Join us for an unforgettable culinary adventure that will take you deep into the heart of Peru’s vibrant flavors, led by James Beard Award-winning Chef Ricky Moore of Durham’s Saltbox Seafood Joint, alongside Chef Richard Gruica, founder of The Gourmet Vacation from Dec, 28th 2025 to Jan, 4th 2026.
After successful tours in Croatia and Spain, the duo is back for round three (and you know what they say—third time’s the charm!). Get ready for From Sea to Summit: Chef Ricky Moore Explores Peru, a tour that goes beyond the plate, offering an immersive experience into the food, culture, and history of this extraordinary country.
This isn’t just another food tour—it's a personal journey into the heart and soul of Peru. You’ll explore the bustling markets of Lima, indulge in world-renowned seafood, and marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of Machu Picchu, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley.
Along the way, Chef Ricky and Chef Richard will guide you through the rich culinary traditions of Peru, offering a deep dive into one of the world’s most exciting food cultures. And to top it all off, we’ll celebrate New Year’s Eve in the Andes, surrounded by the beauty and magic of this ancient land.
Expect more than just delicious meals—this journey will fill your heart with stories, your senses with unforgettable flavors, and your soul with a new-found appreciation for Peruvian cuisine. Book your spot and be part of this extraordinary adventure—where every bite, every moment, and every view will leave you inspired.
Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, this is the perfect opportunity to experience the magic of Peru in a way only The Gourmet Vacation can deliver. We can’t wait to share this adventure with you!
The chance to eat, drink, explore, experience, interact and learn alongside Chef Ricky and Chef Richard personally throughout the trip.
Luxury accommodation 5 stars throughout the trip..
Including all tours, food, tastings & classes. Guided private tour of Machu Picchu and so much more.
All transportation after pick-up in Lima is included. Round-trip airfare from Lima to Cusco is also included.
All Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 5 Dinners.
Your guide (Chef Richard Gruica) is an expert on Peru and also a chef!
Transfer to and from the host hotel in Lima.
Airfare to Lima is not included.
This is very STRONGLY recommended.
Extra Tips/Gratuities for the servers, guides, drivers.
Any other food/drink not provided on the tour.
Pre-Tour-Sat, Dec 27th
Sunset & Sabor: A Prelude with Chef Ricky for his From Sea to Summit Peruvian Culinary Tour
Welcome to Lima, the pulsating heart of South America’s culinary world and the ultimate launchpad for our epic flavor adventure! A city where history, culture, and cuisine collide in the most delicious way, Lima is ready to sweep you off your feet (and onto your taste buds).
Sunset, Sips & Savory Bites at Cala
Our journey begins in style at Cala, a coastal gem perched along Lima’s breathtaking shoreline. As the sun melts into the Pacific, casting golden hues across the sky, we’ll toast to the adventure ahead with exquisite cocktails and a menu that fuses tradition with bold innovation.
The waves will provide the soundtrack, the ocean breeze will set the mood, and the company—well, that’ll be as rich and vibrant as the flavors on your plate!
This is more than just that; it’s your chance to meet Chef Ricky, Chef Richard, and your fellow travelers in a chic, seaside setting that sets the tone for the unforgettable gastronomic escapade ahead. Get ready to indulge, connect, and embark on a whirlwind of taste and discovery!
Luxury Stay: JW Marriott Lima
After a night of culinary enchantment, retreat to the 5-star JW Marriott Lima, your oasis in the heart of Miraflores. With stunning ocean views, impeccable service, and world-class amenities, this elegant haven is the perfect place to recharge before diving headfirst into Peru’s culinary magic in the days to come.
Pro Tip: Arrive Early & Join the Fun!
While the official adventure kicks off Sunday, Dec 28th, we highly recommend arriving by Saturday, Dec 27th to shake off any travel fatigue and ease into the journey. Plus, you won’t want to miss our exclusive Meet & Greet—an evening of great food, fantastic company, and the first taste of what’s to come!
