Arequipa
Tlf. 054-287360
CUSCO
Cicciolina
Located within a colonial house, Cicciolina
brings together a quality winery, lively bar
and elegant restaurant all in one beautiful
space. The exquisite menu crafted by chef Luis
Alberto Sacilotto offers Spanish, French and
Peruvian-inspired tapas, as well as a variety of
innovative dishes. Diners are welcomed at any
time of day by a wonderfully friendly staff.
Address: Triunfo 393, Cusco
Tlf. 084-239510
CHICLAYO
Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet
One of the first of its kind, Fiesta is a pioneer
in terms of regional-gourmet restaurants.
Lamb with tacu-tacu (refried rice and beans),
grilled cebiche, causa chiclayana (potato and
aji mash stuffed with prawns) are some of
the many dishes created by Alberto Solís.
With his perserverence and talent, this chef
has proven that the cuisine of the north coast
can also merit the fine-dining title. Fiesta is
currently run by Alberto’s son Héctor Solís,
who has maintained its reputation as one of
the best restaurants in the country.
Address: Av. Salaverry 1820, Chiclayo
Tlf. 074-201970
TRUJILLO
Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet
When they realized that one restaurant
would just not suffice, the Solís family saw
no other option but to open a second space
in the City of Eternal Spring. This particular
restaurant combines the best from Peruvian
and Chiclayana recipes with the most select
ingredients from Trujillo, thus, the exquisite
grouper cebiche and inventive corn cookies.
Chef Héctor Solís has managed to give this
particular establishment its own personality,
distinguishing it from the other Fiesta locals.
Address: Av. Larco 954, Vista Alegre, Trujillo
Tlf. 044-421572
Central
With perseverance and creativity, chef
Virgilio Martínez’s first restaurant has
become one of the best in the city.
Whether from the sea, the earth or their
own herb and veggie garden, Central
uses products of supreme quality –
complimenting them further with the
variety of exotic spices brought by the
chef from far-off lands. Martínez’s
ability to create dishes that take one’s
breath away can be attributed to the
innovative flavors and perfected culinary
techniques that bring out the qualities
of each ingredient used in this an
avant-garde menu.
Address: Santa Isabel 376, Miraflores
Tlfs. 242-8515 / 242-8575
Rafael
Both elegant and cool at the same time,
Rafael Osterling’s food has gained its
reputation based on the reflection of his
particular style in each of his gastronomic
creations. With the aesthetic sensibility of
a true artist, every dish Rafael prepares
qualifies as a masterpiece. A detailobsessed
perfectionist, he has developed
a culinary technique that demonstrates
his knowledge about each ingredient
while simultaneously taking the diner on
a tour through the best of what Peru has
to offer.
Address: San Martín 300, Miraflores
Tlf. 242-4149
Astrid & Gastón
This year, Gastón Acurio’s restaurant was
ranked #35 on the San Pellegrino list of
Best Restaurants in the World. With his
vast knowledge of the ingredients and
cuisine of each Peruvian region, Gastón
has put together a symphonious menu
– harmonizing the flavors, textures and
aromas of each dish. The restaurants
current chefs – Diego Muñoz and Emilio
Macías – adapt the menu to each
season in order to continuously satisfy
and entertain even the most demanding
palates.
Address: Cantuarias 178, Miraflores
Tlf. 242-5387
64

