From Lima to the Andes: A Gourmet Vacation in Peru with Chef Eileen Andrade

July 4th to July 11th, 2027-Commencing and Finishing in Lima, Peru

Embark on a Culinary Adventure Like No Other

Get ready to taste and experience Peru through fresh eyes and bold flavors.

Join Chef Eileen Andrade, Executive Chef/Owner of FINKA Table & Tap and Amelia’s 1931 in Miami, Florida, on an unforgettable culinary adventure through the vibrant landscapes, markets, and kitchens of Peru. Known for her bold culinary style that weaves together her Cuban heritage with Peruvian and Korean influences, Chef Eileen brings an infectious curiosity and creative perspective to every table. From Lima’s incredible seafood and ceviche traditions to the ancient ingredients and cooking techniques of the Andes, you’ll experience Peru alongside a chef whose cuisine is deeply rooted in family, culture, and the exciting connections that happen when culinary worlds come together.

Together with Chef Richard Gruica, founder of The Gourmet Vacation and creator of immersive food adventures across the globe, this is more than a food tour—it’s a week-long exploration of flavor, heritage, and the crossroads of two rich culinary cultures. From the coastal markets of Lima to the breathtaking Sacred Valley, this is a journey meant to excite your senses and expand your palate.

Culinary Adventure Beyond Borders

This isn’t just travel, it’s an edible expedition where ancient Peruvian traditions meet bold, modern creativity. From earth-cooked Pachamanca feasts and vibrant market discoveries to pristine ceviche and the extraordinary ingredients of the Andes, Peru reveals itself one unforgettable bite at a time. With her Cuban roots and signature fusion of Latin, Peruvian, and Asian influences, Chef Eileen Andrade brings a natural curiosity and exciting culinary perspective to the journey, making Peru the perfect playground for exploring flavors, traditions, and techniques that have shaped one of the world’s most celebrated culinary destinations.

From Lima to the Sacred Valley

Start your journey in Lima, where the coast brings a bounty of seafood, markets pulse with life, and every meal is a masterpiece. You’ll cook with local chefs, dine at one of the world’s top-rated restaurants, and explore the bohemian neighborhood of Barranco, filled with street art, soulful cafés, and stories waiting to be tasted.

From there, you’ll ascend into the Andes—Cusco, Chincheros, and the Sacred Valley—where ancestral techniques meet epic scenery. Here, you’ll enjoy meals cooked in the earth, learn about ancient farming practices, and discover the warmth of the Andean people through food, music, and tradition.

Machu Picchu & Moments You’ll Never Forget

No Peruvian adventure is complete without a visit to Machu Picchu—a wonder of the world and a place that leaves an imprint on the soul. Alongside immersive cultural stops and unforgettable meals, you’ll be surrounded by stunning landscapes, vibrant markets, and the magic that only Peru can offer.

Why This Trip is Truly Unique

This is not just a trip, it’s an edible adventure through one of the world’s most diverse and celebrated culinary landscapes, experienced alongside Chef Eileen Andrade, whose own cooking reflects a vibrant intersection of Cuban heritage, Peruvian flavors, Asian influences, and Miami culture. From Lima’s legendary markets and extraordinary seafood to the ancient ingredients and time-honored traditions of the Andes, you’ll discover Peru through Eileen’s curious and creative culinary perspective. Together with Chef Richard and The Gourmet Vacation’s signature blend of access, comfort, connection, and immersive experiences, this journey goes far beyond the plate, revealing the people, traditions, ingredients, and stories that make Peru one of the world’s truly remarkable culinary destinations.

Expect 4+ star accommodations, all breakfasts, and the equivalent of five thoughtfully curated lunches and dinners—each one memorable in its own way.

Whether you’re a devoted food lover, a seeker of stories, or simply someone who travels with their taste buds leading the way, this is a trip that will stay with you long after you return home.

Peru is calling—and your plate is waiting.

Important Note- 

The tour officially begins in Lima, Peru, on Sunday, July 4th. Still, we highly recommend that all guests plan to arrive no later than Saturday, July 3rd, to allow for any travel delays. To kick off the adventure, we have arranged for a special Meet & Greet on Saturday evening, a perfect opportunity to connect with Chef Eileen, Chef Richard, and your fellow guests as we set the stage for this extraordinary culinary journey.

