The Galapagos Islands

A Must See Destination 

Why must you visit the Galapagos Islands? 

Besides the fact that Charles Darwin created his fundamental work, "The Theory of Evolution" from the influence
of his first observations of the amazing islands and people matching the wildlife experience on Galapagos
similar to the likes of Africa, these unbelievable Islands present the most amazing wildlife experience in South America.
Here's 5 reasons why you must book this life-changing, unremarkable wildlife adventure with us.

#1 WHITE SANDY BEACHES

Thinking you’ll get the time to enjoy the amazing beaches of all the Galapagos Islands isn’t likely but getting to roam
around the clear water and white soft beach enjoying the wildlife makes the experience that much more beautiful. 

#2 WILDLIFE

Imagine being able to visit wildlife of all types such as sea lions, birds, crabs, tortoises and many more in their natural
habitat with no fear of your human presence as you are trusted and able to interact with all these amazing creatures. 

This along with the abundance of wildlife makes the experience on the Galapagos Islands better than any wildlife
adventure around the world.

#3 SNORKELING AND DIVING

With most of the year delivering warm waters and smooth tides, snorkeling and diving with sea lions, manta rays
and many different species of fish give this trip nothing short of perfection. With the ability to greet the underwater
wildlife in their natural habitat feels almost as if they are inviting you into their home as they playful swim with you
while you explore.  

What better way to interact with these beautiful creatures? 

#4 ISLAND HIKES

Learning about the wildlife and the process of evolution on the Islands with short informational hikes as your tour guide
shows you around barren volcanoes makes this unbelievable experience turn into the greatest classroom lesson of your life. 

#5 LEARNING THE HISTORY

Learning about the history of the impressive Galapagos Islands from the man who discovered the beautiful lands to
the effect of Charles Darwin studies is more than necessary but important. This place is home to the fundamental
works of Charles Darwin “Theory of Evolution”, and has been classified as a Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO for
it’s precious and delicate ecosystems. Traveling here will be the most creative and interesting science lesson of your life. 

Don't miss your opportunity at experiencing the vacation of a lifetime with us. Choose the Galapagos
Adventure you would like

Inca trail to Galapagos Islands

Peru to Galapagos Islands 

Christmas in Peru

Christmas in Peru

Experiencing Christmas in another country can be pretty interesting from different cultures to different dates of the Christmas story. Peru has to have the most unique way of celebrating this holiday season.

Santurantikuy in Cusco

The Santurantikuy Christmas Fair in Cusco is one example. The most cultural city filled with myths, legends and Inca Pride host one of the biggest fairs of the year lasting all day and night of December 24th. The "Sale of Saints" fair is perfect filled with all artisans and famous artist to display all types of works, food, drinks, pottery and more.

Artisans

There are several activities: choral presentations, balconies monumental arrangement, reinforced center births in homes, churches and public and private institutions.

La Buena Noche

La Buena Noche

December 24^th is La Noche Buena, or “Good Night,” and the main day for Christmas celebrations.  In the evening, usually after mass, families go home to feast on elaborately prepared dinners and open gifts.  At midnight, adults will toast with champagne, while children toast with hot chocolate, and families go outside to watch fireworks displays. 

More Interesting Facts

• In 1972, the Peruvian government banned Santa Claus from the country’s radio and TV programs, alleging that he was a depiction of western capitalism, greed, and an anti-Christian myth.
• In the Andean regions of Peru, families exchange gifts on January 6^th after celebrating the arrival of the Three Wise Men for the holiday Epiphany.
• Peruvians enjoy drinking hot chocolate around the holidays.  It is usually made from scratch with melted dark chocolate and includes cinnamon and cloves. link

Interested in spending a holiday with us? All you have to do is ask here.

Peru - The richest food in the world.

Peru - The richest food in the world.

If you have been on one of our amazing tours through Cusco, you have gotten the chance to taste some of Peru's award winning recipes that our Chef prepares as you hike through Cusco.

But After winning it's 7th straight “Best Culinary Destination In The World” at the World Travel Awards gala held in Portugal. We wanted to celebrate with our favorites and the best dishes in Peru.

Ceviche

This amazing dish is by far my favorite in Peru. The richness of flavors, the mixture of the different ingredients and the unbelievable taste of leche de tigre, tiger's milk makes this dish incredible.