Gastronomía
Gastronomy
Virgilio Martínez
“We cook
from the
land”
The top Peruvian chef of the hour.
Peru’s hot, young chef. He won the prestigious Summum 2012 award for Best Restaurant. Through his restaurant
Central, located in the Miraflores district of Lima, he has demonstrated that with the appropriate talent and a lot of
dedication one can go far. Now, with a new restaurant in London and another in Cusco, Virgilio confesses that the
secret to his delicious food can be found in the local products he uses.
What kind of responsibility are you feeling now after
having won the 2012 Summum award?
It’s a big responsibility because Summum reflects the
votes of the Lima population, and we – as a restaurant
in Lima – are trying to transmit a gastronomic
experience in which the whole of our country comes
together: The Amazon, the Andean world, our sea.
While foreigners have already demonstrated approval
of our cuisine, I love that Lima locals are appreciating
what we are doing because it means that we have
managed to successfully communicate our concepts.
We would like to maintain that dialogue, so the task is
a great one.
What differences have there been between this year
and past years in terms of reaching that goal?
Maturity – I’ve learned a lot. I am more connected to
what is happening in the world of gastronomy, both
locally and globally. We have had much more contact
with those producing the ingredients we use. Now,
we’re going out to the farms; our dishes make more
sense. If you compare Central as it stands this year,
with the Central that existed three years ago, there’s a
tremendous difference in the cuisine, the organization,
the service, the wine cellar.
How important are the products to you?
Oftentimes when a restaurant is successful, people
attribute much of it to the chef – to his hand and
technique – but it’s not only that. If you have a quality
product, that’s it. You need to go beyond seasoning,
personality, and hard knowledge, and have the actual
sensibility to do what that particular product calls for.
If we have a vegetable garden here, it’s because we
want to begin to understand and cultivate our own
products. We cook from the land. We don’t want to
just receive the slaughtered animal, we want to feed
it. We don’t want to receive ready ingredients, we
want to cultivate and harvest them. Our goal this year
is to get to know each product from the ground-up.
That is the role of the chef: To have someone from our
team feed and nourish the lamb that we then serve.
How does one’s know-how of culinary techniques
add to a particular product?
Culinary techniques add a series of notes to a product
making it more attractive; they fill it with excitement,
and, through these techniques, stories are told. For us
technique is about fun and familiarization.
How does the concept of seasonal ingredients
influence your food?
It is of huge importance. We can’t have a particular
product on the menu the whole year ‘round knowing
that at points, it won’t be at its best. To work with
the seasons means working with the freshest available
ingredients, and freshness brings better flavor. We work
in harmony with the land, and it’s the land that tells
us what to use.
What are your expectations with Senzo, your new
restaurant in Cusco?
I have very good expectations – it being the only place
in which we are in direct contact with the producers of
our ingredients. We don’t have suppliers. Additionally,
we are applying the same kind of harvesting that was
practiced in ancient times. If we are going to offer an
herbal infusion with flowers, then we are going to go
out to the farms and collect those flowers.
LONDON CALLING
Why did you decide to open your new restaurant,
Lima, in London?
Managing a restaurant is very hard work. Central is
my restaurant, and I am never going to leave it. I
don’t consider myself a restaurateur, and I do not
think I will be opening lots of restaurants around the
world, despite the fact that I’ve been approached by
businessmen who propose that I open restaurants in
Brazil, Tokyo, Russia; but I’m fine here. On the other
hand, in London, I have various chef friends who
suggested I do it. I told them that I would not commit
to working there – I would, however, teach them
and create a gastronomic experience and restaurant
concept. So I decided to take an entirely different
gastronomic experience to London, one that is not
based around traditional or creole-influenced Peruvian
food. We named it Lima, and we offer the same things
that we currently offer in Lima, showcasing the mix
of cultural influences and opening-up a gastronomic
dialogue. This is the concept I created and what I
taught the chefs – that way the restaurant doesn’t
depend on me. But every so often I go to London and
stay a week in order to cook for all the people who are
waiting for me to cook for them: Important people,
food critics, etc.
What is the concept behind the restaurant Lima?
It’s a globalized vision of Lima, the way an outsider
might see it. I have had to base a lot of my menu
on both traditions and the thorough exploration of
Peruvian products, combining these things to create
my personal take on what is currently occurring in our
capital city. We do the same in London that we do
in Central despite the former’s more relaxed, casual
setting; by using the highest quality products we
attempt to transmit to the diners what is currently
happening in Peru. I don’t make (classical Peruvian
dishes such as) lomo saltado (beef and hot pepper
stir-fry), I don’t make papa rellena (stuffed potato);
but I do serve tiradito or cebiche – dishes that have
already become global. And when we decide to get
creative, we’ll make leche de tigre (“tiger’s milk” or
cebiche marinade) to perfume artichokes.
65

Gastronomy
Tasting Menu
Taste, taste and taste
This new haute cuisine trend, found in the top restaurants in the world, has now made its way to Lima. Derived from the French term degustation, these
tasting menus offer a selection of small dishes served in succession - a great way for a chef to display his signature style and prized recipes.
Tasting menu experiences can take hours, as they generally offer from eight to 30 individual dishes. Throughout the course of the meal, the diner is given
the opportunity to experience the food with all his or her senses, enjoying both the ingredients and the culinary techniques used by the chef. An eightcourse
tasting menu generally includes two fish dishes, one red-meat dish, a vegetarian dish, and dessert. These types of food experiences also explore
different textures, as well as aesthetically stimulating presentations. Also, to fully appreciate a tasting menu, wine pairing is essential. An manifestation of
the art of cooking at its fullest!
Here are some of the best tasting-menu options in Lima:
Ache
Hajime Kasugna – chef of this trendy, new
restaurant – offers a 10-step tasting menu
aptly named Omakase ("I'll leave it to you" in
Japanese). Offering delights such as seafood
dumplings, maguro tacos, eel with apple slices,
sashimi with fish roe, among other things, the
meal is not defined by a sequence of dishes,
rather, the itamae designs his creations based
on the freshest ingredients the day has to offer.
Price: S/. 200
Astrid & Gastón
This restaurant offers a 21-dish tasting menu
that takes its diners’ taste buds on a threehour
gourmet tour through the country's coast,
jungle, and mountains. After the success of their
‘Autumns of Peru’ menu, chefs Diego Muñoz
and Emilio Macías are about to introduce their
new, spring-inspired tasting menu.
Price: S/. 320
Central
Chefs Virgilio Martínez and Pía León showcase
their purple charcoal octopus, crunchy sea bass,
and lamb cannelloni, among other dishes, in
their 9-step tasting menu, placing a focus on the
marriage of flavor and texture in each dish.
Price: US$ 87
66