Pre-Tour-Sat, July 3rd

Lima’s Culinary Prelude: A Flavorful Start to From Lima to the Andes: A Gourmet Vacation in Peru with Chef Eileen Andrade

Let the Flavorful Adventure Begin — Welcome to Lima!

Bienvenidos a Lima, the beating heart of South America’s culinary world and the perfect place to launch our unforgettable journey through Peru. A city where tradition meets innovation and every bite tells a story, Lima is a delicious melting pot of cultures, flavors, and coastal charm—and we’re diving right in.

Our adventure kicks off at Cala Beach Club, a stunning seaside gem perched along Lima’s sparkling Pacific coastline. As the sun sets in spectacular color, you’ll sip perfectly crafted cocktails and savor inventive bites that highlight Peru’s rich culinary heritage with a modern twist. It’s not just dinner—it’s an experience that sets the tone for what’s to come.

With the sound of waves in the background and a sea breeze in the air, you’ll meet Chef Eileen Andrade, Chef Richard Gruica, and your fellow flavor-seekers for the first time. This magical evening will mark the beginning of our immersive journey—full of taste, culture, connection, and joy.

Get ready to indulge, connect, and step into the opening chapter of an adventure Peru has been waiting to share with you.

Your Stay: A 5-Star Luxury Hotel In Miraflores, the prime spot to stay while in Lima.

A Quick Note on Arrival-

The tour officially begins on Sunday, July 4th, but we recommend arriving in Lima by Saturday, July 3rd to account for any travel delays and settle in. Plus, don’t miss our Friday evening Meet & Greet—an intimate gathering where you’ll connect with Chef Eileen, Chef Richard, and your fellow travelers to toast the journey ahead.

Your Lima Home Base: A Luxury 5-Star Hotel in Miraflores

Day 1 – Sunday, July 4th

Layers of Lima: A Flavor-Packed Kickoff with Chef Eileen & Chef Richard

Welcome to Lima, South America’s undisputed culinary capital—where cultures collide on the plate and every moment is infused with flavor. With Chef Eileen and Chef Richard leading the way, we’re diving fork-first into a city where Chinese, Spanish, Indigenous, and Japanese influences blend into something bold, beautiful, and uniquely Peruvian.

Morning Magic: Market Finds & Chupe Bliss

After a morning pickup from the hotel, we'll dive straight into the vibrant heart of Lima with a visit to one of the city's bustling farmers' markets, a sensory playground where jewel-toned produce, fragrant spices, and the energy of daily life come together in a celebration of Peruvian culture. As we wander the stalls, you'll sample an incredible array of exotic tropical fruits and products from all over Peru. Learn about these items first-hand.

The true highlight, however, is a bowl of the market's famed Chupe de Mariscos, lovingly prepared by Claudia, who has been perfecting her celebrated seafood soup for more than 40 years. Rich with the flavors of the Pacific and brimming with tender shellfish, each spoonful tells a story of tradition, patience, and culinary mastery. Warm, comforting, and deeply connected to the soul of Peru, it's the kind of dish that captures the essence of Lima in a single unforgettable bite.

Where China Meets Peru: The Delicious World of Chifa

Then it's time to experience one of Peru's most beloved culinary traditions: Chifa, the extraordinary fusion of Chinese and Peruvian cuisine that has become woven into the fabric of everyday life in Lima. If Italian restaurants are a staple in nearly every American neighborhood, Chifa’s occupy that same cherished place in Peru. They're everywhere. From humble corner eateries to bustling family institutions, nearly every neighborhood has its favorite, and locals passionately debate which one reigns supreme.

Even more fitting, we'll be visiting on a Sunday, the traditional day when Peruvian families gather around large tables for a leisurely Chifa feast. It's a ritual as familiar as Sunday pasta in an Italian-American household. We will visit one of Lima's most beloved Chifa’s where we'll enjoy dishes celebrating this remarkable culinary crossroads, where Chinese techniques and Peruvian ingredients come together in delicious harmony. Expect sizzling wok-fired rice, vibrant stir-fries, savory roasts, and deeply flavorful sauces packed with irresistible umami. It's lively, comforting, endlessly delicious, and an essential part of understanding the soul of Lima's food culture.

