QN Travel Peru

Celebrating Peruvian Coffee Day ☕
Known for its diverse coffee-growing regions, from the lush Amazon basin to the high Andes, Peru is one of the world's top 10 coffee producers and the leading producer of organic coffee.
Peruvian coffee is celebrated for its rich, complex flavors, with notes of chocolate, fruit and floral undertones that reflect the rich biodiversity of its growing regions. The country's varied climate and topography create ideal conditions for growing a wide range of coffee varieties. Regions such as Cusco, Chanchamayo, Villa Rica, Junín and Chachapoyas are among the top producers, with a special distinction: the higher the planting altitude, the more unique the flavor profile of the harvest.
Today we invite you to pour a cup of Peruvian coffee, and if you are in Lima, many local coffee shops and roasters are participating in these festivities, showcasing their finest Peruvian blends and promoting the distinctive qualities of this exceptional coffee.

🌟🎉 Happy anniversary, Arequipa! 🎉🌟
With its stunning architecture, breathtaking volcanic landscapes, and delicious cuisine, Arequipa is truly a gem in South America.
As we mark another year of Arequipa's incredible journey, we invite you to explore its wonders. From the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery and the majestic El Misti volcano to the delicious Rocoto Relleno and Adobo Arequipeño, there's so much to discover and enjoy. 🌋🍽️
Book your Arequipa adventure today and be part of the celebration!

The archaeological site of Pisac, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, is an important Inca complex with terraced fields, temples and impressive stonework. The city is also home to a bustling market, especially on Sundays, where you can find a variety of local crafts, textiles, and traditional Peruvian foods.
Pisac is known for its sophisticated engineering and construction. Its terraced fields were used for agriculture and religious and ceremonial structures.
During Inca times, Pisac also played a defensive role. Its elevated position and impressive fortifications made it a stronghold that could overlook and control the surrounding area. Its strategic location allowed the Incas to monitor and defend the valley against potential invaders.
Today, Pisac is a popular tourist destination that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Inca civilization and the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley. Make sure to include this destination in your next visit to Cusco!

Honoring the Sacred Earth

Today we celebrate Pachamama Day, a time to honor and express our gratitude to the revered Earth Goddess of the Andes.

In Peru and throughout the Andean region, this sacred day reminds us of our deep connection to nature and the importance of caring for and protecting our world.

Pachamama, or Mother Earth, embodies the spirit of fertility, growth and abundance. On this special day, locals gather to make offerings - such as coca leaves, grains and flowers - that are placed in sacred places or "humpi" (ritual bundles) and buried in the earth. These acts symbolize the commitment to maintaining a harmonious relationship with nature and the intention to give back to the land that sustains us.

This day also marks the beginning of the Andean Agricultural New Year, and some communities in Cusco come together for "Haywarikuy", an offering ceremony that translates to "gratitude for Pachamama's kindness". This year the event begins with a pilgrimage to Apu Mama Simona where, after a heartfelt ceremony, all the offerings are placed in a large pit in hopes of a good year ahead.

Did you know about this tradition? Discover more of Cusco with

Today, on the anniversary of Peru's independence, we celebrate the rich heritage and vibrant culture of this incredible country.
From the breathtaking peaks of the Andes to the lush beauty of the Amazon, Peru is a land of wonder and adventure!
Join us as we honor Peru's journey to freedom and the stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality that make this nation so special.
Here's to the spirit of independence, the resilience of its people, and the countless memories waiting to be made. ✨
¡Viva el Perú! 🥂

Faith and devotion in Paucartambo
These days the streets of Paucartambo, located 3 hours from Cusco, rise in celebration in honor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel ('mamacha Carmen').
Their devotion is reflected in different acts, as musicians, dancers, locals, and tourists unite in a busy schedule that fills the town with activities that last about 3 days. Mamacha Carmen's procession is accompanied by various dances, with colorful costumes and special yeast masks, divided into Qhollas, Saqras, and other figures representing different characters.
Saqras (meaning "devil" in Quechua) represent evil and temptation to the other comparsas; they are usually seen hanging from the roofs of the houses as they try to reach for 'Mamacha Carmen'.
This event has become a long-awaited cultural celebration for both locals and tourists and reflects the symbiosis of ancestral beliefs and Catholic traditions.

Looking for something different to do in Lima? 🔍 🖼 🎨

Just half an hour from the city center, in the metropolitan province of Callao, there is a special project that has transformed the port's look and feel into a special tourist attraction: Callao Monumental.

This project is centered around art and brings to life the spirit and talent of local artists who now have a platform to display and showcase their best work, intervening in the facades of the main streets of this area or exhibiting their work in the art galleries that have been made possible in the historic 1920’s building “La Casa Ronald”.