Gastronomy
Hervé
French chef Hervé Galidie's made-to-order
tasting menu is inspired by the freshest available
ingredients of the day.
The price varies according to dishes served.
Lima 27
In his eight-course tasting menu, Chef Carlos
Tesino offers a combination of interesting dishes
from his menu, carefully harmonizing their
textures, flavors, and aromas.
The price varies according to dishes served
Maido
Not satisfied with creating just one tasting menu,
chef Mitsuharu Tsumura has taken the liberty of
design two: One Japanese and the other Nikkei.
In either eight or 12 steps, the diner has the
opportunity to enjoy a variety of diverse fish, like
Peruvian rock sea bass, silversides, frogfish, and
scorpion fishes, among others.
Twelve dish menu: S/. 190
Eight dish menu: S/. 169
Malabar
A true enthusiast of all the hidden treasures that
Peru has to offer, chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino
showcases some of the country’s lesser-known
ingredients in innovative and creative combinations
throughout his 12-step tasting menu.
Price: S/. 290
The dish tasting menus have become very
popular among the top restaurants in the
city of Lima. Going from eight up to thirty
dishes; it is a great opportunity to get to
know the chef´s seasoning
Manifiesto
In chef Giacomo Bocchio’s nine-course
tasting menu, tiny servings of all the dishes his
restaurant offers are presented. They include an
amuse bouche, savory dishes, palette cleansers,
dessert and petit fours. The menu changes
according to the season.
Price: S/. 155
Maras
Rafael Piqueras has designed a menu that
demonstrates his command of both ingredients
and culinary techniques, as well as his talent as a
chef. This eight-course menu begins with a shot
of fish topped with ceviche foam, a mini-causa
with wasabi-infused scallops, and a piece of
micuit tuna sprinkled with crystalized olive oil and
pink salt from Maras.
Price: S/. 200
Mayta
Mayta's eight-course tasting menu takes the diner
through a variety of dishes, including ceviche, trout,
shrimp, and guinea pig. Chef Jaime Pesaque's
menu is constantly evolving in accordance with the
best ingredients each season has to offer.
Price: S/. 165
Toshiro’s
The 12 steps of this restaurant’s omakase menu
are determined by the freshness of the fish and
seafood. When in the hands of chef Toshiro
Konishi, it’s a guaranteed win.
Price: S/. 300
Prices are referential
67

Transportation
HIRAM BINGHAM
The trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu should be done in
style and luxury – on a train worthy of royalty. Decorated
in bright gold and deep blue, the Hiram Bingham train is
the only one to fulfill such high demands. Orient Express’s
luxurious train, which is operated by Peru Rail, can carry up
to 84 passengers in its four coaches, and also counts with
two dinner cars and a bar car with an observation deck.
The open-air observation deck offers breathtaking views of
green mountains, snow-capped peaks, roaring rivers and
beautiful flora.
The train also provides its passengers with brunch and
dinner. Once in Machu Picchu, the service provides
a knowledgeable tour guide for every 14 passengers,
entrance tickets to the ruins, exclusive transportation to
and from the site, and a delightful afternoon teatime
buffet in the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge.
ANDEAN EXPLORER
INCA RAIL
The Andean Explorer makes the trip from Cusco to Lake Titicaca into a
true adventure, taking its passengers on a breathtaking journey between
the sky and the mountains. During the ten-hour ride, passengers can
appreciate the majestic scenery of the Andes with their snow-covered
peaks, the green fields, and the sublime Lake Titicaca. The coaches are
decorated in the style of the Pullman trains of the 1920’s, and include a
dining car and a bar car with an open observation deck. All this and more
put beauty and comfort in the foreground of this unique experience.
Having been specially designed to satisfy the highest demands of
passengers, this train merges privacy, comfort and hedonism, resulting
in an unforgettable trip to Machu Picchu. The eight-person Inca
Presidential coach has a veneered interior and boasts windows
with panoramic views, as well as a bar that serves only the finest
liquors. The train’s menu is put together and prepared by chefs from
Le Cordon Bleu School of Peru, offering five delicate dishes and a
meticulously chosen selection of wines.
68

Transportation
PLANE AND BOAT IN PARACAS
The four-hour trip down the Panamericana Sur highway is no longer
the only way to arrive to Ica’s coast. Now, there are 50-minute
private plane trips that can be chartered for a quick and convenient
journey, departing from Jorge Chavez International Airport and
arriving at the Hotel Paracas. Once there, the hotel offers day-trips to
the Ballestas Islands on renovated boats, during which one can see
porpoises, seals, sea lions and hundreds of bird species.
TRANSFER IN LIMA
Peugeot 508, Renault Fluence y Mercedes Benz, Van H1, Sprinter MB, Van MB are the cars that make up our exclusive fleet. With 16 years of
experience and the highest quality standards, this company’s cars are all insured against accidents and any third party damage, making trips from
the airport to hotels easy and peaceful.
BUS O2
Lima Tours’ innovative oxygenated bus service is aimed at making
trips through the Andes as pleasant as can be. The bus is equipped
with oxygen cylinders that release extra oxygen via valves located
over every-other seat. The additional O2 brings the buses internal
environment to an oxygen level equivalent to that of 1000 meters
lower than the actual height. This increase alleviates symptoms
associated with altitude sickness like, difficulty breathing, headaches,
fatigue and nausea, making the journey significantly more comfortable.
WINGS OVER Peru
ANDEAN HELICOPTERS
This Lima Tours service invites passengers to get to know the most
beautiful cities in Peru from the comfort of private planes. Nazca,
Cusco, Trujillo, Chiclayo and Lima are only some of the cities viewed
and visited during the eight-day tour. The planes are outfitted
with all the regulation safety equipment, as well as a capable and
friendly staff, and can seat from four to 50 people. Before takeoff,
passengers are gifted objects that evoke the five senses: fragrances,
spices, and musical instruments, among other things.
This incomparable activity gives tourists a chance to admire the
breathtaking Peruvian landscapes from the air. With seating for
seven to eight passengers, the Andes Company offers aerial tours
of Lima, Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Soar over these cities with
a birds-eye view and discover never imagined details.
For more information: inbound@limatours.com.pe or contact your market specialist
69