Pisco, Art & Free Time in Barranco

After our indulgent Chifa feast, we’ll head to Barranco, Lima’s colorful, bohemian heart, where historic architecture, street art, music, cafés, boutiques, and nightlife come together in one of the city’s most captivating neighborhoods.

Our first stop will be the iconic Ayahuasca, set inside a beautifully restored historic mansion and one of Barranco’s most atmospheric gathering places. Here, we’ll dive into Peru’s national spirit with a special pisco demonstration at the bar, learning more about this uniquely Peruvian spirit, its different characteristics, and how it becomes the foundation for some of the country’s most celebrated cocktails.

Naturally, a lesson this delicious requires a little participation! We’ll enjoy a pisco-centric cocktail together, raising a glass to our first taste of Lima’s spirited side.

Afterward, the rest of Barranco is yours to discover. Stay at Ayahuasca and explore another cocktail or two, or head out on foot to wander the neighborhood at your own pace. Discover colorful murals, browse local shops and galleries, stroll past historic mansions, find a hidden café, or simply soak up the creative energy of this wonderfully eclectic corner of Lima.

Smoke, Sizzle & Soul: Peru’s Pollo a la Brasa

We’ll regroup later a bit later and head out for another quintessential Peruvian experience: Pollo a la Brasa. Forget fancy tonight. We’re going local for one of Peru’s most beloved comfort foods, gathering around the table for beautifully roasted chicken with all the traditional accompaniments.

As the sun begins its descent, we gather for a relaxed and deeply local finale: Peru’s beloved Pollo a la Brasa at one of Lima’s most beloved spots for this delicacy, Hacienda MonteRico. This is an urban oasis- think crackling skin, smoky spice, and juicy perfection, served in a rustic setting that turns comfort food into a celebration. It’s the kind of meal that lingers long after the last bite, closing the day with warmth, laughter, and the unmistakable flavor of Peru.

From Chifa to pisco to Pollo a la Brasa, today is all about experiencing the flavors Lima loves.

Your Lima Home Base: A Luxury 5-Star Hotel in Miraflores

Day 2 – Monday, July 5th

Catch, Craft, and Ceviche

Get ready for a seafood-forward journey. We begin at Chorrillos, Lima’s energetic fish port, where the morning catch arrives still glistening from the Pacific. Fishermen call out their haul, stalls overflow with every imaginable treasure from the sea, and you’ll wander through the market experiencing the rhythm of coastal life itself, surrounded by salt air and the raw beauty of Peru’s ocean pantry.

From there, we head into San Isidro for a hands-on ceviche and pisco sour masterclass, where you’ll slice, mix, and shake your way through Peru’s most iconic flavors under expert guidance. Fresh fish becomes bright, citrus-cured ceviche right before your eyes, while the country’s signature cocktail comes to life in your glass, frothy, cold, and dangerously refreshing. After lunch, the afternoon is yours to drift through Lima at your own pace, whether that means exploring Miraflores’ oceanfront cliffs, discovering a tucked-away café, or simply easing into the city’s coastal rhythm.

🌅🐟 OPTIONAL EARLY-MORNING ADVENTURE: BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE FISH MARKET

For those willing to trade a little sleep for a truly unique experience, we’re offering an optional early-morning visit to the commercial fishing market and terminal.

We’ll depart the hotel at the very early hour of 4:00 AM and head straight to where the day’s catch comes to life. This is the working side of the seafood industry, where larger-scale fishermen and producers bring in their fresh catch to be sorted, sold, and distributed to restaurants, markets, and businesses.

It’s early, it’s busy, and it’s definitely not your typical tourist stop. That’s exactly why we’re going!

After getting a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the local fishing industry, we’ll return to the hotel, grab some breakfast and perhaps another cup of coffee ☕, and then rejoin the rest of the group for our regularly scheduled day.

Your Lima Home Base: A Luxury 5-Star Hotel in Miraflores

Day 3– Tuesday, July 6th

High Altitude Flavors & Andean Magic: From Lima to the Sacred Valley

Ease into the day with a slow morning, soaking up the last sips of the sea breeze in Lima before we trade the coast for clouds and fly into the jaw-dropping Andes.