This is just the beginning—prepare to savor, sip, and celebrate your way through Peru with Chef Ricky and an incredible team of culinary adventurers. Let the flavor expedition begin!
Get ready to dive headfirst into Lima’s electrifying food scene, where every bite tells a story, and every street corner holds a delicious surprise!
After a morning pickup from the JW Marriott, we’ll kick off the day with an immersive stroll through a bustling local farmers market—a kaleidoscope of vibrant produce, fragrant spices, and the unmistakable energy of Peruvian culture. You’ll taste an array of exotic fruits and bite into a chicharrón sandwich, a crispy, flavor-packed pork masterpiece nestled in fresh bread, inspired by Lima’s rich Chinese-Peruvian heritage.
Then, we’re off to explore Chifa, Lima’s legendary fusion of Chinese and Peruvian flavors, at one of the city’s most celebrated restaurants. Think sizzling fried rice, bold stir-fries, steaming dim sum, and beyond—a feast that proves why Lima is the undisputed capital of this unique culinary blend!
After lunch, take some time to explore—we’ll offer some cool options to match your vibe. Whether you’re craving culture, relaxation, or a bit more culinary discovery, Lima has something for everyone!
As the sun sets, we’ll regroup for a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience at Restaurant Huaca Pucllana, set against the breathtaking backdrop of an ancient pre-Incan step pyramid. This evening’s exclusive tasting session will showcase Comida Criolla—Traditional Lima cuisine—with iconic Peruvian dishes paired with a perfectly crafted pisco sour.
This unforgettable day sets the stage for Chef Ricky’s culinary expedition—and trust us, this is just the beginning. Buckle up, bring your appetite, and get ready for an epic flavor journey through the heart of Peru!
Stay in Luxury: The 5-Star JW Marriott Lima
Experience unrivaled luxury at the 5-star JW Marriott Lima, ideally situated in the vibrant Miraflores district overlooking the stunning Pacific Ocean. With its elegant design, world-class dining, and exceptional service, this hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, making it the ultimate retreat for our time in Lima.
Day 2 – Mon, Dec 29th
Hooked on Peru: Seafood, Ceviche & a Beachside Feast!
Get ready for a seafood-filled adventure that takes you from the docks to the kitchen to a sunset beach cookout! Today, we dive headfirst into Peru’s legendary coastal cuisine, where the ocean’s bounty becomes the star of the show.
Morning at Chorrillos: Lima’s Lively Fish Market
We start the day with a behind-the-scenes look at Chorrillos, Lima’s bustling fish port, where local fishermen proudly display their morning’s catch. Stroll through the vibrant market, soak in the salty ocean breeze, and marvel at the incredible variety of seafood that fuels Peru’s world-famous gastronomy. From glistening fish to prized shellfish, this is a seafood lover’s dream come true!
Barranco Bound: Ceviche & Pisco Magic
Next, we make our way to the artsy, bohemian district of Barranco for a hands-on ceviche-making masterclass. Under expert guidance, you’ll learn the secrets to crafting Peru’s national dish, from selecting the freshest fish to balancing citrus, spice, and seasoning just right. And because no Peruvian experience is complete without it, you’ll also shake up your very own pisco sour, blending the perfect mix of pisco, lime, and a frothy egg-white finish!
Sun, Sand & Seafood: The Ultimate Beach Cookout
But why stop there? We’re taking the ocean experience one step further—driving down the coast for a laid-back beach escape! Enjoy time to soak up the sun, splash in the waves, or simply relax with your toes in the sand. And of course, we’re bringing the feast to the beach!
Chefs Ricky, Richard, and our local culinary team will fire up the grill for an unforgettable seaside feast, turning the day’s freshest catches into a mouthwatering feast. Expect bold flavors, sizzling seafood, and a true taste of Peru’s coastal soul.