SHOPPING
JEWELRY
Ilaria
This Peruvian company’s jewelry is
characterized by the use of natural
elements like spondylus, Andean opal,
mother-of-pearl, sodalite, Peruvian
turquoise, quartz, and amethyst. Offering
both sober and eccentric pieces, Ilaria
manages to merge silver and stones in a
harmonious and aesthetically pleasing way,
making their jewelry popular in national
and international markets.
H. Stern
One of the most prestigious
names in jewelry has opened its
doors in Peru. Using minerals,
gems, and local inspiration,
H. Stern creates beautiful and
elegant jewelry, oftentimes
referencing pre-Columbian art.
Only iN LIMA...
LUXURY ART
Lucía de la Puente Gallery
This cultural space shows works of both national and
international artists, always staying abreast of the everexpanding
artistic dialogue. Lucía de la Puente Gallery,
located in Lima’s Barranco district, counts with 700 square
meters of exhibition space, allowing for the appreciation of
art in all its splendor.
Vértice
Founded in 2007, Vértice Gallery is dedicated to the
exhibition and diffusion of both Peruvian and Latin-
American contemporary art. Located in San Isidro, this
vanguard space opens itself to new and innovative artistic
concepts.
CRAFTS
Dédalo
Dédalo offers a great variety of art and craft pieces,
products of the talent and creativity of both Peruvians
and foreigners alike. Located in Maria Elena Fernandez’s
beautiful Barranco house, the gallery focuses on promoting
inventive artisanal proposals.
Las Pallas
Endorsing national arts and crafts, Las Pallas brings together
artisanal creations from the coast, Andes and jungles of Peru.
Clients who visit this old Barranco house pay a fair price for these
high-quality works and the opportunity to take a piece of Peru
away with them.
70

Shopping
SPECIALTY PRODUCTS
King kong San Roque
Named after the infamous
Hollywood gorilla, these giant,
layered cookies have a history that
dates back to the 1920’s when
Victoria Mejía de García began
preparing them on San Roque
road in Lambayeque. These
nationally recognized northern
treats – which come layered with
either pineapple, manjar blanco, or
peanut filling – continue to draw
costumers back time and again
with their sweet, delectable taste.
Maras Pink Salt
This high-quality salt has been
consumed for over 600 years,
and was once mined by the Incas
themselves. Extracted from the saltflats
in the town of Maras, located
4,000 meters above sea level in the
Peruvian Andes, Maras Pink Salt is
recognized by national chefs for its
superior flavor. It also contains over
32 minerals – including magnesium,
iron, calcium and zinc – helping to
ward off conditions like anemia and
osteoporosis.
Café Tunki
Wake-up with the delicious
aroma and taste of this
prized coffee from the
Sandia province of Puno.
Awarded Best Specialty
Coffee of the World by the
Specialty Coffee Association
of America (SCAA), this
gourmet coffee has become
the pride of the region it
comes from, and is currently
exported to the United States
and the United Kingdom.
Pisco Port n
Pisco Portón is distilled in
the Hacienda La Caravedo,
in Ica, using both traditional
methods and modern
technology. Created by local
pisco connoisseur Johnny
Schuler, each bottle contains
15lb (6.8kg) of grapes, and
the pisco is left in wooden
barrels for various months
before bottling, in order to
acquire a more complex and
robust flavor.
TEXTILES
Kuna
Kuna reinvents Peru’s age-old textile industry
with imaginative, vanguard pieces, using a careful
selection of camelid fibers and the best of modern
technology. Promising only the highest quality
items, the company raises its own alpacas on the
high plateaus of Puno in order to guarantee the
excellence of their products.
Awanacancha
The artisans involved with the Sumaqkay project
spend as much time on the fields as they do in
their workshops, in order to produce their artistic
textiles. Focusing on the recovery and practice of
ancestral traditions, the textile-making process
attempts to re-enforce national identity and
pride. Their products are inspired on the ancient
cultures that inhabited the Paracas bay, where
the store is currently located.
The Textile and South American Camelid Exhibition Center, located in Cusco, showcases the beauty of
vicuñas, alpacas and llamas, as well as their fiber derivatives as made with the use of traditional and
modern technology. Awanacancha does not solely focus on the sale of high-quality textiles; it is also a
place to learn about the animals involved in the production process.
Sumaqkay
71
For more information: inbound@limatours.com.pe or contact your market specialist

Entertainment
MALI
Lima’s Art Museum takes its visitors on
a tour of Peruvian history by means
of paintings, sculptures, photography,
textiles, silver crafts and drawings. The
MALI collection brings together more
than 12,000 pieces, including works of
various accomplished local artists like
Sérvulo Gutiérrez, Fernando de Szyszlo,
Jorge Eduardo Eielson, Tilsa Tsuchiya,
José Tola, and Víctor Humareda. From
October 2012 to Febuary of 2013, the
MALI will be exhibiting the work of artist
and musician Martin Creed.
MATE
Housing portraits of breathtaking starlets like Kate Moss,
Cindy Crawford, Nicole Kidman, Madonna, Reese
Witherspoon, Jennifer Aniston, and Diana Princess of
Wales, this gallery brings all the glitz and glamour of
Vogue and Vanity Fair to the Barranco district of Lima.
Set in a renovated mansion, the MATE Foundation and
gallery were created by Peruvian fashion photographer
Mario Testino. The renowned photographer inaugurated
the space with his show ‘All or Nothing’: a compilation
of 54 photographs, which have already been shown in
Rome, Madrid, and Paris, among other European cities.
72