After arriving in Cusco, we'll leave the city behind and begin our journey into the breathtaking Sacred Valley, following the winding roads that trace the heart of the ancient Inca world. Along the way, we'll make a much-needed stop in Urubamba for a wonderful meal, relaxation, and a chance to settle into the slower rhythm of the Andes.

Our destination is Tierra Cocina Artesanal, one of the Sacred Valley's most celebrated dining spots, where we'll be welcomed by Chef Rely, a longtime friend of Chef Richard's. Chef Rely is not only a talented chef but also a cattle farmer, bringing a unique farm-to-table perspective to his cuisine. His restaurant is a reflection of the valley itself, showcasing traditional Peruvian flavors, locally sourced ingredients, and artisanal cooking techniques that honor the region's rich culinary heritage. It's the perfect introduction to the flavors, culture, and warm hospitality that await us throughout our time in Peru.

Getting Settled in the Sacred Valley

Following our incredible farm-to-table dinner with Chef Rely Lazo, we'll arrive at our home for the next two nights: Casa Eva Hotel Boutique in Urubamba.

Nestled among the majestic peaks of the Andes, Casa Eva Hotel Boutique is an intimate boutique retreat where contemporary comfort blends beautifully with the rich traditions of the Sacred Valley. Surrounded by tranquil gardens and stunning mountain views, it provides the perfect setting to relax and recharge after a day of exploration. Thoughtfully designed with handcrafted Andean textiles, local artwork, and warm natural finishes, the hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the spirit of Peru. Guests can unwind by the outdoor pool, indulge in the spa's Andean-inspired wellness treatments, or enjoy exceptional cuisine at Eva Restaurant, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients celebrate the flavors of the Sacred Valley.

Upon arrival, settle in with a traditional cup of coca tea, Peru's time-honored remedy for acclimating to the altitude, then take time to relax and embrace the peaceful rhythm of the Andes. As the evening light casts a glow across the surrounding mountains, you'll quickly understand why Hotel Casa Eva serves as the perfect gateway to the magic, culture, and beauty of the Sacred Valley.

Stay in Comfort: Casa Eva Hotel Boutique | Sacred Valley

Nestled in the heart of Peru's beautiful Sacred Valley, Casa Eva Hotel Boutique is a wonderful new boutique hotel that combines modern comfort with warm Andean hospitality. Surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, it's the perfect place to relax and recharge before exploring Machu Picchu. With elegant accommodations, peaceful gardens, an inviting spa, and exceptional local cuisine, Casa Eva offers an authentic and memorable stay in one of Peru's most breathtaking regions.

Day 4 – Wednesday, July 7th

Machu Picchu Magic: Mystical Heights & Majestic Views

Today is one of those rare, unforgettable moments, the kind that stays with you long after the trip is over. We’re making our way to Machu Picchu, the legendary Incan citadel that sits high in the Andes, wrapped in mist and mystery.

Our day begins with a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, where the landscape unfolds in layers of green hills, centuries-old villages, and dramatic peaks. From the historic town of Ollantaytambo, we board the iconic train to Machu Picchu. As we glide alongside the rushing Urubamba River, through towering canyons and lush cloud forests, each view is more breathtaking than the last.

We’ll arrive in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, and continue our journey with a short ride up the mountain to the ancient site. But before we explore, we’ll pause for a beautiful lunch at Sanctuary Lodge, where an elegant buffet awaits just steps from the ruins—offering nourishment and stunning views.

Then, with our expert guide leading the way, we step into the past. You’ll walk through stone pathways and terraced slopes as the story of Machu Picchu comes alive—its masterful architecture, sacred geometry, and the legacy of a civilization that continues to inspire awe.

From panoramic mountaintop views to moments of quiet reflection among ancient stones, this experience will move you in ways both unexpected and profound.

After our visit, we return to Aguas Calientes for a comfortable train ride back, with time to relax and take it all in. Back at Casa Eva Hotel Boutique, unwind, raise a toast, and reflect on a day that truly captures the soul of Peru.

Stay in Comfort: Casa Eva Hotel Boutique | Sacred Valley

Important Machu Picchu Booking Information

Because Machu Picchu limits the number of visitors allowed each day, advance planning is extremely important. Entrance tickets are also issued for specific circuits and routes, and our goal is to secure the best available route for our entire Gourmet Vacation group so everyone can experience Machu Picchu together and enjoy this extraordinary site to its fullest.

