QN Travel

20/02/2025

The 'QN' in our name stands for 'Qhapac Ñan,' the ancient Andean road network that still runs through the veins of western South America.
Our Executive Director, Nick Stanziano, shares his expertise and passion for preserving this heritage to foster economic development in the northern Peruvian Andes.

The Great Inca Trail, also known as the Great Inca Route or the Qhapac Nan, has the potential to rival the one of the most iconic hiking paths in the world, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Article in English, written by Nick Stanziano, QN Travel Peru Director

14/02/2025

The journey to Machu Picchu isn’t just about reaching the destination – it's about the experience along the way. Boarding the train at Ollantaytambo station is like stepping into a storybook adventure, where the Andean landscape unfolds in a breathtaking symphony of lush valleys, cascading rivers and towering peaks. 🌿🏞️
Whether you're sitting in a cozy panoramic carriage or enjoying the fresh mountain air on an open-air terrace, the journey to Aguas Calientes (the gateway to Machu Picchu) is an exciting ride in itself.
Aboard INCA RAIL trains, you'll find both comfort and luxury, with options such as the First Class and the 360° Panoramic Train for breathtaking views. Their service often includes thoughtful touches like gourmet snacks and even live music, making it a truly immersive experience. Regardless of the train option you choose, their service and the views are an unforgettable introduction to the wonders of Machu Picchu.

08/02/2025

FAITH, TRADITION & DANCE IN PUNO'S BIGGEST CELEBRATION
Every year in February the streets of Puno are filled with color, music and devotion during the first weeks of the month for the celebration of the Virgen Candelaria.
This festival brings together the Catholic faith and the Andean religion in honor of the Virgin Candelaria, the patron saint of the region.
Organized by the Regional Federation of Folklore and Culture of Puno, this celebration is the largest event in Peru and the third largest cultural event in South America, after the Carnival of Rio de Janeiro and the Carnival of Oruro. The city attracts a multitude of dancers, musicians and spectators motivated by the faith and excitement that floods the streets of the Peruvian Altiplano.
Depending on the year, up to 50,000 dancers and 15,000 musicians may participate, and up to 25,000 people may be involved in other elements of the festival, such as costume making and sponsorship.
Each dance during the celebration of the Virgen de la Candelaria tries to represent different themes, from everyday rural events to biblical battles between angels and demons. Some of the most awaited dances are La Morenada, La Diablada and Los Caporales. At the end of the celebration, the best dance groups are awarded in the closing ceremony.
Have you ever been to La Candelaria?

29/01/2025

There are many exciting adventures awaiting you when planning your trip to Cusco, many options offer privileged views of the Peruvian highlands; and aside from the typical route to Machu Picchu, you can explore these programs to enhance your experience:

⛰️Inca Trek:
For the adventurous souls, combining adventure, stunning natural landscapes and rich history. Hiking it gives you the chance to explore ancient Inca ruins, trek through diverse ecosystems, and reach the iconic Machu Picchu. It's not only a physical challenge, but also an opportunity to connect with an important part of our cultural heritage.

⛰️Salkantay Trek:
This trek offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, including Mount Salkantay, and diverse landscapes ranging from high-altitude mountains to lush cloud forests. The trek ends in Aguas Calientes, where you can catch the train to Machu Picchu.
⛰️Lares Trek:
This trek is perfect if you want to experience authentic Andean culture. You’ll hike through remote villages, interact with locals, and enjoy beautiful mountain scenery. It’s also a less crowded route compared to the Inca Trail, offering the option to visit hot springs.
⛰️Choquequirao Trek:
Choquequirao is often called the "sister city" of Machu Picchu, but it’s far less visited. The trek takes you to this massive Inca archaeological site, set high above the Apurímac River. It’s a more remote and quieter alternative to the Inca Trail, with incredible scenery and a sense of discovery.

Keep these in mind when booking your next Cusco adventure! Contact us for more information.