Quinoa Soup

Cusco's pivotal Quinoa Soup, is a rich herbal breakfast like soup that is very smooth and can be added with fruit to deliver an unusual quick and relaxing warm meal on the go. It is a very light and delicious soup, recommended for cold seasons.

Aji de Gallina (Creamy Chicken)

My go to Peruvian dish is Aji de Gallina. This shredded chicken bathes in a thick sauce made with cream, ground walnuts, cheese, and aji amarillo is unremarkable. While you are eating you will taste Peru's love of sauces mixed with chilies, cheese, cream, or bread. There's nothing like it.

Rocoto Relleno (Stuffed Spicy Peppers)

Seeing the stuffed pepper you would assume this meal would be very hot. But surprisingly the Peruvians mix so many amazing sweet, creamy flavors hiding inside it perfectly compliments the kick from the spicy pepper. This dish is for sure a must try when visiting.

Arroz con Pato (Rice With Duck)

One of the most known and popular dishes in Peru behind Ceviche, Arroz con Pato will be a common favorite among travelers. From the rice, seared duck and mixture of flavors, this meal will not disappoint your taste buds one bit.

To finish off the list of amazing food these next two are the most important in Cusco.

Famous Corn and Cheese

To say two of the most plentiful things in Peru is Corn and Cheese wouldn't be far from the truth. This starter is the easiest, most sought out and cheapest snack in Peru. In the Sacred Valley (Valle Sagrado) located in Urubamba, has the sweetest corn mixed with the savory of Peruvian cheese is a must try. It'll be disrespectful if you didn't.

The famous meal of Cusco

Cuy (Guinea Pig)

Yes, I know. Your daughter probably loves Guinea Pigs but so does Peru. This is a is one of the most emblematic dishes of Peruvians, especially in Cusco. After thoroughly cleaned it is boiled and seasoned with all spices before cooked. This typical meal can be served with rice, potatoes, salad and fried cassava. Do not come to Cusco without sampling a taste of their favorite meal.

Out of all the meals we have listed above what was your favorite? Which would you like to try?

Book your tastebuds a trip with us. Click here

Why Traveling is more than healthy

Traveling 

 A healthy way to live

 Life today can become very stressful as we have more priorities, more things we are involved in and more aware of all the information out in the world that it´s sometimes hard to get away for a while. Whether we are too busy or believe traveling somewhere it´s worth the hassle.

It´s actually been scientific proven that traveling is healthy for us. 

And we should at least travel “Ideally, you should take at least two longer trips per year, in addition to a few other smaller trips. The total amount that you should spend on vacation is 30-45 days per year. .”

Here´s 7 Scientific reasons traveling makes you healthier:

1. Traveling exposes your body to different environments to boost immune system and antibodies.

2. Travel lowers stress levels.

3. Travel improves your brain health.

4. Travel will lower your risk of heart disease.

5. Travel keeps you fit.

6. There are a lot of places on Earth that have healing properties.

7. Travelers have a longer lifespan than non-travelers.

Traveling can really make a difference in your life not just physically but mentally as well. To take a step towards bettering your mental and physical health plan your next vacation with us here. 

Planning a trip to Machu Picchu? Choosing Valencia is the Only Option

Planning a trip to Machu Picchu
You won´t regret our 5-Star Rated Travel Agency

    Heres 3 Reasons Why:

Reason #1 Save yourself TIME, HASSLE AND PEACE

I have traveled to Machu Picchu not using a travel agency thinking I could save money but I never counted the cost of what I would be spending. Realizing all the prices are already highly inflated for tourists, I found myself jumping from place to place looking for the best deal as many tours try to get you to spend top dollar for basic services. I spent more time hassling about price than touring Cusco. 

Valencia Travel Cusco not only offers you amazing deals but their service is ONE OF A KIND. From their amazing Chefs to amazing tour guides and you save hours of hassling for the best service and food while touring the amazing country of Peru. 

Reason #2 The Unexpected 

Traveling to a different country, you become shocked to see the processes and customs. I didn´t expect it to be like America or other countries but I was shocked to see the complications and problems they have because of their processes. Without a travel agency, you are left to deal with all these problems and complications alone with no help or no information on how to bypass them. 

Valencia Travel Cusco is unbelievable locals and experienced tour company that 2,190 travelers rave about their process and step by step help on Tripadvisor. To have a company like this help you through your travels the entire time you are in their country is a blessing and you won´t regret it.

