Peruvian culture takes its roots from both outside and internal influences. Most traditions in Peru are based on Amerindian and Spanish traditions, but other African, Asian, and European groups also have had an influence. Much of the art styles in Peru have their origins in times from before the Incans. Peruvian literature has roots in old oral traditions of pre-Colombian civilizations. Writing wasn’t used in Peru until the Spaniards introduced it in the sixteenth century.
 
Due to the diverse landscape and the wide range of plants and animals available, Peruvian food has a great variety in its ingredients. Cooking in Peru is influenced mainly by Amerindian and Spanish techniques, but Peruvians also have been influenced by the cuisine from many other ethnicities around the world:  French, Chinese, Indian, West African, Incan and Pre-Incan. As a result, Peruvian food is quite unique and vast in its scope of flavors.

Cultural Crossroads Tours of Peru at a Glance

• Gourmet Fusion in Peru
  

  For eleven days delve into the cultural heart of Peru via a hands-on exploration of its world-class gastronomy and rich cultural traditions. From Lima to the Sacred Valley, we meet organic farmers, cook with distinguished chefs, visit art collectors and spend time with local friends who invite us into their homes and their lives, offering us extraordinary access rarely granted to foreign visitors. Whether this is your first time to Peru or your fifth, the journey to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is compelling. An overnight stay below the site at one of South America’s most stunning eco-lodges allows us to savor our experience with time to reflect upon Machu Picchu’s visual grandeur, rich history and mysterious allure. An extension to Puerto Maldonado is recommended for those with an appetite to experience the brash, natural world of the Amazon. Our lodging is at the upscale, eco-friendly Reserva Amazonica. A twilight boat ride, a suspended canopy walk, a two-mile hike to Lake Sandoval, highly trained naturalist guides and great food make our jungle experience second to none. Fly to Arequipa to explore Peru’s “white city” with its stunning views of 19,000-foot volcano Misti, which towers over this pretty colonial town. From here, Colca Canyon is within easy reach. Witness the majesty of giant condors soaring on thermal currents and hike along ancient Inca routes between rural villages while nestled in rustic, charming lodging near the canyon.