07/01/2025

Today, many countries celebrate "Día de Reyes" (Three Kings Day), but in the town of Marcaccocha, Ollantaytambo (in Cuzco), there's an even bigger celebration that lasts up to 5 days and that blends Andean traditions with Catholicism: the celebration of the Niño Melchor de Marcacocha.
The image of the Niño Melchor is a small, traditionally dressed statue of the Christ Child, often depicted holding a cross and wearing a crown, symbolizing both divine kingship and the innocence of childhood.
The story of Niño Melchor is deeply rooted in the cultural and religious traditions of the Andean people, blending Catholic influences with indigenous customs. It is said that the statue was miraculously found in the Marcacocha Mountains by local people who believed it to be a divine gift. Since its discovery, the image has been venerated as the protector of the region and a symbol of hope, faith and resilience.

'Niño Melchor' is often paraded through the streets accompanied by traditional Andean music, including the haunting sounds of whistles, charangos, and flutes, along with vibrant dances that reflect the community's cultural heritage.
People from neighboring communities often travel long distances to participate in the festivities, reinforcing the deep sense of community and devotion that defines the celebration.
Through songs, dances, and rituals passed down through generations, the people of Marcacocha express their reverence for the Niño Melchor as both a religious icon and a symbol of protection for their community.
Have you ever heard of this celebration?

03/01/2025

Sunsets of Peru 🌇

January marks the beginning of summer in Lima, the capital of Peru and the first point of contact for travelers from all over the world.
The coast of Lima offers one of the most charming postcards of the city, its sunsets never disappoint. Each evening feels like nature's grand finale, leaving you in awe and gratitude for the beauty of this coastal city.
For this first week of the month, we have selected some of our favorite sunsets from around the country. Enjoy!

1. Lima coastline
2. Sacred Valley
3. Ica dunes
4. Paracas
5. Mancora

🌅

31/12/2024

Peruvian New Year's celebrations (Año Nuevo) are filled with a mix of traditional customs, rituals and festivities that combine fun, family and spiritual traditions to celebrate the new year, here are some of the most popular:

• 12 grapes at midnight: At midnight, people eat 12 grapes-one for each stroke of the clock-each symbolizing a wish for the coming year. This custom is believed to bring good luck and ensure that the coming year will be filled with happiness and prosperity.
• Suitcase Ritual (La Maleta): Many Peruvians walk around the block with an empty suitcase or take it outside their home just before midnight. This ritual is believed to ensure travel in the coming year and symbolizes the desire for adventure, new experiences, or even an actual trip.
• Burning of "Año Viejo" (Old Year) dolls:
A highly symbolic tradition is the creation of "Año Viejo" (Old Year) dolls, often made of old clothes, straw, and other materials. These effigies represent the past year and are set on fire at midnight. The ritual symbolizes the burning away of negative energy, mistakes, and misfortunes of the old year to make way for new opportunities and growth in the coming year.
• Cleansing with herbs (Baño de florecimiento ): In some areas of Peru, it is believed that bathing with certain herbs or flowers at the beginning of the New Year cleanses the body and spirit. Herbs such as rosemary, basil, and eucalyptus are commonly used. These are believed to purify, bring health, and attract positive energy.
• Candle rituals for love and happiness: Candles of different colors (e.g., red for love, yellow for prosperity) are lit to make wishes for specific goals and good fortune.
• Yellow Underwear: Wearing yellow underwear is believed to bring prosperity and good luck for the coming year.
These rituals can vary by region, but the general themes of prosperity, love, travel, and personal growth are common throughout Peru! ✨Have you ever tried any of these before?

📷: Cusco Main Plaza on New Year's Eve

#2025

24/12/2024

🎄✨ Christmas in Peru

This is a time of warmth, family and vibrant traditions and Peruvians are not short of making this holiday season truly special, so how do Peruvians celebrate Christmas?

Christmas Eve is the heart of the celebration! Families gather for a festive dinner that typically includes delicious dishes such as pavo al horno (roast turkey), panetón (sweet fruit cake), and chocolatada (hot chocolate). As a country full of culinary richness and diversity, meals can vary a bit depending on the region:
In the Andean regions, Christmas meals take on a more hearty and traditional flavor, focusing on local ingredients such as potatoes, corn, and meat. Some of the unique dishes include lechón (roast pork) or cuy chactado (roasted guinea pig), which is considered a special dish in rural areas, especially in places like Cuzco or Ayacucho.
In the Amazonian regions, such as Iquitos or Pucallpa, Christmas foods can be quite different, reflecting the unique ingredients found in the jungle. Common dishes includeJjuane, a dish of rice, meat (usually chicken) and hard-boiled eggs wrapped in banana leaves. Or tacacho con cecina, a dish of mashed plantains served with fried pork, and even Inchicapi, a chicken soup made with peanuts and herbs, perfect for the tropical climate.