In this guided tour you will visit the patrimony and historic streets of the district, such as Plaza Grau and Plaza Matriz, among others. However, the itinerary is not limited to strolling through art galleries, you can also enhance the experience with exciting workshops such as Graffiti in the City to learn the techniques of urban art, a delicious seafood lunch with the best views of the harbor, Peruvian calligraphy workshop, and more. To enjoy this experience, be sure to contact us!

This month, direct flights to Huaraz started operating. It's a great chance to experience one of our most popular adventure destinations, as this is the starting point of our Great Inca Trail from Castillo to Huanuco Pampa.
The trail from Castillo to Huánuco Pampa winds through high mountain passes, lush valleys, and rugged terrain typical of the central Andes. The Incas built the trail to get around these natural obstacles as easily as possible, using stone steps, retaining walls, and sometimes tunnels to make sure the trail was always at a good, consistent height for people and llamas, which were the main pack animals of the Inca Empire.
Huánuco Pampa was a big administrative center that controlled the resources and populations in the eastern Andes. And today, you can still walk along some parts of this historical trail.

✨ Celebrate the flavors of Peru with a burst of freshness on !

Today is the perfect excuse to enjoy this iconic dish that embodies the essence of Peruvian coastal cuisine: fresh seafood marinated in tangy lime juice, adorned with onions, cilantro, and a kick of chili.
Be sure to try it on your next stop in Lima, and if you want to learn how to make the best ceviche at home, ask for our culinary program recommendations .

Salud to Peru and its delicious ceviche!

A celebration in honor of the Sun
With over 800 performers, among actors, dancers and musicians, over 3 of the main stages of the city: the main plaza, Q’oricancha and Saqsaywaman; Inti Raymi celebrations took place in Cusco.
This festival was created by the Inca Pachacutec in the 15th century in honor of the sun god, Apu P'unchao or Apu Inti, as a religious-cultural tradition that sought to worship the sun to favor crops and guarantee food for the population.
Today, this tradition preserves the ancestral heritage of the Inca ancestors in a symbolic ceremony that lasts about 6 hours and is held every year on June 24th.

10th Anniversary of UNESCO's Recognition of the Qhapaq Ñan as a World Heritage Site

Stretching over 23,000 kilometers (about 14,000 miles), the Qhapaq Ñan was an engineering marvel for its time, facilitating the movement of people, goods and information across the rugged Andean landscape, promoting trade, communication and cultural exchange among the various ethnic groups under Inca rule.
Connecting a vast territory of the Andes, valleys, peaks and deserts, through tambos, administrative centers and temples of the "4 suyos", the Inca Empire organized its road network on a continental scale and its roads are an invaluable expression of their spirit of organization and planning.
Today, the Qhapaq Ñan continues to be a living trail, a testament to the ingenuity and organizational genius of the Inca civilization.
From QN, we will continue to promote and advocate for its preservation, striving that its legacy continues to inspire admiration and wonder for generations to come.

The magnificent color of Arequipa's buildings has earned its famous name of "the white City".
The material used to construct its many buildings is the reason for its color: "sillar", a volcanic rock that comes from the volcanoes that surround the city.
The ignimbrita (its scientific name) was originally found above the depression on which most of the city was built. Its origin dates back almost a million years, from the eruption of volcanoes that preceded those that now surround Arequipa's landscape (Misti, Chachani, Pichu Pichu, Coropuna, Ampato, Sabancaya, Hualca Hualca - most of them inactive today). At the time of the eruption, this material was so hot that when it cooled, it formed the porous rock that we now call "sillar", which is mostly white, but has different tones ranging from turquoise to pink.
The process of extracting the sillar is one of the main tourist attractions that are part of the "Sillar Route Tour", where you can meet the masters who, to this day, are in charge of preserving this tradition and carving the most beautiful pieces that are displayed on site.
Visit Arequipa and learn more about this history with

Peru in the list of the 50 best restaurants 2024

Peruvian Nikkei restaurant, Maido, landed 5th on the list and was named Best Restaurant of Latin America 2024, while its head Chef, Mitsuharu 'Micha' Tsumura, received special recognition with the Estrella Damm Chefs' Choice Award 2024 for his positive contribution to the global culinary scene over the past year.
Pia Leon's Kjolle, with a cuisine focused on research and cultural diversity, made it to 16th place on the list.
Mayta, a restaurant that incorporates inspiration from the highlands, coast and jungle of Peru on its menu, landed at number 41.
le of Peru on its menu, landed at number 41.
In addition, the acclaimed restaurant Central, led by Virgilio Martinez, has reached a new level called The Best of the Best, after being recognized as the #1 Best Restaurant in the World several times over the past decade.
So now you have some inspiration for your next Peruvian culinary adventure! Book your next experience and go local with !