Reason #3  Their plans vs Yours won´t compare 

When traveling to a different country, we all sort of build a Bucket-list of things we want to do and accomplish while we are there. Most of the times we do not get to accomplish everything because we find other things while visiting that we want to do as well. It sometimes becomes difficult to see everything. 

With Valencia Travel Cusco, they not only learn about all of the things you want to see but they add the local honey holes and gems that only the people from Peru know to exist. So you not only get to see everything you want to see but the things you are forever thankful you got a chance to witness. 

Traveling to a different country can be time-consuming, complicating and a big hassle planning step by step plans and avoiding all the complications but choosing Valencia Travel Cusco will be the smartest decision by far. They will amaze you not only with their professionalism but their service, amazing individuals and unbelievable attention. 

Choose the best when traveling to Peru.

Choose us as your next adventure. Visit our tours HERE.

Wayna Picchu

So you are all booked up to head to Machu Picchu and are thinking about also purchasing a ticket to hike up the neighboring mountain of Wayna Picchu. By no means is hiking Wayna Picchu an easy feat, however the stunning views over the citadel of Machu Picchu are absolutely worth it, and for many people, a highlight of their trip to Machu Picchu.

How long does it take?

It takes around 1.5 hours to ascend and another 45 mins - 1 hour to descend.

INC (Peru's National Cultural Insitute) restrictions:

To prevent the deterioration of the mountain paths and the citadel, the INC implemented a restriction on the amount of people that can climb Wayna Picchu to 400 people each day. They also restricted the times someone can climb the mountain to 2 groups: a morning group, between the times of 7-8 am and the second from from 10 am-11 am. This means that the first group need to have reached the bottom of the mountain again by 10 am and the second group have to have returned by 1 pm, though as many people like to take their time and enjoy the stunning views at the top, this is rule is seldom abided by. Only 200 people are allowed to climb during each time slot. Children under the age of 12 are not permitted to climb Wayna Picchu.

Should I climb in the first or second time slot?

Ascending in the morning slot means that there are no tourists descending as you are climbing up and the top of Wayna Picchu will be significantly quieter as well. However, as the non-trekkers arrive on the train at 11 am, you will end up exploring the ruins of Machu Picchu at peak time and have to contend with the mass crowds. If you choose to climb in the afternoon, you have the quieter morning period to explore Machu Picchu, though as you are climbing Wayna Picchu, there will be people coming back down. Most people however, would recommend climbing in the afternoon, as it reduces the chances of there being fog obstructing the views and once you have descended the mountain, most people in the citadel will have departed to grab some lunch.

When should I purchase my ticket for Wayna Picchu?

Wayna Picchu is an extremely popular addition to Machu Picchu. Therefore, it is best to get your ticket at least 2-3 months before the climb (closer to 3 months in high season). Particularly in low season, it may be possible to acquire a ticket closer to your travel date than this, however it can never be guaranteed that there will be tickets available for the date that you wish to go.

What if I don't get a ticket?

It is not possible to purchase a ticket for Wayna Picchu at Machu Picchu. It must be done in advance. Even trying to purchase a ticket in advance cannot guarantee that it will not already be sold out. But don't panic! There are some alternatives that you could take a look at. 

Machu Picchu Mountain

Like Wayna Picchu, this mountain requires a permit that you can buy as an add on with your original ticket. The mountain lies opposite Wayna Picchu on the other side of the citadel. The views are equally as spectacular and because it is lesser known, there is a much smaller crowd to contend with. It takes around 2 hours to reach the summit and another hour to descend. Permits for this mountain are from 7 am-11 am. Though some people say that the best time to climb is late morning as you have the morning to explore the citadel before the  crowds arrive and still have time to climb the mountain before the site closes for the night.

Putukusi Mountain

For those spending a couple of days in Aguas Calientes, you can climb the Putukusi Mountain. However, this is no easy task and is significantly harder than the other two treks. The ladder sections of the trek can be incredibly daunting therefore this trail is only suggested for those experienced trekkers looking for a bit of adventure. To get to Putukusi Mountain, you follow the train tracks from Aguas Calientes towards Machu Picchu until you see a sign that guides you towards the trail. It takes around 2 hours to climb and around the same time to get back down due to the dangerous steps and ladders. No permit is required for this trek, and despite the amazing views at the summit, this trail is generally deserted or extremely quiet. It is not recommended for those who do not have a good level of fitness and/or are afraid of heights.