As Peru is a deeply religious and mostly Catholic country, one of the most typical celebrations centers around the "Niño Jesus" (Baby Jesus) rather than Santa Claus. Families set up elaborate nacimientos (nativity scenes) in their homes, depicting the birth of Christ with local animals, traditional figures, and even miniature versions of Peruvian landmarks! Many of these nacimientos are displayed throughout the city and become local attractions during the season.

At midnight, the skies light up with fireworks as a symbol of joy and celebration. It's an exciting way to usher in the holiday spirit! 🎆

In Peru, Christmas is not just a holiday; it's a time to share love, celebrate togetherness, and honor traditions that make the season unforgettable. ❤️

11/12/2024

Last week, Alexandra Aguinaga, our Commercial Supervisor, participated in a forum on "New Trends in Tourism" for students of Tourism Administration at the Universidad Privada del Norte (UPN).
During the panel discussion, she highlighted the importance of the commitment to the revaluation of heritage routes such as the Great Inca Trail and how this initiative, mainly led by private institutions such as QN Travel Peru, aims to decentralize and spread the richness of the country off the beaten path, inviting travelers to have enriching experiences, supporting local and small economies, positively impacting community tourism, sustainable practices, wildlife conservation, and more.
We are excited to be included in spaces like this, sharing with future colleagues and discussing important issues in the industry we work in.

06/12/2024

The Chavin de Huantar complex, located in Ancash, is an iconic archaeological site and UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Chavin civilization, which flourished between 1500 and 550 BC.

This emblematic attraction is also the starting point of one of our most iconic treks: the Great Inca Trail Castillo to Huanuco Pampa.

It is a journey full of history along a majestic road that ventures into the heart of the Andes, exploring the ruins of Huanuco Viejo (Pampa - "old" in Quechua), once a bustling Inca city that served as an important administrative and ceremonial center within the Inca road system (Qhapaq Ñan), located on the main route between Cusco and Quito.

The Inca road network, of which Huánuco Pampa was a part, overlapped with older trade routes that may have been used during the Chavín period.
Although Chavín predates Huánuco Pampa by more than a millennium, the cultural practices and religious ideologies of Chavín may have influenced later Andean cultures, including those that the Incas incorporated into their empire.

Both sites share an emphasis on ceremonial spaces and monumental architecture, suggesting a common Andean tradition of using large centers for religious and administrative purposes.
Chavín established early cultural foundations that persisted and changed over time, while Huánuco Pampa played a strategic role in the later, highly centralized Inca state.

If you are interested in exploring these routes, do not hesitate to contact us for more information.

29/11/2024

The best tourist villages of 2024 are in Peru ✨

The United Nations World Tourism Organization announced this week the list of the world's best tourist villages, including 5 Peruvian destinations. This recognition highlights the commitment of these villages to inclusive and sustainable tourism and aims to promote sustainable development in rural areas through tourism. By maximizing their unique assets, these communities can foster economic growth, promote local traditions, and improve the quality of life for their residents.

Selected from more than 260 nominations from over 60 countries, these villages stand out for their commitment to sustainable tourism and the well-being of their communities:

📍Sibayo (Arequipa): An example of community-based tourism, where visitors can experience the daily life of the inhabitants and enjoy the beauty of the Colca Canyon.

📍City of Maras (Cusco): Famous for its millenary salt mines, where salt has been mined by hand since pre-Inca times, and for its impressive Andean landscape.

📍Huancaya (Lima): Located in the Nor Yauyos-Cochas Nature Reserve, it is known for its spectacular scenery, waterfalls and crystal-clear lagoons, as well as its rich local culture.

📍Leymebamba (Amazonas): Famous for the Leymebamba Museum and the mummies of the Laguna de los Condores, this city offers a unique cultural and archaeological experience.

📍Quinua (Ayacucho): Known for its historical and cultural value as the site of the Battle of Ayacucho, which sealed the independence of Peru and South America.

This year's winners join the list of Ollantaytambo, Lamas and Raqchi, Chacas, Chavín de Huántar, Paucartambo, Pozuzo and Taquile, national destinations that have received the BTV award.