Q'eswachaka: The last Inca hanging bridge

Today marks the beginning of the annual renovation of the Queswachaka Bridge.
In the department of Cusco, over the Apurimac River, at 3,700 masl, for over 600 years local communities have gathered annually to rebuild this suspension bridge using ancient techniques passed down through generations.

At the time of the Incas, a great network of roads called the "Royal Road" connected the Inca Empire. However, due to the difficult geography, many places were connected by suspension bridges made of plant fibers. Today, Q'eswachaka is the only bridge that remains, and four Quechua communities are coming together to build it and preserve the tradition: Huinchiri, Chaupibanda, Choccayhua and Ccollana Quehue.
Every member of the community is involved in this work: women and young girls braid the q'oya (natural plant fiber) ropes that the chakarauwaq (engineers) use to tie the ropes and begin the weaving process after dropping the old bridge.

This tradition pays respect to the Pachamama and the Apu Q'eswachaka (mountain spirits) with various offerings such as potatoes, coca leaves, corn, and more. When the bridge is completed, the community celebrates and gives thanks to their deities.

To this day, this hand-woven wonder stands tall as a testament to the enduring spirit of Inca craftsmanship.

Taquile: A cultural jewel ✨
This unique island, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca in Puno, is best known for its high-quality textiles, hand-woven using traditional techniques passed down through generations. However, the cultural wealth rooted in the ancient community that inhabits it is one of its greatest treasures.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the island's rich culture by exploring its traditional villages, interacting with local residents, and participating in cultural activities such as textile weaving demonstrations and traditional music and dance performances. Here are some reasons to get to know and explore this fascinating destination:
📌 Textile Traditions: Taquileños are known for their exceptional weaving skills. Each intricately woven textile tells a story that reflects the island's traditions and beliefs.
📌 Community Values: Taquileños maintain a unique system of communal living where resources are shared and decisions are made collectively. This sense of unity fosters a strong bond among the island's inhabitants and contributes to its peaceful atmosphere.
📌 Scenic beauty: In addition to its cultural treasures, Taquile Island boasts breathtaking natural landscapes. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the island's winding paths, which are dotted with terraced fields and panoramic views of the shimmering lake below.
📌 Sustainable Living: Taquileños have long practiced sustainable farming and fishing techniques in harmony with the environment that sustains them. Visitors can learn about these eco-friendly practices and gain insight into the island's deep connection to nature.
📌 Last year, the island was named one of the Best Tourist Towns in the world.

Experience the enchanting culture of Taquile Island with and embark on a journey of discovery unlike any other! 🌿

Peru is one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world 🌿🐦🐒:
From the Andes to the Amazon rainforest to the Pacific coast, Peru's diverse geography creates a variety of habitats that support unique ecosystems and species.
Boasting a significant portion of the Amazon basin, which is home to an astonishing array of flora and fauna, its dense rainforests are home to countless species, including rare mammals like jaguars, colorful birds like macaws, and diverse plant life.
As proof, earlier this month, Peru took one of the top spots in the Global Big Day 2024, the largest birding event, where a total of 1,428 bird species were recorded in 24 hours, most of them spotted between Cusco and Puerto Maldonado.

Dive into the diversity and richness of this land! Book your next adventure to Peru with .

Embark on a family adventure in Peru! From the shore of Lima to the majestic peaks of Cusco and the lush Amazon rainforest of Puerto Maldonado, there's something for everyone in the family.
Whether you're looking for thrills, cultural immersion, or nature exploration, Peru offers opportunities for unforgettable family trips, and here are some ideas for your next visit:

📍 Buggies in the desert: Just a few hours from Lima, in Ica, you can take an adrenaline-pumping ride through the dunes! Feel the thrill as you navigate the sandy terrain in a dune buggy, soaking up the breathtaking scenery and creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones. This trip can be complemented with fun activities like sandboarding or a glamping experience to watch the sunset over the dunes!
📍 Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Cusco:
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Incas on a short but spectacular trek along the ancient Inca Trail. As you hike this iconic route together as a family, Marvel at the awe-inspiring ruins, majestic mountains, and lush greenery.
📍Explore the Amazon jungle in Puerto Maldonado:
Meet exotic wildlife, walk across the jungle, explore meandering rivers, and learn about the fascinating Amazon ecosystem with many fascinating nature activities. The Peruvian Amazon is an experience your family will cherish for a lifetime.

