Community Experience

About the Tour

Step beyond the typical tourist route and join us for an authentic Andean village experience near Cusco, visiting the traditional community of Paru Paru in the Sacred Valley. This Sacred Valley cultural tour offers a rare opportunity to connect with local families who have preserved their traditions, agricultural knowledge, and way of life for generations. Whether you're passionate about indigenous knowledge, traditional agriculture, or simply seeking authentic connection, this experience offers a rare window into the heart of the Andean world—one that will leave you inspired, grounded, and profoundly enriched. Begin your journey with a 7:00 AM departure from Cusco, followed by a scenic drive into the mountains. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the Paru Paru community with traditional music and vibrant dress that reflects their cultural identity.  As part of this Andean cultural experience, guests are invited to wear traditional clothing as a gesture of hospitality and connection.  Afterwards there will be a sacred offering of coca leaves to the Apu, the revered mountain spirits of the Andes, inviting you to participate in a ritual that reflects the deep spiritual relationship between the community and their surrounding landscape. From there, immerse yourself in the ancestral knowledge of Andean medicinal plants, learning how native herbs have been used for healing in the mountains for centuries. During the next portion of the tour, you'll handle traditional farming tools and explore the astounding biodiversity of potatoes, as the community of Paru Paru is part of the remarkable Parque de la Papa (Potato Park), where thousands of native potato varieties are protected and cultivated.   The time-honored preservation techniques used for Chuño and Moray, staples of Andean cuisine, will be discussed. The experience also includes an introduction to quinoa and other essential crops, offering a deeper understanding of the community’s agricultural roots. After enjoying a locally-prepared lunch, you’ll step into the world of traditional Andean textiles. Learn how natural dyes are sourced from the environment, and witness the intricate techniques used to weave ponchos and garments. Guests will even get to try their hand at spinning llama wool into rope, guided by skilled artisans. The day concludes with a demonstration of adobe brick-making, revealing the sustainable and time-honored methods used to build traditional homes. There will be a relaxing drive back to Cusco, arriving in the late afternoon.

If there’s a particular cultural experience you're interested in, let us know in advance and we’ll do our best to arrange it for you.

This is a one day tour, but if you’d like to extend your visit in Paru Paru, we’re happy to help with additional arrangements. This Andean village experience in the Sacred Valley is designed as a one-day tour, but it can easily be extended. Guests may choose to combine the experience with a Kinsa Cocha hike or spend the night in Paru Paru as part of a traditional Andean homestay. For an even deeper cultural connection, consider visiting during seasonal celebrations such as Carnaval or during the traditional potato planting and harvest seasons, when agricultural traditions are most active.

What is Included in the Tour?

• Professional Bilingual Guide: Enjoy the company of a expert, knowledgeable guide, providing detailed explanations of the surrounding landscape and those who call it home. Your guide will be fluent in both Quechua, still primarily spoken in the Andean communities, and your chosen language.
• Comfortable Private Transportation: Travel in a modern, comfortable vehicle, ensuring a relaxing and efficient journey.
• Fees: All fees included, allowing you to focus on the experience without any additional costs.
• Delicious organic meals: 1 lunch prepared by the local people.
• Hotel Pickup and Drop-off: We provide convenient pickup and drop-off services from your hotel in Cusco, making your experience seamless.
• Personalized Experience: We cater to your specific interests and preferences, offering a flexible and adaptable tour experience.

What to Bring: