Colca Valley Continues

Selling local handicrafts
over the Colca Valley

The Colca Valley is such a spectacular destination for two reasons: the awe-inspiring geography and antiquated culture. More than once I found myself just gazing out over the valley from my casita's terrace, up at the massive green peaks reaching into the clouds and all the way down into the valley where the homes are just tiny dots. It really puts you into perspective. The mountains are lined with ancient agricultural terraces used by pre-Incan people, about 60% of which are still used by the locals today. You see the women still wearing traditional colorful garb, hauling massive bags of potatoes across the feilds and men riding mules between the towns herding cows or alpacas. Of course once in a while the elderly woman with the alpaca is also charlando on her cell phone. But it really feels like a step back in time visiting this still mostly untouched remote mountian area. A visit to the market in Chivay, where most of the Colca Valley inhabitants get their provisions, should also be on your to do list.

Back in our oasis at Las Casitas (fully equipped with all the modern amenities!) we learned that not only does Orient Express know how to do breakfast right, they also excel at cocktail hour and gourmet regional dining. Stephan, Cesar and our favorite bartender Johnny took us down to a breathtaking lookout point over the Colca river where they have made a rustic little bar and lounge area. Johnny taught us his own little twist on the pisco sour (with a touch of aguaymantos, or gooseberries) which is definitely my new drink of choice. After some cocktails to boost our confidence in the kitchen, we got lessons from Cesar on the art of ceviche!
Unfortunately Tuesday morning meant departure from Las Casitas and the Colca Valley, but we had so much more ahead!