On family day, plan your next adventure in Peru and prepare to create memories that will last forever! Contact us for more information.

The Great Inca Trail is a stunning 600-year-old Inca highway that runs down the spine of the Peruvian Andes.
Last week, our General Manager, Rosa Baltazar, and Executive Director, Nick Stanziano, collaborated with our U.S. partners and renowned adventure operator to train guides, camp staff, and refine a world-class trekking product, on 80-kilometer monumental section of the Inca Road across the department of Huanuco.
This 6-day trek offers travelers the most pristine and least traveled sections of the Great Inca Trail. From Huanuco Pampa to Huarautambo, the route is surrounded by the most impressive landscapes, nature plays a leading role as we are accompanied for much of the way by the imposing views of the Cordillera Huayhuash, the imposing Tambococha lagoon and the most beautiful sunrises. The challenge is worth every step as we walk the legendary trails of the ancient Inca Empire.

An important part of this work is collaborating with partners in our industry to share information and best practices on how to generate economic activity and create quality adventure tourism in a region forgotten by business and contemporary society.

Contact us if you would like to learn more about the companies and resources available to consider operating on the Great Inca Trail. This and other GIT treks are part of our exclusive portfolio, you can find the full itineraries in our web: https://www.qnperu.com/great-inca-trail-treks

For more information about the Great Inca Trail, check this National Geographic article: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/explore-inca-life-beyond-machu-picchu-on-this-trail

Maras & Moray: An essential trip through the Sacred Valley

The Maras and Moray Tour is not just a sightseeing excursion; it's a transformative experience into the past and present of the land of the Incas.

Moray, a breathtaking archaeological site shrouded in mystery. Amidst verdant fields and towering mountains lies a mesmerizing labyrinth of concentric terraces carved into the earth. The purpose of these enigmatic terraces has puzzled historians for centuries. Some believe they served as an agricultural laboratory, with each terrace creating a microclimate for testing crops at different altitudes.

The Salt Mines of Maras, a surreal landscape straight out of a painter's dream. Where thousands of terraced pools cascade down the mountainside. For centuries, the local community has harvested salt from these natural springs using techniques handed down from generation to generation and visitors can witness firsthand the ancient traditions that have sustained this community for centuries.

To round out this experience, ask about our cultural immersion lunch activity! Explore the Sacred Valley with QN!

With nearly 1879 species, Peru is the world's leading destination for bird diversity.
Birdlife not only delights nature lovers, it is also a vital component of the country's ecosystems. Many species play a crucial role in pollination, seed dispersal and pest control, contributing to the overall health and resilience of Peru's natural habitats.
For nature and birdwatching enthusiasts, unique endemic birds can be found in protected natural areas such as the Tambopata National Reserve, Puerto Maldonado, in the department of Madre de Dios.
Discover and encounter an overwhelming diversity of birdlife with our programs in Puerto Maldonado! Get local with QN!

A relaxing time in the Colca Canyon 🍃
The Colca Canyon, located in Arequipa, is a dream destination to relax and get in touch with nature and the beauty of the valley.
Situated in a privileged location, surrounded by impressive scenery, exquisite infrastructure and additional services to enjoy the best of the area and make up a perfect and peaceful stay, these are our favorite accommodations:
- Puqio: This new tented camp offers a retreat to enjoy the vibrant Andean valley. Offering delicious meals and invigorating experiences to relax and blend with nature
- Colca Lodge: Nestled on the banks of the Colca River, this lodge creates a magical atmosphere for your stay with its natural hot springs and outstanding views of the countryside and the river. The property is built in a rustic, traditional style using natural materials such as stone, adobe, thatch and wood panels.
- Belmond Casitas del Colca: Nestled among unique flora and fauna, preserving a sense of serenity under a health and wellness concept where each casita offers a personal private haven with a private terrace and pool.
Enjoy the majestic scenery of the Colca Canyon and discover more experiences like this with QN!

Hidden among the lush jungles and towering peaks of Peru, Choquequirao emerges as a true archaeological wonder, ready to enchant and captivate all who dare to explore its ancient wonders.
Located in the Vilcabamba Valley - Cusco, at 3033 masl on the top of a mountain, was one of the last places where the Incas found refuge; and this archaeological jewel, shrouded in mystery and steeped in history, offers a glimpse of the remarkable achievements of this civilization.
For the adventurous, this place can be reached in a 5-day trek, with trails surrounded by diverse flora and fauna. A reward worth the challenge is when you get to explore its terraced slopes, intricate stone structures and lush landscapes.
Recently, this destination was included in the NY Times Magazine's list of "Places to Go in 2024", so be sure to book your 5D Adventure Trek to Choquequirao with QN!