Discover more of the beauty of Peru and its people with QN Travel Peru!

24/11/2024

Walk through history: Exploring Peru's Rich Heritage and Ancient Civilizations

If you’re a history lover, a traveler in search of stories of the past, or simply someone who wants to step back in time, Peru offers an incredible array of historic sites.
From the legendary Inca Empire to pre-Inca civilizations, Peru’s historic sites are more than just tourist attractions – they are living testaments to the ingenuity, spirituality, and resilience of ancient cultures.
Here are some of the must-visit sites that will transport you back in time:

📍Sacsayhuaman – Cusco’s ancient fortress (📷):
Just outside Cusco, the massive stone fortress of Sacsayhuaman stands as a testament to Inca military might and engineering genius. The site is famous for its massive, intricately carved stones that fit together with such precision that even modern-day technology struggles to replicate it.

📍The Sacred Valley – Heart of the Inca Empire:
Stretching between the cities of Cusco and Machu Picchu, this lush valley was once the spiritual and agricultural hub of the Inca Empire and now is home to breathtaking Inca ruins, ancient terraces, and small villages that still honor the old ways.
Highlights: Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Chinchero 📷

📍Tipon – A Pre-Inca Engineering Marvel
Located near Cusco, it is famous for its terraces and an advanced system of aqueducts used for irrigation. The site showcases how ancient civilizations in Peru managed water in an extremely efficient way.

📍Machu Picchu
No trip to Peru would be complete without visiting it! Nestled high in the Andes, this 15th-century Inca citadel is one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world.

📍The Nazca Lines – Peru’s Enigmatic Geoglyphs
This is one of Peru’s most mysterious and fascinating historical sites. These enormous geoglyphs etched into the desert floor are best seen from the air, revealing intricate patterns of animals, plants, and geometric shapes. Take a scenic flight over the Nazca Desert for a bird’s-eye view of these ancient symbols!

15/11/2024

Did you know about the history of the Koricancha?
Dedicated primarily to the worship of the sun god Inti, it was considered the "Golden Temple" due to the extensive use of gold in its decoration.
The name Qorikancha is derived from two Quechua words: "qori" (gold) and "kancha" (enclosure or courtyard), which roughly translates to "Golden Courtyard" or "Temple of the Sun.

For its construction, the Incas used fine masonry, fitting large stones together so perfectly that no mortar was needed. The walls of the temple were covered with sheets of gold, and the interior was filled with golden idols, vessels, and other objects representing the sun god. The Korikancha was the center of religious life in Cusco, the Inca performed elaborate rituals and ceremonies in the Korikancha, especially during the Inti Raymi, a festival dedicated to the Sun God. The fate of the Korikancha changed dramatically after the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire in 1533.
The Korikancha is also a focal point of modern Peruvian identity, blending the rich heritage of the Inca Empire with the history of colonialism and contemporary cultural revitalization.
In short, the Korikancha is a place where history, architecture, and spirituality converge, reflecting both the glory of Inca civilization and the enduring legacies of colonialism in Peru.

It's a must-visit when in Cusco and it is included in our FD City Tour! Contact us for more information!

08/11/2024

This week we participated in the event "From the Great Inca Route to the Great Inca Trail: 25 Years of Awareness and Tourism on the Qhapaq Ñan", an important platform to share insights and experiences with our tourism colleagues. This event provided an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the magnificent heritage of the Qhapaq Ñan, the ancient road system that once connected 616 kilometers, 308 archaeological sites, across 6 countries for the vast Inca Empire.

Our Director, Nick Stanziano, shared his personal experience of walking the length of the Qhapaq Ñan and provided valuable insights into the evolution of its promotion over the years, highlighting the significance of the Qhapaq Ñan as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and this route of unparalleled historical significance. In many ways, it is comparable in scale to other famous global routes such as the Tea Horse Road in China or the trails through Yosemite National Park in the United States.

The Great Inca Route has been a cornerstone of QN Travel Peru since its inception. Our commitment to the promotion and preservation of this unique and priceless heritage remains unwavering. The legacy of the Qhapaq Ñan is not only historical, but continues to live on through the communities that surround and inhabit its path. These communities actively contribute to the preservation and celebration of this extraordinary heritage, ensuring that it remains a living part of Peru's cultural fabric.