Entertainment
CABALLOS DE PASO
GALERiA LUCiA DE LA PUENTE
Caballos de Paso (Peruvian Paso Horses) were introduced to
Peru at the beginning of the colonial period and have since
been declared part of the countries cultural heritage. Popular for
their elegance and rhythmic trot, these animals can be admired
in various locations across the country, including the Hacienda
Mamacona – in Lima, and the Casa Wayra – in Urubamba’s
Sacred Valley (Cusco). These noble creatures are unique among
others of their kind, typically showcasing their grace in classic
performances, which encompass many years of tradition.
This space, established in 1995, gives room for both the rising
talents within the newer art movements and those considered
accomplished artists, to shine. Painting, sculpture, design,
photography – everything has a place and a space in this
gallery. Located in a mansion considered a historic monument
in the Barranco district of Lima, this gallery’s three exhibition
rooms have hosted shows by Joaquín Liébana, José Tola, Jorge
Piqueras, Abel Bentín, and Billy Hare, among many other
notable Peruvian artists.
MAP CUSCO
The Museum of Pre-Columbian Art (MAP) is the only
museum that focuses its collection on highlighting the artistic
qualities of individual works of the ancient Peruvian cultures,
and through it, takes its guests on a journey through Nazca,
Mochica, Chancay and Inca history. Within the remodeled
Casa Cabrera, located in Plaza Nazarenas, there are rooms
solely dedicated to wood works, bone and shell-made
jewelry, gold, and silver. The architecture of the colonial house
combined with the relics and other items on display, take
visitors on a stimulating and beautiful trip through the past.
ACHUMA CUSCO
This spectacle – which goes by the name Achuma – combines
theatre and circus, while telling the story of a shaman’s young
apprentice. Set on a three-dimensional, 80 meter-high stage,
the 45 minute show is performed by five artists who awe
the audience with dances, acrobatics, balancing acts and
juggling. The presentations are given Wednesdays to Saturdays
at 6:30pm in the Wayra Restaurant, within the Casa Wayra
(Sacred Valley, Cusco).
For more information: inbound@limatours.com.pe or contact your market specialist
73

Deluxe Programme
Day 1
Caral
- LIMA
• Breakfast at Casa Luna where Javier Luna Elías will
show us his treasured Peruvian Nativity collection
with over 2,ooo individual scenes, showcasing the
ingenuity and talent of Peruvian artisans.
• Basadre Market
CITY TOUR
• CASA ALIAGA: Built during the Spanish viceroyalty,
this house was given to captain Jerónimo de Aliaga
by Francisco Pizarro upon the founding of Lima in
1535.
• San Francisco Church
• Lunch at La Rosa Náutica
• Larco Museum
• Dinner at Malabar
• Hotel: Miraflores Park Hotel
Day 2
• Take a private plane from Lima to Paracas
Optional: Fly over the Nazca Lines
• Lunch at the Paracas Luxury Collection Hotel (for
more information see hotels page)
• Desert Adventure: An unforgettable trip through one
of the world’s driest deserts in a 4x4 truck, with
dinner served under the stars.
• Hotel: Paracas Luxury Collection
Day 3
• Ballestas Isles: Observe an impressive array of fauna,
which include guano birds, penguins, Inca tern, and
boobies, as well as a large population of curious sea
lions who approach and playfully splash around the
boats.
• Sumaqkay Workshop
• Hotel: Paracas Luxury Collection
Day 4
• Return to Lima in the morning via an approximately four-hour
trip up the Pacific coast.
LIMA-CUSCO
• Once in Cusco, take a helicopter flight over the city and to the
Tambo del Inka Hotel in the Sacred Valley.
• Lunch at restaurant Wayra
Hotel: Tambo del Inka
Day 5
Tour through Sacred Valley
• Maras and Moray
• Lunch at Rio Sagrado
• Ollantaytambo
• Willoq: Where you’ll have the opportunity to become familiar
with the local customs of the community from which the first
Inca Trail Porters came.
• Hotel: Tambo del Inka
Day 6
• Full day Machu Picchu
• Lunch at Café Inkaterra
• Return to Cusco, dinner at MAP Café
• Hotel: Casona Inkaterra Hotel
Day 7
• South Valley
Oropesa, Andahuaylillas, Tipón and Huaro
• City Tour Cusco
Koricancha, Cusco Cathedral, Sacsayhuamán
• Lunch at Limo Peruvian Food & Pisco Bar
• Dinner at Cicciolina Restaurant
• Hotel: Casona Inkaterra Hotel
Day 8
CUSCO-LIMA
• Lunch at the Country Club Lima Hotel
• Visit to the Artisanal ‘Indian’ Market
• Dinner and overnight stay at the Miraflores Park Hotel
For more information: inbound@limatours.com.pe or contact your market specialist
74

A JOURNEY
LIKE NO OTHER
Orient-Express is a collection of iconic hotels
and sophisticated travel adventures.
Set off on a journey around Peru’s greatest
sights from Hotel Monasterio in Cuzco, just
one of our exceptional destinations worldwide.
DISCOVER PERU WITH ORIENT-EXPRESS
Miraflores Park Hotel l Hotel Monasterio l Palacio Nazarenas l Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge l Hotel Rio Sagrado l Hiram Bingham
Reservations:
+51 (1) 610 8300
perures.fits@orient-express.com
orient-express.com