Peru is a deeply Catholic country, and Holy Week is a time when religious and cultural traditions take place, making it a truly memorable experience for locals and visitors alike.

Most of the customs consist of masses and processions beginning on Palm Sunday. However, each region has its way of devotion and celebration that makes this season a special cultural event:

In Cusco, Holy Week is celebrated with particularly grand processions and religious ceremonies. The main square, Plaza de Armas, becomes the center of the festivities, with the procession of the ‘Lord of the Tremors’ visiting different churches and converging on the square. On Holy Friday, there is a tradition in some Cusco towns of having a 12-course meal related to the 12 apostles of Christ.

Arequipa's Easter Week is considered one of the country's largest and declared a National Cultural Heritage Celebration in 2022. Huamanga, also known as the ‘City of the 33 Churches’, is where most of the celebrations take place, with massive processions, theatrical performances, flower carpets, and other events. Each day is dedicated to a particular demonstration of the deep fervor and faith of its people.

In Lima, where people from all over the country gather, one of the most popular traditions is to visit 7 churches in the center of Lima in one day (Thursday) to recreate "The Way of the Cross", taking time for devotion and reflection.

This is a special week to participate in enriching cultural traditions and get to know the passionate fervor of Peru!

In Cusco, the art of craftsmanship is more than a livelihood - it is a way of life. Artisans play a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage of the Andean region. Their dedication, skill and ingenuity serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity that thrives in the heart of the Andes, inspiring all who encounter their work to appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of Cusco's artisans. To help you enjoy this side of the city, we have selected our 3 favorite experiences:

- San Blas Neighborhood: Located just 4 blocks from the main plaza, San Blas has long been a hub for artists. The neighborhood is filled with art galleries, studios, and workshops where you can find a wide variety of artwork including paintings, sculptures, textiles, and jewelry. Visitors can often watch artists at work and purchase unique handmade souvenirs directly from the artisans themselves.

- Totemiq: It is a collective of different artists from Cusco who capture the popular art of Cusco through two aspects: the first is dedicated to the creation of works of contemporary art, and the second is through the creation of cultural experiences and workshops for visitors (you can create your own art pieces or take a photography class, among others).

- Cerámicas Seminario: Located in Urubamba, this workshop offers a different proposal by showing techniques and styles of the ancient cultures of Peru. The artist Pablo Seminario has rescued techniques and created a particular style, in an environment full of culture and tradition in clay pieces.

For more information, contact us!

&culture

Enjoy a gastronomic journey through the heart of the Andes in the Sacred Valley of Cusco, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern culinary innovation. Paying homage to ancient culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations, it's not just about the food—it's about the experience. Here are some of our recommended programs:
- MIL immersion experience: From Chef Virgilio Martinez, this culinary proposal is inspired and aligned with the local environment, millenary practices, and the community at 3,700 masl. A complete learning experience that ends with an extraordinary set menu. Come hungry, leave inspired!
- Iskay Maras Home: Enjoy a delicious meal in a private and secluded location in the heart of the Sacred Valley, surrounded by the most impressive landscapes and the most charming hosts, who will show you their organic garden, fields and kitchen for a culinary demonstration.
- Alqa Restaurant Tasting Menu: Featuring five ingredients, each with a unique story of agricultural technology, and five ways to delight your senses. This experience pays homage to the Andean peasant and pre-Hispanic food concepts and practices.
Be sure to contact us for more information on this or other culinary experiences in Peru!

Looking for an unforgettable culinary adventure in Lima? Whether you're a foodie on a mission or simply looking for an exquisite dining experience, Peru's capital is home to some of the region's best culinary hotspots. From innovative menus that take your taste buds on a delightful journey, here are some restaurants that will take your dining experience to new heights!

· Central ( #1 – World’s 50 best restaurants 2023): Renowned for its innovative set menu that explores the different heights of Peru through the palate and local ingredients.
· Maido ( #1 – Latin America’s 50 best): A creative turn to Nikkei cuisine with Amazonian influence.
· Kjolle ( #7 – Latin America’s 50 best): Peruvian pantry on a plate
· Mayta ( #10 – Latin America’s 50 best): Contemporary Peruvian cuisine
· Mérito ( #13 – Latin America’s 50 best): The flavors of Peru and Venezuela combine on a plate
· La Mar ( #42 – Latin America’s 50 best): A world-class cevicheria serving the Pacific Ocean

Enjoy the best restaurants in Lima with QN culinary programs!
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