As the sun dips below the horizon, we’ll raise a glass to an incredible day of adventure, flavor, and fun—with the sound of the waves as our final toast. This is the Peru you came for!
Stay in Luxury: The 5-Star JW Marriott Lima
Experience unrivaled luxury at the 5-star JW Marriott Lima, ideally situated in the vibrant Miraflores district overlooking the stunning Pacific Ocean. With its elegant design, world-class dining, and exceptional service, this hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, making it the ultimate retreat for our time in Lima.
Day 3 – Tuesday, Dec 30th
From Coast to Clouds: A Journey to the Sacred Valley
Take it easy this morning and soak in the last bit of Lima’s coastal charm before we swap sea breezes for mountain air—we’re heading to the Andes! After a quick flight to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, our luxury transport will be ready to whisk us off to the Sacred Valley, where our five-star resort awaits.
But first, we have a couple of incredible stops lined up!
First up, meet Manuel Choque, aka The Potato Whisperer. This legendary potato guru, who collaborates with Peru’s top chef Virgilio Martínez, has dedicated his life to preserving Peru’s mind-blowing thousands of native potato varieties (there are over 4000bin Peru). We’ll get a firsthand look (and taste!) of his work, including his famous potato wines—because yes, potatoes can do that too!
Next, we’ll dive into the rich world of traditional Andean textiles with a hands-on demo at an alpaca workshop. Here, we’ll see the entire process—from spinning and dyeing to intricate weaving—while learning how these techniques have been passed down for generations. Feel the softness of real alpaca wool and maybe even snag a one-of-a-kind piece to take home!
Finally, we arrive at the stunning Aranwa Resort & Spa, our home for the next four nights. Nestled in history, the Colonial side of the resort offers an immersive step back in time with its 17th-century mansion, antique furnishings, colonial artwork, and peaceful courtyards—the perfect blend of heritage and luxury.
One of the resort’s best-kept secrets? The UNNO Spa, a wellness sanctuary designed for ultimate relaxation. Whether it’s the hydrotherapy pools, saunas, steam rooms, oxygen therapy, or signature Andean-inspired treatments, make sure to carve out time to unwind and recharge. Trust us, your body will thank you!
Overnight Stay- 5-star Aranwa Resort and Spa
Day 4: An Epic Cultural Adventure: Ancient Empires, Bold Brews, Bountiful Corn, and a New Year's Bash!
Get ready for a day packed with history, flavor, and celebration!
Step into the Past at Museo Inkariy
Our journey kicks off at Museo Inkariy, where ancient Andean civilizations come to life! This isn’t just a museum—it’s a time machine. With life-sized dioramas, stunning artifacts, and immersive exhibits, we’ll meet the legendary Inca, Nazca, Mochica, Chavín, and more. It’s a fascinating dive into the brilliance of pre-Columbian cultures!
Caffeinate Like a Connoisseur at Pisonay Coffee Roasters
Next, we’ll perk up at Pisonay Coffee Roasters, where coffee is more than a drink—it’s an art form. Owned by a Croatian descendant, this roastery showcases the best of Peru’s coffee culture, from sustainably sourced beans to complex, rich flavors. We’ll sip, savor, and soak up the aromas on a guided tasting experience.
Giant Corn, Giant Heritage at Hacienda Sarapampa
Our next stop takes us to Hacienda Sarapampa, where corn is king! This family-run farm is dedicated to preserving Peru’s iconic giant white corn, a staple of Andean cuisine. We’ll wander through the fields, learn about its deep cultural significance, and enjoy a farm-to-table meal that celebrates this extraordinary crop.
Echoes of the Inca at Saqsaywaman
Before heading to Cuzco, we’ll explore the awe-inspiring ruins of Saqsaywaman. This ancient Incan fortress, with its massive stone walls and breathtaking views, was once a key military and ceremonial site. Its precise stonework is an engineering marvel, and standing among its ruins, we’ll get a true sense of the empire’s grandeur.