Carme Ruscalleda
Spanish Chef Carme Ruscalleda
“Peru’s
gastronomic
movement is
more than just a
‘boom’ or trend”
Preferring to be called ‘Carme’, she’s thin, athletic, and
looks at least ten years younger than she actually is.
Perhaps its due to the anti-aging diet she created for
herself. Her simple nature conceals the fact that she is
one of the most important chefs in Spain – if not the
world. Apart from having published several books, she
is the most Michelin-star awarded female chef, honors
which are distributed between her three restaurants
located in Barcelona and Tokyo. Carme was invited to
attend the latest Mistura International Gastronomy Fair
held in Lima and UJ had the chance to chat with her
during her first visit to Peru.
76

The chef visited Lima after coming
from Cusco. She was fascinated
by Machu Picchu.
77

Carme Ruscalleda
Moments restauntant modern environment in Barcelona.
¿
What convinced you to
accept the invitation
to come to Peru and
experience Mistura?
I had been invited before, but I’m not
the type to travel around and leave the
business behind. The food we make
has personality, and I like being there.
On this particular occasion, however, I
was urged by some of my colleagues
who had been to Mistura in previous
years. They insisted that I not miss out
on Peru. When a fellow professional
who’s equally as dedicated to their
work tells you to “make some room in
your life to go and visit this place,” it’s
generally because it’s well worth it.
Tell us about your experience at
Mistura.
The Mistura Organization has done
a great job. To put together a
gastronomic conference of that caliber
and invite chefs and food-stars from
all over the world is a great way to
showcase what Peru has to offer.
When a foreign chef arrives here and
discovers the array of Andean products
Peru has – the ajíes, the potatoes
– and the different techniques, it’s
fascinating. One falls in love with this
country and its products. I arrived with
great expectations, but I have to admit
that they have been superseded. I
have enjoyed this experience much
more than I expected to.
What has impressed you the most?
I have never seen such long lines!
I was astonished at the number of
people who wanted to try the dishes
being served at the Caja China stand.
Its popularity inspired the rest of us to
try the food and we were fascinated
by it. I loved the traditional cuisine.
And then there are these whole teams
of chefs using their imaginations and
their creativity, and experimenting
with refined techniques. Peruvians
have managed to master the nikkei
cuisine and combine it very well with
Peruvian food; this is something that
we are interested in because we are
currently working with Japan. I tried
the Amazonian cuisine and found
78

Carme Ruscalleda
Carme made a butifarra and a sea turrada during her master lecture at Mistura.
the way that you smoke food items very
interesting. For us, it’s an technique used to
perfume a vegetable or meat in order to give
it personality; in Peru you use it to create the
essence of the flavor.
How important is gastronomy in terms
of attracting tourism?
When tour operators sell a destination, it
isn’t just pleasant weather and archeological
ruins they’re selling, its food too. Food – what
we’ve eaten and experienced – is one of the
first things we talk about upon arriving home
from a trip. It’s great when a tour operator
can offer various good cuisine options to
travellers, and I think its fantastic when a
tourist plans their trips around restaurants.
Peru has various restaurants that merit a visit
and they should be shared with the world.
On top of that, you have these amazing
archeological ruins. The history and the
gastronomy go hand in hand. Everywhere
we’ve been, people have been kind and
“Once we go back to Spain we will
be better due to this experience.
Being in Peru has made us better.”
very receptive to tourists. People tend to
you and ask you if you need anything. That
receptive quality, the eagerness to connect
with tourists is a local quality that should be
treasured and taken advantage of.
Do you think that Peru is currently
experiencing a gastronomic boom?
I think that Peru is in the midst of showing
the world what it has to offer. But I don’t
think it has to do with a boom or a trend, I
think its something much more solid than
that. We are talking about some very old
cooking traditions that have been influenced
by various other cultures from around the
world over time. Peru has a team of great
gastronomic ambassadors. If these people
find the appropriate way to share what they
know and have, the information can circulate
and continue to reach and entice consumers.
Peru produces some really unique products.
We were so envious to walk through the
markets and see the varieties of potatoes
that we never get in Spain! It is important for
Peru to share its products with the world.
Which Peruvian chefs did you meet
during your stay?
Well, the whole world knows Gastón
Acurio. We were in Virgilio Martínez’s
79

Carme Ruscalleda
Interior of the Sant Pau , exclusive restaurant located in a town called Sant Pal del Mar in Barcelona.
Central Restaurant and we loved it. His
restaurant Lima, which he opened in London,
is also doing well. But it was important for
him to first demonstrate that he could pull
it off it in his own country. I also met Marilú
Madueño, who was our host in the Huaca
Pucllana Restaurant. It was incredible to
sit and eat facing the archeological ruins.
Just decades ago, French cuisine ruled the
gastronomic scene. Now all of a sudden, its
got competition, which should inspire the
French to continue to better their cuisine so
as not to lose their throne. Peru has such
inspiring traditions, products and chefs – what
it needs now is support.
Is there a dish or product that you are
thinking of adding to your menu upon
returning to Spain?
In our restaurant Sant Pau, we change the
appetizers each month, so we are thinking
about taking inspiration from this experience
and putting together a souvenir from Peru. It
will include four or five tapas inspired by the
Pigs feet with veggies at Moments Restaurant.
When we arrived
from a trip the first
thing discussed
It's about what
we have eaten.
techniques and products we’ve tried here.
The only problem being that we’ve got a
list of 20 things already! But we’ll definitely
serve a cebiche, a leche de tigre, and
something that’s prepared with spicy aji like
a causa, which we found quite interesting.
How do you manage to run your various
restaurants located all over the world?
I work with people who are very committed
to our projects. For example, I wouldn’t
be able to work with Jeróme Quilbeuf
(head chef of Sant Pau who travelled with
Carme to Peru) if he worked by a strict
schedule. He is utterly professional and
has accompanied me here with the idea
of discovering, tasting and getting to know
Peruvian cuisine. I have to work with people
who are truly involved and dedicated to their
work, people who go beyond a contract and
merely clocking in a certain number of hours.
I am convinced that this trip and experience
will have made us better at what we do –
being in Peru have made us better.
80