For this reason, we strongly encourage guests to book the trip as early as possible. Once you reserve your place, we will need a clear copy of your passport as soon as possible, as your passport information is required to purchase your Machu Picchu entrance ticket.

Popular dates and preferred circuits can sell out well in advance. Waiting too long could mean that the ideal route is no longer available, that you may be assigned a different circuit from the rest of our group, or, in the worst case, that entrance tickets are sold out entirely.

The earlier we receive your reservation and passport information, the better our chances of securing the experience we want for everyone.

Machu Picchu will be one of the true highlights of our journey through Peru, and we want to make sure you experience it in the best possible way. When it comes to Machu Picchu, timing truly matters, so please don’t wait!

Day 5: Thursday, July 8th

Spuds, Spirits & Sacred Fires: Peru’s Culinary Soul Uncovered

Today, we dive headfirst into the vibrant heart of Peru—where culture, cuisine, and color collide in the most magical way.

First up: 🧂 Maras Salt Mines

We will explore the spectacular Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of mountainside salt pools have been harvested by local families for generations. We’ll discover the traditional harvesting process and learn why this mineral-rich salt has become a prized ingredient in Peruvian cuisine.

🌱 Moray Agricultural Terraces

We will visit Moray, where dramatic circular terraces create distinct microclimates for growing and experimenting with crops. This ancient agricultural site offers a fascinating look at the ingenuity, biodiversity, and farming traditions behind Peru’s extraordinary culinary heritage.

From here, we continue through the Sacred Valley toward Chinchero,  where it is time to tap into the rich traditions of Andean textile weaving. We’ll meet master artisans who take soft-as-a-cloud alpaca wool and transform it into dazzling, handwoven works of art. This is not just a craft; it’s a story told through color, texture, and centuries of ancestral skill.

We will then gather by a breathtaking lake for a Pachamanca feast—a traditional underground cookout that’s pure culinary theatre. You’ll join in the prep, help bury the meats and veggies under hot stones, and then feast on the smoky, herb-infused goodness with live Andean music floating through the mountain air. It’s rustic. It’s real. And it’s ridiculously delicious.

Speaking of delicious, we are off for desert. Hidden among the Cobblestone Streets is a tiny bakery called D’llaqta Cafe—discovered by none other than Chef Richard—where buttery, golden pastries come fresh from the oven, begging to be paired with a steaming cup of rich Andean coffee. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds.

Our last stop today is to the one and only Manuel Choqque, Peru’s legendary Potato Whisperer. This isn’t your average farm visit—Manuel is a visionary who’s dedicated his life to preserving more than 4,000 jaw-droppingly colorful heirloom potatoes. We’re talking spuds in every shade of the rainbow! You’ll get hands-on with tubers you didn’t know existed—and yes, even try potato wine. Skeptical? Don’t be. One sip and you’ll believe in root-to-glass magic.

We’ll arrive in Cusco just in time to settle into the Casa Andina Premium Cusco, a colonial sanctuary nestled in the historic heart of the city. Enjoy the evening at your own pace; it's yours—grab a pisco, hunt for artisan treasures, or simply take in the magic of the Andean sky. You’ve earned it.

Stay in Luxury: The 5-Star Casa Andina Premium Cusco

The Casa Andina Premium Cusco beautifully captures the spirit of the city, blending colonial elegance with warm Peruvian hospitality in the heart of historic Cusco. Housed within a former colonial mansion built around a tranquil stone courtyard, the hotel offers a refined yet authentic atmosphere, where centuries of history meet modern comfort. Ideally located just a short stroll from the Plaza de Armas, artisan shops, museums, and Incan landmarks, it serves as the perfect base for exploring the cultural treasures of the former capital of the Inca Empire. With spacious accommodations, attentive service, and an inviting ambiance that reflects the rich heritage of the Andes, Casa Andina Premium Cusco provides a welcoming and memorable introduction to one of South America's most captivating destinations.