Inti Punku (The Sun Gate)

For those who are visiting Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail, this is one of the first sites you will see. Many people coming to Machu Picchu via alternate routes or by train, backtrack  down the Inca Trail from the citadel to be at The Sun Gate to watch the sun rise. The hike takes about 1 hour each way, though the hike from the citadel to Inti Punku is a tough uphill hike and can be a little challenging. You do not need an additional permit to hike to The Sun Gate as it is included in your entry ticket to Machu Picchu.

So if you are planning your trip to the World Wonder of Machu Picchu, why not add one of these extra adventures to your itinerary?

Is the Sacred Valley worth visiting?

The Sacred Valley is home to many beautiful towns and villages, surrounded by stunning mountains and some of the most impressive scenery you will ever see. Despite drawing in quite a few tourists, compared to the bustling city of Cusco, much of the Sacred Valley has a feeling of serenity about it. It would be a shame to travel all the way to Cusco without experiencing at least a little bit of the Valley.

We offer an optional full day tour to the Sacred Valley which allows you to see many of the highlights accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who can inform you of the history of each place you visit. You are collected from your accommodation at 8:30am and are taken to various towns and traditional markets throughout the Valley.

Pisac

The first stop on the tour is the town of Pisac. It is a lovely community with a huge market in its core.  You will spend around 30 minutes in this town where you will have the opportunity to buy the perfect souvenirs for your loved ones. Pisac is not only famous for its markets, but it is surrounded by many Incan ruins with a rich history as many people believe that Pisac used to defend the southern entrance to the Sacred Valley. So after a spot of shopping, you head up to the ruins for a guided tour of the citadel for a total of 90 minutes.

Urubamba

After an exciting morning in Pisac, the tour continues to the larger town of Urubamba where you will stop for 45 minutes for lunch. The largest town in the Sacred Valley is located under the snow-capped mountain of Ch'iqun. It is home to some great restaurants and cafes (try the coffee!). 

Ollantaytambo

Surrounded by mountains, in Ollantaytambo, you will be exposed to even more Incan constructions as well as seeing the traditional dress of the local people. You will get to explore the town for around an hour with the guide giving interesting information on the sights that you encounter. 

Chinchero

On the way back to Cusco, the group will stop by the town of Chinchero, where there is another traditional market with handmade products as well as a number of stunning architecture. Here you will have a 30 minute visit to the famous church and archaeological site before heading back to Cusco for around 7pm. 

The Sacred Valley is a must-see for those who visit Cusco, with skillfully built architecture and quaint towns and villages under towering mountains. So why not join us on our day tour? Don't miss out on these unbelievable sights! 

Not sure when to visit Peru?

You want to visit Cusco and experience all the culture that this great city has to offer, but you're not sure exactly when you want to head on over. There are so many great celebrations that are a must in this wonderful country, so if you can make it over for one of them (my personal favourites are New Year, Carnaval, Corpus Christi and Inti Raymi - not to mention Christmas), it makes a great addition to your trip.

JANUARY

Peru's climate is formed by two seasons; the wet season and the dry season. This being said, weather varies greatly from region to region. In the highlands, January is the middle of the wet season while the coast enjoys its dry summer.

• AÑO NUEVO. (NEW YEAR): Partygoers wear yellow (including underwear) to ring in the New Year. Yellow is considered a lucky color.
• FIESTA DE LA MARINERA: This national dance festival held during the last week of January is especially popular in Trujillo. The marinera (sailor dance) is a synchronized choreographed dance between a man with a straw hat and a woman with a handkerchief. They seductively step around each other without ever touching.

FEBRUARY

In February, the Inca trail to Machu Picchu is closed for its annual clean up!

• VIRGEN DE LA CANDELARIA: This highland fiesta (February 2nd) is particularly colorful around Puno, where folkloric music and dance celebrations last for two weeks.
• CARNAVAL: Carnaval is held on the last few days before Lent (February/March), and is often celebrated with weeks of water fights, singing, dancing and parades. It is especially popular in the highlands.

MARCH

The Inca Trail is open once again, although the weather is still rainy.

• FIESTA DE LA VENDIMIA (Wine Festival): March is the perfect time to sample local piscos and wines in Ica. The festival is held in the second week of March when you are likely to see fairs with floats, musicians and beauty queens stomping grapes.