Social Responsibility
Ecologically built
thermal houses in Willoq
For many years, Lima Tours has been working with and supporting the Willoq community, located in the high-Andes of Cusco.
One of the main issues the people of this community face is the intense cold that invades their homes on a regular basis.
Thus, with the collaboration of the National Labor Fund and the SNV Dutch Assistance Agency, this Project has managed to
implement special technology that serves to insulate these houses from the cold and reduce the in-house contamination.
If you wish to be part of this initiative, please contact: patronato@limatours.com.pe
What is this Project and
what does it consist of?
• This initiative aims to assist
those with limited resources
in the Willoq community,
which is located 19 km from
Ollantaytambo
• Using economic, renewable
and long-lasting technology,
which also proves to be easy
to install, we are able to
increase the temperatures
inside each house.
Additionally, by providing the
households with new stove
structures, we hope to
significantly reduce the toxins
created by the current
kitchen situations.
How critical are the living
situations of the
populations in
high-Andean areas?
• Up to July of 2012 there have
been 153 registered victims of
pneumonia, and more than
15,000 cases of respiratory
infections due to the extreme
cold in these regions.
• In Peru, there are many families
who have kitchens without
chimneys in their houses. The
smoke that is produced from
these situations is so toxic that
breathing it for one day is
compared to having smoked 20
cartons of cigarettes.
Hot wall:
Plastic and wood structure located
in the exterior of the house which
works with the energy of the sun
to increase the temperature of the
house up to 10 celsius in
comparison to the exterior. It
generates thermal comfort for the
families, which leads to less
respiratory diseases.
Less cold
Due to this technology, local
people will use less blankets
than before.
BEFORE
APPLIYING THIS
TECHNOLOGY
How are these houses transformed into a Casas Calientes
y Limpias (clean, warm houses)?
We implement sustainable technology like a “hot wall” and sealed roof,
and install a proper stove. The latter helps to heat the house, while
diminishing the amount of toxic fumes that are normally released into the
space when utilizing the wood-burning stoves so often seen in the area.
• Trombe wall
- It is a agrofil and wood structure,
which is placed on the outside of
the house.
- It is installed onto an adobe,
stone and mud base, at a
70-degree angle.
- The wall is situated next to the
wall that gets the most solar
heat (north or northeast).
- Its various orifices allow for the
heat to pass through the wall
during the day. Then at night,
these orifices are sealed, and the
heat is trapped inside the space.
- The wall is re-plastered and
subsequently painted black.
• Sealed Roof:
- A mesh screen is placed on
the roof.
- It is then covered with a layer of glue
and plaster in order to seal in the heat.
- The windows are doors are then sealed
as well.
• Improved kitchen:
- It is an adobe and mud structure with
a chimney and a metal hotplate
- It uses less wood than the traditional
kitchens in the area.
- The chimney is 12cm in diameter and
three meters high. It functions to expel
the often-toxic fumes that are
produced when cooking.
- It reduces the in-house air pollution
by 73%.
- The metal hotplate has three burners
that adjust to the sizes of the pots
used. It prevents the smoke from
filtering into the house and can boil five
liters of water in 23 minutes.
Specifications
During the day,
the air inside the
structure, will
heat and enter
the house
through the
top holes.
The cold air will
be released
through the
bottom holes,
will be heated
and sent
back into
the house.
Facing the sun
Located where there is the
highest solar radiation (to
the north or north-east
70º
Plastic:
Agrofil type.
Foundation:
Adobe, rocks,
and mud.
82

Social Responsibility
Sealed roof
Sacking net type, covered with
glue and gypsum layers that is
placed over the roof in order to
keep the heat that has been
generated by the wall.
TEMPERATURE
INSIDE THE HOUSE
IS INCREASED BY
HEALTH IS
IMPROVED IN A
SMOKELESS
HOME
Improved
kitchen
Mud structure with a
fireplace and a metalic
board which saves
firewood or manure.
It expels the smoke
that is produced when
cooking.
Specifications
Fireplace
Metalic. 12cm
diameter and 3
meters high.
It expels the
combustion fumes,
reducing the
pollution inside
the house.
Board Rectangular
15mm cast iron with
three burners.
Every burner has rings
that are adaptable
to the pots.
The combustion
chamber has a
20 x 20cm door
Sealed.
The doors and
windows are sealed
in order to keep
the tempearture.
Wall covered
with gypsum
and then
painted black.
Stone pebbles
or river stones that
are painted black.
The diameter of
the holes is
similar to a 2
liter bottle.
Pots fit perfectly
inside the holes of
the kitchen
Rings work
as lids.
Firewood or manure.
The lids.
The holes are kept
opened during the day
and closed during the
night in order to keep
the temperature
The base is made
of adobe and
mud to level
the floor up.
Adobe and mud struture.
83