Strolling Through Cuzco
Once in Cuzco, we’ll take a leisurely walking tour of the city, soaking in its vibrant streets, colonial architecture, and rich history. From lively plazas to hidden alleyways, we’ll uncover the magic of this former Incan capital.
A New Year’s Eve to Remember!
As the sun sets, we’ll head back to our hotel, where a special New Year’s Eve feast awaits—cooked just steps from our rooms at the Colonial Kitchen. This charming spot embraces traditional Peruvian flavors with a rustic, hacienda-style twist. With classic Andean dishes, warm hospitality, and a stunning location by the plaza, it’s the perfect setting to toast to the new year in style!
Overnight Stay- 5-star Aranwa Resort and Spa
Day 5: Thurs, Jan 1st
Pachamanca & Rhythms: A Gypsy Table Feast from the Earth
Sleep in and recover after our epic New Year’s Eve bash, because today’s adventure starts a little later! We’re joining Chef Richard’s good friend, Rely Lazo, a top chef and farmer, for an unforgettable experience on his farm. Get ready to dive into the earthy tradition of Pachamanca, a cooking method where meats, veggies, and herbs are buried in hot stones and cooked underground to perfection.
Want to get your hands dirty? Roll up your sleeves and help prep with the chefs. If you’d rather relax, just kick back and enjoy the vibe. As we prepare the feast, live Andean music will set the mood, filling the air with rhythms that take you straight to the heart of the Andes.
After this culinary journey back in time, it’s free time to unwind at the hotel. Book a spa treatment or just chill—tomorrow, we’ve got an early start as we head to the legendary Machu Picchu!
Overnight Stay- 5-star Aranwa Resort and Spa
DDay 6: Fri, Jan 2nd
Machu Picchu: A Train Ride to the Clouds and Ruins of Wonder
Get ready to step into the mystical heart of Peru as we embark on an unforgettable adventure to Machu Picchu! We kick off the day with a scenic drive through the stunning Sacred Valley, passing charming villages and lush greenery that set the stage for the awe to come. From Ollantaytambo, we hop aboard the iconic train that winds through the Andean mountains, offering jaw-dropping views of the Urubamba River below.
Once we arrive in Aguas Calientes, we’ll be whisked away to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, where our expert guide will take us through the awe-inspiring ruins. We’ll uncover the secrets of the Inca, marvel at their architectural brilliance, and soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
After exploring the wonders of this ancient city, we’ll indulge in a gourmet buffet lunch at the famous Sanctuary Lodge, with time to relax and take in the majesty of Machu Picchu.
Finally, we’ll head back via train, and back to our resort, leaving you free to unwind and soak in the evening at your own pace
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Overnight Stay- 5-star Aranwa Resort and Spa
Day 7: Saturday, Jan 3rd
From Sacred Valley to Sea: A Culinary Journey's Grand Finale
Our unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley comes to a close today as we head back to Cuzco for our flight to Lima, where it all began.
Once we land in Lima, we’ll treat ourselves to one last culinary delight at Casa Tambo, a celebrated restaurant known for its mouthwatering fusion of traditional Peruvian flavors and modern techniques. With its inviting atmosphere and top-notch service, it's the perfect spot to relive the highlights of our Sea to Summit adventure with Chef Ricky Moore.
This grand finale will leave us with full hearts (and stomachs) as we reflect on a week packed with delicious discoveries, unforgettable moments, and the rich flavors of Peru.
Luxury Stay: 5-Star JW Marriott Lima
Experience unrivaled luxury at the 5-star JW Marriott Lima, ideally situated in the vibrant Miraflores district overlooking the stunning Pacific Ocean. With its elegant design, world-class dining, and exceptional service, this hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, making it the ultimate retreat for our time in Lima.
Based on their flight schedules, guests will enjoy a Private Transfer to the Lima Airport. Our heartfelt gratitude for joining Chefs Ricky and Chef Richard on this remarkable culinary journey through Peru.