APRIL

Holy week is a major event, so book a hotel and transportation in advance.

• EMANA SANTA (Holy week): While Easter itself is a solemn event, the week prior to it is celebrated with almost daily spectacular religious processions all over Peru.

MAY

In May in the highlands, the rainy season is coming to an end.

• FESTIVAL OF THE CROSSES: This festival, held on May 3rd, is celebrated most intensely in Lima, Ica and Cusco. During the festivities, people carry crosses of various sizes in processions that lead to churches.
• QOYLLORITTI: A Christian pilgrimage with ancient overtones is held at the chilly foot of Ausangate, a mountain outside of Cusco, in May or June.

JUNE

It's the beginning of the dry season in the highlands, which naturally coincides with the peak of the tourist season and lasts until august. Reserve hotels and domestic air travel well in advance during this time.

• CORPUS CHRISTI: This celebration commemorates the holy Eucharist as the body of Christ. It is held on the ninth Thursday after Easter. The processions in Cusco are especially dramatic.
• INTI RAYMI (Festival of the Incas): Inti Raymi was the Inca sun god. This festival celebrates the winter solstice in his honor on June 24th. It´s the spectacle of the year in Cusco and attracts thousands of visitors.
• SAN PEDRO Y SAN PLABLO (Feasts of Saint Peter & Saint Paul): Peter and Paul are the patron saints of fishers and farmers, and they are honored with a procession to the sea. An image of Saint Peter is taken by a decorated boat to bless the waters for the fishing season.

JULY

The best time to see visit the amazon, as in this period it is drier than at almost other times of the year (although not necessarily dry).

• LA VIRGEN DEL CARMEN: This holiday (July 16th) is mainly celebrated in the southern Andes, and is particularly important in Pisac and Paucartambo. The virgin is the patron of mestizos (mixed people of indigenous and Spanish backgrounds).
• FIESTAS PATRIAS (National Independence Days): Independence from Spain is celebrated nationwide on July 28th and 29th. It is celebrated with festivities in the southern Andes beginning with the feast of St. James (known as Santiago) on July 25th. It is very difficult to find a seat on a bus or a plane during this time.

AUGUST

August is a popular time for travel in the highlands, so plan ahead.

• FEAST OF SANTA ROSA DE LIMA: Major processions are held on August 30th in Lima and Arequipa to honor the patron saint of Peru and of the Americas.

SEPTEMBER

Spring begins in the coastal regions.

• EL FESTIVAL INTERNACIONAL DE LA PRIMAVERA (International Spring Festival): Expect horse parades, dancing and cultural celebrations in Trujillo during the last week of September.
• MISTURA: Generally held in early September, this annual food festival in Lima gathers Peru´s top chefs, along with invited food connoisseurs from all the over the world for cooking demonstrations, talks and lots of sampling.

OCTOBER

The bullfighting season begins in October and lasts through to November.

• LA VIRGEN DEL ROSARIO: The patron saint of slaves is honored on October 4th in Lima, Arequipa and Cusco. You can expect processions, marinera dance competitions and los diablos (people dressed in native devil costumes) dancing in the streets.
• SEÑOR DE LOS MILAGROS (Lord Of The Miracles): In Lima, this is a huge religious procession honoring local Christi. The main day of the celebration is October 18th, but there are events throughout the month. In these events, everyone dresses in purple to seek blessings and miracles. There are lots of processions around the country during this time.

NOVEMBER

In November, summer begins along the pacific coast, and the fog known as garúa lifts. In the Andes and the Amazon, the intense part of the wet season begins.

• TODOS SANTOS (All Saint´s Day): This is the first part of a two-day holiday that begins on November 1st. Families go to mass and then head to the cemetery to spend time with departed loved ones.
• DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS. (All Souls' Day): The second part of the holiday is more festive. There are food gifts, drinks and flowers that are taken to family graves. Similar its Mexican counterpart.

DECEMBER

The wettest months continue through to March in the highlands, and until May in the eastern rainforest.

• FIESTA DE LA PURÍSIMA CONCEPCIÓN (Immaculate Conception): This national holiday (December 8th) is celebrated with processions in honor of the Virgin Mary.
• CHRISTMAS: Held on December 25th, Christmas is less secular and more religious, especially in the Andean Highlands. Keep an eye out for unique nativity scenes with regional holiday flourishes.