CULTURAL
AGENDA
NIGHT IN WHITE / LIMA
May 4
his year the Night in White
will move to the traditional
T district of Barranco. Different
artistic expression (like painting,
dancing, performances, among others)
will take place in the different corners
of the district covering them with
nostalgia all night long. In previous
years this festival would always take
place in Miraflores, where there were
over half a million visitors. Don’t even
think of stopping for a minute.
QOYLLUR RIT'I / CUSCO
From June 2 to June 6
A
n old religious party that
is celebrated annually in
the honor of the Lord of
Qoyllur Rit'i, which means “ Lord
of the Snow Star”, in the Valley of
Sinakara in Cusco. A pilgrimage
takes place towards the glaciers of
the Colquepunku Hill, accompanied
by groups of dancers and musicians.
Once on the top, the ukukus ( a
character that is half bear and half
human) pick crosses and blocks of ice,
that as it said, they might have healing
powers and they bring these back to
the valley.
84

Agenda
INTI RAYMI / CUSCO
June 24 From June 28 to June 29
A
great cultural Inkan festivity in the honor of their god, the Sun in
Cusco. There is a representation, in which thousands of people
take part, it starts right in front of the Coricancha, where the Inka
invokes the Sun, and then goes along with his cortege towards the terrace
in Sacsayhuamán, where there is an audience waiting. When the cortege
enters the fortress, an alpaca is sacrificed in the honor of the sun right in
front of 40,000 local and foreign visitors.
SELVAMONOS FESTIVAL / OXAPAMPA
T
his party of music and art will be celebrating its 5th edition in
the Fundo Cemayu, in Oxapampa, bands like Onda Vaga from
Argentina, along with other twelve national and international
bands. Sponsored by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organization (UNESCO), this festival shows different cultural
expression from the jungle and it is free. In previous years there have
been around 15,000 people.
PAUCARTAMBO FESTIVAL/ CUSCO
From July 15 to July 17
I
t is also knows as the Festival of the Virgen
del Carmen de Paucartambo, it is three hours
away from Cusco, where there are sixteen
typical dancing groups, they portray historical
facts and legends through their dancing. This festivity
starts when the comparsas enter into the church
Capaq Qollaand Capaq Negro to greet the virgin. The
dancers go around the city until they meet together
again at midnight in order to give a serenade to this
Catholic lady. The following day, the image of the
virgin goes around the town, as for the comparsas
say good bye to her through cheerful dances.
85

An Ex-pat’s perspective
Petit
Miribel
T
he French entrepreneur arrived in Peru over 15 years ago with the intention of getting involved in community service projects
– a goal that was ultimately realized upon founding the Sol & Luna Hotel, Restaurant and Association, along with the Wayra
Cultural Center, all located in Cusco’s Sacred Valley. The businesses promote harmony with the environment and generate local
employment opportunities, benefiting the surrounding communities. The Sol & Luna Association also sponsors a school, which currently
has 97 students. In a place where the ancestral traditions of the Andes are stron. Petit has established her dream life together with her
husband Franz and their two children.
”The valley is a place with much wealth, with great potential ˝, says Petit.
What moved you to relocate to Cusco
and start your family here?
My desire to share. I found the opportunity
to create the business model I dreamt of as
a way of growing with the community.
What’s the Sacred Valley’s magic?
Its people – especially the children who we
support and who attend the Sol & Luna
Association’s school. The Valley is a place
with great wealth and potential. We have
to give the children the opportunities that
are lacking so they can learn and become
capable.
How would you describe your
relationship with the people from the
communities in the Sacred Valley?
We have a relationship of mutual respect
and learning that has allowed me to better
understand the complex local culture. I
have been able to share their needs and
happiness while respecting our differences.
Now that there is more interest in
Peru’s regional cuisines and in using
organic, eco-friendly products, what
can you tell us about the gastronomy
in Cusco and the Andes?
There is an amazing variety of crops in the
Andes, but very little is taken advantage
of. For example, we live in the country
that boasts thousands of potato varieties,
but we only really use white and sweet
potatoes. In the Sol & Luna Hotel, around
90% of our products are local, and with
the creativity of our chefs Pedro Miguel
Schiaffino and Nacho Selis we have put
together a versatile menu, recognized for
its freshness, subtlety and originality.
What kind of exclusive services can
tourists find in the Sacred Valley?
The Valley has an interesting assortment
of luxury lodgings, restaurants and bars
and out-door activities; what is missing,
however, is a quality cultural option – but
we’re taking care of that. Our restaurant,
Wayra, offers novel cultural activities that
enrich the soul and we would like for
Urubamba to develop creative proposals.
Do you think that the city of Cusco and
the Sacred Valley are good alternatives
for travellers who desire luxury
experiences?
Definitely. Cusco is an important
destination in terms of global tourism,
and it can be approached in an exclusive
and luxurious fashion. A significant part of
the luxury tourism sector puts emphasis
on the importance of partaking in ethical
activities. In our case, the Sol & Luna
presents a singular model that offers the
luxury of a beautiful space combined with
a genuine experience. We have developed
a place in which Peru is represented in
colors, arts and gastronomy. Additionally,
our architecture reflects a harmony with
our surroundings that showcases our
respect for nature.
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