The event concluded with a forum to discuss the progress made in raising awareness of this route, while acknowledging the work that still lies ahead in terms of preservation and promotion within the tourism industry.

We would like to express our gratitude to APTAE for making events like this possible, to our partners at Explorandes, Ricardo Espinoza, and to the representatives from the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru.

04/11/2024

This Wednesday, QN Travel Peru (Qhapac Ñan Travel SAC) and leaders from both the private and public sectors in Peru's tourism and culture institutions, will host a discussion alongside and our industry association, .pe . The event will focus on the past 25 years of raising awareness and conserving the Great Inca Trail.

Our founder and Executive Director, Nick Stanziano, who has dedicated much of the last decade to exploring, researching, and developing tourism on the Great Inca Trail across the departments of Ancash and Huánuco, has spearheaded efforts to drive economic value into what is one of UNESCO's largest World Heritage sites.

For those interested in learning more and who may be in Lima, we encourage you to reach out directly to reserve a spot and join the conversation.

We also extend our appreciation to Peru's Ministry of Culture and Tourism for their collaboration, as well as to Ricardo Espinosa, who helped put this remarkable Inca Road on the map for the world 25 years ago.

29/10/2024

Today we celebrate the 150th anniversary of the historic district of Ollantaytambo!
Nestled among large mountains and colorful lands on the northeastern side of the Sacred Valley, this destination is best known for being the main connection point to Machu Picchu and famous for the Imposing Inca Fortress (those giant stairs that take your breath away), but this town has history beyond that!
Here are a few interesting facts about the ‘last Inca town’:
📍 Ollantaytambo served as the access control point to the Sacred Valley.
📍 It served as a strategic point to control the surrounding valleys, but it was also a strategic military point that was very well exploited ( This is where the Incas had their greatest triumph against the Spanish during the Conquest).
📍 In addition, it may have been here that corn was first domesticated for its abundant cultivation, taking advantage of the fertile slopes of the Urubamba River valley.
In addition, today Ollantaytambo is also a picturesque town with a great wealth of history to be discovered and spectacular gastronomic experiences that have been developed by the local people.
So be sure to include a visit to Ollantaytambo in your next visit to Cusco! Contact us for more information!

27/10/2024

Discover Arequipa’s Culinary Treasures!
Join our NEW gastronomic tour in the stunning historic center of Arequipa! In just 4 hours, immerse yourself in the rich flavors and vibrant culture of this incredible city. Explore the picturesque streets of Yanahuara while soaking in breathtaking views of the Misti volcano.
Our expert guide will lead you to local hotspots, where you’ll taste iconic dishes like rocoto relleno and ocopa, paired with a delightful chicha and pisco tasting. This tour offers more than just food; it’s an engaging experience that intertwines history and culture with every bite.
You’ll stroll through the bustling San Camilo market, where fresh ingredients and local delicacies await. Expect to snap plenty of Instagram-worthy moments as you indulge in Arequipa’s gastronomic gems!
Ready to elevate your Arequipa adventure? Contact us

18/10/2024

October, the purple month in Peru 💜

Every October, the streets of Lima and many Peruvian neighborhoods around the world turn purple as they gather for the procession of their patron saint: El Señor de los Milagros (The Lord of Miracles).
This is one of the largest religious manifestations in Latin America, and its origins date back to the 17th century, when an Angolan slave painted the image of Christ crucified on an adobe wall in the Pachacamilla neighborhood of Lima.
In 1655, an earthquake devastated the city, but the wall with the image remained intact, which was considered a miracle. From that moment on, faith in the Christ of Pachacamilla grew, and in 1687 the first procession with his image took place.
During this month, the faithful wear purple as a sign of repentance and devotion. The tradition of carrying the image in procession has continued for more than 300 years, gathering large groups of people who follow the procession. The devotion to the Lord of Miracles has crossed borders: in cities such as New York, Madrid and Buenos Aires, Peruvian communities also celebrate processions in honor of Cristo Moreno.

As with any Peruvian celebration, this one is accompanied by a delicious treat: Turrón. It's a traditional dessert made mainly of almonds, sugar, and egg whites, giving it a chewy, nougat-like texture. This sweet treat is the perfect complement to the purple festivities, adding a delightful touch to this month. 💜✨