Cusco's Potato King

Lares, PE

Included

  • inclusion
    Coffee and/or tea
  • inclusion
    Snacks
  • inclusion
    Roundtrip transportation between Calca and Pampa Corral, farm visit with the Hancco family
  • inclusion
    Lunch
  • inclusion
    Guide

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Personal expenses

Meeting Point

Prol. Ucayali No. 417, Calca 08121 - From the Municipality of Calca head 30m west toward Av. Espinar and turn left onto Av. Espinar and walk 50 meters then turn right walk 90m toward Prol. Ucayali and turn right onto Prol. Ucayali. Walk another 130m and you will find the The Andean Alliance .

Meeting point

Prol. Ucayali No. 417, Calca 08121 , Peru

End point

End Point

Prol. Ucayali No. 417, Calca 08121 - From the Municipality of Calca head 30m west toward Av. Espinar and turn left onto Av. Espinar and walk 50 meters then turn right walk 90m toward Prol. Ucayali and turn right onto Prol. Ucayali. Walk another 130m and you will find the The Andean Alliance .

Meeting point

Prol. Ucayali No. 417, Calca 08121 , Peru

End point

What to expect

Journey with us through thousands of years of agricultural brilliance, as we explore the rich history of the potato, or "papas," a treasured heritage of the Andean people, domesticated over 8,000 years ago. The Andes, home to over 3,000 varieties of tubers, showcase a diversity far beyond the standard "white" potato most people are familiar with today. Our goal is for you to experience this area’s most meaningful crop in unique settings while connecting with the people behind it. The tour will start at the Andean Alliance office in Calca. Here we’ll learn more about their projects and try some of their coffee. Next we’ll head up the Lares Valley, stopping at Ancasmarca to have a snack and stretch our legs, and then continuing on to Pampa Corral to the home of Julio Hancco. Julio shares his passion for protecting potato biodiversity and shows us his day-to-day from planting to harvesting and of course, eating potatoes. We’ll enjoy a fresh mountain lunch prepared by his wife Rosa before heading back to Calca. Because this amazing experience takes you off the grid and away from civilization, we'll need extra time to arrange it. Please book at least seven days in advance.
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Lares

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Journey with us through thousands of years of agricultural brilliance, as we explore the rich history of the potato, or "papas," a treasured heritage of the Andean people, domesticated over 8,000 years ago. The Andes, home to over 3,000 varieties of tubers, showcase a diversity far beyond the standard "white" potato most people are familiar with today. Our goal is for you to experience this area’s most meaningful crop in unique settings while connecting with the people behind it. The tour will start at the Andean Alliance office in Calca. Here we’ll learn more about their projects and try some of their coffee. Next we’ll head up the Lares Valley, stopping at Ancasmarca to have a snack and stretch our legs, and then continuing on to Pampa Corral to the home of Julio Hancco. Julio shares his passion for protecting potato biodiversity and shows us his day-to-day from planting to harvesting and of course, eating potatoes. We’ll enjoy a fresh mountain lunch prepared by his wife Rosa before heading back to Calca. Because this amazing experience takes you off the grid and away from civilization, we'll need extra time to arrange it. Please book at least seven days in advance.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Is not recommended for handicapped travelers because there will be a mountain hike.
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Please kindly indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking if you have dietary requirements.  
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by Curios

What our experts say

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    Try the fresh trout lunch at Julio's
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    Bring a camera for stunning valley views
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    Wear comfortable shoes for hiking
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    Get ready for no phone signal!
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    Book at least 7 days in advance

More About this Experience

Introduction

Cusco's Potato King tour offers a unique opportunity to meet Julio Hancco, known as The Potato King, and learn about the rich biodiversity of Peruvian potatoes. With over 4,000 varieties of native potatoes in Peru, Julio has dedicated his life to preserving over 350 of these varieties. This experience takes you off the grid and immerses you in the fascinating world of potato cultivation and preservation.

What to expect?

During the Cusco's Potato King tour, participants can expect to not only learn about the different varieties of potatoes but also experience the process of planting, harvesting, and preparing these delicious native tubers. The tour starts at the Andean Alliance office in Calca, where visitors can sample Origenes coffee and learn about their projects before heading to Julio's home in Pampa Corral.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for curious and adventurous travelers who are interested in experiencing the authentic culture and traditions of Peru. Whether you are a food enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, the Cusco's Potato King tour is sure to captivate and inspire you.

Why book this?

Embark on the Cusco's Potato King tour to delve into the world of potato biodiversity with Julio Hancco, a passionate advocate for preserving native potatoes. This immersive experience not only educates you about the importance of preserving agricultural heritage but also allows you to connect with the local community and savor a fresh mountain lunch prepared by Julio's wife, Rosa. Book this tour to step off the grid and into a world of culinary and cultural richness.

Good to know

Since this experience takes you away from civilization, it is essential to book at least seven days in advance to allow for proper arrangements. The tour includes roundtrip transportation, a farm visit with the Hancco family, a knowledgeable guide, delicious meals, snacks, and coffee or tea. Be prepared to disconnect from the digital world and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and tradition.

Reviews

Travelers who have participated in the Cusco's Potato King tour rave about the authenticity of the experience and the warm hospitality of Julio and his family. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to learn about potato biodiversity and the efforts to preserve native varieties. Overall, feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants praising the unique and enriching nature of the tour.

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