Sarapampa is a Quechua word which means ‘cornfield’, a fitting name for this beautiful and sprawling property of Hacienda Sarapampa in the Sacred Valley. In these parts, daily life revolves around corn cultivation as it has done for the people of the Andes for centuries. A visit to Hacienda Sarapampa is a chance to witness the journey of this sacred crop from field to plate as you learn about the history and importance of corn in the Sacred Valley, followed by a delicious seven course meal with the hacienda owners. This experience is one of the culinary highlights of the Sacred Valley.
See Giant Corn grow at Hacienda Sarapampa
The Sacred Andean Crop
Corn is one of the oldest domesticated crops and has always been part of life for the Andean people. Peru has more varieties of corn than anywhere else in the world, with a huge range of colours, shapes and culinary applications. Sheltered by the mountains and boasting a favourable climate, the Sacred Valley of the Incas is the home to many varieties of corn including the Giant Cusco Corn, adapted to grow only within the boundaries of the valley.
The Inca associated corn with the sun and planting and harvest times were highly ritualised with state ceremonies. As well as an important source of food, the Inca used corn to make chicha de jora, a popular fermented alcoholic beverage which was consumed in large quantities during religious festivals and is still enjoyed across Peru today. Sold in small unlicensed shops in people’s homes, their location is discretely revealed by bamboo poles bearing flags, red plastic bags and flowers.
Touring the Hacienda
This is an opportunity to learn about the importance of this crop in the Sacred Valley – the history of corn in the valley, including its crucial role in the lives of early Andeans, the following colonial period, right up to the present day.
On your visit to Hacienda Sarapampa you’ll visit the giant white corn fields to see how it’s grown, the cycles of fallow, planting and harvesting, and learn about its importance for the economy of the Sacred Valley and its farmers. On your tour around the property enjoy a tractor pulled cart ride and watch the seasonal activities going on in the land which will vary depending on the time of year you visit.
Gourmet Lunch with the Hacienda Owners
Following your tour, the special seven course meal, inspired by the corn of course, is a chance to relax on the patio with the hacienda owners who share stories and anecdotes of life growing corn, and Inca legends that have been passed down through the generations. This is a very special culinary experience in the owner’s private home within their estate. Read more about culinary experiences in Peru.
Traditional Paso Horses
To add to your experience of traditional hacienda life in the Andes, you’ll be treated to a traditional Paso Horse Show. Bred for their natural four-beat lateral gait called the ‘Paso Llano’ they are by nature both elegant and arrogant creatures – the perfect combination to dance the Marinera, with a female companion.
Visit Hacienda Sarapampa with Aracari
Aracari arranges exclusive private visits and tours, including a seven course lunch with the Hacienda owners. Contact us for more information or to plan a private, tailormade trip to Peru.