Day 6: Friday, July 9th

Sacred Sips & Stony Marvels: A Day of Corn, Culture & Caffeine

Get ready for a flavorful day packed with history, heritage, and a healthy dose of high-altitude coffee. We're diving into the Sacred Valley's rich tapestry—where every stop tells a story, and every bite (or sip) brings you closer to the soul of Peru.

We start at the Museo Inkariy, a visually stunning, one-of-a-kind museum where Peru’s ancient civilizations are brought vividly to life. You’ll walk among life-sized dioramas that transport you into the worlds of the Inca, Nazca, Mochica, and Chavín—each scene revealing the ingenuity, art, and rituals that laid the foundation for modern-day Peru.

Next, we shift gears—and brew strength—at Pisonay Coffee Roasters, a charming local roastery putting Peruvian coffee on the world stage. We’ll tour the space, learn how high-elevation beans are transformed into rich, aromatic perfection, and enjoy a curated tasting of bold, complex, fair-trade blends. It’s the kind of coffee experience that might just convert even the most casual sippers into connoisseurs.

Fully caffeinated, we roll into the fields of Hacienda Sarapampa, home of Peru’s prized giant white corn—choclo. This family-run farm is where tradition meets flavor. You’ll learn how this iconic crop is cultivated and celebrated, then sit down to a farm-to-table lunch where choclo takes center stage in dishes both rustic and refined.

But we’re not done just yet.

On our way back to Cusco, we’ll pause at the jaw-dropping Saqsaywaman ruins—massive stone walls that have stood the test of time and overlook the city with commanding presence. Whether you’re marveling at the stonework or soaking in the sweeping views, it’s a powerful reminder of Incan ingenuity.

Day 7: Saturday, July 10th

Back to Lima: And Our Grand Finale

As our Andean adventure winds down, we take to the skies once more—boarding a short flight from Cusco back to the coastal capital where this flavorful journey first began. Lima awaits, ready to welcome us for one final, unforgettable night.

Once we land, we’ll head back to the comfort of our 5-Star hotel in Miraflores, giving you time to relax, freshen up, and maybe take one last oceanfront stroll.

The Nikkei Experience: Where Japan Meets Peru

For our grand finale, we’ll gather for a truly special evening we’re calling The Nikkei Experience, an intimate culinary demonstration, tasting, and dinner created exclusively for our Gourmet Vacation guests by one of Peru’s top Nikkei chefs.

Nikkei cuisine tells one of the most fascinating stories in Peruvian gastronomy. Beginning with Japanese immigration to Peru in the late 19th century, generations of Japanese Peruvians began combining the techniques and culinary sensibilities of Japan with the extraordinary ingredients they discovered in their new home. Peru’s abundant Pacific seafood, native chiles, citrus, potatoes, corn, and tropical ingredients met Japanese traditions of precision, simplicity, umami, and respect for pristine ingredients. Over time, something entirely new emerged: Nikkei cuisine, a culinary identity that is neither simply Japanese nor Peruvian, but distinctly and beautifully both.

Tonight, we won’t simply taste Nikkei cuisine. We’ll get inside the kitchen and discover the story behind it. Through a private demonstration and tasting, our chef will introduce us to the ingredients, techniques, cultural influences, and creative evolution that have made Nikkei one of Peru’s most exciting contributions to contemporary global cuisine.

It’s also a fitting way to bring our culinary journey full circle. We began by discovering the profound Chinese influence of Chifa, traveled into the Andes to experience ingredients and cooking traditions with roots stretching back centuries, and now conclude with the Japanese influence of Nikkei. Together, these traditions reveal something essential about Peru: its cuisine is a living conversation between Indigenous heritage, immigration, geography, history, and extraordinary biodiversity.

As our final dishes arrive, we’ll raise our glasses with Chef Eileen and Chef Richard and toast to a week of bold flavors, remarkable people, breathtaking landscapes, and friendships forged around the table.

One last extraordinary meal. One final story told through food. And the perfect conclusion to our journey from Lima to the Andes and back again.

Your Lima Home Base: A Luxury 5-Star Hotel in Miraflores

Day 8: Sunday, July 11th

Fond Farewell

Based on their flight schedules, guests will enjoy a Private Transfer to the Lima Airport—our heartfelt gratitude for joining Chef Eileen and Chef Richard on this remarkable culinary journey through Peru.